*MORE BREAKING NEWS* Maria Released As Well

The early spring cleaning continues today, as Maria has been released. Few details are clear about it at the moment, but of course there are rumors involving Mr. Matt Hardy again. We'll report on it when we get something more concrete.

Dammit. :(

*Breaking News* WWE Releases Shane "Hurricane" Helms

WWE has released Smackdown Superstar Shane Helms today. Helms joined WWE after WCW folded, during the WCW Invasion storyline making him the last of very few (some say the VERY last, but I think Rey and Chavo came in during the WCW invasion too) remaining from the WCW invasion angle.

There are no dependable reports about why Helms was released. He has not been used since his arrest in Kentucky with Chris Jericho in early January, and he has been plagued with neck injuries in recent years.

It is purely speculation, there are no reports to back up this claim, and I am not at all saying this is absolute truth. However, one astute reader pointed out that Helms had a controlled substance, Soma, with him during his arrest. He was asked to provide a prescription for the drug, and there are no reports to indicate whether he did or not. If he did not, this would have been his second strike under WWE's Wellness Policy - under which you must enroll in rehab after your second offense, or face termination.

Paul Burchill was also released from his WWE today.

Thursday News + Notes

- The purported bi-sexual gimmick given to Orlando Jordan got off to a bad start with the network last week, as the initial kiss from his male valet was not aired. Spike officials had a problem with the way he "rubbed" Jordan. Who thought a flamboyant bi-sexual gimmick on a network aimed at "men men men men manly men" would be a good idea in the first place?

- TNA has been granted an 8 minute overrun for the March 8 live Monday debut. No word on whether that will be permanent or just a special for the first show.

- Vince McMahon is said to be pleased with how Daniel Bryan came off on Tuesday's debut episode of NXT, saying they made him "a star" in one night due to his interaction with The Miz and his match with Jericho. If by "a star," you mean "botching a leg whip so horribly that it looked like Jericho's knee might be disjointed" and "smiling throughout almost the entire show even when you're supposed to be angry," then yeah, Vince, you made one hell of a star this week!

- Current plans apparently call for Stone Cold to be the final "guest host" when he runs the March 15 episode. No word on where they go from here, or whether that's to free up space for The Rock to come back over the summer like previously reported.

- Talks of Triple H turning heel have once again surfaced. That seemed to be the plan last year, but was scrapped in favor of the DX reunion.

Kong Suing Bubba The Hate Sponge

SHE ain't the lady to mess with.


Awesome Kong is pissed. She's alleging that everyone's favorite "shock" jock, Bubba the Love Sponge, called her at 5AM on the morning of February 10, from a blocked phone number, and threatened her. She claims that he did identify himself, hurled some racist and hateful comments at her, and said the call would be played on the air. She asked AT&T to provide her with the blocked number so she could pursue legal action against him, but they refused. So now rather than just taking legal action against Bubba, she's suing AT&T as well.

Listen, if I'm Bubba, Kong is the last woman on earth I want to piss off. And I'm not being a mark and thinking "OMGZ KONG'S A MONSTER SHE'S GONNA KILL HIM!!11!" I'm saying that Kong, by all accounts, is one of the nicest, sweetest ladies pro wrestling has to offer, but you get on her bad side, and it's over. Someone that size, with that many powerful friends in a business you're apparently trying to get into, is not someone you want to call and harass at 5 in the morning.

I say just put them in the cage at Lockdown. Bubba vs. Kong, 4 sides of steel, and let her shoot on that spineless turd. What a d-bag.

Ugh Batista.

From lordsofpain.net:

As noted before, WWE will begin working on a movie called Killer Karma soon. The movie has a $10 million budget and will be released in theaters, starring WWE Champion Batista. The movie is about a guy being released from prison, presumably Batista, who is trying to get his life in order with fate, friends and enemies getting in his way.

I've been preaching about this for what seems like a thousand years. So I was pleasantly surprised when I saw one Smart Marks comments on the matter in the comments section over at lordsofpain.net. Instead of repeating myself like a broken record, I would like Josh Davis to explain to you why all of this is freakin' epic fail.

Take it away Josh!

Josh Davis 9:03 am
Why couldn't the Orton movie be something like this? Surely he is a much more capable actor as Botchtista. At least in Orton's movie it has a chance to make money, as it features a legit actor like Ed Harris. I just wonder why Orton hasn't got an action movie to star in yet, that's all. I think he would rock the shit out of it, if he ever got a shot. Maybe the WWE is worried he would become a star and dip from WWE like The Tooth Fairy did lol. He also needs a dvd. No disrespect to John Morrison, but how the fuck does he have a dvd before Orton? Maybe they are waiting until after he goes face, that's my only guess. They need to make it happen though, that's all I know lol

That's all I know too. /sigh

Random Hotness

Just because this hype video is so amazingly, ridiculously awesome. Great song, great story... just watch.

Warrior Opts Out of WWE Hall Of Fame

Yeah, that guy.


According to PWInsider, The Ultimate Warrior had been tapped to be the "marquee" entrant into this year's class of WWE Hall of Fame inductees. And while he had originally agreed to do so, he's now changed his mind and is declining his invite.

Gee, the Ultimate Warrior is declining an invitation to have his ass kissed by the same people who lambasted him in his "Self-Destruction" DVD and called him basically the worst thing to happen to pro wrestling this side of Goldberg. Who woulda thought?

Certifiably insane though he may be, I'll give Warrior (yes, that's his real, legal name now) credit for maintaining at least some shred of self-respect and dignity.

Word has it that the new "feature" inductee will be Stu Hart. The same Stu Hart that Vince just told Bret on TV a few weeks ago would "never" be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Then again, continuity was never WWE's strong suit. Just ask Kane.

And people wonder why I cheer for the rise of TNA?

Michael Cole vs. The Internet

Perfect placement on the Super Finger. :)


As if we needed another reason to hate Michael Cole, last night during the NXT Main Event he went off on a tirade against the "popularity" of rookie Daniel Bryan. While it was obviously kayfabed, as Cole suddenly sided with The Miz, the fact remains that Michael Cole spent a majority of the main event of a highly publicized debut of a new show putting down the fans that got the biggest star of the rookie crop there in the first place. Why on God's green earth would you sit there and intentionally chastise and belittle the one pocket of fans who are actually guaranteed to care about these rookies that you're trying to get over?

I wanted to hate Daniel Bryan. I, too, was sick and tired of the relentless "best in the world" claims by indy fans. I've barely ever seen him perform and I'm already sick of his stupid "I'm boring and bland on purpose" look, his generic red tights, and his kid-off-the-street hair. I wanted to hate him for continually smiling all throughout the show last night, even when he was supposed to be angry. But my intense disdain for Michael Cole and all his ridiculous catch phrases and his pretentious d-baggery trumps all of that. I'm now a Daniel Bryan fan. Thanks, Cole.

Owwwww....

Brian Danielson was so busy doing all that fake wrestling that he got these fake cuts and scrapes on his back and leg. His main event on NXT was against Chris Jericho.

The injuries were minor and WWE confirmed them on their website.

Hey Ya'll is my fay-vor-ight wrassler aight!?

Some WWE RAW viewers are under the impression that Bret Hart really was injured in a backstage car crash last week on RAW. It appears some viewers saw the number on the ambulance used in the angle and actually called the ambulance company to check on Bret's condition. On the Midwest Ambulance website, there is a message that states:

"ATTENTION: Please do not call 222-2222 regarding the condition of Bret "Hit Man" Hart. Contact the WWE for updates. Our number is for emergency calls only. Thank you."

Coming Soon to PPV: WWE Back To The Drawing Board

As you can see from the above screenshot, the "Upcoming Pay Per Views" schedule on WWE.com has been wiped clean post-Wrestlemania. With qualifying matches for the Money In The Bank match at Wrestlemania beginning last night, it seems apparent that the idea of devoting an entire PPV to MITB is off the table. Maybe they'll find a way to bring it back, but we'll have to wait and see.

If they'd actually listen to their fans, maybe the REAL pay-per-views (Backlash, Vengeance, Judgment Day, Great American Bash, etc.) would come back instead.

That Rascal Shawn Michaels set Undertaker on FIRE!

There was talk of having Shawn Michaels take responsibility for the pyrotechnics incident that happened at the Elimination Chamber PPV. The decision was made prior to RAW, and that idea was shot down ultimately.

One of the key things in the decision making was going to be based off how their camera angles had the incident, if it came off impressive, the idea would have been used on TV. That is of course if that tool Zimmerman hadn't said it only amounted to a sunburn.

It was in fact, not a sunburn. It was pretty serious. Undertaker had first and second degree burns on his chest and neck. Those within WWE consider him very lucky, having escaped with the burns he had, as opposed to how badly it could have been.

Despite the burns, Undertaker continued to work through the match in tremendous pain, and even refused to shorten the match. The sleeve of his jacket and part of his hand had melted when the pyro went off prematurely.

Flair Has Been Hospitalized

According to ABC affiliates in North Carolina, Ric Flair has been hospitalized after the the alleged assault from his wife on Sunday evening. The assault led to her arrest. While no weapons were used in the attack, the media is reporting that Flair did suffer injuries, but initially refused treatment. According to news organizations in his home state, Flair realized he needed medical attention and was admitted to the hospital last night.

In other words, Flair got beat up by a girl. (ha!)

No, no in all seriousness. If she was wailing on him, he did what any good man should do, which is not put your hands on a woman and call the police. I, for one, hope Ric has a speedy recovery - and whatever unfortunate problems there are in his marriage can be rectified.

Tuesday's Blurbs from All Over

This year's Money in the Bank match at WrestleMania will feature eight Superstars. Christian is the only named confirmed so far.

The dark main event after last night's RAW in Indianapolis saw Triple H team with Edge to defeat the team of Batista and Jericho.

After RAW went off the air, Triple H came out and challenged Batista to a match. Batista came out and then came Chris Jericho. Jericho cut a promo and it ended up being Jericho and Batista vs. Triple H until Edge came out, cut a promo and joined Triple H. Both Edge and Triple H, in street clothes, hit their finishers on Jericho to win the match after Batista walked out on Jericho.

One of the reasons Kaz is no longer playing Suicide and has returned to his previous gimmick is because Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff felt he shouldn't be wrestling under a mask because of his looks and facial expressions.

Mick Foley's next book, titled Countdown to Lockdown, is finished and will be published later this year.

Ted DiBiase wrote the following on Twitter last night after RAW regarding Randy Orton: "Tune in next week... I've had enough" (Kayfabe much?! People make me mad.)

Chavo Guerrero noted on Twitter this weekend that he sprained his ankle at a WWE live event. Chavo wrote: "A little tape &alot of advil & my ankle will be fine. Strong like bull! Thanks for all your concerns but u can't hurt steel! Lol"

Jewel Slaps Hard!

Image Credit to Revolving Glamor Jillian-H.com

Last night's RAW guest host Jewel said on the show that she was on crutches because she hurt herself riding a mechanical bull, like the one the Divas and Big Show rode on RAW. Actually she hurt her ankle riding her bike a week ago. She noted on Twitter last night how her hand hurt after slapping Jillian Hall in the backstage segment.

Several WWE stars and Divas wrote on Twitter last night about how hard the slap to Jillian looked. Jillian herself wrote this on Twitter: "Jewel slaps hard!!!"

It's okay. It was just a "sunburn".

This is clearly just a sunburn!

Jim Ross said on his Twitter account that Undertaker was "fine", but that tool Robert Zimmerman had a whole different way of downplaying it. Be cool everyone! It was just a "sunburn".


WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross posted a message on Twitter.com/jrsbbq reacting to the pyrotechnics accident that occurred at the WWE Elimination Chamber: "Undertaker is okay from what I understand but 'lucky,' He's as (tough) as they come without question." Read more tweets from Jim Ross at PWTweets.com.

WWE spokesman Robert Zimmerman has commented on the pyrotechnics malfunction that almost set the Undertaker on fire during his entrance at Elimination Chamber. Zimmerman described what happened as a "mistiming" with the pyrotechnics. "Thank God he was fine. It basically amounted to a sunburn. It wasn't over a large area of his body, just a short area, just a little bit on his chest." He also stated that the Undertaker was checked out by a ringside doctor before competing in the match.

I thought it was cool to see Taker run to the ring. Though I was said because I was timing it. I was in the pool for him to clock in at 2:15. :(

Monday News and Notes

- WWE Diva and announcer Angela "Savannah" Fong appears topless in the comedy movie from National Lampoon titled Ratko: The Dictator's Son. She is cast as "Sorority Girl #3."

- WWE has released the new "Return to Fear" t-shirt that Triple H wore at last night's Elimination Chamber pay-per-view.

- Shawn Michaels was escorted to the ring last night surrounded by a group of referees during the replay of the WWE Title Elimination Chamber match before the World Title Chamber. The lights went out before the replay and the WWE officials walked down to the ring with Michaels hidden in the middle of them.

-Jeff Hardy and Shannon Moore were at an autograph signing in Middletown, New York this weekend and reportedly their signing outdrew both TNA live events in the Northeast this weekend. Moore said on Twitter that over 1,500 people showed up and they had to turn some away.

Clearly - This is a Good Idea...

HUGE POSSIBLE SPOILER FOR WRESTLEMANIA (Which means it totally won't happen this way)

Multiple WWE sources are reporting that Vince McMahon has decided to go a different direction with the Bret Hart storyline and WrestleMania. Believe it or not, the plan as of this weekend was for Bret to win the WWE Title at WrestleMania.

The plan as of Sunday morning was to have either Batista or John Cena walk out of Elimination Chamber with the WWE Title, which obviously Batista won. This should lead to Bret Hart & John Cena vs. Vince McMahon & Batista at WrestleMania with the person who gets the winning pinfall will be new WWE Champion.

The angle has been described as something that would be a "feel-good title win" for Bret. A likely ending for the match would be for Bret to make Vince tapout with the Sharpshooter but that's nothing confirmed.

Vince has gone back and forth on where they're headed with Bret for WrestleMania a few times over the past month but as of this weekend, this was the plan.

But Shawn Michaels can't be world champion? What is this? An efed? He shows up for two minutes and gets to be champion. Helllllo?! Bueller? Bueller?

Ric Flair's Wife Arrested for Beating Him Up...

From PWTorch and TMZ:

TMZ reports that Jacqueline Beems, wife of Ric Flair, was arrested Sunday night after allegedly assaulting her husband.

Police were called to their home in Charlotte, North Carolina at about 11:40PM Sunday night. The police report says that Flair suffered minor injuries but declined medical treatment. Beems was taken into custody.

No weapons were used, according to reports.

The couple got married in 2009.A representative of Ric Flair issued the following statement to TMZ.com in regards to Flair's wife being arrested last night:

"Ric and his wife had an unfortunate disagreement late last night, which led to his wife being arrested and charged with assault. Ric has done nothing wrong."

Way to sound nice and supportive of the wife there. All is right with the world when we know that besides his bastard kids and his multiple ex-wives, Ric has done nothing wrong!

It's not the first time he's been set on fire.

In what appears to be a mishap that rivals Michael Jackson's Pepsi incident in 1984 (at least in awesomeness), The Undertaker suffered some very minor burns to his chest after a pyrotechnics accident which set his signature jacket on fire. Anyone watching the Elimination Chamber PPV was treated to the Undertaker sprinting down to the ring (well, as fast as a 6'11" 300lb 55 year old can sprint) and reportedly sporting a pretty red chest throughout the match. According to the report, the Undertaker was apparently furious when he walked into the backstage area, where management spent some time calming him down. Additionally, there are uncomfirmed rumors that Calaway was heard yelling at technicians on his way to the back after the match concluded and the show went off the air.

Do I even have to make a joke about this? It's just too easy.

Houston, We Have a Problem.

You know, cause he was in Apollo 13. No?

WWE Studios have signed Academy Award-nominated actor Ed Harris and wife Amy Madigan as part of the cast for the family drama Big Red, reports Variety.com.

The movie is set in the mid-1960s and Harris will assume the role of a teacher who pairs a student bully with a bright student. Randy Orton will star as the father of the bully who campaigns to have Harris's character fired.

Variety notes that WWE's new casting strategy is to surround the wrestlers with established actors rather than have the wrestlers attempt to carry the movie.

I so, so want this movie to be good. I'm so, so worried it won't be. I'm excited at the opportunity to see Orton in a movie, but... I think drama was the wrong way to go. The addition of Ed Harris just goes to show that this is haaaaard on the Drama.

Colt Cabana Takes a Jab

Ring of Honor star Colt Cabana, formerly Scotty Goldman during his brief stint in WWE last year), is making fun of WWE's new NXT show on Twitter. Cabana, who has been performing stand-up comedy recently, wrote the following today on Twitter:

Just got the call to be on @WWENXT. Should be quite the learning experience.

He included the above funny picture of himself as the "9th Participant for WWE NXT".

Daniel Bryan Needs a Lesson in ShowMiz.

Mark it, with Randy Orton's apparent face turn, this guy is now WWE's BEST heel.

This is definitely worth the read. Former ROH Champion Bryan Danielson has officially been announced as one of the 8 rookies in the WWE's newest Tuesday night show, WWE NXT. Daniel Bryan, as he is called in WWE-land, will be buddied up with current United States Champion and Undisputed Tag Team Champion, The Miz. This pairing has drawn a lot of flak from the independent wrestling world, as Bryan Danielson has been wrestling as a top tier independent competitor for the better part of ten years. In response to all the controversy, The Miz posted this blog on the WWE website. Ready for it? You're so not ready.

---------------

"There has been a lot of controversy this week about me mentoring Daniel Bryan on WWE's new show, WWE NXT.

I've read a lot of interviews, blogs, ect. about the matter and they all seem to be asking the same thing. "Why is The Miz mentoring Daniel Bryan when Daniel Bryan has wrestled all over the world for 10 years plus?"

It's come to my knowledge that some members of the WWE Universe think they know everything about WWE and what it takes to be a WWE Superstar. They think that if a guy does well in the independent minor leagues, then all of a sudden he should be in the WWE.

They think that if a guy can main event in front of a hundred people at a bingo hall, then he's ready to main event at WrestleMania. Just because fans on the Internet say you’re ready doesn't mean you really are.

Just because a fat guy with no teeth who sits in the front row, buys your T-shirt and says you're the king of wrestling, doesn't mean you really are.

What the WWE Universe doesn't understand is there is so much more then I can describe in a single blog involved in being successful in the WWE.

My job is to make Daniel Bryan a star in the WWE, because let's face it, if you look at a picture of him right now, do you think STAR?

No, Daniel Bryan looks like my accountant ... ordinary and bland.

Maybe if he had The Miz's charisma and look, he would have been in the WWE by now. Don't hate on me because it didn't take me a decade to get a WWE contract and go down in WWE history to be the first Superstar to win the United States Title and Unified Tag Team Titles.

Don't get me wrong, Daniel Bryan has all the talent in the world, but every wrestler has weaknesses. And that's what my job is, to find his weakness and make him the biggest star possible.

I just hope Daniel Bryan doesn't believe himself what these ignorant members of the WWE Universe believe about him, or WWE NXT is going to be a nightmare for him.

MIZ"

---------------

(Oh my God, it's gold in blog form.)

The Miz shows once again why he’s one of the best things going for the WWE right now. I’m frothing at the mouth for an angle where Daniel Bryan continues to take abuse from the Miz, leading up to a feud when he finally makes it onto the proper WWE program.

He's baaa-aaaaack!

From TNADixie's twitter just moments ago: "TNA signs one moore." At least one of them got what they came for! :D

SHANNNNNOOOOOOONNNNN!!!!!!

The Mania Streak Is Over!

This post has nothing to do with Shawn, but everything to do with this poor old mark's heart breaking.


WWE have announced three more rebranded pay-per-views, and again, they're themed around specific match types. Backlash is now dead, with Extreme Rules being moved up to the April slot. WWE Wild Card (whatever the hell that is) is now set for May, followed by Fatal Four Way in June, and Money In The Bank in July (replacing "The Bash," which had already been robbed of its "Great American" status). By some small miracle, Summerslam has survived in August, along with Night of Champions in September and Hell in a Cell in October.

How long before we see Summerslam replaced with "WWE: One Fall To A Finish"?

Oh, and the Wrestlemania streak that ends? With MITB receiving its own show, Shelton Benjamin's annual Moment of Relevance will no longer be on the Grandest Stage Of Them All™.

It's Not A Push, But It's Something

While many of us agonize over the fact that the Nasty Boys are taking TV time away from Beer Money Inc and the Motor City Machineguns, one piece of good news has emerged. TNA is now running a poll on their website allowing us fans to shape the outcome of said DVD set (2 discs), and choose which matches you'd like to see. I, for one, am sad that the match from Lockdown 07 (X-Division X-scape match) wasn't an option, as that seemed to be pretty much the birthplace of the Guns as a TNA team -- they weren't officially together, but its the match that personally made me take notice of how awesome they were together (and not just cause we were there live!).

One can only hope that the release of the DVD will coincide with a solid push for both teams. Maybe by then the big stinky Nasties will have keeled over? :D

Thursday News and Notes

-News and Notes is a feature I started for those one sentence blurbs that you can't really make a whole story out of! Enjoy!!-

- Eric Bischoff is said to be very high on TNA newcomer Orlando Jordan. Jordan, who is openly bisexual, is having his character based around his bisexuality.

- While Karen Angle was backstage at this week's iMPACT! tapings, there are no plans for her to return the company as an on-air performer.

- Even though TNA’s Knockouts division has been a proven ratings draw, the new idea in the company is to have less women’s matches on TV with most of the women being featured in segments, especially with The Beautiful People. The feeling is that when they put The Beautiful People in the ring, it isn’t very good at all.

- The best selling WWE DVD's of 2009 ended up being WrestleMania with 248,000 units shipped, Rise and Fall of WCW with 172,000 shipped, Best of SNME with 133,000 shipped and Greatest Stars of the 90's at 118,000 units shipped.

- WWE's website had 13 million viewers for the month of December 2009, up from 12.1 million in November.

- WWE's The Music Volume 10 CD dropped from #94 to #167 on the charts this week with about 3,000 units sold.

- Here's an interesting stat. Mae Young's appearance on RAW this week may have made her the first person in pro wrestling history to have performed in some way in nine different decades, since her first match was way back in 1939.

- There is still no official cause of death for Edward "Umaga" Fatu because the toxicology reports still haven't came in.

- Christian's ECW Title defense on this week's final episode of ECW was his 65th defense of the belt, the most in the history of ECW, dating back to the beginning. Taz defended his ECW Title 61 times in an eight-month reign back in 1999.

- Chris Jericho wrote the following about ECW on his Twitter earlier: "Goodbye WWECW. But as those of us who were there know, ECW really died in 99."

-Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase will be signing autographs at the CD & Games store at South County Mall in St. Louis, MO on Saturday, February 20th at 4pm.(No Randy in his hometown? I call Shenanigans. Cause I'd have gone!)

Jeff Can't Leave the Country

From sescoops.com

Jeff Hardy was recently contacted by an international wrestling promotion about working for them but he said due to his indictment, he’s not allowed to leave the country until after his trial in March. He told them he would not be wrestling until his trial was over and when the trial ended, he would be going to TNA full-time.

Real Life Jarrett-Angle "Love Triangle".

You can have her!

Karen Angle was backstage at this week’s TNA iMPACT tapings in Orlando. For those keeping score, Kurt Angle’s ex-wife is still dating Jeff Jarrett. While some would think this would be a major issue between Kurt and Jeff, the two TNA stars are actually said to be on pretty good terms right now. Apparently Jarrett has even gone to bat for Kurt regarding custody of Kurt and Karen’s children, trying to help Kurt get more time for visitation with his children. Kurt has told friends he’s considering moving to Nashville to be closer to work and his kids. There was talk a few months ago of doing a Jarrett vs. Angle feud based on the real life love triangle involving Karen, but that storyline never came to pass and there are currently no plans to put Karen Angle back on television.

Why Doesn't TNA just lift the gun to their head?

What it would look like if it were exciting!

It was announced at Tuesday night’s TNA iMPACT tapings that Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair would make their in-ring debuts for TNA on the live Monday night March 8th iMPACT!.
Hogan will be teaming with Abyss to take on the team of Flair and TNA World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles.

So Ric Flair will be returning to action on national television almost 2 years after his big sendoff at WrestleMania 24, which coincidentally also took place from Orlando, Florida.

I hate Ric Flair. I hate him. I CRIED when he retired. I hate him for this. I've always hated Hogan. And you're only supposed to use hate if you mean it, oh, I mean it! Would like to thank AJ Styles and Abyss for carrying this match. Quote me. Less than three minutes of in ring time for both Flair and Hogan. Combined.

It's Broken... No, Seriously.

Hey remember when Bret Hart came back and wobbled to the ring and threw some weak punches, somehow making Shane McMahon punches look good? And remember when some faceless chick "drove her car into Bret's leg"?

Yeah, well, WWE.com is reporting that Bret Hart suffered a broken leg - and then to add insult to injury, because broken leg just didn't sound good enough - WWE wanted you to know that he also has ligament and tendon damage.

Call me cah-razy, but I'm thinking that leg isn't going to be all healed up in time for Wrestlemania in 4 weeks. So... for the love of God why did we do this!?

They're Spawning...

Former WWE performer Sharmell Sullivan-Huffman, 39, is expecting twins, reports the Wrestling Globe Newsletter. While husband Booker T has a son from a previous relationship, Sharmell has never had children before.

Since parting ways with TNA this past October, Booker T has begun focusing on a possible career in acting. With that being said, he is not yet through with wrestling as he is still accepting bookings.

Goody.

Wednesday's News + Notes

- Despite claims by TMZ (who think they know everything), Chris Jericho was not late in paying his fine for debaucherous jackassery with Shane Helms. TMZ picked up a story that broke on WCPO TV in Cincinnati, who claimed that Jericho and his attorneys had no-showed the court date and that an arrest warrant had been issued. Jericho responded by tweeting "Paid my fine on time and never had a court date. I'm free to walk the streets.... Sorry TMZ wrong again." Unless he's working us, but one would imagine that a Chris Jericho would be smart enough (and rich enough) to pay off a few hundred dollar fine before it went to a court date.

- The roster for the first season of NXT was announced last night on the final episode of ECW. The Littles (and their Bigs) are as follows: Wade Barrett (Chris Jericho), Justin Gabriel (Matt Hardy), Skip Sheffield (MVP), Michael Tarver (Carlito), Daniel Bryan/Bryan Danielson (The Miz), Heath Slater (Christian), Darren Young (CM Punk), and David Otunga (R-Truth).

- Mickie James' first single, "Are You With Me?!", impacted country radio this week. Take a listen at this random youtube link.

- TNA and Hulk Hogan are holding what they're calling "Fu-Fest" in St. Louis on February 26, coinciding with the on-sale for tickets to April's Lockdown event emanating from the Family Arena in nearby St. Charles (WHICH ASHLEE AND I ARE GOING TO AGAIN! WOOT!). Fu-fest is purported to be a gathering in celebration of Hogan's fabled Fu Manchu mustache, and aims to set a world record for "the most Fu Manchus in one place at one time." The person who shows up with the best/most creative Fu will win ringside tickets for Lockdown. Fu-Fest takes place at 2PM local time (central) on February 26, at Mike Shannon's Steak and Seafood (620 Market St).

- Eric Bischoff has set up his own official fan page on facebook. Confirmed to be real as he posted the link from his twitter account a few hours ago.

- Speaking of Twitter, Bill Goldberg also posted yesterday, "Let's get the record straight...From my lips......TNA has not contacted me. Period. No B.S." However, he followed that up with a "Never say never......" so who knows what the future holds. I was a Goldberg mark back in the day (which was a Wednesday, by the way, not many people know that), but I think that day has passed.

Tuesday's Blurbs from All Over

- The first Money in the Bank qualifying matches for WrestleMania are scheduled to begin on next week's RAW.

- WWE's Jason Robinson recently told Sky Magazine that the Elimination Chamber structure costs $250,000 to put together and takes 24 ring crew members to assemble. The 16-ton structure is stored in Newark and requires a special 500-foot flatbed truck to transport it.

- There was at least discussion within WWE this past week of possibly making the Bragging Rights pay-per-view five-on-five match a War Games match, similar to the one WCW did.

- Shelton Benjamin was shown on camera at the Iowa vs. University of Minnesota wrestling meet this past weekend.

- The Undertaker has been pulled from all advertising for the upcoming WWE SmackDown tour of the UK. New main events are now Edge vs. Batista and Rey Mysterio & John Morrison vs. CM Punk & Luke Gallows.

- Former WCW star Dave Taylor was hired by TNA this weekend as the new agent, replacing Scott D'Amore.

- Former WCW star Meng was backstage at Sunday's TNA Against All Odds pay-per-view.

Revealed Today! NXT is a REALITY SHOW!

Via Variety.com:

After all the speculation about what WWE's new NXT show would be like, we finally have some new concrete information - it's got nothing to do with science fiction or conspiracies.

Entertainment industry publication Variety reveals that WWE NXT will be a reality-based show, similar to Tough Enough and UFC's "The Ultimate Fighter," that will feature eight rookie wrestlers from WWE's developmental system (Florida Championship Wrestling) as they work their way towards a spot on the main WWE roster. Each rookie will be paired up with a veteran WWE superstar as their mentor, "with egos often getting in the way, as they learn the ropes of competing in the ring in front of live audiences, creating characters and speaking on camera."

WWE is teasing the series as a window into how the company truly operates.

"These kids crash and burn a lot," said Vince McMahon. "By putting them into this environment we'll find out if they can make it. There's no better way to develop skills than being in front of an audience. And that makes for good television. "

McMahon added, "ECW' feels old, it feels tired. Sometimes our brands need freshening up. You have to continue to reinvent yourself."

The weekly show will be broken into seasons, with two or three seasons airing per year. It will feature a totally new "look and feel" for WWE programming.

"Syfy is excited to continue our partnership with WWE, Vince and his team with this innovative live event-reality show," said Syfy president Dave Howe. "The 'NXT' rookies take the challenge of our new tagline 'Imagine Greater' to heart as they embark on their ultimate dream quest to be the next generation of revered heroes and champions in the fantastic arena of the WWE."

What Will Happen to ECW Wrestlers?

F4Wonline is reporting:

Many are wondering what happens to the ECW roster after the brand is put to rest tonight. According to sources within WWE, Christian and the team of Caylen Croft & Trent Baretta are expected to end up on SmackDown, while William Regal & Ezekiel Jackson, Zack Ryder & Rosa Mendez will be moved to RAW. It's still anyone's guess what the future will hold for people like Shelton Benjamin, Goldust, Yoshi Tatsu, Vance Archer, Tiffany and Savananah, but they are all expected to remain on the main roster.

Here's how long it's been since I've watched ECW. I can not recall a mental picture of Caylen Croft or Trent Baretta. Nor do I know who Yoshi Tatsu, Vance Archer, Tiffany or Savannah are. Care cup is empty!

Blurbs From All Over

- WWE's Cryme Tyme attended the XBIZ Porn Awards this past Wednesday. They were spotted hanging out with Ron Jeremy and other adult film stars.

- WWE has added Serena to the SmackDown and Divas roster.

- Tonight's WWE RAW will take place from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa with Jerry Springer as the guest host. Tonight's matches will see Elimination Chamber participants face off with Kofi Kingston vs. Ted DiBiase, Sheamus vs. Randy Orton and Triple H vs. John Cena.

- TNA has released new t-shirts for Ric Flair and The Pope.

- The official theme song for TNA's Destination X pay-per-view is Torn Apart by Death On Two Wheels.

- Brooke Hogan was backstage at last night's TNA Against All Odds pay-per-view.

- WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart returned to TNA last night, helping The Nasty Boys defeat Team 3D at Against All Odds. Jeremy Borash also made his return as a backstage interviewer.

-According to their corporate website, WWE is planning on releasing Legendary starring John Cena in September of 2010 and Knucklehead starring Big Show in November of this year. (ANOTHER Cena movie?! Where is the Triple H movie?!?!)

-WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, who was arrested on suspicion of DUI last July in Los Angeles, has since had the charge expunged.

-ECW GM Tiffany is in the new Playboy limited edition Lingerie Featurette using her real name, though she does talk about being a WWE Diva.

Get Ready! It's Coming! Details on WM XXVI

From LordsofPain.net:

The latest issue of WWE Magazine features a sneak peek at what the University of Phoenix Stadium is going to look like next month for WrestleMania XXVI. Based on the following details, it looks like WWE is once again going all-out this year:

- The dome in the University of Phoenix Stadium will be open, essentially making WrestleMania XXVI an "outdoor" event.

- The stage will be 120 feet wide and will be elevated 8 feet above the ground. The entrance ramp and various parts of the set will be surrounded by "cauldrons of fire" that will burn high or low, depending on what the action in the ring calls for. Each cauldron burns at about 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

- There will be a 110-foot tall structure built above the ring holding 30 tons of light, sound and video equipment - similar to the one we saw at WrestleMania 24.

- Over 1,500 miles of cables and wire will be ran through the stadium to light the ring, stage and entrance way.

- Close to 400,000 pieces of fireworks will be used and shot over 200 feet into the air above Phoenix.

- A $250,000 four-sided LED big screen with 150 speakers will hang above the ring structure ensuring a great view for everyone.

Jumping The Shark

Or maybe it's too much too soon. It's official. TNA Impact! is moving to Monday Night on March 8th. Entertainment industry publication Variety is reporting that TNA Wrestling is set to announce on Monday that it's flagship TNA iMPACT! show is moving to Monday nights starting March 8th. According to Variety.com, iMPACT! will air head-to-head with WWE RAW for 2 hours, from 9-11 p.m. (Eastern time) and will be live every other week.

"We've always wanted to go on Monday nights," said TNA president Dixie Carter. "That's where the wrestling viewing audience is accustomed to being."

Eric Bischoff calls iMPACT! moving to Monday nights "a little bit of history repeating itself. Bischoff said, "This is a great opportunity for TNA to step up and get noticed and showcase their product. I've said since the moment I started talking to Dixie, in my opinion we should go head-to-head with 'Monday Night Raw.' To me, it's a battlefield -- and to win the battle, you have to be on the battlefield."

When asked to comment on WWE's new competition on Monday nights, WWE spokesman Robert Zimmerman said, "We're not too concerned. We're in good shape."

And if you needed further proof that WWE doesn't give a care: Robert Zimmer continued.

"It's somewhat of a different audience. On Monday nights we're one of the top cable shows. We're focusing on our new show for Syfy, "NXT," and 'Wrestlemania XXIV.

Sometimes Raw is even the #1 show on cable television. I know Dixie is in bed with Hogan and Bischoff like no one's business right now. (Sorry for that mental picture.) But I can't believe she can't see the writing on the wall. First of all, they're not even out of the honeymoon phase of this relationship. They're all going in with big dreams and lots of hopes for the future, but there's no way they're on their way to a mutual partnership.

First of all, nearly the entire TNA locker room is pissed off right now, especially the guys who have never worked a day in WWE. Bischoff is right, in order to compete you do have to be on the battlefield, but you also have to be ready for the war, and so far TNA just isn't. Granted Bischoff and Hogan are more than capable of sustaining a program over time, but the point is - you can send General Patton into war, but he's not worth the gunpowder it would take to blow him up if he doesn't have an army behind him. TNA just doesn't have that army.

The writing department is ridiculous. (more so than WWE, because the continuity/psychology is even harder to wrap your brain around.)

In an attempt to be cutting edge, and get away from the PG stuff, they've successfully reworked every WWE angle in the history of ever, short of hand births and Katie Vick.

They continually throw away all non main event talent - worse than WWE - Their are no Mizs, Big Shows, MVPs or Kofi Kingstons on this show - and I don't know who any of the champions are.

They don't know how to use 3/4 of the roster, and that's why you get 6-8 man matches, that again lack psychology, and you have no idea why the match played out the way it did. At least in WWE every match seems to have a purpose, regardless of how ridiculous that purpose may be.

My point being, TNA had the opportunity to refine their Thursday night program, see what works, and what doesn't and then bring a gun to a gun fight on Monday nights. Now, they're just bringing a knife to said gun fight. Minute for Minute, Pound for Pound, Impact! against RAW, I will choose a program with Randy Orton, Triple H and The Miz - over anything TNA has to offer, ever.

In fact the only thing that would make me watch an episode of Impact as it aired live, is the return of Chyna, or maybe the Rock. And since The Rock is going to be a semi-permanent host of Raw over the summer, I think TNA is going to be mighty sad about their ratings. In fact, I look for them to fall to a .9 or 1.0 by June.

RIP Survivor Series

Vince McMahon, in his infinite wisdom, has stated in this morning's WWE Conference Call that the Survivor Series name is "obsolete." Our benevolent chairman had the following to say about it:

"We think that Survivor Series is obsolete, as far as that title is concerned. It was something that worked many, many years ago, in terms of a creative standpoint, various teams competing. That really is not advantageous as the consumer now looks at what actually they are buying. And it's such a broad ... Survivor Series yes, many years ago, was one of the original four pay-per-views, but it's outlasted its usage and it is one of the things in terms of rebranding, this year and going forward, that will be rebranded. No longer will we have that title, Survivor Series."

Many are pointing to the 26% decline in buyrates from 08's show (which was headlined by Edge / Triple H / Kozlov and Cena / Jericho) to 09's (Taker / Jerishow "triple threat" and Cena / DX "triple threat").

You ever stop to think, Vince, that in a WWE world already overloaded with PPVs, in which the titles change hands more often than some of your fans change underwear, in which you're pushing the hell out of these new gimmick PPVs, that you might, y'know, actually USE Suvivor Series the way it was meant? I know there were 3 "classic Survivor Series" matches on the card... but that's ALL that should be on that card. The titles do not have to be on the line for every pay-per-view. It waters down the championship. If we're going to gimmick up all these PPVs, and with all this nostalgia going on, then why don't we just return Survivor Series to its original format, the way it was meant to be? Nothing but Survivor Series matches, and the main event could still put the title on the line -- or the guy who makes the final pinfall gets #1 Contendership, or SOMETHING. It's only "outlasted its usage" because YOU booked it that way.

Or, y'know... could just be down because the WWE in '09 was mired in mediocrity from top to bottom. Just a thought.

Dwayne Johnson - "A Clue" is on the phone for you.

In a radio interview with Boston's Mix 104 this week, Dwyane "The Rock" Johnson shed some new light on his upcoming WWE return, which is expected to take place this summer.

When asked if he plans on wrestling a match, The Rock says: (hehe)

"How I would come back is a different capacity than what Hulk Hogan did or I believe Ric Flair is doing. Those guys are coming back to actually wrestle. I don't want to wrestle; I have no intention of wrestling a match."

The Rock plans on having a major impact on WWE programming and could serve as a semi-permanent RAW Guest host for the entire summer:

"I do have intention of going back and hosting the show. Hosting a show like that would give me the opportunity to get on the microphone, rip open the writing, and invite guests on to come host with me. We wanted to create something cool and big and fun for the audience."

Okay, I will totally mark out if he hosts for most of the summer, and I'm fairly confident that him saying he has no intention of wrestling is just a work, because he's going to feud huge with Cena. Does this mean Cena is turning heel? Or are we just going to do Face vs. Face? A little old school Legend Killer action on Rock and Bret Hart would be welcomed as well.

However, Dwayne Johnson needs to GET A CLUE. Really, he's out doing interviews for this craptastic movie he made and everyone is like "Um, you made a movie, that's great. When are you going to stop playing this little movie star game and go back to what you're good at? Hmm..."

When that music hits, I am back to being an eternal Rock fan. Until then, please Rocky! You're killin' me smalls!

Lashley Removed from TNA Roster

Bobby Lashley's profile has been removed from the Superstar Roster page on TNA's official website, which suggests he may have parted ways with the company.

While there is no official confirmation that Lashley has parted ways with the company, he has stated in various interviews that he'd leave wrestling behind to focus on his mixed martial arts career if he felt being a part of TNA was taking away from his training.

Lashley had a successful debut for the Strikeforce MMA promotion two weeks ago and is rumored to be fighting on the company's next big CBS show on April 17th.

It's worth noting that Hulk Hogan recently told Sports Illustrated that he and Lashley would be having a "serious talk" about working for TNA and Strikeforce at the same time. Hogan said that he told Lashley, “You can’t put them [Strikeforce] ahead of us. That’s not going to work me. I’m going to fix that real quick.”

John Morrison Injured?

While some reports indicate that it could be part of a work, John Morrison sprained his ankle in his match at the Smackdown tapings last night. Morrison was wrestling R-Truth when he leaped over him, and came down hard. The match was cut short and Morrison was helped to the back by R-Truth and a WWE Trainer.

Is anyone surprised?

In honor of Comcast's decision to change its name to Xfinity later this month, TIME Magazine decided to post a Top 10 article for the Worst Corporate Name Changes. Guess who made the list?

1. Andersen Consulting -> Accenture
2. Sci Fi -> SyFy
3. Radio Shack -> The Shack
4. Royal Mail -> Consignia
5. Blackwater -> Xe
6. Philip Morris ->Altria Group
7. WWF-> WWE
8. The Nashville Network -> Spike
9. ValuJet-> Airtran
10. Sears Tower -> Willis Tower

Good job, 'E. Maybe the ECW becoming NXT will take the spot of Radio Shack becoming "The Shack". A lofty goal, yes, but one worth pursuing, methinks.

This Could Be Coming to TNA.

According to a post on the SLAM! Wrestling website, Brooke Hogan is rumored to be joining TNA Wrestling. They wrote: "With Brooke Hogan's career in music and television stalled, it is rumored she might take an on-camera role with TNA."

I.... don't even know what to say to this. Hogan has been here for six weeks and now his kids have jobs. I'm... speechless.

Honky Washes Off The Horse Doody

This man with a replica belt is a liar? Naw.


In a follow up to Cory's earlier post about Eric Bischoff claiming Honky Tonk Man was NOT in talks with TNA and "couldn't draw flies if he were rolled in horse shit," Honky finally came clean. During an appearance on "The Shoot" radio show this week, Honky admitted to making the whole story up. He said he had "worked you f*****s all the way to the very end, there was no deal."

News flash, Honky: it's only a "work" if people believe it. At least with the dusting off of the Nasties, Hall and Pac, etc., they're Hogan cronies that we all expected to be brought on board. You're just Farva, dropping soap in the rookie's coffee (which he fully expected) and laughing saying "ha! I got you f*****s good, huh?" Now Mr. Tonk Man can fade back into obscurity with his replica title belts. Good riddance.

Bret Sets The Record Straight

Was this really so bad?


On his facebook update this morning, Bret Hart addressed the rumors that swirled when Jeremy Borash posted this picture from his Twitter after Monday's meeting between the old WCW alumni. Bret had this to say:

"It was nice seeing Jeremy Borash, a longtime friend of mine, from TNA while I was in Nashville. He hung out with me and we never once talked wrestling. Some feeble minded idiot who saw us in plain view tried to start the rumour that I might be heading to TNA next; although why anyone would ever think I'd let Hogan and Bischoff anywhere near my Hitman persona again is truly beyond me."

So I guess that's that? Although any talk of Bret and WCW is an excuse to post this, one of the all-time classic promos. Who are you to doubt El Dandy?

Kaz Has Been a Bad Bad Boy

Seriously? How bad must it suck to be married for 3 weeks and find out that your new husband, who had been your very long term boyfriend, has been having an affair with an adult film star for the last three years? Allegedly.

I need to remember that this little blog is still considered news and my first amendment rights do not protect me from a little thing called "liability".

So here's the story.

Last weekend, "a person in the know" sent an online reporter some nude photographs Kazarian had taken of himself in the bathroom. The person claims that Kazarian has been having an ongoing affair with a California based adult star for the past three years which his wife, fellow TNA performer Traci Brooks), only recently became aware of. The longtime couple got married just a few weeks ago with many of their fellow peers in the wrestling industry in attendance.

Also note, a sex tape of Kazarian and the adult star in question apparently exists. Late last week, Brooks peculiarly posted photos from her wedding on her Facebook account and made her profile picture a wedding shot of the two. She has since removed the wedding images and declared her account private. Furthermore, Kazarian deleted his MySpace and Facebook pages earlier this week, though the Facebook account has since been reactivated. He wrote on Tuesday, "Tired, pretty banged up, but had a great tour. Most importantly home with my beautiful wife."

Here's a link to the censored photographs of Kaz. Notice the obligatory Apple Logo reflecting in the mirror. View them Here

NXT is Hardcore

So WWE gave us a reason to watch Superstars for the first time in... maybe ever, last night. The debut of the logo for the "innovative, exciting, fresh," NXT show.

Am I alone in thinking this just smacks of "trying too hard?" For one, it looks just like a vertical version of the original TNA logo. And secondly, ironically, with the dropping of the ECW name, it almost looks like they're trying to get back to those original ECW roots with something that looks all gritty and edgy. But here's the problem: you can't manufacture grit and edge. You can't manufacture "new" nostalgia. I'll be the first to admit that I'm a huge nostalgia mark, but you can't recapture lightning in a bottle if it doesn't want to be captured. That's why "The Band" in TNA is falling on its face. I may decry that nothing today feels as awesome and real as it did back in the 90's, but that's because our world doesn't feel like it did in the 90's. It's an era that's gone, and you can't look to the past to create the future.

The also ironic thing about it is that this show is apparently aimed at creating those new high profile stars... which is exactly the purpose ECW has served for the last 2 years. I suppose we'll have to wait till the show debuts before we can pass judgment on it, but judging from the logo? Take it away, Mr. Horse.

Hogan Wants RVD

It's no SWIIF but it'll do.


Hulk Hogan called into RVD Radio last night to kiss Rob's ass and pretty much tell him "we need you in TNA." Hogan told him this would be the best time for him to join, as he and his wife are both healthy and he's not burnt out on wrestling (and Hogan would know this how?). RVD said he was interested, and mentioned possibly bringing Sabu in with him. They also discussed Jeff Hardy, with whom Hogan said he was on the phone earlier in the day. Hogan said that he and Hardy have a crazy idea that he "guarantees" will work. Then the two had a good time poking some fun at the 6-sided ring, amongst other things. And Lord only knows what else they talked about once the show went off the air.

I'll admit, I'd mark for an RVD return. But how much longer can we keep on dredging up the old guard before there's not even any room for the new guys anymore?

Besides... Hogan? C'mon, Rob. We had Matt Bentley on our show. It's time to raise your bar, RVD. I thought you were serious about this podcasting thing.

D'Amore Jumps Ship + BCW News

Former Team Canada coach and current all-around awesome fella Scott D'Amore posted the following on his Facebook just moments ago:

TNA wrestling producer and former on-air manager of Team Canada, Scott D'Amore has decided to leave TNA Wrestling effective immediately. D'Amore, who most recently was the agent for the TNA Knockouts division, which produced some of the highest ratings for SpikeTV's Impact, has decided to pursue a new wrestling project in Canada. D'Amore's Border City Wrestling, based out of Windsor, Ontario, will be merging with Toronto's BSE Pro Wrestling, run by Jason A. Brown, to become one of North America's largest and longest running independent wrestling company under the new banner, Maximum Pro Wrestling!

More details will be released in the near future, but the new company is planning to run extensive live events, Pay Per Views, DVD releases as well as develop a new television series.

I would say I'm sad to see TNA lose him, but with the exception of Angelina's return, have they done ANYTHING worthwhile with the Knockouts in the last 6 months? If I were Coach D'Amore and they were taking away all of the TV time from my girls to give to the geriatric dog and pony show, I'd leave too. And with a new TV series in the works?! It may be a local show but hopefully it'll find its way to youtube. Maybe some of the mis-used and un-used X-division guys *ahem*MCMG*ahem* can find a better home base up there.

Rob Van Dam's Been HAD!

(Credit to PWTorch.com for the interview transcript)

Rob Van Dam will be starring in the upcoming straight-to-DVD action movie "Wrong Side of Town" - or so he thought.

During an interview on the "Between the Ropes" radio show, Van Dam accused the studio Lionsgate of taking him off top billing in favor of his co-star, WWE superstar Batista. Van Dam was under the impression that it was his movie, he'd be the star and Batista was a supporting character. He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw that Batista was featured front and center on the DVD box.

"I thought it was my movie. The movie was written for me, I was there for three weeks, filmed every day except for one day, they came out with the DVD box cover and, oh my God, I didn't realize Batista is the star of it!," RVD said sarcastically.

RVD was told this action movie was his vehicle to transition into being an action star, but now he doesn't even know how the movie will turn out after it's edited and reworked.

"I was completely confused. They said this was like a vehicle for me to go into these other action movies and, yeah, Batista is the star. He was there for two days. I feel like Lionsgate pulled the carpet out from underneath my feet when I was looking. Hopefully when you watch it, I'm still starring in it."

The "Wrong Side of Town" will be released on DVD February 23.

The Big Show's New Movie Is...

...fail.

The Rise And Fall Of WWECW

2006-2010


As announced on last night's ECW program (and previously announced here on Cenanuff), the Tuesday night television show known as ECW will soon be rebranded -- specifically, in 3 weeks. The final ECW taping will be held on February 22 in Milwaukee (which is Algonquin for "the good land"), and in its place the following week will be WWE NXT, a "brand new, innovative, never-before-seen program" as Mr. Mac-mahon put it. No word yet on a specific format, or whether the wrestlers on the roster will change.

Thank you, Vince, for finally putting this whole "ECW brand" thing to rest. It was great for a nostalgia trip, it became one of the brightest spots in the entire WWE landscape where new stars are *gasp* actually allowed to shine, and old kooky vets like Goldust and Hurricane were given new life, but those 3 letters are something truly special in the annals of this industry and I, for one, am glad to see them finally being removed from WWE.

Dining With The Enemy

Following Monday night's appearance on Raw, Bret Hart took advantage of his time in Nashville by meeting up with old WCW alum Jeremy Borash, and other TNA personalities, for dinner (and I'm sure plenty of gossiping). Borash posted the above picture and the following on his Twitter Tuesday: "Had dinner with an ol' friend last night. Nobody got screwed"

They're all big boys, they can make their own decisions, but I'll bet Vince was none too happy about this one. As unlikely as it is, my inner booker is going absolutely berzerk at the thought of Bret showing up in TNA out of nowhere.

(PS - I would have never thought in a million years that was Jables in the picture with Bret. Only way we know it's really him is that it came from his own Twitter. Dude needs to invest in a better camera phone.)

The is Why Beth Phoenix means NOTHING!

Thanks to alivingwonder.com for the following:

According to a news report by Bill Apter of 1wrestling.com, Chyna is set to make wrestling history yet again this fall when she becomes the first woman to be inducted into the new "Inoki Federation Hall of Fame" which will debut in October 2010. The report says Chyna will be inducted for her work in the New Japan Pro Wrestling Federation.

Chyna is the only woman in New Japan Wrestling history to wrestle a man, the only woman in the world to hold number one contendership for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, the only woman to compete at the Tokyo Dome and the only wrestler of any gender told hold number one contendership for the IWGP Tag Team and World titles at the same time.

Chyna will be inducted along with Jushin Thunder Liger, Masahiro Chono and three others in the class of 2010.

Helms Had Soma in His Posession

TMZ.com has provided some new details on the January 27 arrest of WWE superstar Gregory Helms. According to the police report, Gregory "Hurricane" Helms was in possession of "one white round pill" at the time of his arrest for public intoxication. Police determined the white pill was the muscle relaxer Soma, the generic version of the muscle relaxer Carisoprodol and a "schedule four narcotic."

Helms told police he had a prescription for the pill but was not able to produce any proof of it at the time of his arrest. Cops did not press charges against Helms over the single Soma pill. Should Helms be unable to produce a prescription for the narcotic found on him at the time of his arrest, he would be in violation of WWE's Wellness policy and more importantly, the laws of the state of Kentucky, where he was arrested.

It's worth noting that Gregory Helms was pulled from the Royal Rumble on Sunday after being advertised for the show.

TMZ reached out to WWE about these new details but did not hear back. The wrestling industry is all too familiar with muscle relaxers such as Soma. Dr. Phil Astin was recently jailed for 10 years after he was busted for prescribing Soma (among other drugs) in large quantities to Chris Benoit before he died.