A top TNA official is looking at the door, Andrew Whittaker has contacted other groups such as Glory, sending out feelers hoping to get away. The promotion have also missed out on ROH stars ReDragon, the pairing have re-signed for ROH after a period of being chased by TNA. Dixie Carter is not involved in the TV negotiations, she is allowing a talent company to act as an intermediary, and then reporting to the TNA office, who pass the information onto her parents, who are the money behind TNA.
Hardy wants WWE return:
Jeff Hardy says he wants to end his career with the company that made him, WWE... "From time to time I'll turn on Raw and I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the WWE Universe man, because they, what a … the crowds. When I watch, it hurts a little bit. I'm going 'oh man, that's my creatures man, my fans'. They've supported me so much. And even on the Instagram posts that's all I ever see. 'Go back to WWE. You said you'd come back. It's never forever, it's just for now'. I mean, ultimately, when the time is right, who knows. But I started there and whether it's 10, 15 years down the road I would like to end there."
Hall Of Famer bites back:
Jesse Ventura has defended suing the widow of a man that made false accusations against him, he says he lost a $1,000,000 per year income stream because of the lies, and the man that made the claims 2013 death had no affect on his wanting justice, talking to CBS he said... "I would have been a big-time loser had I not pursued the lawsuit, because ... the whole story was fabricated, (who also hinted at suing the book's publisher, Harper Collins). I was accused of treason, which in the military is the death penalty." He also claimed that all of the money he was awarded would go on his lawyers fees. Jesse is reportedly taking a hammering in the American media for suing not only a dead man, but an Seal, who had served his country, as well as having a young family, who would now have to pay close to $2 Million in damages, Ventura was unapologetic, claiming he was the victim here, and he wanted nothing more than to clear his name.
The cuts commence:
WWE have released Ricardo Rodriguez, Alberto Del Rio's personal announcer, Spanish announcer, and NXT star El Local. He says he misses wrestling and wants to get back to that.
Triple H:
WWE are advertising Triple H for Hell In A Cell in October, but Brock Lesnar will not be there.
US Title:
WWE are contemplating dropping the IC / US SummerSlam unification match and instead giving Rusev a US reign post SummerSlam to continue his anti American angle.
I can't do heel:
Xavier Woods has admitted to being worried about joining the new stable in WWE, as he cannot do heel promo's.
Paige ''Punks'' AJ:
Paige used CM Punk's mannerisms and GTS move in a match vs the Diva's champ at a live event over the weekend.
Flair pulled from SummerSlam match:
Ric Flair will likely be withdrawn from the guest ref spot at SummerSlam. WWE intended to use him in the Roman Reigns vs Randy Orton match, but his performances have been so poor during trials on the live circuit they are looking into other options.
Ambrose snubbed:
WWE officials made Dean Ambrose leave the ring to allow Big Show to celebrate alone after the Raw dark match this week.
Why do Spike want to cut TNA loose?:
There is said to be two reasons, they do not feel the product is cost efficient for the price they pay vs viewers tuning in, and they are furious about the blatant lie regarding Vince Russo's employment.
Sting to WWE:
WWE hope to have the deal done by SummerSlam, Sting will be at the event and has a planned meeting with Vince McMahon during the weekend, it will be the first time they have met in person.
TNA sign war hero:
Chris Melendez fought in Aghanistan for the Americans, and suffered devastating injuries from an IED attack... "When I was able to open my eyes after the explosion I looked across the battlefield to see what I thought was a fellow-soldier in need of help. I quickly realized it was my leg." ...but returned home with the burning ambition to achieve a childhood dream and become a pro wrestler, TNA are now giving him that chance, he is a Dudley Boys school alumnus.
WWE Network:
WWE have announced they have 700,000 subscribers, only 33,000 up on the April figure, they wanted to hit a million. They did gain 161,000 but 128,000 left the channel. This has prompted the company to bring forward the international roll out, 170 nations will finally have the chance to join in on August 12. This is not for everyone though, some parts of Asia, Germany, Italy, and of course the UK will have to wait until October at the earliest. It is going to cost the equivalent of $9.99 per month with the same 6 month time limit as in the States. However WWE are looking at adding advertising as a way to increase income. They also announced a $14.5 million loss in the second quarter of 2014. They did announce better news, they have landed a new TV and Network deal in Canada.
Goldberg vs Hall back on?:
Over the weekend I reported about Goldberg getting wrestlers at a fan event to sign a card for the 6th birthday of a youngster with brain cancer, everyone joined in willingly... that is except Scott Hall, who reportedly blanked all requests. This has angered many, especially as fans paid for his surgeries last year, and his refusal to give back has not gone down well. This was the same event that Goldberg and Scott Hall had their clear the air meeting, it is not clear if Goldberg, knew or knows about Hall's snub, but he was very touched by the young boys story and arranged the card and a video himself, and will not likely be happy if this is an accurate account of Hall's behaviour. I can confirm that having seen the video of many stars signing the card and sending a message that Hall is not on it.
Russo - jumped or pushed?:
John Gaburick fired Vince Russo as TNA desperately tried to save their TV deals this week, not as Russo claims, he says he resigned. This from the wrestling observer... so...
Zema Ion:
Zema Ion has signed a new multi year deal with TNA.
Rampage Jackson:
Rampage Jackson says he has no plans to work with TNA again, he questioned the way they ran things, and said he could see the were not going to survive during his time there. He has been called a number of times but has refused all angles they offered him. He does want to continue wrestling, and is working with Chavo Guerrero to learn.
At this stage WWE's interest in the TNA TV rights are at a watch and see stage, they are looking at the situation, and are interested in where they end up, but any consideration on an offer for their video library would not start until and unless TNA fail to sign a deal for a new TV home.
Paige:
Paige has discussed why she wears Doctor Martins (an iconic British shoe brand) in the ring, rather than traditional wrestling boots...
"You have to break them in so I had to wear them on the streets. They're very good, very British. I'm sticking to my guns. I'm really happy they're back in fashion again because I love them and I own a pair, so I might as well put these babies on."
New team:
WWE have named Heath Slater and Titus O'Neill ''Slater Gator''.
SmackDown SPOILERS!!!:
* Cesaro vs Jack Swagger...
* Randy Orton challenges Roman Reigns to a SummerSlam match...
* Bo Dallas vs R-Truth...
* AJ Lee vs Rosa Mendes...
* Dean Ambrose vs Kane & Seth Rollins...
* Diego vs Fandango...
* Alberto Del Rio vs Dolph Ziggler...
* Chris Jericho vs Erick Rowan...
END OF SPOILERS!!!
SummerSlam:
Jack Swagger vs Rusev (Flag Match) is now confirmed.
Erick Rowan is banned from ringside for Jericho vs Wyatt.
TNA:
Jim Ross has revealed he is talking to Dixie Carter about an interview.
The British Bootcamp contenders are growing... * Noam Dar * Martin Stone * El Ligero * Sha Samuels * Mark Andrews * RJ Singh * Rampage Brown
* The Owens Twins
Brock Lesnar:
Brock Lesnar has agreed to add two dates to his schedule, the post SummerSlam Raw, and Pre Night Of Champions episode, possibly pointing to a new WWE champion coming out of SummerSlam.
WWE offend former star:
Curt Hawkins is angry that WWE credited Curtis Axel with training the Rock for his WrestleMania return, as he was the man that worked closest with him. Axel did work a couple of sessions, but he worked more with Brock than with Rock. Hawkins called the snub a ''cold'' move, and said the Rock would not be happy about it either as Rock was very grateful for the time Hawkins spent with him in preparation for his return.
May the force by with you, Fella:
The Irish Mirror are reporting Sheamus spent time on the set of the new star wars movies during his trip, Sheamus would not confirm or deny the rumours that he is to play Darth Vader in the next series of movies.
Russo quits:
Vince Russo has quit TNA. This is probably in response to Spike threatening to drop them from their TV deals as a result of Russo returning to the promotion.
''Massive'' cuts coming to WWE:
WWE are preparing to cut 10% of their employees this weekend. They are not expecting good news from the next Network subscriptions announcement and will need to make further savings as a result.
Adam Bomb:
Bryan Clarke has landed the title role in Axeman 2 Overkill, a horror movie sequel of a 2013 original.
WWE are upset that WWEDVDNews.com published the contents of the Sting DVD. The contents were leaked, spoiling a big plan WWE had for the unveiling of the collection.
Prince Devitt:
Prince Devitt started work at the PC yesterday.
New owners for TNA:
Jim Ross has suggested that Spike TV may be looking at buying TNA out, rather than give them a new TV deal, feeling it would be cheaper to own the brand and run the shows themselves than to allow TNA to continually hemorrhage money ($45 Million)... From his weekly blog... "Could Spike be thinking like TBS, Turner Broadcasting Systems, when Jim Crockett Promotions found themselves in financial trouble and TBS bought WCW and perhaps be looking to add a pro wrestling brand to their list of properties? Spike/Viacom recently bought out MMA company Bellator," he wrote. "Those would be two fresh, first run programs that appeal to a primary male demo and that seems to be the Spike profile or so it seems to me based on their current programming more often than not. Why would Spike want to get rid of one of the few shows on their network that garners over 1M viewers per week in prime time? That makes no sense to me but Spike negotiating to keep TNA at a lower dollar does." TNA are telling their talent that they can expect ''good news'' at a talent meeting later this week, this could mean they know something we don't, or they will try to spin the jeopardy the TV deals are in, into a positive. However an exec from another potential home says losing Hulk Hogan has decreased TNA's value to Network's in America. As well as this WWE are said to be looking at buying the TNA video library, should they fail to get a new TV deal, based on other recent deals, they would likely pay around $500 per hour of footage, TNA have over a thousand hours available.
Drew McIntyre:
Drew McIntyre returned home to Scotland this weekend for shows with the promotion he debuted for.
ROH heat:
The ROH roster are not happy with Hunter Delirious Johnston , he has demanded that the roster do not talk to anyone from ROH Management but him, and he would be the go-between, however one talent said... "Some of us are frustrated. Hunter is impossible to reach. We can't get him on the phone, he doesn't respond to emails. Now he's saying don't go to anyone else? Why can't we? What do we do? Stop talking to the company that I work for?"
Injuries:
Trent Barreta needs surgery after blowing his knee out at an indy show this weekend, and Alberto Del Rio needed 7 stitches after his match vs Justin Gabriel taped for Superstars.
SummerSlam:
Chris Jericho vs Bray Wyatt, and Brie Bella vs Stephanie McMahon are now confirmed for next months supershow. This means Stephanie will compete on one of the classic 5 / big 4 events for the first time in her career. Good luck matching what your brilliant Brother did at SummerSlam's past. The official song is ''Sunshine'' by Teddybears.
Sheamus:
Sheamus is still at home in Ireland, for anyone wondering why he was not at Raw.
Rowdy Roddy Piper:
Roddy Piper has revealed who he would wrestle for free... "I guess if it's against Vince McMahon or Vince Russo I would wrestle again, those would be for free."
Russo vs Hart:
Smith Hart has accused Vince Russo of murdering his Brother and wants to fight him at a TNA show... "Congratulations not only did u murder my brother but you've successfully killed 2 wrestling companies.I have a challenge for u, Maybe u'd like 2 try killing me on ur last failed broadcast I would donate my share 2 Owens foundation, #pleasenopolematches. Since I've ruffled a few feathers Ill make it clear Id like to challenge Russo to a fight at BFG with the proceeds going to Owens foundation. If nothing else good can come of the destruction of TNA, and the loss of jobs, perhaps raising money for a worthy cause would be."
Curtis Axel on Rock / Brock:
Curtis Axel has recalled training with The Rock and Brock Lesnar as they returned to the ring... "I think that I gained some trust within the WWE organization, and they picked me because they had faith in me being safe, not injuring him and really making him step up his game to get his wind ready, and his body back in shape for all the strenuous activity he was about to endure at WrestleMania. So I think they just had trust in me, and I think that's what it boiled down to. Plus, we both come from a pedigree. Me and Rock have always had that bond, just because of the generational thing. So I think that had something to do with it. He trusted me, and WWE trusted me, so that's how all that came about. (It was) Nonstop. I mean, we would wrestle a half-hour without a break, just going back and forth and basically doing a whole match. There was a moment, and he might get mad at me for saying this, but there was a moment where we stopped for a second and he said to me, 'I'm going to beat your ass all the way to the corner, and then I'm going to take a step back. And when I come back to you, I want you to beat my ass all the way back to the other corner. And if it's not up to my standards, if it's not sufficient enough and I don't think you're aggressive, you know what's going to happen to you.'"
WWE cancel show:
WWE have cancelled the last live event before SummerSlam.
Batista interview:
On his best rib... "I'm not the biggest ribber, so this is not so much of a rib but as you know, I made my WWE debut alongside Devon. I was a rookie and - I learned this the hard way - sometimes you should just keep your mouth shut. I made a bet with him when we were somewhere in New Mexico, because Devon was notoriously late, I told him that if he beat me to the show that I'd run around the building naked. Even though I hadn't really meant it, he picked up on it and ran with it. So he ended up winning the bet, of course, and I was going to keep to my word and run around the building naked. One of the WWE producers vetoed the idea but I was the rookie and obligated to suck it up. So I was at his mercy and the trade for the naked run was that I had to do 25 individual push-ups whenever and wherever he told me to. After each push up I had to scream out 'I'm Devon's b***h'. I did them - I think he let me out of about five of them because he eventually just felt so bad. But I did them in random places - it was on planes, it was in restaurants....." On The streak ending... ''It sucked! Honestly, I thought it sucked. I haven't really talked much about it but I think it was a bad decision, a horrible decision. I don't have any say in the matter but to me, watching as a fan, it made me sick. Brock Lesnar beating him didn't seem to work and it really wasn't good that Brock left the day after. I just don't see how that made sense at all. I don't think anyone wanted to see the streak broken and it just didn't make sense to me.''
WWE cuts:
There is some strong speculation coming out of WWE that more cuts will be announced on Thursday or Friday of this week.
New NXT addition... Buddy Murphy. Buddy may be best known for a leaked promo where he referenced the Benoit murders during a class at the PC last summer. He is from Australia. Also Brie Bella has returned to the active roster.
Jesse Ventura wins big:
Jesse Ventura has been awarded $1.8 Million from the estate of a man who claimed he beat Ventura up during a bar fight, even though Mr Ventura was in a different part of the country at the time. The accuser later died, so Ventura sued his widow for damages instead.
Aaron Solo sat alongside Brie Bella on Raw to separate her from the rest of the fans before her spot with Stephanie McMahon. He was rewarded (Sort of...) by getting an NXT match, he was squashed by The Ascension.
Feud ends:
Bill Goldberg and Scott Hall had a private meeting during a fan event last week and settled their long and bitter feud.
Kane:
Kane says his time with Daniel Bryan was the happiest period of his career.
Kevin Steen confirms WWE signing:
Kevin Steen told fans at an indy show this week that he was going to Mexico to help El Generico raise his orphans. El Generico is Sami Zayn of NXT, he said that he was going to retire to raise orphans during his goodbye speech before joining WWE last summer.
Jinder Mahal:
Jinder Mahal had his first match since leaving WWE for ROW this past weekend.
Raw:
Stephanie McMahon has invited Brie Bella to Raw tonight, Brie says she will be there.
Official tease...
* Will The Authority heed their lawyers' warning and keep quiet about Stephanie's arrest?
* Does Bray Wyatt wanna start another war with Chris Jericho?
* Will Triple H accept Cesaro into The Authority?
* Will Big E and Kofi Kingston keep their momentum?
* How will John Cena react to Brock Lesnar's return?
Huge blow for TNA:
TNA have reportedly been informed by Spike that they do not intend to renew their TV deals when they expire in October. This would be a huge blow as Dixie Carter has been banking on the renewals of the TV deals to placate some talent that are worried about their futures should the deal fall through. TNA may now have a matter of weeks to find a new home in the US or they could be going off screens in the American market.
Dixie reportedly told staff that TNA had decided to leave due to lack of promotion, TMZ report that it was Spike's decision, as they were not happy about Vince Russo's return to the company.
TNA still have a number of deals internationally, but they do not earn enough to keep going without their US TV deal, so it is a very worrying time for those involved.
Billy Kidman responded on behalf of WWE, saying WWE would not be looking at poaching talent, and fans should wait and see how it plays out, he also added he hopes TNA manage to sign a new deal, Kevin Nash echoed that sentiment.
Dixie Carter is staying positive, she says talks will continue with Spike
SummerSlam:
Stephanie McMahon vs Brie Bella may be pushed back to NOC, and a Fatal Four Way Tag Title match is scheduled to be added, The Uso's and The Wyatt Family would be two of the teams involved.
WWE signing:
WWE and Prince Devitt have confirmed he has signed his WWE deal today.
Batista talks retirement plan:
"I kind of have my wish list of guys that I would like to work with, because I realise my career is not going to be that long if I do go back just because physically... realistically, I'm 45 years old now, how much longer can I continue...? You do take a beating in professional wrestling. But I love it. It's not 'will I go back?', it's 'when will I go back?'. Hopefully it won't be far too long. Triple H right now is the guy I really want to work with. I want to go back and that's hopefully that'll be my retirement program. Yeah, I'll have my WrestleMania retirement match with Triple H."
Epico / Fernando:
Epico has become a Father, he is currently away from WWE rehabbing an injury.
Life imitates art:
WWE are working on turning the Daniel Bryan / Brie Bella robbery into a storyline, possibly the Authority taking credit for the incident.
WCW man goes to porn:
Buff Bagwell has signed a deal to become an adult film star.
The King Jerry Lawler will be the last opponent for Kevin Steen before he joins ''The big time''. That from the King in a promo for an upcoming match between the two.
Batista:
Batista has been confirmed for the sequel to Guardians Of The Galaxy.
Wrestling weddings:
Former stars CW Anderson and Lodi have announced they are engaged to different people, not each other.
Dixie calls meeting:
Dixie Carter called a meeting at TNA HQ, no conformation on what was discussed, but speculation is it regards to their TV deals.
Corey Graves:
Better news for Graves, he has become a Father for the first time.
Sheamus:
Sheamus missed this weeks SmackDown citing illness, however a pub in Ireland have posted a picture of the US Champ enjoying a night in their premises on Friday night, Possible heat???... There is three days between taping and it going live so he had some time to recover IMO.
SummerSlam:
The Miz vs Dolph Ziggler vs Bo Dallas (IC Title), and Jack Swagger vs Rusev (Flag match) are scheduled to be added to the card.
Remember when Yokozuna fell through the floor???:
Bo Dallas has recalled a visit from a group of wrestlers to his home during his childhood, one of whom was Yokozuna. His Grandmother had been preparing a thanksgiving meal for the boys who were in town with WWE and all went to IRS' house as he lived closest to the show. The meal had to be cancelled however because Yokozuna weighed so much he broke through the floorboards of the house.
Ted DiBiase says WWE are returning to old fashioned values, and it is good...
"I went back to work for them for a short time back in '06, and they said, 'Watch the shows tell me what you think,' and I said, 'Everybody's the same.' You know, back then I said, 'Everybody's bald head, tattooed, trying to be Stone Cold Steve Austin.' When I was there, it was a variety of characters. You had the guy with the snake, you had the rich Snidely Whiplash - me, and then you had a hillbilly, you had a sumo wrestler, you had all these characters. To now, nobody wears a ring jacket anymore, everybody looks the same. So I think they're starting to get back to that and that's good."
He also believes The Undertaker's WrestleMania defeat was a botch...
"My personal feeling is that wasn't supposed to happen. I don't know for sure, I hadn't spoken to anybody that night, I haven't spoken to anybody since but, I was told, somebody said that when 'Taker when he got back through the curtain, he collapsed. And I think that whatever the move was, I think he got knocked out and he didn't kick out because he was out. As I was watching it I saw the expression on Heyman's face I thought, 'Something ain't right.' So I really think that wasn't supposed to happen. If I were going to do it, the Streak was such a thing, a big deal with fans, I would either never beat him at WrestleMania or if I did beat him I would do it with somebody you're really gonna give a big push. Obviously, Brock's great, but he didn't need it."
Personal note...
That is exactly what I said at the time re Brock, didn't make sense to me then, and still doesn't...
Goatbuster:
Daniel Bryan detained a burglar at his home on Thursday. He and his wife Brie Bella were returning to their Phoenix home in their car when Daniel noticed his back door was open, he stopped the car and went to the house just as two men came running out, he grabbed one, a 22 year old and slapped him into a rear naked choke hold and held him there until the cops arrived. The other baddie got away. The incident has received a ton of media attention in the local area, and during one interview Bryan revealed that the guy he stopped had a piece of jewelry left to him by his recently deceased Father, he became emotional as he shared how much it would have hurt him to have lost it. Brie Bella collected the items laying around dropped by the fleeing bandit during the five minute wait for the police to arrive, as well as Bryan's dad's bracelet from the guy pinned to the ground. Daniel later said that he was worried about a lawsuit from the guy he had pinned, but police assured him that he did not know who he was. Brie said during the press event that they had just moved into the home 10 days ago, and that their main concern was for their dog, who Brie had left home alone whilst she had driven the short distance to the airport to pick Daniel up from his appearance at comic con.
Daniel also revealed he has been contacted by his Doctor telling him he needs another surgery, because he has suffered a ''Double crush'' to nerves in his neck, he also admitted that he has lost half the strength in his right arm since the first surgery. He added that this incident did not cause any further damage to his body.
NXT down under:
The NXT trainers led by Bill DeMott will be going on the Australia tour to oversee the try outs of several Aussie stars.
WWE sued:
WWE have been served with a class action lawsuit over the misleading statements regarding their incomes for the new TV contracts.
Ricky Steamboat interview:
On never being allowed to go heel...
"I cannot come up with a main-event name who throughout their career didn't work as a heel or a face at some point. Not that I didn't try. Pat simply told me that it would probably ruin my career. I just wanted to experience what it felt like on the other side of the fence. As we all know, the heels have the most fun out there in the ring."
On his WWE status...
"I am under a Legends contract. I'm like a diplomat. I do appearances and autograph sessions and speak for the company. It's a great gig for me. I'm glad I'm still able to do this and still have some notoriety, to keep this old dog going until it's time to ride off into the sunset."
WWE top 10:
Brock Lesnar.
Jim Ross on WWE departure:
"My departure from WWE over the Summer Slam symposium in 2014 was a fiasco of misinformation and rumors allegedly spread by some perhaps with dubious character, agendas and with an overall lack of information. My side of the story will be told thoroughly some day to the chagrin of some and, yes, there are two sides to every story. But that was then....today is a better day with great things on the horizon."
Stop being popular:
WWE have demanded Cesaro stop doing the big swing because it was too over with the fans.
WWE future star:
Arthur, son of the late Umaga, who is currently playing american football has expressed a desire to join WWE in the future. He is 21, 6'2 and 335lbs. He says he wants to do US Football first, but if that doesn't work out, he will turn to wrestling.
TNA is better than WWE:
Robbie E has declared that ''WWE is not on our level'' in a UK interview, adding TNA have the best talent, hardest workers and have no ego's.
Kofi Kingston:
Booker T is not happy about Kofi joining the new group in WWE...
"You know, I got mixed feelings about it. They're forming this faction but I'm not sure exactly where it's going, especially with Kofi Kingston being part of it. Kofi has always been the ultimate babyface, the ultimate good guy and now I'm going to see Kofi with a dark hat on. I don't want to see that right there out of Kofi Kingston. So as far as exactly where it's going to go, I don't know. We're going to find out in the coming months, we're going to see if a couple more guys join that faction as well. So we'll see in the future."
Hulk Hogan says he has a shortlist for opponents, should he have ''One more match'', they are...
Daniel Bryan.
Stone Cold Steve Austin.
John Cena.
Vince McMahon.
The Rock:
The Rock will make an announcement very soon as to which super hero he will play in an upcoming DC movie, he posted the options available to him, they are Superman, Shazam and Black Adam.
TNA:
The British Bootcamp contenders have been named as...
The Owens Twins.
Kasey.
Leah.
Martin Stone.
RJ Sings.
Mark Andrews.
Stone is likely the best known of these names, he was a WWE NXT star until recently, then known as Danny Burch.
Design some tights:
Zack Ryder is offering the chance to design a pair of tights for him to wear on WWE TV, to enter go to wrestlingdesign.com.
Kane:
Here is the trailer for See No Evil 2 starring Kane.
Sting gives up on dream match?:
Sting says he is really disappointed not to get a shot at The Undertaker's streak, and now names Randy Orton, John Cena, Triple H and The Rock as people he would like to face at next years WrestleMania.
2K15:
Adam Rose is hinting he will be on this years game, and says he will have a part to play at SummerSlam.
Batista defends WWE:
Batista has defended WWE from heat for putting a part timer in the title match at SummerSlam (Brock Lesnar), he said if they did not do something after Lesnar beat the streak, "they're idiots." He also said he that CM Punk would be back... "I think eventually he'll come back. I think he belongs there. I think the fans really love him and miss him. I think he loves it and misses it just as much. I'm really not sure why he left. He'll be back, I would think that he would be back. I think it would be kind of crazy if he didn't go back."
CM Punk:
CM Punk is at the Comic Con working for the online show Nerdist.
John Cena:
He may just be playing, but John Cena today tweeted that he is interested in going heel... "Ok interweb, have fun with this one..#lifewouldbebetterif I turned heel. @twitter feed crash in 3....2....."
AJ Styles:
AJ Styles has revealed how much he turned down to stay with TNA, $200,000. This was just over half of his previous salary.
Mick Foley:
Mick Foley has blogged on the ruination of Zack Ryder at the hands of WWE... ''The story of Zack Ryder is a sad one. It's a sad story because I've seen so much great, hard-working talent recently on the independent scene, and know how difficult it is for them to even get a shot at the big time, let alone get over...really over. Zack Ryder was over...and now he's not. It's a sad story because he found a new and unique way to make himself a valuable commodity in WWE - and now his value is gone. It's a sad story because in November of 2011, after a heavily promoted "once in a lifetime" teaming up of John Cena and Dwayne The Rock Johnson, Madison Square Garden, the most famous arena in the world erupted in "We want Ryder" chants - and now those chants are gone. It's a sad story because I refereed several of his main event matches in Europe in that fall of 2011, and saw the joy with which he was received by the fans in that main event role - a role he is unlikely to ever know again. It's a sad story because fans bought his merchandise, they watched his show on You Tube, they liked him on Facebook (almost 1.5 million) they followed him on Twitter (over 1.5 million) and he made people smile - and now those smiles are gone. It's a sad story because eventually people get tired of finding out that the WWE Superstars they have supported with their cheers, their purchases, their signs, their follows and their likes aren't real Superstars - and little by little, those fans lose interest in WWE, find other interests, and become former WWE fans. It's a sad story because the next time WWE talent is given the speech about reaching for the brass ring, at the very least, in the back of their minds, they should be thinking about the guy who reached out and grabbed that brass ring - and was asked to return it. Maybe his surprise victory on RAW will be the start of something new. Maybe. I remember standing in the ring with Zack and CMPunk at Nassau Coliseum and gladly handing over my claim to being Long Island's most popular wrestler to Zack, Take a good look at that photo. Really look at it. Look at me, still important enough in the company's eyes to be part of an in-ring celebration. Look at Punk, breaking character, and willingly looking foolish, because it was a fun thing to do, and Zack Ryder's character made having fun, and wearing a ridiculous wig seem like the right thing to do. Look at the joy on Zack's face. That type of joy was infectuous. It's the type of joy we're not likely to see again. That photo is less than three years old...but it seems like such a long, long time ago. That's sad.''
A ''Heel'' John Cena on set of one of the two movies he is currently filming.
Sheamus:
Sheamus missed this weeks SmackDown taping due to a severe flu.
Hot Rod... The Movie:
Rowdy Roddy Piper has revealed Mark Wahlberg will play him in the upcoming movie of his life.
GFW:
Jeff Jarrett has secured partnerships with several promotions around Europe, they include...
Revolution Pro Wrestling, covering south of England.
New Generation Wrestling covering north of England.
Premier British Wrestling, covering Scotland.
Westside Xtreme Wrestling, covering Germany.
Emerald Wrestling Promotions, covering Ireland.
SummerSlam SPOILER!!!:
Nikki Bella is booked to turn heel during the Stephanie McMahon vs Brie Bella match at SummerSlam, it seems she will cost her Sister the match. END OF SPOILERS!!!
Rey vs WWE:
Rey Mysterio is refusing to cash his WWE cheques, still angry about WWE re-signing him against his wishes. He is looking into taking legal action to get out of the deal. We may have seen the last of Rey Mysterio in a WWE ring.
Wrestling good deed:
A number of wrestlers, led by Bill Goldberg have sent messages of support to a youngster suffering from Brain Cancer, 5 year old Danny asked for nothing but cards for his upcoming 6th birthday, and is receiving them from all around the world, when Goldberg heard he rallied the troops and made this video for him.
Triple H thanks JR:
Jim Ross is now no longer affiliated with WWE, his 21 year career ended today, Triple H marked the news with this tribute... "@JRsBBQ Thanks for being the voice of our attitude....#noonebetter"
Triple H vs fans:
Triple H cut an anti fans promo at Raw, talking about his friend ''Mark'', this was not all for heat, he is said to be very upset with negative reviews of BattleGround, and feels internet fans think they know more than they do about the sport.
Angle vs Lesnar:
Kurt Angle has admitted to a backstage fight with Brock Lesnar... "The match was tight. There's no doubt about it. There was only one takedown. I took Brock down, and that was it. That's when I put the fingers up, said two, and it's over. But we went a good 12 to 15 minutes. It was a good battle; Brock did outweigh me by about 70 pounds at the time. He was a big boy, but I knew that. It was a tight match. Did I beat him? Yeah, I edged him." Jim Ross told him he was chewed out over the incident by Vince McMahon, and Angle apologised.
Sting:
Sting made his first public appearance for WWE today at the San Diego Comic Con. He said he wants one more match, and Taker is the man he wants. The appearance was set up by toy company Mattel.
Big Show returned at Raw this week, but was not used, he did work the post show match beating Kane.
Vince Russo talks career regrets:
"My wife raised my kids on her own without me being there—it's that simple. Rather than put my time and effort into the only thing that should have mattered to me—I was out chasing ratings that in the big scheme of things meant absolutely nothing. I put Vince McMahon and the WWE before my own family, and just writing that sickens me. I missed my son hitting his first home run—to this very day that still haunts me. And, for what, somebody who, went it came down to it, didn't give a s**t about me? He only cared when I was the cash cow delivering him numbers. For that, I gave up my family. That's just about as sad as it gets."
Former stars in movies:
Ariel of WWE will co-star with Danny Trejo in an upcoming movie she started working on the project today. Meanwhile Trish Stratus will star with Danny Glover in Gridlocked.
TNA star to WWE TV:
So Cal Val will appear at this weeks TV's as a rosebud.
Angle dropped:
WWE changed Main Event this week putting Rusev into a rematch with Jack Swagger, probably to end the controversial feud early.
SmackDown SPOILERS!!!:
* RybAxel vs The Uso's... * Bo Dallas vs Dolph Ziggler... * Cesaro vs Dean Ambrose... * Naomi vs Paige... * Bray Wyatt vs R-Truth... * Alberto Del Rio vs Roman Reigns... END OF SPOILERS!!!
Kenta:
Vince McMahon met Kenta last night.
Hall Of Famer leaves WWE:
Jim Ross officially ends his 21 year WWE career tomorrow.
TNA setback:
The Manhattan center have raised their rental prices, possibly scuppering TNA's hopes of using it again in the future.
Jake The Snake Roberts:
Jake The Snake says he is now cancer free.
Reid Flair:
NWA Mid Atlantic have announced a $2,500 scholarship in Ric Flair's sons name for the best prospect at the next training camp they host.
Cena to Hollywood:
There is some strong speculation coming out of WWE that John Cena is looking at making the move away from WWE and into the movies, he is currently working on 2 movies, and some talent are joking that he will be taping his matches via satellite for the next couple of months. Cena is banged up, and may be preparing himself to bring his wrestling career to a close, and looking forward to his future away from the sport.
TV host blasts WWE:
I can't report the content of what was said, because the video will not play in the UK, but Jon Stewart, a TV host in the US has reportedly angrily responded to WWE's pro Russian promo at BattleGround on his show.
US Champ no shows:
Sheamus did not turn up for his advertised appearance at last night's TV's.
Team to split:
RybAxel are set to be broken up by WWE.
TNA signings:
TNA have re-signed Brooke, Sam Shaw and Sanada to new deals today.
Prince Devitt:
Prince Devitt has reportedly now signed his WWE deal.
John Cena vs Brock Lesnar for the WWE Title has been confirmed for SummerSlam.
Kofi Kingston, Big E and Xavier Woods formed a new stable, Mark Henry will join at some point.
Paige turned heel.
Two planned matches were dropped, Roman Reigns vs Rusev and Bo Dallas vs Great Khali.
Hornswoggle turned face joining Adam Rose (On Superstars).
Flo Rida and Heath Slater continued their feud.
Stephanie McMahon was arrested for slapping Brie Bella.
Kaitlyn was backstage visiting friends.
Two great careers have ended:
The Wrestling Observer are reporting that Sting's impending WWE debut has not shifted the Undertaker's position. They say while he has not ruled out ever wrestling again he has no plans to, and does not expect to ever set foot in the squared circle in a wrestling capacity in the future.
CM Punk has also ruled out ever wrestling again, he said ''Never ever'' 3 times before smiling and saying the internet fans will now make sure he sticks to that statement. It may not be the end of his dealings with WWE though, WWE officials are extremely angry with the way things ended, and are looking at potential ''Consequences'' for their former champion, probably meaning legal action for breaching the last 6 months of his contract.
WWE backstage news:
WWE are set to turn Nikki Bella heel, and her wardrobe malfunction was edited off later editions of Raw. They are also posting messages on the tron in ad breaks asking fans to light the arena with their phones during Bray Wyatt's entrance.
Angle dropped:
The planned SummerSlam rematch between Rusev and Jack Swagger will likely be dropped after the firestorm WWE received following Lana's pro Russian promo at BattleGround,
SummerSlam:
Roman Reigns vs Randy Orton and Dean Ambrose vs Seth Rollins will join the already confirmed match on the card, also expect Stephanie McMahon vs Brie Bella and a Chris Jericho vs Bray Wyatt rematch.
See No Evil 2:
The release date and first look at the new Kane movie will be released at next weeks San Diego comic con.
BattleGround:
Vince McMahon stepped in to change the result of the Wyatt / Jericho match on the night, Bray was originally booked to go over.
Also the backstage beat down of Y2J on Raw last night was taped at the special, Jericho was with his band and could not attend Raw in person.
TNA:
Bobby Lashley and MVP mocked WWE's new stable, saying it is a rip-off of their group in TNA. The promotion have also announced a free to attend TV taping in the UK on August 16, in London, it will be the final of British Bootcamp 2.
WWE star on TV:
David Otunga will guest star as himself on General Hospital.
NXT release returns home:
Joey Cabray has returned to Ireland after his brief WWE career last year.
WWE are going to phase out the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, they wanted to drop it right away when the titles were unified, but kept it going as a last minute decision, the belt will now go as WWE look to it's future with a new logo coming post SummerSlam.
BattleGround:
Results...
Adam Rose bt Fandango.
Cameron bt Naomi.
The Uso's bt The Wyatt Family.
AJ Lee bt Paige.
Rusev bt Jack Swagger.
Seth Rollins bt Dean Ambrose.
Chris Jericho bt Bray Wyatt.
The Miz won the IC title Battle Royal.
John Cena bt Randy Orton, Roman Reigns and Kane.
Notes...
RVD no showed for the Battle Royal, WWE later said he was injured, Fandango was pulled to face Adam Rose, and Damien Sandow was re-added in his place.
Tatanka was backstage with his family. A number of NXT talent were also in attendance.
Kenta:
Former Kai En Tai member Funaki has returned to WWE as Kenta's translator. The Japanese star will likely keep his ring name.
Nikki Bella:
Nikki Bella has been using her new Estate Agent license to try to help fellow Diva Cameron buy a home.
Raw teaser:
* Dean Ambrose will no doubt be hungry for retribution against Seth Rollins
* How will The Miz commemorate his third Intercontinental Title reign?
* After a loss, is Bray Wyatt done preying on Chris Jericho?
* Will Jack Swagger & Zeb Colter unleash their counter-attack on Rusev & Lana?
* How will The Authority respond to John Cena retaining and what's next for Roman Reigns?
Brock Lesnar is also on his way to the event, John Cena is not, he is going to New York to film his movie.
Unified titles:
WWE may be building a feud between now and SummerSlam between Miz and Sheamus with the unification of the IC and US titles culminating the rivalry at the Staples Center.
The Dragon Ricky Steamboat:
Just 48 hours after the news of Ricky Steamboat's WWE departure broke, WWE have changed their minds. The Hall Of Famer has started calling to cancel his bookings, and is advising people that want him to attend their events, that they would need to ask WWE first.
Huge heat on WWE:
WWE decided not to drop the Rusev pro Russia angle for BattleGround last night, in fact they went with it hard, a graphic of Vladimir Putin on the tron was widely booed, but Lana went further seemingly referencing the recent terrorist attack in Ukraine during her pro Russia promo. WWE were slated on social media for going too far, many turned away from the event in protest, and a number of main stream media outlets have picked up on it.
WWE released this statement...
"Last night's segment during WWE's Battleground event was in no way referring to the Malaysia Airlines tragedy. The storyline with characters Rusev and Lana has been a part of WWE programming for more than 3 months. WWE apologizes to anyone who misunderstood last night's segment and was offended."
WWE 2K15:
This years SummerSlam WWE roster reveal panel has been named as Hulk Hogan, John Cena, Sheamus, Cesaro, Roman Reigns, DX, and Steve Austin.
WrestleMania 31:
Here is the first look at next years venue for WrestleMania... (Video in sidebar)...
The Rock:
The Rock is teasing an appearance in the DC movie Shazam.
Randy Orton:
Randy Orton was stopped by police today whilst driving. He says it was because his windows were too tinted.
WWE sign deal:
WWE have signed a 5 year TV deal in the Middle East and North Africa.
Photo:
CM Punk preparing to host an awards show.
Kurt Angle to WWE:
Kurt Angle has confirmed he wants to come back to WWE, in conversation with Jim Ross he says he is not happy with the way he has been booked in TNA for the past year, says he is ready to return to the big time, and has unfinished business. He however says he cannot talk to WWE because of his TNA deal, and has no idea if WWE would like him back. Jim Ross asked him about his addictions, and if that could be an issue, he says no, he has been clean for a year, he also said he will have no bother getting through the physical.
