Figure Four Weekly Online

WWE Superstars TV report

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:38:56 +0100

WWE Superstars TV Report

By Daniel Galvan

March 11th, 2010

Match 1: Dolph Ziggler vs Shelton Benjamin - Commentators: Matt Striker and Todd Grisham

Match starts with Ziggler getting immediate offense. Ziggler pounds away on Shelton early in the corner. Ziggler then gets whipped into the corner by Benjamin. Benjamin. Ziggler then locks on the sleeper on Benjamin, but Shelton reverses it by flipping Dolph over. Dolph then dropkicks the leg of Shelton. Ziggler then hits a leg drop to the standing Benjamin. Ziggler goes for the pin, but doesn't get it. Dolph then stomps on the neck of Benjamin. Ziggler then hits his exaggerated elbow drop on Benjamin, and goes for the pin only to get a nearfall. Ziggler then locks on a sideheadlock on Benjamin, but Benjamin elbows his way out of the maneuver. Shelton then hits a clothesline on Ziggler. Shelton then goes for the Dragon Whip, but Ziggler dodges it. Ziggler still dizzy gets hit by a fireman's carry by Benjamin. Benjamin then covers Ziggler to no avail. Benjamin then puts Ziggler on the top rope. Benjamin then grabs the head of Dolph and drops Dolph neck first into the ropes onto the ring apron, although it looks botched as Benjamin sells the move too. Dolph then hits the Zig Zag on Benjamin, and covers Benjamin only to get two. Ziggler then yells at Shelton. Ziggler then locks on the sleeper again on a tired Benjamin. Interesting note, Striker calls Benjamin the blueprint. Shelton almost reaches the ropes, so Ziggler gets his hooks in on Benjamin to lock on a rear naked choke. The referee calls for the bell as Shelton is passed out. An anticlimatic ending, since people are made to believe that breaking out of a rear naked choke is easy, watching the past 25 years of WWE.

RESULT: Dolph Ziggler def. Shelton Benjamin via submission

We then get a plug for the main event MVP and Christian vs Chavo Guerrero and Carlito(wonder who is going to win this one.) They show us an awesome package for the HBK/Shawn feud.

MATCH 2: Mike Knox vs Goldust - Commentators: Matt Striker and Todd Grisham

Knox gets no entrance, and Goldust does. Match starts with Knox immediately stomping on Goldust in the corner. Goldust then gets offense on Knox and runs the ropes and meets a dropkick from Knox. Knox then goes for the pin, but only gets two. Knox then locks on a headlock on Goldust. Goldust then smacks his foot on the mat to get the crowd to cheer for him. Knox whips Goldust into the ropes, and drops down to toss over Goldust, but Goldust instead drops down aswell and slaps Knox. Goldust then hits an inverted atomic drop on Knox. Goldust then runs the ropes and hits a facebuster on Knox. Goldust then goes for a pin, but only gets two. Goldust then hits a scoop slam on Knox who was running at Goldust. Goldust then goes for a pin on Knox, but to no avail. Knox then whips Goldust into the ropes, and tries to boot Goldust, but Goldust dodges the boot and runs the ropes but meets a flying crossbody from Knox. Knox then covers Goldust twice, but to no avail as Goldust kicks out both times. Goldust then hits the Final Cut and gets the pin.

RESULT: Goldust def. Mike Knox via pinfall.

We get a package from last weeks NXT. They then show the Wrestlemania Re-Bound with Golberg/Lesnar and Austin.

MATCH 3: Santino Marella vs Zack Ryder w. Rosa Mendes - Commentators: Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole

Santino starts the match with a fighting stance. Both men then lock up, and Santino hits a sideheadlock takeover on Ryder. Ryder then hits a sideheadlock takeover on Santino. Ryder then grinds a headlock on Santino. Santino then gets up and whips Ryder into the ropes, only to get shoulderblocked by Ryder. Ryder then runs the ropes, to meet a armdrag from Santino. Santino then hits a powerslam on Ryder. Santino then goes for a monkey flip on Ryder, but Ryder holds onto the ropes so Santino just falls flat on his back. Ryder then hits a clothesline on Marella. Ryder then hits a variation of a neckbreaker on Santino. Ryder then pins Santino only to get two. Ryder then locks on a sideheadlock on Santino. Fans start chanting Santino , and Santino hulks up and flips Ryder over himself. Ryder then elbows Santino, as Marella plays to the crowd. Ryder then yells at Santino. Ryder then grabs the head of Santino and rams into the corners of teh turnbuckle, and Santino does the spot where he no-sells the turnbuckle smash. Ryder then slaps Santino, and Santino grins. Santino then punches Ryder. Ryder goes for an elbow on Santino, but Santino drops to one leg and hip tosses Ryder. Santino then calls for the Cobra, and hits Ryder with the Cobra. Rosa distracts Santino, and Ryder hits a leg lariat on Santino. Zack then hits the Zack Attack and gets the pin on Marella.

RESULT: Zack Ryder def. Santino Marella via pinfall

They then show a package for the latest Michaels DVD. Then they show a Batista video profile. We go to the RAW Rebound now showing Batista attacking Cena, and the gauntlet match. Lawler and Cole then go over the Mania 26 card.

MATCH 4: Christian and MVP vs Chavo Guerrero and Carlito - Commentators: Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole

Match starts with MVP and Chavo Guerrero. MVP and Chavo lock up. Chavo then grabs around the waist of MVP, but MVP reverses it and grabs the waist of Guerrero. MVP then locks on a headlock on Chavo and then hits a shoulderblock on Chavo. MVP then goes for the pin, and only gets two. MVP then brings Chavo into his corner, and tags in Christian. Chavo immediately runs back to his corner and tags in Carlito. Carlito immediately kicks Christian in the gut, and locks on a headlock. Christian then throws Carlito into the ropes and hits a dropkick on Carlito. Christian then goes for the pin, but only gets a two count. Christian then hits a openhand slap on Carlito. Carlito then hitsa knee to the midsection. Carlito then knocks Christian off the apron. We then go to commercial break. We come back from commercial break with Carlito hitting a back elbow smash on Christian. Carlito then goes for the pin, and only gets two. Carlito then hits a body slam on Christian. Christian then tags in MVP who hip tosses Carlito. MVP then elbows Carlito, and pushes Chavo off the apron. MVP then hits a knee on Carlito. MVP then hits his Ballin' elbow on Carlito. Chavo then brings Carlito to the outside of the outside of the ring. MVP then hits a sliding baseball slide on both men. MVP then throws Carlito into the ring, and stands on the apron. MVP then is about to hit a springboard move, but Chavo grabs the leg of MVP and MVP falls face first into the ring apron. Carlito then charges MVP into the barricade. Carlito then elbows the back of MVP. Carlito then bodyslams MVP, and tags in Chavo who somersaults on MVP. Chavo then stomps on MVP. Chavo then hits an uppercut on MVP and goes for the pin only to get two. The fans then chant one more time for the uppercut. Chavo then punches MVP, but MVP blocks it, and hits Chavo with a punch of his own. Chavo then hits a drop-toehold on MVP and then drops a knee on him. Chavo then brings MVP into his corner and pounds away on MVP in the corner. Carlito then chokes MVP. Chavo then tags in Carlito. Carlito then kicks the stomach of MVP. Carlito then stomps MVP. Tarver then gets in the face of MVP and yells at MVP. Carlito then punches MVP. MVP then delivers a few left and rights on Carlito and whips Carlito into the ropes only to meet a kick from Carlito. Carlito then runs the ropes and MVP hits a variation of a flapjack on Carlito. MVP then tags in Christian, and Carlito tags in Chavo. Christian then delivers a series of punches to Chavo, and gets whipped into the ropes. Christian then elbows Chavo on the re-bound. Christian then mule kicks Chavo. Christian then jumps on the top rope, and hits a sunset flip on Chavo, but only gets two. Christian then hits Chavo with a wild right hand. Christian then kicks Chavo, and hits a flying european uppercut on Carlito. Christian then knees Carlito of the apron, and elbows Chavo who runs at Christian. Christian then goes for another sunset flip on Chavo, but Chavo reverses it by putting both of his knees on the arms of Christian and sitting down. Chavo gets a nearfall. Chavo then goes for the Three Amigos, but only hits two. Christian reverses the third suplex, and hits an inverted DDT onto Chavo. Carlito then breaks it up by dropping an elbow on Christian. MVP then runs in the ring and clotheslines Carlito over the top rope. Christian then goes for the Killswitch Engage on Guerrero, but Chavo reverses it into a brainbuster. Chavo then goes for a frog splash, but Christian moves out of the way, and hits the Killswitch Engage on Guerrero and picks up the three count.

RESULT: Christian and MVP def. Chavo Guerrero and Carlito

Overall Thoughts: A decent show with no match that was spectacular, but nothing that was horrible.

UFC announces Manhattan closed-circuit for UFC 111; lots of New York acitivities during the week

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:57:17 +0100

UFC announced today they have booked Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan for a closed-circuit of the now sold out UFC 111 show on 3/27. Stephan Bonnar and Sirius radio host Jason Ellis will host the closed circuit party and Chuck Liddell and Matt Serra will also be appearing. Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event. Liddell and Serra will do a Q A at 8 p.m.

The show will start with the first hour Spike feed at 9 p.m., followed by the PPV at 10 p.m.

The company also announced a 3/24 event at Radio City Music Hall at 3 p.m. with a press conference with the fighters on the show, followed by a 3:30 Q A session with Dana White, Georges St. Pierre,Dan Hardy, Frank Mir and Shane Carwin.

There will be a party with UFC fighters expected to attend at Johnny Utah's on W. 51st Street at 5 p.m. on 3/24.

Weighins will be at 4 p.m. on 3/26 at the Prudential Center, preceded at 2 p.m. with a Matt Serra Q A session.

There will also be a pre-fight VIP party at Soho with White, Liddell and Brock Lesnar.

March 11 Figure Four Daily with Lance Storm: Lance on the "war", solutions to TNA's ...

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:49:50 +0100

Are you sick of hearing about the Monday Night Wars yet? If so, TOO BAD~! Lance Storm returns today to give his thoughts on not only the supposed wars, but the goofy booking Monday, analogies regarding Canada going to war with the US, solutions to this problem and different ideas to try to make the situation better, plus some non-wrestling stuff including cool places in Canada, wacky sitcoms, authors he loves, and more. A fun show as always with Lance so check it out~!

The most comprehensive look at Monday night, what went right and what went wrong, viewer reactions

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:46:35 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

The most complete look at what the numbers said on Monday night is our lead story in this coming Monday's issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. We look through the spin, look at the pluses and minuses of TNA's full-time move to Monday, promotional mistakes, things that can be done that would immediately, at least for the short-term, increase the ratings significantly, at what went wrong.

We look at why the tapings after Destination X are so important, as well as look at every segment of Raw and Impact on Monday, the gains and losses of viewers, and what that says about people switching channels.

We look at the departure of several people from TNA over the past week.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We also have a lengthy look at the life and career of Angelo Poffo, including a look at the early days of Randy Savage, and why it took Savage so long to become an international star. We look at one of the most heated promotional wars of all-time, a television battle that makes the Bischoff vs. Vince war seem absolutely tame in comparison, including threats and realities of actual violence between the sides, including the filing of a multimillion dollar lawsuit.

We look at the peak of Angelo's career, Randy Savage's beginnings in pro wrestling, the legend of the ICW/Jarrett feud, the debut in wrestling of Miss Elizabeth. We look at the promoter who started signing away their talent, yet ended up giving what Randy Savage would later say was the career advice that ended up changing his life in giving up an angle that would have been between two of the biggest stars of the 80s.

We look at Poffo setting the sit-up record, how he got started in wrestling, his role in the origination of the popularity of the manager character and his controversial WCW Hall of Fame induction.

We also look at the career of Jens Pulver and his role in establishing lighter weight fighters, his interview that was one of the most memorable in MMA history, as well as his future, along with a rundown of WEC 47, with poll results, details on the show and how much all the fighters got paid.

We also look at a new form of pro wrestling production that took place featuring some of the biggest stars of several different promotions that took place over the weekend.

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--Annual King of Gate tournament notes

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THURS. UPDATE: Notes on recent deaths, Ratings, St. Pierre, Bret Hart, WWE signs member of 80s team

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:45:00 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

TNA Impact from Monday will be repeated tonight in the old 9-11 p.m. time slot on Spike.

Superstars tonight on WGN America:

Santino Marella vs. Zack Ryder

Christian MVP vs. Chavo Guerrero Carlito

Goldust vs. Mike Knox

Shelton Benjamin vs. Dolph Ziggler

We look at the departure of several people from TNA over the past week.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We look at Poffo setting the sit-up record, how he got started in wrestling, his role in the origination of the popularity of the manager character and his controversial WCW Hall of Fame induction.

We also look at a new form of pro wrestling production that took place featuring some of the biggest stars of several different promotions that took place over the weekend.

--Lineup for CMLL's first major show of the year with the biggest name in Mexico putting his mask up

--Current NFL star wrestles this week in Mexico

--How WWE is affecting the mentality when it comes to business in Mexico

--Wrestler fired for associating with the wrong wrestler

--TNA makes overseas talent deal

--Updates on Dragon Gate USA business

--Annual King of Gate tournament notes

--One of the all-time greats needs another knee operation and insiders question if this Hall of Famer's career may have ended this week

--Former WWE star debuts in All Japan at Sumo Hall this week

--First cage match in All Japan history features two former MMA headliners against each other

--World champion breaks elbow, out indefinitely

--Lots of news regarding the school named after Tiger Jeet Singh

--The only other known school named after a pro wrestler

--Eric Bischoff's latest pro wrestling show idea

--Wrestling announcer recovers from stroke

--Notes on the recent ROH TV tapings

--Updated lineup for TNA Destination X

--More on TNA roster changes

--What TNA personality credits the dropping of ratings to his not being on TV as much

--Problems with the build to the first Monday show

--A.J. Styles wrestles tag team partner when he first broke in

--Funny story on U.K. reporter doing a story on TNA

--Desmond Wolfe talks his start in TNA

--Funny story from Vince Russo's book

--RVD TV series update

--RVD talks Umaga death

--Scott Steiner update

--TV star looking to get into TNA

--UFC PPV number updates

--Dana White talks weight class change for one of UFC's biggest stars

--UFC gets a network prime time deal overseas and network predicts a 10.0 rating for the debut show

--TV show canceled

--Jens Pulver talks the Miletich camp

--UFC now available in several new countries

--Lots of new UFC matches

--Update on Herschel Walker fighting

--A couple of notes on some deaths in the last two days. Sandy Scott was always a nice person the few times I met him. Very professional and level headed in his approach to the business. Henry Wittenberg, one of the great wrestlers this country ever produced, had quite an amazing story (next week's issue). He was almost the American Karelin in the 40s, an unbeatable force on the mat even though he never took up the sport until his sophomore year in college. Merlin Olsen, well known as an NFL star and later and actor, had pro wrestling ties in the sense that like Wittenberg, he was heavily recruited to get into pro wrestling in a tag team with his brother. His brother ended up as an AWA promoter in the 80s although I don't recall Merlin Olsen ever being involved in an AWA show. But he was a wrestling fan and was responsible for an episode of Little House on the Prairie that had an old-time carnival wrestling storyline.

--For the week ending 2/28 in the U.K., Impact did 91,000 viewers. Raw did less than 25,000 and Smackdown did 165,000. NXT did 38,000. (thanks to Ian Hamilton)

--Does anyone have contact information on former wrestler Bob Roop?

--Dennis Condrey has signed with WWE and starts Monday as a trainer at FCW, assigned to the NXT crew (thanks to Rich Tate)

--Last night's UFC Prime Time building up GSP vs. Dan Hardy drew and 0.9 rating and 1 million viewers, far higher than any Countdown show has done since UFC 100.

--Strikeforce officials have confirmed to us that April 17 is official and the show won't be moved to another date.

--Smackdown on My50 Chicago will be delayed tomorrow as well as next Friday due to high school basketball playoffs. Smackdown will air after the games are over. (thanks to Rich Koz)

--Smackdown tomorrow night in Lubbock will be airing at 10:30 p.m. due to college basketball (thanks to Victor Martinez)

--A story on an attempt to pass a bill rescinding the ban of MMA in West Virginia, one of he few states left, is at http://wboy.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory storyid=76557 A bill to do so recently failed.

--More Jim Ross talking MMA at http://www.heavy.com/post/exclusive-jim-ross-talks-becoming-an-mma-fan-james-toney-brock-lesnar-and-more-pt-2-4457

--A review of Steve Austin's new movie Damage is at http://dvd.ign.com/articles/107/1076515p1.html The review is positive, saying it's one of the best fighting movies on the DVD market, calling it a strong B- movie

--Bret Hart has been in Toronto today promoting his match with Vince McMahon. He will be on Off the Record. He did a very good interview on Canada AM at http://watch.ctv.ca/news/top-picks/hitman-returns/#clip275113 He was sitting in a chair in jeans and made no mention of his injury nor was the leg taped up. However, he was selling the leg earlier today in the OTR studio. (thanks to Steve Khan)

--There is an interview with Colt Cabana about how he got the Scotty Goldman name and how he was used in WWE at http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/wrestling/

--Rachelle Leah is announced as returning as a ring girl at UFC 111 for one night only. The last time that was announced, in 2008, it didn't happen, and she has talked in the past about how uncomfortable she was in that role when she had it.

--Alex Marvez talks the Monday Night Wars at http://www.scrippsnews.com/node/52096

--Poll on NXT

Excellent 23.6%

Good 54.0%

Average 12.9%

Fair 3.0%

Poor 6.5%

26.1% of those responding didn't see the show

--Do you think TNA's rating will go up or down next week?

Up 16.5%

Down 49.7%

Stay the same 33.8%

--What should TNA do first?

Focus on making the wrestling on the show more meaningful 27.4%

Move ASAP to 8-10 p.m. Monday 22.6%

Try to use television to build up matches with more focus 15.6%

Stop worrying about ratings and try and build issues 13.0%

Turn into more of a comedy spoof of wrestling show 8.4%

More back to Thursday 8.2%

Make no changes 3.8%

More old style interview segments 1.2%

--Doug Williams noted that despite it being written that he trained Jemma Palmer, a new woman signed by WWE, The most I have ever done is point her in the direction of decent wrestling gyms in the U.K.

--Jesse Ventura interview at http://prowrestlingabout.com/od/interviews/a/jesseventura201interview.htm

--This turned into minor controversy as Ventura said that he has depositions showing that Hogan got more money at WM 3 than everyone else combined, and Jim Ross, who has WWF payoff records, since he was in charge of that department, says that isn't the case. I do recall the late Jim Barnett, who handled payoffs in 1987, telling me what everyone got. Hogan and Andre both got $750,000 (Hogan now gives the number at $1,750,000) so, Hogan did not make more than the rest of the show combined. Hogan and Andre together probably did.

--Jesse Ventura will be signing his book at 7 p.m. tonight at Borders at Columbus Circle in Manhattan.

--The claim is that 41,000 tickets have been sold for Saturday's Pacquiao/Clottey fight at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas.

--Vance Nevada will be signing his book Wrestling in the Canadian West at Another Dimension Comics in Calgary from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday. The book is a great record book of what seems like hundreds of promotions, both large and small, that have operated in Western Canada. There will also be a drawing for a copy of a 484-page Owen Hart scrapbook

--A story on John Morrison returning to Stockton on Saturday night. The story notes about 6,000 tickets have been sold for the show. Morrison, as John Hennigan, went to college at nearby UC-Davis, and in a trivia note, would have gone to the college at the same time as Urijah Faber. He noted that he first got started training at Supreme Pro Wrestling in Sacramento before Tough Enough, noting looking forward to seeing Jesus Kruze. Story is at http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100311/A_LIFE/3110309

--Speaking of Faber trivia, until a few weeks ago, he had never even heard of the name Kerry Von Erich.

--Shine Fight Promotions runs its first show on 5/15 at the Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville and on PPV, called World's Collide, featuring Ricardo Mayorga, who drew the second biggest PPV number of 2006 in his match with Oscar De La Hoya, making his MMA debut against Din Thomas. Nick Thompson vs. Eduardo Pamplona was announced for the show today.

--During UFC 108's airing last night, they aired a commercial for UFC Prime Time, except it was building up an episode with GSP and B.J. Penn as opposed to GSP and Dan Hardy. The right episode aired, of course, just the wrong preview commercial. The funniest part is the first words out of Penn's mouth is he's going to kill him.

--The big angle at the end of the show is that Dan Hardy is training with Matt Serra for the fight. At least part one didn't do a lot for me, even with the last second payoff. (thanks to Will Gregory)

--Dan Hardy's strength and conditioning coach is Joe DeFranco, who has worked with Miles Austin of the Dallas Cowboys and Brian Cushing. There is a video at http//asp.elitefts.com/qa/training-logs.asp?qid=116397 tid=

--The EA Sports MMA game will have three sets of rules, Strikeforce rules, UFC rules and Japanese rules. They will also have a Strikeforce style cage, a circular cage and a ring. (thanks to Jereme Warneck)

--CHIKARA on 3/21 in Fairfield, CT in combination with Power Glory Wrestling headlines a 4 p.m. show at the Knights of Columbus Hall with Mike Quackenbush Hallowicked Frightmare vs. Claudio Castagnoli Ares Tursas

--Spike Dudley vs. Danny Demanto in a cage match headlines NWS on 3/19 in Edison, NJ at Herbert Hoover Middle School. Samu also appears on the show.

--DWF/Loco on 3/20 in Pennsauken, NJ at B B Boxing Fitness features War Games

--Platinum Championship Wrestling tomorrow night in Avondale Estates, GA at the Academy Theater. They also run Tuesday at Eyedrum in Atlanta

--Combat Championship Wrestling at the Advantage Village Academy Gym in St. Petersburg with Sean Spears Sinn Bodhi (Kizarny) The Sheik Cuban Assassin vs. Eric Perez (Eric Escobar) Tyrone Jackson Jesse Neal Ricky Ortiz

--Tuff-N-Uff on 3/26 in Las Vegas at The Orleans Hotel Casino headlined by Ryan Couture, Randy's son, against Sean Bollinger for the Tuff-N-Uff lightweight title

--Jamie Dundee and Brian Christopher will be doing a seminar tonight from 6-9 p.m. at Belindas Nite Club in Cleveland for $30, and then wrestling tomorrow night at the same club at 7 p.m. Call 216-536-2969. I shudder to thing what the seminar will be about.

--Cage Fighting Championship 13 on 4/16 in Gold Coast, Australia with Jesse Juarez vs. Justin Murray as the main event

--Former UFC fighter Richie Hightower faces Kavan Johnson as part of the 5/7 MFC show in Edmonton which airs live on HDNet. Wilson Gouveia vs. Ryan Jimmo, David Heath vs. Solomon Hutcherson and Luigi Fiorvanti vs. Pete Spratt are also announced for the show at the Northlands Expo Centre

--CWE from Sunday night in Winnipeg: Jon Cutler b Kevy Chevy, Chi Chi Cruz b Rick Matthews, Keith Walker Michael Elgin won gauntlet over J.J. Sanchez Cliff Corleone, Arik Cannon Arya Daivari, Brian Rich Scottie Rapper and Bobby Fox Bobby Sharp, Wavell Starr won gauntlet over Paul Arcidi, Don Douglas and Billy Blaze, Bobby Jay b Bushwhacker Luke, Billy Gunn b A.J. Sanchez-DQ, Danny Duggan Mentallo b Tajiri Kushida

--CWE on Monday night in Kenora, ONT: Mentallo b Keith Walker, Cliff Corleone b Brian Rich, Arik Cannon Arya Daivari b Kenny Omega Kushida, Danny Duggan b Michael Elgin, A.J. Sanchez b Bushwhacker Luke, Billy Gunn b Gangrel

--CWE on Tuesday night in Fort Frances, ONT: Kenny Omega b Arya Daivari, Cliff Corleone b Keith Walker, A.J. Sanchez Gangrel b Danny Duggan Mentallo, Kushida b Arik Cannon, Brian Rich b Bushwhacker Luke-DQ, Billy Gunn b Michael Elgin

--Mammoth Sasaki returns to action after a year out with a strained vertebrae stemming from a car accident when he stopped at a light and was rear ended at 40 miles per hour (thanks to Bret Querner)

--John Pollock of The Fight Network is looking for anyone who has photos of Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Eric Bischoff and Vince McMahon for a documentary. He can be reached at john@thefightnetwork.com

--ASW on 3/12 in Tampa at Strokers Billiards

--Vampiro wrestles for the first time ever in his original home town of Thunder Bay, ONT on 5/15 at the Fort William Gardens against Hannibal with Terry Funk as referee on a show that also includes Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner, Lanny Poffo and Honky Tonk Man.

Shawn Stasiak interview

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:41:30 +0100

http://alanwojcik.com

Alan Wojcik: For anyone who is not aware, you are a second generation wrestler. Please tell us who your father is and his major contributions to wrestling, plus where did the Stasiak name come from?

Shawn Stasiak: My father wrestled for 27 years. Was one of the pioneers of the wrestling industry and was the fifth wrestler in the WWE to become champion. He was a big hit all over the world namely the in the Pacific Northwest where he was a multiple time champion. The name STASIAK actually came from the original Stan Stasiak who was a wrester back in the 1930’s I believe. He actually passed away from blood poisoning he got from a wrestling match. Years later, my dad came along and was just getting started with the business and a promoter saw that my dad resembled the original Stan Stasiak. Look so much like him and so they gave him that name. Later, my father put the moniker “The Man” to the name and the rest is history.

Alan Wojcik: It seems second generation stars like Ted DiBiase Dwayne Johnson are pre-destined to wrestle. Did you feel that way or did your dad try and stop you from it?

Shawn Stasiak: He had mixed emotions about it. He knew the hardships of the business and what all it entailed. Some of the cut throating and demeanors of a lot of the folks involved but knew it could be a great life that was full of prosperity and fulfillment. He just wanted to make sure that I was protected and had more good things happen to me and my career than bad. I now understand what he must have felt as if I ever have a son and he wants to get into the business, I would have mixed emotions too.

Alan Wojcik: Before we get to your recent medical training, you attend Boise State University and also wrestled there (Stasiak was a 2-time Pac-10 runner-up). Why was communications your course of study and any college wrestling memories; if you have any, you wish to share?

Shawn Stasiak: Sure, I majored in Communications because the type of courses I was mainly interested in were speech, video, audio productions, and journalism. It is more of an art orientated type of field. And because I loved the professional wrestling business so much and had such a passion for acting and entertainment, those types of courses enabled me to connect with those passions the closest. Apart from theater classes I loved writing stories, being in front of and behind the camera, setting up scenes, working with lighting, editing, etc…..and of course working in the college’s radio station and playing around with special effects and music to make my own productions was something I was always drawn to.

As far as my amateur wrestling career at Boise State. I had a successful wrestling career. I was one of the most successful heavyweights in the schools history. Though I didn’t achieve winning the Pac-10 championships or the NCAA’s, I was a force to recon with, placed second two consecutive years, won lots of matches and was ranked high up on a national level. Looking back however, and of course hind sight is 20/20 and talk is cheap……….still there is no doubt in my mind that if I could go back in time with the mind I have today, I would win the Pac-10’s and NCAA’s if not place in the top 3 for sure. I feel very strongly about that. What kept me back from accomplishing that back then was me. I was my worst enemy. Man, I wish I could go back sometimes and get a few matches back that I fell short of. But it is what it is and you live and learn and I have definitely benefited in life from my wrestling experience at Boise State. It is where I learned how to build character and be disciplined.

Alan Wojcik: What led you to decide to go into the family business and what was the training like under Dory Funk Jr. and Tom Pritchard? Also who is Phobia?

Shawn Stasiak: Of course my father’s influence of the wrestling business. I was brought up around it especially in the territory days such as the Pacific Northwest territory. Portland wrestling was big for many years and a lot of the biggest names in the industry came through there. I had the opportunity and experience to grow up as a kid around that environment. What great memories now looking back. Thank you Portland wrestling for all the wonderful memories. Training under Dory Funk Jr. and Tom Prichard was some of the best training a young aspiring pro wrestler could ever ask for. Dory’s camps were brutal but fun and very valuable. Dr. Tom’s training was very technical and psychology driven. Tom is a great guy.

“Fobia” is a Halloween alter ego come to life comic book hero……….wow, did I just say all that? Yes, he is my creation, I own it, and love playing the character. People trip out on it when I bring him out. It gets more attention and requests to have a picture with it then Shawn Stasiak. LOL. I love playing the character. Stay tuned as I will be posting something on “Fobia” on my website www.shawnstasiak.com and on You Tube. You should get a kick out of it. Also, the character looks to be involved in some upcoming TV projects soon. Stay tuned.

Alan Wojcik: Most fans will remember you debuted in WWF as the character Meat, the brainchild of the Pretty Mean Sisters (Terri Runnels, Jacqueline and Ryan Shamrock.) First off who came up with the Meat character and how did you get along with the ladies “controlling” Meat?

Shawn Stasiak: Not too sure who came up with the idea but I think it was Ed Ferrara. I just played the part the best I could for what I was given. Not my favorite character but it was a start and ya gotta start somewhere. I had no problem working with all those gorgeous ladies. And I don’t think they minded working with me.

Alan Wojcik: You were the 1st WWF opponent of current TNA star and 1996 Olympic medalist Kurt Angle. Can you talk about that match and are you surprised Angle is still competing today with all the injuries he has accumulated over his career?

Shawn Stasiak: It was great to work with Kurt. I looked up to him in college. We had some great matches together that were never televised. He is a great athlete and so am I and I would love to face off with him one more time but do something with merit. Work an angle with him……..no pun intended. I travelled with him for almost a year. He was doing a lot of dark matches during my rookie year as “Meat”. I got to know him pretty well and thought that we had created a bond of friendship. Doesn’t surprise me he is still wrestling. He’s a pro wrester………competition is in his blood just as it is in mine. Plus, he’s Kurt Angle, he’s a world class tough son of a bitch athlete, a real stud. So no, I am not surprised. But I do hope he considers it soon as I feel he has nothing more to prove and his health and well being and family and friends are what he should probably now focus on and put more energy towards. Cause at the end of the day……..that stuff is what counts the most.

Alan Wojcik: In 2000 you left WWF to join WCW. What led to that decision and were you aware of the power struggle taking place in WCW on what seemed to be a daily basis? What level of interaction did Turner/AOL Time Warner management have if any at wrestling events?

Shawn Stasiak: Honestly, I don’t know.

Alan Wojcik: We're going to be talking about some people who have sadly left the world. The first would be the man you attacked in your Nitro debut (April 10, 2000) Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig. At Slamboree 2000 you wrestled him and then were coached by him. Talk about the Curt Hennig experience.

Shawn Stasiak: It was an honor to work with Curt. It is sad that he is no longer with us. He was a great asset and value to the business. I idolized him when I was a teenager. And it was a match I was watching with him wrestling back in high school that I made the mental claim that I wanted to be a professional wrestler. So I looked up to him. It was an honor to have the “Perfect” moniker put to my name but at the same time was concerned and didn’t want it to be disrespectful. I think a lot of fans felt that way but hey………it got a lot of heat with the fans and that is what they were bringing me in as. I just did what I was told at that point. They wanted to do the “Perfect” thing.

Alan Wojcik: From May 31, 2000-July 10, 2000 you and Chuck Palumbo held the WCW World Tag Team championship (1st of three reigns) defeated Brian Adams and Brian Clark (Kronik). Were you cool teaming with Chuck and thoughts on holding the tag titles.

Shawn Stasiak: Yes, I like Chuck he’s a cool cat. He had fun together working with each other, travelling together basically living on the road together. Winning the tag titles was exciting. I had fun teaming with Chuck and working the big Kronik giants.

Alan Wojcik: Throughout the rest of 2000 you and Palumbo faced off with several teams. Did you have a favorite WCW opponent and address the schedule WCW had you working.

Shawn Stasiak: That year was a year full of diversity, I wrestled with Chuck, against him, with the Natural Born Thrillers with Kevin Nash which was fun and then of course began to get a single’s push with Stacey Kiebler as my valet. I was getting tons of TV time, promos, and working a full time schedule. I have no complaints with WCW as I worked more, had more fun, and made more money. The only issue was the quality of the product, too many chiefs and not enough Indians so to speak, there was no direction. But my overall experience was good.

Alan Wojcik: In 2001 you under went change of sorts, becoming billed from Planet Stasiak. Was this the creation of Vince Russo/Ed Ferrera, Bischoff or you and why the change?

Shawn Stasiak: WCW completely and utterly screwed that up. That was my creation and was not at all showcased as what my vision of the character was. The character Planet Stasiak was supposed to be a take off from Jim Carrey’s character he played in Batman as the Riddler. He was supposed to be graceful, funny, articulate and smart, but a force to reckoned with. Not a joke or an enhancement for other wrestlers. Although I have no problem doing business and what’s best for the company so putting guys over is a must but not job out a character and make a joke out of it. That’s what they did. Planet Stasiak was also a message to people that they can connect with lost loved ones such as my father Stan “The Man”. Planet Stasiak was a character that was someone who could connect with his father’s spirit and draw from that positive energy to use in the ring and kick some butt. That was my intention with the significance of the name. A positive message, an inspirational piece that fans could relate to and use in their real lives. But for some reason, WCW had their plans with me and it wasn’t nothing more than to make a joke out of me. I really thought eventually through busting my ass, doing what I was told, staying in shape, perfecting my craft, that I would eventually get a fair shake at it. I thought that would come, it never did and then they fired me. In essence, I really did feel betrayed in so many ways. But I am over it now and all things do happen for a reason. I learned from that experience and now have a much bigger self value. I would never allow that to happen again. Why would I? It’s a waste of time for me and a company. Why not do something with merit that could actually make money. Especially with someone of my background, lineage, experience, and attributes that I do possess. I am a humble man and respectful to others but now I am just calling a spade a spade. Let’s see what the near future holds with my one last run at this business. I feel that is coming real soon. And it will finally be something that draws and puts asses in seats and draws good ratings. I sometimes feel like Vince McMahon didn’t like my dad or something and took it out on me. Seriously, why else would you waste a good talent and someone if given the proper backing and marketing support to draw big money? Makes no sense. Someone obviously in office or with political pull didn’t like me and the rest is history. But I do believe in Karma and what comes around goes around. Those people know who they are and I say no more.

Alan Wojcik: You were with WCW until it went out of business and WWE made the memorable purchase. How in the dark was the WCW roster kept and how soon after WWE bought it, did you decide to follow your fellow co-workers into the WWE?

Shawn Stasiak: I didn’t worry about it too much as I was at the top of my game in so many ways at that moment in time. I felt confident that my year with WCW was a productive year and that I had proven myself as a good talent in the ring and on the mic and that I had learned from previous mistakes. I had matured and was really starting to develop my craft. And at the time of the purchase, I had been getting tons of TV exposure and was given a bit of a push as a singles wrestler and felt that with what they gave me to work with was working out ok. So I really felt good about being accepted over. Besides, most if not all knew that the “Tape Recorder” incident was completely blown out of proportion and was just an excuse that was used by a few to get me fired a year or so prior to all of this. It just goes to show the paranoia and insecurities that are within that industry. Most if not all knew in their hearts that I meant no harm or wrongful intents but rather a rib that I was playing on a couple of guys that went sour and got blown completely out of proportion. It was a crock of shit of what happened to me. And if that situation hypothetically ever presented itself which it never would but let’s say I was disrespected like I was by a few back then, and those folks know who they are there would be some ass whippin’ goin’ on and I am dead serious when I say that. But lesson’s learned and you move on and for me it was probably the best thing that could have happened as I ended up going to WCW to have more TV time, fun, and made lots more money. So no complaints there. But I do wonder and wouldn’t be surprised if there was someone backstage or who had Vince’s ear when I did come back for my second tenure that prevented me from ever getting a push or at least a fair shake. Something other than knocking myself out on milk trucks and steel armors or playing a whacked out guy who thought he was from another planet. That was not my intent or vision. I wanted and knew that I had all the potential in the world to develop into a top guy in that company if not THE top guy eventually. But that never came and quite the contrary happened. Oh well, maybe the “Tape Recorder” incident was something some insecure and paranoid person that had some political pull up there had something to do with the derailment of my second run. Who knows. But the second release I received allowed me to a new freedom and I went on to become a doctor with my time away from mainstream.

Alan Wojcik: As noted earlier you already had been part of the WWE. There were online rumors that the WCW talent had issues initially getting along with the WWE talent, specifically with the WWE talent feeling they were superior. Did you witness any of this and was the WCW talent told WWE was planning a separate TV show traveling company of WCW?

Shawn Stasiak: I didn’t feel that way as it felt like home for me initially. I really thought in the beginning of my second run with WWE that they were going to let bygones be bygones, forget about the stupid “Tape Recorder” incident and see me for my talents and attributes that I could bring to the table. I really felt excited and glad to be back and had this faith that with my improvements and sheer desire to be the best I could be, I was a sure thing to eventually get to the top and be a big team player for the WWE. I got along with everyone, WWE or WCW, we are all the boys trying to make a living but there was a feeling of competition and I just felt I had to be at the top of my game to not just keep a position on the roster but to climb to the top. I really thought that this was it and that my time was finally going to come. But history speaks for the reality of what really happened. But it all happens for a reason.

Alan Wojcik: Like many on the WCW roster you had to deal with WWE also merging in former ECW talent into the invasion storyline. Did you feel lost in the shuffle and who was doing the creative work at this time?

Shawn Stasiak: Like I said, I just went with the flow with an underlying feeling of faith I had at the time that the main decision makers in the office would see true talent out of the bunch and I felt that as long as I did the best I could do and keep improving each and every week, I would single myself out and be seen for what it was. That it would elevate me to that next level. I didn’t get too caught up with who was writing or who was with who as far as ECW guys and WCW guys, etc. I was back home, where it all began for me and a place I felt so loyal to dating back to my teenage days I was back in the WWE where I belong and I am going to make sure that everything works out here. I had made a mistake, a harmless one, it backfired, I got fired, went away to another company for a year, proved myself on many different levels, my contract got purchased over back to WWE and thought things would only grow and climb up from there. That never happened.

Alan Wojcik: Around the time of Survivor Series you underwent surgery for a knee injury. Was it a “wear tear injury” or did it occur during a match? For fans interest does WWE have medical insurance for the talent or did you have to pay for surgery on your own?

Shawn Stasiak: I jumped off the top rope to splash Billy Gunn, but he moved and I came down hard on my knee cap which ruptured my bursa sac on right knee. It was very painful, tender, and would swell up as big as a softball many times before I had to get it drained. This went on for a few months when I just finally had to have the bursa sac removed. So, it wasn’t a major surgery or anything but still painful. Now I have no issues with it. The wrestling talent is responsible for their medical insurance or at least it was that way when I worked for WWE/WCW. But if you had an injury or a ring or work related injury while you were at a wrestling venue, they covered the expense.

Alan Wojcik: By early 2002 you were back wrestling on Raw and Heat in addition to working with Les Thatcher’s Heartland Wrestling. Did you go to HWA to rehab from the injury or did the office send you down for another character change?

Shawn Stasiak: Both reasons.

Alan Wojcik: In late April/May you faced current UFC star Brock Lesnar during his rookie time in WWE. What are your memories of working with the “Next Big Thing” and the obvious follow-up, could you ever see yourself competing in the mixed martial arts?

Shawn Stasiak: Probably the strongest human being I ever competed with. Brock had an underlying respect for me as he knew I came from his same background, amateur wrestling. Wrestlers always stick together for the most part. If I was 10 years younger or even if let’s say Dana White or some promoter who could set up a good fight for me that I had at least 4-6 months so train for and worked out a good pay day for me, I would totally consider doing it. Though I am 39 years old, I am a young and healthy and hungry 39 year old that feels like a caged bird salivating to get out and kick the crap out of someone. Not in a malicious way but in a good sportsmanship kind of way. But I am still an athlete, I love to compete, and am full of piss and vinegar. I would consider it even NOW. But the money has to be right cause I don’t care how tough you are, you are still kicking the crap out of your body, still getting punched in the face, and who knows what other damage you are doing to your body. But I do have an extensive amateur background and have been training submission wrestling and boxing off and on for the workouts. Stuff kicks your ass but I love it. I am a big Randy Couture fan. He is truly an inspiration and a class act.

Alan Wojcik: In July of 2002 Eric Bischoff proved hell could freeze over when he joined WWE as an onstage performer. What was your reaction to seeing Eric and thoughts on 3 Minute Warning who squashed you and D-Lo Brown on an episode of Raw?

Shawn Stasiak: I thought it was completely dumb. What was the logic to that? My case in point with what I was saying earlier in the interview regarding WWE’s way to market me.

Alan Wojcik: September 2002 saw your tenure with WWE ended. Did you ask for your release, was the creative department or someone else the reason?

Shawn Stasiak: No, Johnny Laurinitas called me and said that they were releasing me. I was back home visiting friends in Toronto from a loop I had just finished and got the call. I thought it was a joke at first as I had heard rumors that I was being moved to Smackdown, but no it wasn’t a joke, they released me. Again, mixed emotion a feeling of betrayal but yet so relieved as I was so frustrated with them for months. And this freed me up to finally go and pursue my other aspiring career as a doctor of chiropractor. 30 minutes after I received the call to hear I was being released is when I made the decision to go back to school and become a chiropractor and that is exactly what I did.

Alan Wojcik: Your official website (www.shawnstasiak.com) has a hyperlink to another site (www.drshawnstipich.com) which takes people to your current day job, chiropractor and personal trainer. What made you decide to go back to school for medical training and at any point during the course work were you ever contacted by TNA Wrestling during their initial opening?

Shawn Stasiak: I don’t want to say too much about TNA but I will say that yes, there is definitely a possibility and an interest to join TNA. I like the newness with Hogan there, now my good buddy RVD, among others. I like their schedule much better than WWE and can see myself having a fresh slate with a new company. I am doing independent shows lately; feel real good in the ring. I am much leaner, a bit lighter on my feet, don’t get blown up and am now seeing and doing things in the ring that I had never done before. I am really connecting with my fans. I have a whole new fire, passion, and emotion that I draw from my real life. The struggles, adversities, challenges, etc. I take all of that emotion and channel it into an energy that fans can feel and believe in. That’s because it is REAL emotion. Makes my work in the ring and on the mic much easier now. And makes for a great show and experience with the fans. I chose to be a chiropractor and do some personal training on the side as the fitness lifestyle has been a culprit of who I am and what I have built my foundation on. I feel like Clark Kent, the sophisticated doctor by day, but the Superman, Super hero that performs in a ring every once in a while. The wrestling business is in my blood and always will be. I am in the best place I ever have been on a mental and spiritual realm and happen to be in the absolute best shape of my life. NOW is a perfect time to unleash the energy that has been built up for 7 years. This will make for great TV.

Alan Wojcik: In addition to being Doctor of Chiropractic as well as certified personal trainer, you also have training in Manipulation Under Anesthesia. What exactly is MUA?

Shawn Stasiak: It is a specialty that I am certified in that deals with chronic pain patients. It has really helped a lot of folks who felt they had no hope to live a life free of pain. MUA’s gives the certain candidate that hope. It works.

Alan Wojcik: In 2007 you starred in “Shawn Stasiak Determined.” What was the genesis of that project and what made you decide to add motivational speaker to your resume?

Shawn Stasiak: Just had the opportunity to share my life on all facets. I wanted to give the wrestling fans a REAL and AUTHENTIC and GENUINE peek into my life. Not what they saw on WWE programming in the way they exploited me. And just getting older and gaining wisdom has made me open up to people and has given me this intuition that God placed me on this planet to make a TRUE difference in as many people’s lives as I can. A positive difference for people to stand in their greatness and live a life that is full of passion, inspiration, peace, love, fulfillment, joy, real purpose, and to live a life that is full of good health, enchantment, and vibrance. I feel a need to connect with people now in that fashion.

Alan Wojcik: In 2007 you worked in the local Dallas area for PCW. What is Shawn Stasiak’s future? Can you see yourself working full time for either WWE or TNA and do you watch wrestling at all?

Shawn Stasiak: Yes, I am now ready for one last kick at this. But this time make it truly count. I didn’t even scratch the surface in my past tenures. Though I am a bit older, I am wiser, don’t take things for granted, am very grateful and thankful for all the things that I do have but am ready to make a TV return to showcase the talents I have always had. Now is the time and I am more ready than ever. I am willing to put my chiropractic career on hold for a few years if that is what it is going to take and as long as the wrestling business finally treats me right with the right business opportunity. But I am returning to what I love to do and what I have a passion for. So, to all of my fans, I love you, thank you for all of your support over the years and get ready for something real special. Blessings!!!

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Jeff Titzler: Thoughts on TNA and where it went wrong

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:40:32 +0100

Hi Dave,

The saddest part about watching the mess that is TNA is that at one point in time TNA truly seemed like they were on the cusp of something fresh and big. I truly miss the days (2005 and 2006) when TNA PPV's were a can't miss event. I ordered all of their PPV's back then. Many of friends would come over to sample their PPV's, and they ended up loving the product and wanted to come over every month for each PPV. Word of mouth for TNA was spreading - and this was without any major TV.

In my opinion, TNA had two of the hottest and freshest acts in pro wrestling in Samoa Joe and LAX. I even recall when it felt like Alex Shelley was on the verge of being the next Chris Jericho. Why on earth did they job those guys out as soon as it felt like they were on the verge of becoming huge? Why did they throw all that potential away? I get mad just thinking about what could have been.

I also get pissed each time I see Dixie Carter. Honestly, her stupidity is fascinating. I don't blame Russo because Carter is the one who allows Russo's stupidity to run wild. I love pro wrestling and I pray there will be another major promotion along side the WWE, but Carter's stupidity is preventing that from happening.

TNA would have stood a better chance on Monday if they just showed a tape of the XXX vs. AMW match from late 2004 when Elix Skipper walked the cage. What an awesome sight and match! They still would have got killed in the ratings, but at least it would have people talking in a positive way and word of mouth would spread that TNA is cool and fresh. Right now word of mouth about TNA is spreading, but not in a positive way. People are only making fun of it.

I sincerely hope and pray that TNA changes it's direction before it's too late. But even if they do, just think about all the years they have wasted building something fresh. I want to pound my fist in frustration just thinking about it.

Had TNA stayed on the path they were on back in 2005, guys like Samoa Joe, LAX, and Alex Shelly would be huge stars by now. TNA would be the hot, fresh, must see wrestling promotion in 2010. Couple that with a roster that included Kurt Angle, Ric Flair and appearances by Hogan - and TNA truly would be a legitimate threat to the WWE. But TNA instead opted to go in a different direction with guys like the Nasty Boys, Hall/Nash/Waltman, and an overused and crippled Hulk Hogan - and complete asinine booking! Dixie Carter should be embarrassed and ashamed about what she had done to TNA. I hope the realization is setting in with Cater that her wrestling promotion is nothing more than a complete joke that people laugh at. And when the ratings and PPV buy rates inevitably sink lower, I want her to be the most frustrated person in the world as she thinks about what could have been!

Jeff Titzler

Atlanta, GA

VIDEO: Wrestlelicious episode II~!

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:55:51 +0100

Sandy Scott passes away

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:56:06 +0100

Sandy Scott (Angus Scott), who was part of the tag team The Flying Scott Brothers, and later remained for years as a promoter and agent with Jim Crockett Promotions, briefly for World Championship Wrestling and later Smoky Mountain Wrestling, passed away this morning at the age of 75.

Scott had been suffering from pancreatic cancer for some time and had taken a turn for the worst several days ago.

The Scott Brothers started teaming in 1954, and were regular partners through the early 70s when both phased out of wrestling and began working in the front office. The two had a falling out and didn't speak for years.

Mar 10 Wrestling Observer Radio: Dave and Bryan on Monday Night Wars, your calls on the topic, news

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:54:58 +0100

Wrestling Observer Radio with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez returns tonight to discuss the Monday Night Wars. We'll talk the fallout from Monday night, what TNA needs to change aside from the obvious, the tapings from Tuesday night, plus take your phone calls with your thoughts on the subject. Plus news on UFC, Smackdown and more in this hour-long show. A fun way to spend Thursday, so check it out~!

March 10 Five Star Radio: WEC, UFC, Strikeforce, Torres, Pulver, Japan, tons more MMA talk

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:10:40 +0100

Five Star Radio returns and it's all WEC, UFC, Strik- ok, it's just MMA, but you like it. I know you do. We run down the recent WEC show: Was Miguel Torres overrated? The sad ending of Jens Pulver and why pro wrestling has an advantage over MMA. A boring fight. A fight featuring a dude with a skin disease and excitement about next month's mega WEC. We also talk UFC v. Strikeforce and why it's better for Strikeforce to fail. Why James Toney means nothing but who would be the best opponent to fight if it DID mean something. Plus, excitement about Japan. It's MMA. It's fun. You should listen.

March 10 Adam & Mike Show: Japanese injury bug, NEO, Bati Bati, New Japan, tons more

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:09:24 +0100

The original alternate has returned this week, sadly with 50% of the show broadcast via A Night At The Roxbury-styled fat cellular phone, but it shall still earn 100% of your (PoS) hearts with topics that include, but aren't limited to: the injury bug turns into a swarm, Sugiura injury theories (where was Carl Edwards at the time of the injury anyway?), Matt Cooke'd, Kantimoto be true, Big Daddy V: anti-Lard Warriors, Morishima & Bernard pro-lard?, Wave, Meiko Satomura in NEO, Bati Batiness, and more. It's the radio show that's far more pleasurable than a 0.98 rating; It's the Adam & Mike BIG AUDIO NIGHTMARE~! Proudly here at F4WOnline.com

March 10 Karl Stern Show: Monday Night War, TNA are morons, Ernie Ladd, KOTR, Yeti's debut, more

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:08:09 +0100

The first of two Karl Stern Classic Wrestling Audio Shows this week. On episode 1 I give my thoughts and the Monday Night Wars version 2 and how TNA are a BUNCH OF FREAKING MORONS. Questions and topics for this show include: Ernie Ladd, the best (and worst) matches I've seen live, WWF King of the Ring, alternative lifestyles in wrestling, and Paul Jones. I saw the debut of The Yeti and lived to tell about it.

VIDEO: This week's CMLL Ras de Lona TV show

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:04:36 +0100

Monday Night Wars - What went wrong for TNA, What went right, Who switched channels, complete report

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:45:33 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

The most complete look at what the numbers said on Monday night is our lead story in this coming Monday's issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. We look through the spin, look at the pluses and minuses of TNA's full-time move to Monday, promotional mistakes, things that can be done that would immediately, at least for the short-term, increase the ratings significantly, at what went wrong.

We look at the departure of several people from TNA over the past week.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We look at Poffo setting the sit-up record, how he got started in wrestling, his role in the origination of the popularity of the manager character and his controversial WCW Hall of Fame induction.

We also look at a new form of pro wrestling production that took place featuring some of the biggest stars of several different promotions that took place over the weekend.

--Lineup for CMLL's first major show of the year with the biggest name in Mexico putting his mask up

--Current NFL star wrestles this week in Mexico

--How WWE is affecting the mentality when it comes to business in Mexico

--Wrestler fired for associating with the wrong wrestler

--TNA makes overseas talent deal

--Updates on Dragon Gate USA business

--Annual King of Gate tournament notes

--One of the all-time greats needs another knee operation and insiders question if this Hall of Famer's career may have ended this week

--Former WWE star debuts in All Japan at Sumo Hall this week

--First cage match in All Japan history features two former MMA headliners against each other

--World champion breaks elbow, out indefinitely

--Lots of news regarding the school named after Tiger Jeet Singh

--The only other known school named after a pro wrestler

--Eric Bischoff's latest pro wrestling show idea

--Wrestling announcer recovers from stroke

--Notes on the recent ROH TV tapings

--Updated lineup for TNA Destination X

--More on TNA roster changes

--What TNA personality credits the dropping of ratings to his not being on TV as much

--Problems with the build to the first Monday show

--A.J. Styles wrestles tag team partner when he first broke in

--Funny story on U.K. reporter doing a story on TNA

--Desmond Wolfe talks his start in TNA

--Funny story from Vince Russo's book

--RVD TV series update

--RVD talks Umaga death

--Scott Steiner update

--TV star looking to get into TNA

--UFC PPV number updates

--Dana White talks weight class change for one of UFC's biggest stars

--UFC gets a network prime time deal overseas and network predicts a 10.0 rating for the debut show

--TV show canceled

--Jens Pulver talks the Miletich camp

--UFC now available in several new countries

--Lots of new UFC matches

--Update on Herschel Walker fighting