Crown Casino hit the jackpot during Tiger Woods' Melbourne visit bringing in $10 million from five golf enthusiast Chinese gamblers.
The Chinese punters were invited to a private golf lesson with Tiger at Crown's Capital Golf Club, which was of course an offer they couldn't refuse.
Gaming commentators advise the tax payable on the $10 mill loss went close to covering the Brumby Government's $1.5 million contribution to the Tiger Woods visit alone.
Crown, which was host to Woods and his entourage throughout the Australian Masters, is also cashing in on the world-wide publicity over the golfing legend's alleged fling with New York party girl Rachel Uchitel. Wood's has gone into lock-down mode and has cancelled many public appearances since the scandal broke.
Earlier this year team Crown Casino got some nice media rub off when Hollywood power couple Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible, Top Gun et al) and Katie Holmes (Don't Be Afraid of the Dark) stayed at Crown Towers, and in addition last March Crown Casino king pin James Packer talked shop with Richard Branson and was more than happy to pose for photographers at the Melbourne Grand Prix. Mr Packer remains busy with his overseeing of Macau's City Of Dreams, campaigning for a polo club and complex at Manor Farm in England, and family life. Media Man was surprised that wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair were not spotted at Crown in their Melbourne leg of Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin, but they did get to do their own version of WrestleMania at Mr Packer's Burswood Entertainment Complex in Perth last week, which left "The Hulkster" and "The Nature Boy" a bloody and bruised mess. Incidentally, Hogan and Flair both have some gaming business deals on the go. Hogan has his Hulkamania Experience slot game in some U.S casinos and a Hulkamania mobile game in the works while Flair fronts the NC Education Lottery with his Woooooo! instant win scratchie. Hogan is probably most famous for his feud with the late, great, Andre The Giant (who NextGen Gaming are said to be developing a themed game). Hogan and Flair are also featured in the WWE's WWE Legends Of Wrestlemania (which is a non gambling game). Once can imagine Hulk and Flair sharing a tear for The Tiger, or at least a thought, as both wrestlers have had their fair share of marriage challenges in the past. We're pleased to report that Mr Flair recently tied the knot in Vegas, and The King of Hulkamania (and Roostermania) is looking to marry his new woman in the near future. Hogan flashed his Miss a diamond ring last week. The question remains, are diamonds forever? Hogan, Flair and Woods are likely hoping that's the case.
Only a fortune teller would know why Crown Casino makes news headlines next, but you can bet your bottom dollar that the powers that be will be hoping it's in a balanced or positive news media capacity, rather than attack journalism style which got Mr Packers' ire a few months ago at that notorious media bash. Channel Seven's Today Tonight has stopped running negative stories on the Packer empire and the man, since JP gave David Leckie the message at the Sydney Opera House. These things of course gave author-journalist Paul Barry more fodder and media buzz for his Who Wants To Be a Billionaire tale.
On a lighter note, poker fans, newbies or champions may be interested to know that Crown Casino Aussie Million Poker Championship qualifiers are available from online poker sites such as PartyPoker.com, the poker powerhouse by world's leading online gaming firm, PartyGaming. Aussie Millions kicks off in January 2010, and those in the know are tipping the upcoming Aussie Millions will be the biggest and best yet, and likely the most profitable for Crown (and the winner). Mr Packer and his army are pushing for a national poker week to be added to the Australian sporting calender. Certainly the star power will be there...the informed rumor mills says Shane Warne, Joe Hachem, Jeff Fenech, Doyle Brunson, Mike Sexton, Paris Hilton and Pam Anderson will all be present at this years Aussie Millions, but in what capacity remains to be seen however you can bet it will be a hell of a party. Defending champion Stewart Scott, now front-man for PartyPoker, is locked into defending his crown, pardon the pun. PartyGaming sees the Crown Aussie Millions tie in with it's PartyPoker sponsored champ as a way to boost the awareness of many Party brands in the Asia Pacific, and has huge plans in the region for their award winning PartyCasino that has developed a huge patronage down under. Media Man former client and eyes and ears of the poker world, Keith "Bendigo" Sloan is said to know the skinny on all sorts of things re Crown these days, including guests, poker TV show productions, internet strategy, media deals and more. In any event, the upcoming Aussie Millions is not one to miss, so mark it down in your calender now.
Bean counters seem to think that will all the excitement at Crown that the Crown shares will once again be on the upswing. We here at Media Man hope they are right on the money.
*The writer does own Crown Casino (Crown Limited) shares and has conducted b2b with a number of arms of PartyGaming
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Thursday, December 03, 2009
Crown Casino pockets $10 million thanks to Tiger Woods following; Hulkamania runs wild at Crown's Burswood, by Greg Tingle - 3rd December 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin at Acer Arena, Sydney, Australia - results - 28th November 2009
Estimated crowd size: 8000 people - 75% capacity
Pimp Fatha defeated Sean Morley
Nasty Boys Double VS Rock of Love - Count-out
Heidenreich defeated Nick Dinsmore (Eugen)
Black Pearl & Vampire Warrior defeated Brian Christopher & and Junior Fatu (Rikishi)
Nasty Boys (Brian Knobs and Jerry Sags) defeated Rock of Love
Bikini competition - Koa Marie Turner defeated Stephanie Pietz and Kiara Dillon
Spartan 3000 (Matt Cross) defeated Shannon Moore
Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake defeated Orlando Jordan
Uso (Umaga) defeated Ken Anderson (Mr. Kennedy)
Hulk Hogan defeated Ric Flair - No DQ match
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Pimp Fatha defeated Sean Morley
Nasty Boys Double VS Rock of Love - Count-out
Heidenreich defeated Nick Dinsmore (Eugen)
Black Pearl & Vampire Warrior defeated Brian Christopher & and Junior Fatu (Rikishi)
Nasty Boys (Brian Knobs and Jerry Sags) defeated Rock of Love
Bikini competition - Koa Marie Turner defeated Stephanie Pietz and Kiara Dillon
Spartan 3000 (Matt Cross) defeated Shannon Moore
Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake defeated Orlando Jordan
Uso (Umaga) defeated Ken Anderson (Mr. Kennedy)
Hulk Hogan defeated Ric Flair - No DQ match
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Saturday, November 28, 2009
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin at Acer Arena, Sydney, Australia tonight - 28th November 2009
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin featuring Hulk Hogan VS Ric Flair tonight at Acer Arena, Sydney, Australia.
This is almost certainly the last time Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair will wrestle in Australia.
The Hogan VS Flair feud is one of the most memorable in pro wrestling history, and both men are regarded as true living legends. Hogan and Flair have shaped the pro wrestling industry for over 3 decades.
Both long time and new professional wrestling fans can expect to see an exciting and impressive line up of matches. The wrestling card offers the best in both new and more established pro wrestling talent and also showcases world class production.
Tickets available at Ticketek.com.
Media Man will be reporting on the card as results come to hand.
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This is almost certainly the last time Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair will wrestle in Australia.
The Hogan VS Flair feud is one of the most memorable in pro wrestling history, and both men are regarded as true living legends. Hogan and Flair have shaped the pro wrestling industry for over 3 decades.
Both long time and new professional wrestling fans can expect to see an exciting and impressive line up of matches. The wrestling card offers the best in both new and more established pro wrestling talent and also showcases world class production.
Tickets available at Ticketek.com.
Media Man will be reporting on the card as results come to hand.
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Hulk Hogan interview - 91.3 SportFM - Perth, Australia
Media Man advises this is one of the most interesting radio interviews, or interviews of any nature, that Hulk Hogan has ever done. Part work, part shoot, and what to expect in Australia and what's on the cards once he returns to the U.S where he has signed a business deal with TNA.
Part of the interview quoting Hulk Hogan:
"In TNA, I'm going to listen to those fans and give them what they want. I'm not going to keep shoving a bunch of terrible, horrible, stale programming down their throats," Hogan said, referring to WWE's writing. "(In TNA), I'm going to take the writers and tell them, 'go get another job. Sit in the back. If I need you to write a jingle for a commercial, maybe we'll use you for that."
Listen To The Interview
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Part of the interview quoting Hulk Hogan:
"In TNA, I'm going to listen to those fans and give them what they want. I'm not going to keep shoving a bunch of terrible, horrible, stale programming down their throats," Hogan said, referring to WWE's writing. "(In TNA), I'm going to take the writers and tell them, 'go get another job. Sit in the back. If I need you to write a jingle for a commercial, maybe we'll use you for that."
Listen To The Interview
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Saturday, November 21, 2009
Hulkamania Tour - Australia - 21st November 2009
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin wrestling event starts at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, tonight
Eric Bischoff has secured a TV deal in Australia to broadcast the Saturday, November 28 show from Sydney on the One HD channel this December, reports Pro Wrestling Torch
Media Man tips off Rowdy Roddy Piper on Hulkamania happenings, after one on ones with Hogan, Flair and press conference happenings
Australian newspapers, media and public still buzzing, despite Hogan advising press conference happenings were part of the show
Australian journalists mixing pro wrestling happenings with political articles, following Hogan's Canberra appearance
Hogan VS Flair Star City Casino press conference highlights available on Media Man YouTube
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Eric Bischoff has secured a TV deal in Australia to broadcast the Saturday, November 28 show from Sydney on the One HD channel this December, reports Pro Wrestling Torch
Media Man tips off Rowdy Roddy Piper on Hulkamania happenings, after one on ones with Hogan, Flair and press conference happenings
Australian newspapers, media and public still buzzing, despite Hogan advising press conference happenings were part of the show
Australian journalists mixing pro wrestling happenings with political articles, following Hogan's Canberra appearance
Hogan VS Flair Star City Casino press conference highlights available on Media Man YouTube
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Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Hulk Hogan pro wrestling legend gets Roostermania - 18th November 2009
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 18
Wrestler Hulk Hogan is presented with a Roostermania Member banner by Braith Anasta of the Roosters during a media opportunity with Sydney Roosters players at Roosters Headquarters on November 18, 2009 in Sydney, Australia.
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Wrestler Hulk Hogan is presented with a Roostermania Member banner by Braith Anasta of the Roosters during a media opportunity with Sydney Roosters players at Roosters Headquarters on November 18, 2009 in Sydney, Australia.
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Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin Star City Casino press conference gets out of control; Ric Flair attacks Hulk Hogan
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin Star City Casino press conference gets out of control; Ric Flair attacks Hulk Hogan, by Greg Tingle - 18th November 2009
The press conference started friendly enough as most professional wrestling press conferences do.
Fans nor news media did not expect for things to get out of hand at Star City Casino, when Flair and Hogan got into a verbal fight that ended in physical violence and a bloodbath reminiscent of Mario Milano, Ron Miller, Mark Lewin, Abdullah The Butcher and The People's Army.
Numerous news media including Media Man captured the brawl with stills and video, and most Australian network news broadcasts will be running with the story tonight.
Even a professional photographer's camera flash was broken in the mayhem.
Hogan's head was a bloody crimson mess after Flair's punch and whipping with with his belt. Hogan landed hard on the floor and fellow wrestlers helped him to his feet after approximately 10 minutes of recovering. Many of the wrestlers present looked very concerned and helped Hogan get backstage for medical assistance.
Mr Flair and Mr Hogan have been engaged in a long running and heated feud, however this public exchange is understood to be the most violent to date.
Some wrestling insiders were overheard to have said; "Red turns to green" (blood turns to money), however numerous fans and media also noted that the attack was overdone and had "gone to far" and that "Flair shooted" on Hogan.
Hulk Hogan is still extremely excited to be touring and wrestling in Australia for the first time.
He advised the audience that other promoters in the past had billed him to tour Australia without his knowledge only to tell the fans that he could not make it.
Hogan is best known for his legdrop and "Hulkamanic's" while Flair's trademark's include Flair judo chops, figure four leglock, Flair flip and "Wooooo" taunt, something that Hogan is never likely to forget.
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin officially starts at Sydney’s Acer Arena on the 28th of November.
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The press conference started friendly enough as most professional wrestling press conferences do.
Fans nor news media did not expect for things to get out of hand at Star City Casino, when Flair and Hogan got into a verbal fight that ended in physical violence and a bloodbath reminiscent of Mario Milano, Ron Miller, Mark Lewin, Abdullah The Butcher and The People's Army.
Numerous news media including Media Man captured the brawl with stills and video, and most Australian network news broadcasts will be running with the story tonight.
Even a professional photographer's camera flash was broken in the mayhem.
Hogan's head was a bloody crimson mess after Flair's punch and whipping with with his belt. Hogan landed hard on the floor and fellow wrestlers helped him to his feet after approximately 10 minutes of recovering. Many of the wrestlers present looked very concerned and helped Hogan get backstage for medical assistance.
Mr Flair and Mr Hogan have been engaged in a long running and heated feud, however this public exchange is understood to be the most violent to date.
Some wrestling insiders were overheard to have said; "Red turns to green" (blood turns to money), however numerous fans and media also noted that the attack was overdone and had "gone to far" and that "Flair shooted" on Hogan.
Hulk Hogan is still extremely excited to be touring and wrestling in Australia for the first time.
He advised the audience that other promoters in the past had billed him to tour Australia without his knowledge only to tell the fans that he could not make it.
Hogan is best known for his legdrop and "Hulkamanic's" while Flair's trademark's include Flair judo chops, figure four leglock, Flair flip and "Wooooo" taunt, something that Hogan is never likely to forget.
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin officially starts at Sydney’s Acer Arena on the 28th of November.
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The Hulk, Hulk Hogan injured in bloody Sydney brawl with Ric Flair and media - News Limited - 18th November 2009
WRESTLER Hulk Hogan has been badly injured after a violent bloody brawl broke out at The Hulkamania promotional press conference at Star City today.
The press conference veered violently out of control today as Hulk Hogan and ring rival Ric Flair let their animosity break into a full scale bloody brawl.
Sydney Central’s photographer Phil Rogers has his flash broken when Ric Flair threw a table off the stage and into the press gathering before diving on photographers. See the photo of the Hulk.
Media were stunned as the Hulk’s head began bleeding profusely and confusion broke out when the veteran wrestling star was unable to get to his feet.
This reporter narrowly missed being struck with the table and photographers ducked and weaved as Ric Flair took off his trouser belt and began to whip anyone within range.
The press conference began well with the stars of the tour speaking professionally about their careers and the business.
Hulk Hogan was excited to be touring Australia for the first time.
He said promoters in the past had billed him to tour Australia without his knowledge only to tell the fans that he could not make it.
The Hulkamania tour hits Sydney’s Acer Arena on November 28. (Credit: News.com.au)
Media Man comments
The press conference started in a professional and friendly fashion. As the conference progressed Mr Hogan and Mr Flair started exchanging words and temperatures rose to an extent that Flair finally physically attacked Hogan, with Hogan and his table falling off the stage. A media frenzy followed with many fans shocked and starting chanting Hogan's name, and he was assisted to the back for medical attention. Both media and fans speculated with each other as to how much of the press conference may have been scripted, and how much really got out of hand. In any event, it was an entertaining and wild affair, and only adds to the Hulk Hogan VS Ric Flair series of matches in Australia being a "don't miss" attraction. Wooooo!
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The press conference veered violently out of control today as Hulk Hogan and ring rival Ric Flair let their animosity break into a full scale bloody brawl.
Sydney Central’s photographer Phil Rogers has his flash broken when Ric Flair threw a table off the stage and into the press gathering before diving on photographers. See the photo of the Hulk.
Media were stunned as the Hulk’s head began bleeding profusely and confusion broke out when the veteran wrestling star was unable to get to his feet.
This reporter narrowly missed being struck with the table and photographers ducked and weaved as Ric Flair took off his trouser belt and began to whip anyone within range.
The press conference began well with the stars of the tour speaking professionally about their careers and the business.
Hulk Hogan was excited to be touring Australia for the first time.
He said promoters in the past had billed him to tour Australia without his knowledge only to tell the fans that he could not make it.
The Hulkamania tour hits Sydney’s Acer Arena on November 28. (Credit: News.com.au)
Media Man comments
The press conference started in a professional and friendly fashion. As the conference progressed Mr Hogan and Mr Flair started exchanging words and temperatures rose to an extent that Flair finally physically attacked Hogan, with Hogan and his table falling off the stage. A media frenzy followed with many fans shocked and starting chanting Hogan's name, and he was assisted to the back for medical attention. Both media and fans speculated with each other as to how much of the press conference may have been scripted, and how much really got out of hand. In any event, it was an entertaining and wild affair, and only adds to the Hulk Hogan VS Ric Flair series of matches in Australia being a "don't miss" attraction. Wooooo!
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Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair touch down at Sydney International Airport, by Greg Tingle - 17th November 2009
Professional wrestling living legends, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair, touched down at Sydney Airport this morning at 6am.
Media Man, Icon Images and some other passionate fans and news media were there to welcome The Hulkster and The Nature Boy.
Also present were Eric Bischoff, Michael Condon (Condon Sports and Entertainment), some security and an attractive female that may have been Ric's new wife (unconfirmed).
Spin Communications had provided Media Man and a host of other news media with the airport arrival tip off the day prior.
The upcoming Hogan VS Flair matches in Australia as part of Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin tour will be the first and last time they meet in the ring on Australian soil.
Hogan is regarded as the most widely recognised professional wrestler of all time and put the wrestling business on the entertainment and Hollywood map in the mid 80's with the Rock N Wrestling connection involving Cindy Lauper and Mr T.
Fueled along by the WWF machine, Hogan took the business to new levels with feuds involving Rowdy Roddy Piper and the late, great, Andre The Giant.
Hogan's trademarks include "Watcha going to do when Hulkamania runs wild on you", the big boot to the face, the Hogan legdrop, and lariat (clothesline). Hogan is a MoVember supporter and has just released his updated autobiography "My Life Outside The Ring".
Flair is a favorite of serious wrestling fans around the globe and is regarded as one of the top five wrestlers of all time. Flair's most famous and celebrated wrestling feuds have been with Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, and of course, Hulk Hogan. Flair's trademark moves include the Flair judo chop, figure four leglock and the Flair flip over the top rope, which actually helps make the opponent look good, and is spectacular to watch. Flair is also known for his "Woooo" taunts, which he delivered in style at Sydney airport earlier today.
Both gentlemen are highly respected by fans, media and their peers. They are known for their genuine passion and respect of the industry and its fans.
The Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin tour headlined by Hogan VS Flair promises to be a wrestling fans dream come true and a once in a lifetime opportunity for Australian wrestling fans to see the icons go at it down under.
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Media Man, Icon Images and some other passionate fans and news media were there to welcome The Hulkster and The Nature Boy.
Also present were Eric Bischoff, Michael Condon (Condon Sports and Entertainment), some security and an attractive female that may have been Ric's new wife (unconfirmed).
Spin Communications had provided Media Man and a host of other news media with the airport arrival tip off the day prior.
The upcoming Hogan VS Flair matches in Australia as part of Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin tour will be the first and last time they meet in the ring on Australian soil.
Hogan is regarded as the most widely recognised professional wrestler of all time and put the wrestling business on the entertainment and Hollywood map in the mid 80's with the Rock N Wrestling connection involving Cindy Lauper and Mr T.
Fueled along by the WWF machine, Hogan took the business to new levels with feuds involving Rowdy Roddy Piper and the late, great, Andre The Giant.
Hogan's trademarks include "Watcha going to do when Hulkamania runs wild on you", the big boot to the face, the Hogan legdrop, and lariat (clothesline). Hogan is a MoVember supporter and has just released his updated autobiography "My Life Outside The Ring".
Flair is a favorite of serious wrestling fans around the globe and is regarded as one of the top five wrestlers of all time. Flair's most famous and celebrated wrestling feuds have been with Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, and of course, Hulk Hogan. Flair's trademark moves include the Flair judo chop, figure four leglock and the Flair flip over the top rope, which actually helps make the opponent look good, and is spectacular to watch. Flair is also known for his "Woooo" taunts, which he delivered in style at Sydney airport earlier today.
Both gentlemen are highly respected by fans, media and their peers. They are known for their genuine passion and respect of the industry and its fans.
The Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin tour headlined by Hogan VS Flair promises to be a wrestling fans dream come true and a once in a lifetime opportunity for Australian wrestling fans to see the icons go at it down under.
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Friday, November 13, 2009
Wrestling gaming connection
Celebrate the iconic wrestlers, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair, with their gaming and gaming offerings.
The campaign is on the way that will see wrestling living legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair wrestle in Australia this November.
Wrestling fans and gaming fans may be interested in this bit of history:
Hulk Hogan was once a bank teller and played guitar in a rock band. Once discovered he was trained in Japan by Hiro Matsuda, who broke his leg just to test his will. Hulk recovered from the injury, returned to training, and later found fame and fortune in the WWE (then World Wrestling Federation)
Starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III as Thunderlips
Hulk Hogan's first WWE match was against Ted DiBiase where Hogan was billed "The Incredible Hulk Hogan". WWE and later Terry "The Hulk" Bollea came to terms with Marvel Comics (Marvel Entertainment) and purchased the rights to use the name "Hulk".
Hogan defeated the late Andre The Giant in front of 93,173 people at WrestleMania III
Ric Flair was born Richard Morgan Fliehr on February 25, 1949
Flair is a recognized 16-time World Heavyweight Champion
*other pro wrestlers with a gaming connection include Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash, once going under the stage name of Vinnie Vegas" and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, who legend has it has frequented a well known land based casino in New Zealand. NextGen Gaming is rumoured to have developed an Andre The Giant themed online slot game.
Gaming connections include:
The Hulk online slot game
The Incredible Hulk online slot game
Wooooooo! North Carolina Education Lottery scratch ticket featuring Ric Flair
WWE Legends of Wrestling
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The campaign is on the way that will see wrestling living legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair wrestle in Australia this November.
Wrestling fans and gaming fans may be interested in this bit of history:
Hulk Hogan was once a bank teller and played guitar in a rock band. Once discovered he was trained in Japan by Hiro Matsuda, who broke his leg just to test his will. Hulk recovered from the injury, returned to training, and later found fame and fortune in the WWE (then World Wrestling Federation)
Starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III as Thunderlips
Hulk Hogan's first WWE match was against Ted DiBiase where Hogan was billed "The Incredible Hulk Hogan". WWE and later Terry "The Hulk" Bollea came to terms with Marvel Comics (Marvel Entertainment) and purchased the rights to use the name "Hulk".
Hogan defeated the late Andre The Giant in front of 93,173 people at WrestleMania III
Ric Flair was born Richard Morgan Fliehr on February 25, 1949
Flair is a recognized 16-time World Heavyweight Champion
*other pro wrestlers with a gaming connection include Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash, once going under the stage name of Vinnie Vegas" and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, who legend has it has frequented a well known land based casino in New Zealand. NextGen Gaming is rumoured to have developed an Andre The Giant themed online slot game.
Gaming connections include:
The Hulk online slot game
The Incredible Hulk online slot game
Wooooooo! North Carolina Education Lottery scratch ticket featuring Ric Flair
WWE Legends of Wrestling
Global Gaming Directory Profiles
Hulk Hogan
The Incredible Hulk
Ric Flair
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
Andre The Giant
Sylvester Stallone
Marvel Entertainment
Websites
PartyCasino.com
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin official website
Hulk Hogan official website
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HULKAMANIA - Let the Battle Begin - Press Conference - Star City Casino, Sydney 11am, 18th November
“HULKAMANIA – LET THE BATTLE BEGIN”
PRESS CONFERENCE AT STAR CITY
11AM, 18 NOVEMBER
Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, The Nasty Boys, Jimmy Hart and many more wrestlers to launch Hulkamania Oz Tour
Some of the biggest names in professional wrestling - Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, The Nasty Boys, and Jimmy Hart - will be kicking off the start of the first ever “HULKAMANIA - Let the Battle Begin” Australian tour with a press conference at the Sports Theatre, Star City, on Wednesday 18th of November at 11am. The first 200 wrestling fans to arrive at Star City will be invited into the press conference (first 50 fans will also receive a free Hulk t-shirt) to see the wrestlers in action as they gear up for their Australian tour starting in Melbourne on Saturday 21st November.
Following Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair’s well documented feud, Ric Flair is coming out of retirement to wrestle Hulk Hogan in Australia for one last time. Expect to see tempers flare as the two meet face to face for the first time down under.
HULKAMANIA – LET THE BATTLE BEGIN will be held at arenas in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney from the 21st – 28th November 2009. This will be the only chance to see Hulk Hogan live in Australia.
For over two decades Hulk Hogan has been synonymous with sports entertainment and professional wrestling. Having set live attendance records all over the world including a live gate of more that 96,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, Hulk Hogan has set his sights on Australia as his next frontier.
HULKAMANIA will feature some of the world’s top wrestling stars including Hulk’s nemesis Ric Flair, Brutus the ‘Barber’ Beefcake, The Nasty Boys, Jimmy Hart, The Count of California, Vampire Warrior, Lacey Von Eric and many more iconic wrestlers. This two and a half hour production includes 10 bouts and is set to be the ultimate wrestling spectacular. The arenas will feature giant screens allowing audiences to view each match in full detail as well as to see the wrestlers back stage in between matches. Billed as a night of family entertainment, each show will also include audience participation, a huge pyrotechnics display and much more.
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PRESS CONFERENCE AT STAR CITY
11AM, 18 NOVEMBER
Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, The Nasty Boys, Jimmy Hart and many more wrestlers to launch Hulkamania Oz Tour
Some of the biggest names in professional wrestling - Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, The Nasty Boys, and Jimmy Hart - will be kicking off the start of the first ever “HULKAMANIA - Let the Battle Begin” Australian tour with a press conference at the Sports Theatre, Star City, on Wednesday 18th of November at 11am. The first 200 wrestling fans to arrive at Star City will be invited into the press conference (first 50 fans will also receive a free Hulk t-shirt) to see the wrestlers in action as they gear up for their Australian tour starting in Melbourne on Saturday 21st November.
Following Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair’s well documented feud, Ric Flair is coming out of retirement to wrestle Hulk Hogan in Australia for one last time. Expect to see tempers flare as the two meet face to face for the first time down under.
HULKAMANIA – LET THE BATTLE BEGIN will be held at arenas in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney from the 21st – 28th November 2009. This will be the only chance to see Hulk Hogan live in Australia.
For over two decades Hulk Hogan has been synonymous with sports entertainment and professional wrestling. Having set live attendance records all over the world including a live gate of more that 96,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, Hulk Hogan has set his sights on Australia as his next frontier.
HULKAMANIA will feature some of the world’s top wrestling stars including Hulk’s nemesis Ric Flair, Brutus the ‘Barber’ Beefcake, The Nasty Boys, Jimmy Hart, The Count of California, Vampire Warrior, Lacey Von Eric and many more iconic wrestlers. This two and a half hour production includes 10 bouts and is set to be the ultimate wrestling spectacular. The arenas will feature giant screens allowing audiences to view each match in full detail as well as to see the wrestlers back stage in between matches. Billed as a night of family entertainment, each show will also include audience participation, a huge pyrotechnics display and much more.
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Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wrestling News Media - 12th November 2009
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin major press announcement expected today, Spin Communications tie in
Hulkamania official YouTube account updated with Hogan - Flair video promo
WWE Raw to be hosted by Rowdy Roddy Piper at Madison Square Garden next Monday
WWE's Edge collaborates with Irwin family at Australia Zoo
Shane McMahon's business plans remain unknown, following his WWE departure
WWE Hulk Hogan DVD set "Unreleased Collectors Series" set to release
Media Man leak and tip offs to Wrestling Observer Newsletter re Australia, stay tuned for developments
TNA - mixed reports on Hogan sign up factor for buzz, ratings, media clout, game deals et al
Stone Cold Steve Austin rapt to be in Stallone's "The Expendables", Austin's "Damage" flick gets very mixed reports
CM Punt rise to the top continues
Linda McMahon political campaign looses some steam, but critics can't halt despite dirty tactics
WWE programing remains mega popular on Australian pay TV
WWE exploring own TV network, JR's blog comments
WWE Hall of Fame names being tossed around: Ted DiBiase, Randy Savage, Honky Tonk Man, Jake "The Snake" Roberts
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Hulkamania official YouTube account updated with Hogan - Flair video promo
WWE Raw to be hosted by Rowdy Roddy Piper at Madison Square Garden next Monday
WWE's Edge collaborates with Irwin family at Australia Zoo
Shane McMahon's business plans remain unknown, following his WWE departure
WWE Hulk Hogan DVD set "Unreleased Collectors Series" set to release
Media Man leak and tip offs to Wrestling Observer Newsletter re Australia, stay tuned for developments
TNA - mixed reports on Hogan sign up factor for buzz, ratings, media clout, game deals et al
Stone Cold Steve Austin rapt to be in Stallone's "The Expendables", Austin's "Damage" flick gets very mixed reports
CM Punt rise to the top continues
Linda McMahon political campaign looses some steam, but critics can't halt despite dirty tactics
WWE programing remains mega popular on Australian pay TV
WWE exploring own TV network, JR's blog comments
WWE Hall of Fame names being tossed around: Ted DiBiase, Randy Savage, Honky Tonk Man, Jake "The Snake" Roberts
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Sunday, November 08, 2009
Hulk Hogan a 'Mo' Mentor - 7th November 2009
Hulk Hogan, one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, has been appointed an official "Mo" Mentor for this year's Movember.
The moustache-growing charity event is held each November to raise funds for and awareness of men's health.
"To all my Hulkamaniacs, say your prayers, take your vitamins and grow a moustache for Movember this year," Hogan said.
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The moustache-growing charity event is held each November to raise funds for and awareness of men's health.
"To all my Hulkamaniacs, say your prayers, take your vitamins and grow a moustache for Movember this year," Hogan said.
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Saturday, October 17, 2009
Shane McMahon leaves WWE, by Kevin Elk - 16th October 2009
The first thing I did this morning after reading on wwe.com that Shane McMahon had resigned from WWE was check my calendar to make sure it wasn’t April 1.
As surreal as it sounds, McMahon really is leaving the company that has been in his family for more than five decades. McMahon’s resignation from his position as executive vice president of global media takes effect January 1, 2010.
“I have never even considered a future outside the walls of the WWE,” McMahon, 39, said in a statement on wwe.com. “However, sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and while it is the most difficult decision I have ever made, it is time for me to move on. … This is the opportune time in my career to pursue outside ventures.”
His father, WWE chairman and CEO Vince McMahon also issued a statement on the Web site: “Even though I am personally saddened by Shane’s decision to leave the company, I am proud of the enormous contributions he has made. He will unquestionably bring passion, commitment and extensive business experience to any endeavor he pursues.”
Obviously, there is a lot more to this story, and I’m sure it won’t be long before information starts leaking out in regard to the specific reasons for McMahon’s departure.
In the ’90s and early part of this decade, it was assumed by most that it was Shane’s birthright to one day be Vince’s successor. However, after Shane’s sister, Stephanie, became the head of creative, the perception was that she wielded more power than her brother and he no longer was a sure thing as the heir apparent. The popular opinion over the past few years has been that either Stephanie or her husband, Triple H, would eventually replace Vince. Shane was no longer even in the discussion.
Perhaps Shane is looking for a new challenge, something he can build and call his own. If he has learned anything from his father it’s the philosophy of nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Shane is the second McMahon to leave WWE in the past month. On Sept. 16, his mother, Linda, resigned as CEO to run for Senate in Connecticut. (Credit: Baltimore Sun)
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As surreal as it sounds, McMahon really is leaving the company that has been in his family for more than five decades. McMahon’s resignation from his position as executive vice president of global media takes effect January 1, 2010.
“I have never even considered a future outside the walls of the WWE,” McMahon, 39, said in a statement on wwe.com. “However, sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and while it is the most difficult decision I have ever made, it is time for me to move on. … This is the opportune time in my career to pursue outside ventures.”
His father, WWE chairman and CEO Vince McMahon also issued a statement on the Web site: “Even though I am personally saddened by Shane’s decision to leave the company, I am proud of the enormous contributions he has made. He will unquestionably bring passion, commitment and extensive business experience to any endeavor he pursues.”
Obviously, there is a lot more to this story, and I’m sure it won’t be long before information starts leaking out in regard to the specific reasons for McMahon’s departure.
In the ’90s and early part of this decade, it was assumed by most that it was Shane’s birthright to one day be Vince’s successor. However, after Shane’s sister, Stephanie, became the head of creative, the perception was that she wielded more power than her brother and he no longer was a sure thing as the heir apparent. The popular opinion over the past few years has been that either Stephanie or her husband, Triple H, would eventually replace Vince. Shane was no longer even in the discussion.
Perhaps Shane is looking for a new challenge, something he can build and call his own. If he has learned anything from his father it’s the philosophy of nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Shane is the second McMahon to leave WWE in the past month. On Sept. 16, his mother, Linda, resigned as CEO to run for Senate in Connecticut. (Credit: Baltimore Sun)
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Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wrestling legend Lou Albano dead at 76
Beloved pro-wrestling figure "Captain" Lou Albano died at his home Wednesday morning, reports the Los Angeles Times. He was 76.
Best known to the '80s mainstream as the man who played Cyndi Lauper's dad in the video for "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," Albano was instantly recognizable for his unkempt beard, rubber-band accessories, garish outfits and boisterous personality in and out of the ring.
Louis Vincent Albano (July 29, 1933 – October 14, 2009) was an American professional wrestler, manager and actor. With an over-the-top personality and a penchant for boisterous declarations, "Captain" Lou Albano was the epitome of the antagonistic manager that raised the ire of wrestlers and incited the anger of spectators. Throughout his 42-year career, Albano guided 15 different tag teams and four singles competitors to championship gold. A unique showman, with an elongated beard, rubber band facial piercings, and loud outfits, he was the forefather of the 1980s Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection. Collaborating with Cyndi Lauper, Albano helped usher in wrestling's crossover success with a mainstream audience. Capitalizing on his success, he later ventured into Hollywood with various television, film, and music projects. (Credit: Wikipedia)
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Best known to the '80s mainstream as the man who played Cyndi Lauper's dad in the video for "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," Albano was instantly recognizable for his unkempt beard, rubber-band accessories, garish outfits and boisterous personality in and out of the ring.
Louis Vincent Albano (July 29, 1933 – October 14, 2009) was an American professional wrestler, manager and actor. With an over-the-top personality and a penchant for boisterous declarations, "Captain" Lou Albano was the epitome of the antagonistic manager that raised the ire of wrestlers and incited the anger of spectators. Throughout his 42-year career, Albano guided 15 different tag teams and four singles competitors to championship gold. A unique showman, with an elongated beard, rubber band facial piercings, and loud outfits, he was the forefather of the 1980s Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection. Collaborating with Cyndi Lauper, Albano helped usher in wrestling's crossover success with a mainstream audience. Capitalizing on his success, he later ventured into Hollywood with various television, film, and music projects. (Credit: Wikipedia)
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Sunday, October 11, 2009
Wham! WWE now stressing family friendly wrestling - AP - 9th October 2009
NEW YORK — Bob Barker, Shaquille O'Neal, Ozzy Osbourne, Al Sharpton and Cedric the Entertainer aren't who you'd expect to see when turning on World Wrestling Entertainment programming. OK, maybe Ozzy.
All are featured guests this fall with the WWE as Vince McMahon's machine undergoes some image polishing and stresses a family friendly approach.
They've toned down the language, gotten rid of the fake blood. The lingerie matches are gone, with the Divas now wearing the type of workout clothes common at the gym.
Characters who are popular with youngsters, such as John Cena and Rey Mysterio, get more screen time, and the WWE Kids magazine debuted last year.
The WWE has worked with networks that air their programming to change parental guidance ratings from TV-14 to PG.
"We just followed our audience and tried to listen to them," McMahon, WWE chairman, said. "It's a more sophisticated product. It's just the right move business-wise, but more specifically the right move in terms of reaching our audience."
McMahon said it's been a gradual process, with the company now trying to spread the word to potential viewers and advertisers who might not have given the soap opera in tights a second look.
The WWE's programming is spread across several networks: "Monday Night Raw" airs for two hours on USA; the SyFy network shows "Extreme Championship Wrestling" on Tuesdays; WGN America shows "WWE Superstars" on Thursdays; and "Friday Night Smackdown," which just celebrated its 10th anniversary, is on My Network TV.
During the peak of what the company refers to as its "attitude era" a decade ago, the WWE's audience was dominated by young men. While its popularity has waned, the fan base has simultaneously grown older and younger with new constituencies, according to audience research. A little more than a third of its audience is female. The audience is ethnically more diverse that most shows: 62 percent of audience is white; 20 percent of the viewership is black and 23 percent is Hispanic — Hispanics were counted as both white and Hispanic. It's the most-watched English-language show on cable among Hispanics, the company said.
With the Ultimate Fighting Championship and mixed martial arts becoming more popular as competitors, it made little sense for the WWE to ramp up the attitude with violence and sexuality, McMahon said.
"You really can't compete with that," he said. "Why not deliver a more sophisticated product and not go to those extremes? If the audience wants those extremes, they know where to go and how to get it."
Going PG has helped the company draw advertisers who might have looked away before. Pepsi, 7-Eleven stores, Mattel toys and the Army National Guard are among the sponsors that have signed up since the shift, the company said.
The association with steroids also hurt. Anabolic steroids were found in the home of wrestler Chris Benoit after he killed his wife, 7-year-old son and himself in their suburban Atlanta home two years ago. McMahon toughened the WWE's drug testing rules.
"Their public image was pretty bad," said Dave Meltzer, publisher of the trade publication Wrestling Observer Newsletter. "They took a major hit, and said 'we've got to become a kinder, nicer company.'"
Both Meltzer and Jim Varsallone, who covers professional wrestling for the Miami Herald, said they can tell the difference in the programming. The changes are subtle, though and they're not sure the casual fans will notice.
"I do not get complaints from fans," Varsallone said.
The work courting kids has paid off, said Varsallone, who sees many more young faces at WWE shows. The promotion of Cena, who has a hip-hop attitude popular with young fans, and Mysterio, who has lots of high-flying moves, has helped. They have an underdog mentality that many of their fans find very appealing.
It may not be a coincidence that Vince's wife, Linda McMahon, has just stepped down as WWE CEO to become a candidate for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. Her husband said the changes at the WWE were in motion long before he knew she was interested in a political career.
The guest stars are a way to give the WWE more of a variety show atmosphere and some juice in a traditionally slow season, when football siphons off many of its fans.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was a recent guest. Shaq was particularly popular.
Osbourne, in fact, could be a role model. The heavy metal singer thrived in a career considered threatening by many parents, before becoming an unexpected star cutting across all age groups with the reality series about his family life.
The non-wrestling celebrities also get publicity for the WWE on entertainment shows such as "Access Hollywood" that have otherwise ignored the company.
"They want to attract as many people as they can," Varsallone said. "That's why they don't label themselves as wrestling anymore. They label themselves entertainment." (Credit: San Jose Mercury News)
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All are featured guests this fall with the WWE as Vince McMahon's machine undergoes some image polishing and stresses a family friendly approach.
They've toned down the language, gotten rid of the fake blood. The lingerie matches are gone, with the Divas now wearing the type of workout clothes common at the gym.
Characters who are popular with youngsters, such as John Cena and Rey Mysterio, get more screen time, and the WWE Kids magazine debuted last year.
The WWE has worked with networks that air their programming to change parental guidance ratings from TV-14 to PG.
"We just followed our audience and tried to listen to them," McMahon, WWE chairman, said. "It's a more sophisticated product. It's just the right move business-wise, but more specifically the right move in terms of reaching our audience."
McMahon said it's been a gradual process, with the company now trying to spread the word to potential viewers and advertisers who might not have given the soap opera in tights a second look.
The WWE's programming is spread across several networks: "Monday Night Raw" airs for two hours on USA; the SyFy network shows "Extreme Championship Wrestling" on Tuesdays; WGN America shows "WWE Superstars" on Thursdays; and "Friday Night Smackdown," which just celebrated its 10th anniversary, is on My Network TV.
During the peak of what the company refers to as its "attitude era" a decade ago, the WWE's audience was dominated by young men. While its popularity has waned, the fan base has simultaneously grown older and younger with new constituencies, according to audience research. A little more than a third of its audience is female. The audience is ethnically more diverse that most shows: 62 percent of audience is white; 20 percent of the viewership is black and 23 percent is Hispanic — Hispanics were counted as both white and Hispanic. It's the most-watched English-language show on cable among Hispanics, the company said.
With the Ultimate Fighting Championship and mixed martial arts becoming more popular as competitors, it made little sense for the WWE to ramp up the attitude with violence and sexuality, McMahon said.
"You really can't compete with that," he said. "Why not deliver a more sophisticated product and not go to those extremes? If the audience wants those extremes, they know where to go and how to get it."
Going PG has helped the company draw advertisers who might have looked away before. Pepsi, 7-Eleven stores, Mattel toys and the Army National Guard are among the sponsors that have signed up since the shift, the company said.
The association with steroids also hurt. Anabolic steroids were found in the home of wrestler Chris Benoit after he killed his wife, 7-year-old son and himself in their suburban Atlanta home two years ago. McMahon toughened the WWE's drug testing rules.
"Their public image was pretty bad," said Dave Meltzer, publisher of the trade publication Wrestling Observer Newsletter. "They took a major hit, and said 'we've got to become a kinder, nicer company.'"
Both Meltzer and Jim Varsallone, who covers professional wrestling for the Miami Herald, said they can tell the difference in the programming. The changes are subtle, though and they're not sure the casual fans will notice.
"I do not get complaints from fans," Varsallone said.
The work courting kids has paid off, said Varsallone, who sees many more young faces at WWE shows. The promotion of Cena, who has a hip-hop attitude popular with young fans, and Mysterio, who has lots of high-flying moves, has helped. They have an underdog mentality that many of their fans find very appealing.
It may not be a coincidence that Vince's wife, Linda McMahon, has just stepped down as WWE CEO to become a candidate for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. Her husband said the changes at the WWE were in motion long before he knew she was interested in a political career.
The guest stars are a way to give the WWE more of a variety show atmosphere and some juice in a traditionally slow season, when football siphons off many of its fans.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was a recent guest. Shaq was particularly popular.
Osbourne, in fact, could be a role model. The heavy metal singer thrived in a career considered threatening by many parents, before becoming an unexpected star cutting across all age groups with the reality series about his family life.
The non-wrestling celebrities also get publicity for the WWE on entertainment shows such as "Access Hollywood" that have otherwise ignored the company.
"They want to attract as many people as they can," Varsallone said. "That's why they don't label themselves as wrestling anymore. They label themselves entertainment." (Credit: San Jose Mercury News)
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Saturday, October 10, 2009
Stone Cold Steve Austin in new movie Damage - 10th October 2009
WWE Hall Of Famer "Stone Cold" Steve Austin plays an ex-convict forced into the illegal and brutal world of underground fighting. It will be available on DVD and Blu-ray within a week.
Austin is also in Sly Stallone's "The Expendables" (in post production) and Robert Lieberman's "The Stranger" (filming)
Credit: Google News, Pro Wrestling.com, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Pro Wrestling Torch, The Sun, IMDB, Wires
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Austin is also in Sly Stallone's "The Expendables" (in post production) and Robert Lieberman's "The Stranger" (filming)
Credit: Google News, Pro Wrestling.com, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Pro Wrestling Torch, The Sun, IMDB, Wires
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Sunday, September 27, 2009
Hulk Hogan to check out Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Word on the street in Australia is that The Hulkster, Hulk Hogan, is keen to spend more time in Australia, and take a look at Sydney's Bondi Beach.
Hogan fans will be aware of his past strong connection with Venice Beach, California.
If the Hulk is fair dinkum about Australia, Bondi Beach is a must visit destination.
Sydney's Daily Telegraph has been tipped off that Hogan and his wrestling mates may like to check out Bondi Beach's outdoor gym, and that it may suit Hogan's single status these days.
Other famous folks that have recently checked out include, but are not limited to Paris Hilton, Pam Anderson and Richard Branson, and we know that quite a few frequently come down unannounced, such is the appeal of Bondi Beach.
It seems Australia's news media and general public can't get enough of Hogan, and Hogan has really taken to the land down under.
Hulk Hogan's Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin wrestling tour of Australia starts on 21st November 2009.
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Hogan fans will be aware of his past strong connection with Venice Beach, California.
If the Hulk is fair dinkum about Australia, Bondi Beach is a must visit destination.
Sydney's Daily Telegraph has been tipped off that Hogan and his wrestling mates may like to check out Bondi Beach's outdoor gym, and that it may suit Hogan's single status these days.
Other famous folks that have recently checked out include, but are not limited to Paris Hilton, Pam Anderson and Richard Branson, and we know that quite a few frequently come down unannounced, such is the appeal of Bondi Beach.
It seems Australia's news media and general public can't get enough of Hogan, and Hogan has really taken to the land down under.
Hulk Hogan's Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin wrestling tour of Australia starts on 21st November 2009.
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WWE's Jim Ross on WWE Hall of Fame
"Two more WWE HOF suggestions would include Antonio Inoki and Ted 'The Million Dollar Man' DiBiase. I hope that I just didn't jinx either man. Both men have made significant and diverse contributions to the business."
"The 2010 WWE Hall of Fame class has yet to be finalized and made public but one name that I am hoping to see be inducted is Ron Simmons. Ron is in the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Indiana and recently was inducted to the State of Georgia Hall of Fame. I could theoretically hear JBL inducting Ron and that being an entertaining piece of business." (Credit: JR's Place blog)
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"The 2010 WWE Hall of Fame class has yet to be finalized and made public but one name that I am hoping to see be inducted is Ron Simmons. Ron is in the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Indiana and recently was inducted to the State of Georgia Hall of Fame. I could theoretically hear JBL inducting Ron and that being an entertaining piece of business." (Credit: JR's Place blog)
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Saturday, September 26, 2009
World Wrestling Entertainment News
John Cena still top money maker for WWE
South Florida in the running for WrestleMania
CM Punk rising to the top, John Morrison, Jack Swagger on fire
WWE to tour Australia early 2010
Linda McMahon strong in political race
Triple H - Mayweather WWE - professional boxing links a huge win - win
WWE may potentially do a deal with Jeff Jarrett's TNA - Australian tour
Bret Hart - WWE talks in progress, indicated Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Pro Wrestling Torch, others
Randy "Macho Man" Savage and Jake "The Snake" Roberts decent chance for upcoming WWE Hall of Fame, insiders agree
WWE videogame sales going well, more releases to follow
WWE could show industry leadership with wrestling health plan, insurance et al following Wellness program
Chris Jericho already a living legend of wrestling, insiders and fans agree
WWE to release more films, aiming for stronger box office success
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South Florida in the running for WrestleMania
CM Punk rising to the top, John Morrison, Jack Swagger on fire
WWE to tour Australia early 2010
Linda McMahon strong in political race
Triple H - Mayweather WWE - professional boxing links a huge win - win
WWE may potentially do a deal with Jeff Jarrett's TNA - Australian tour
Bret Hart - WWE talks in progress, indicated Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Pro Wrestling Torch, others
Randy "Macho Man" Savage and Jake "The Snake" Roberts decent chance for upcoming WWE Hall of Fame, insiders agree
WWE videogame sales going well, more releases to follow
WWE could show industry leadership with wrestling health plan, insurance et al following Wellness program
Chris Jericho already a living legend of wrestling, insiders and fans agree
WWE to release more films, aiming for stronger box office success
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Thursday, September 24, 2009
Dreamseekers Foundation bestowing Humanitarian Award on Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan to Receive Humanitarian Award at the Global Gaming Expo 2008
September 2008
LAS VEGAS, NV. On Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12 noon, Hulk Hogan will be honored by National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. in conjunction with the Global Gaming Expo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. He will receive the “Humanitarian Award” for his work on behalf of the “Dreamseekers” Foundation.
Working with the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation at the National Indian Gaming Association, Hulk and Dreamseekers have committed to building the non-profit organization in partnership with Indian Country to provide needed assistance to Native America youth and their families.
Hulk Hogan, one of the most successful entertainment personalities and Executive Producer/host of the “Celebrity Championship Wrestling” series on CMT, will participate in the foundation’s activities by providing a familiar public face and forwarding the organization’s goal: providing greater opportunities for youth in Indian Country. Hulk Hogan has made it a priority to start this program in areas of Indian Country with the most need.
Once the project is implemented, the Dreamseekers Foundation hopes to provide a significant amount per annum to tribal nations that face adversities such as poverty, violence and lack of various resources. “We’re specifically focusing on efforts to improve healthcare and education for Native youth and their families around the country, as well as give them access to as many other critical opportunities as possible,” said Ernie Stevens Jr., co-founder of the foundation.
The Hulkamania Experience TM, a multilevel progressive video-slot series based on the adventures of the iconic superstar, is expected to debut at the 2008 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas and roll out nationally during the next several months. As a part of the foundation’s fundraising initiative, a portion of the proceeds from The Hulkamania Experience TM will go towards the various health and education initiatives yet to be determined by the foundation.
The game, developed in conjunction with Rainmaker Gaming Technology and ID Interactive, LLC, represents a fundamentally new approach towards community involvement in Indian Country. Hulk’s efforts alongside that of the National Indian Gaming Association are a first of their kind, and it all spawned from an initial conversation between Ernie Stevens, Jr. and Hogan. “Hulk simply asked what he could do to help Indian Country, and we both agreed that it all starts with our children,” Stevens said.
“American Indian children are more likely to live in poverty than any other racial or ethnic group in this country“, Hogan noted, citing recent U.S. Census Bureau data. “It’s time to change that, and I’m proud to be associated with that effort,” said Hulk Hogan.
"This is an exciting opportunity to use the Hulk Hogan brand in a fulfilling way that makes a difference in people’s lives at the local level,” says Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment, Hogan’s partners in the project.
Last year Hogan was a recipient of a very high honor on behalf of the tribal leaders and the traditional community of South Dakota for his help in Indian Country while attending the Lakota Nation Invitational in Rapid City, SD. It was one of very few times in history that someone from outside the community has received such a prestigious honor. Hulk continues to feel the energy of that ceremony that took place ten months ago and looks forward to doing so much more.
* * *
KEY DATA / NEWS HOOKS:
Nearly a third of all American Indian and Alaska Native children live in poverty
32.8 percent of Native American children in single-parent homes live below the poverty level. This is the highest rate among minorities, and more than twice the rate for White children in similar homes.
SOURCE: "Children and the Households They Live In," a special report released by the Census Bureau.
About HULK HOGAN
Known most recently as the host of NBC’s top-rated “American Gladiator”, and host and Executive Producer of CMT’s series, “Celebrity Wrestling”, Hulk Hogan is one of the best-recognized celebrities in the United States.
A twelve- time world wrestling champion, including six WCW World Heavyweight belts, six WWE Championships, and a World Tag Team championship belt, Hulk Hogan is arguably the greatest wrestler in sports entertainment history. Rarely has an athlete held so many professional titles to his name in such a vast career.
Hulk Hogan is also well known among young fans for his four "demandments": which include training, saying prayers, eating vitamins, and believing in one self. As a result, he is one of the most-requested celebrities for the Make-a-Wish Foundation children’s charity.
About ERIC BISCHOFF
Eric Bischoff began his TV career in syndication and sales for an organization in Minneapolis known as the AWA in August of 1987. His transition from an obscure “office” position to an on-camera host for the company’s daily program on ESPN and in syndication was an event that truly defined the phrase “right time…right place”.
Being in the right place at the right time isn’t always simply coincidence. Indeed, in many respects it’s really all about passion, instinct, commitment, and risk.
Bischoff’s move from the AWA to Turner Broadcasting in 1991 and his subsequent path that began as on camera talent at Turner Broadcasting culminated in 1999 when he was named President of Turner/Time Warner’s WCW division.
During this period he had the opportunity to take a fledgling division of Turner Broadcasting that happened to be a personal favorite of Ted Turner, from a money losing-content producing lost leader (from a corporate point of view) to a $300+ million dollar leader in the industry that had ABC Television up at night wondering how to shore up the male audience that was making “Monday Nitro on TNT” their preferred destination during the NFL season.
Today, Bischoff and Jason Hervey own their own production company (BISCHOFF-HERVEY ENTERTAINMENT), developing television content for NBC, VH1, CMT, E! and many other outlets as well as developing licensing opportunities for entertainment brands..
About ERNIE STEVENS, JR.
Stevens is the Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, representing 184 tribes in gaming, based in Washington, D.C. Stevens is a former councilman for the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, as well as former 1st Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians. He is currently serving his fourth consecutive term as chairman for the association.
About the NATIONAL INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION (NIGA)
NIGA is a non-profit trade association comprised of 184 American Indian Nations and other non-voting associate members. The mission of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian people; economically, socially, and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policy makers, and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development. For more information, visit www.indiangaming.org.
About ID Interactive
ID Interactive LLC, producer of the Hulkamania multilevel progressive, is an independent game developer, designer and distributor with a domestic US focus on Indian Country and a history of commitment to charitable community programs. ID distributes games in the US, Western and Eastern Europe, Mexico, Central and South America and Asia. CEO Jon Goldstein is a founding partner of the Dreamseekers Foundation.
About Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation
Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation recognize students that are exceptionally talented and demonstrate skills that positively represent the Native American community. Recipients are qualified based on criteria such as, but not limited to: Course study, GPA, and Enrollment. The selection process for scholarship is competitive, and the award is distinct and prestigious.
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September 2008
LAS VEGAS, NV. On Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12 noon, Hulk Hogan will be honored by National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. in conjunction with the Global Gaming Expo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. He will receive the “Humanitarian Award” for his work on behalf of the “Dreamseekers” Foundation.
Working with the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation at the National Indian Gaming Association, Hulk and Dreamseekers have committed to building the non-profit organization in partnership with Indian Country to provide needed assistance to Native America youth and their families.
Hulk Hogan, one of the most successful entertainment personalities and Executive Producer/host of the “Celebrity Championship Wrestling” series on CMT, will participate in the foundation’s activities by providing a familiar public face and forwarding the organization’s goal: providing greater opportunities for youth in Indian Country. Hulk Hogan has made it a priority to start this program in areas of Indian Country with the most need.
Once the project is implemented, the Dreamseekers Foundation hopes to provide a significant amount per annum to tribal nations that face adversities such as poverty, violence and lack of various resources. “We’re specifically focusing on efforts to improve healthcare and education for Native youth and their families around the country, as well as give them access to as many other critical opportunities as possible,” said Ernie Stevens Jr., co-founder of the foundation.
The Hulkamania Experience TM, a multilevel progressive video-slot series based on the adventures of the iconic superstar, is expected to debut at the 2008 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas and roll out nationally during the next several months. As a part of the foundation’s fundraising initiative, a portion of the proceeds from The Hulkamania Experience TM will go towards the various health and education initiatives yet to be determined by the foundation.
The game, developed in conjunction with Rainmaker Gaming Technology and ID Interactive, LLC, represents a fundamentally new approach towards community involvement in Indian Country. Hulk’s efforts alongside that of the National Indian Gaming Association are a first of their kind, and it all spawned from an initial conversation between Ernie Stevens, Jr. and Hogan. “Hulk simply asked what he could do to help Indian Country, and we both agreed that it all starts with our children,” Stevens said.
“American Indian children are more likely to live in poverty than any other racial or ethnic group in this country“, Hogan noted, citing recent U.S. Census Bureau data. “It’s time to change that, and I’m proud to be associated with that effort,” said Hulk Hogan.
"This is an exciting opportunity to use the Hulk Hogan brand in a fulfilling way that makes a difference in people’s lives at the local level,” says Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment, Hogan’s partners in the project.
Last year Hogan was a recipient of a very high honor on behalf of the tribal leaders and the traditional community of South Dakota for his help in Indian Country while attending the Lakota Nation Invitational in Rapid City, SD. It was one of very few times in history that someone from outside the community has received such a prestigious honor. Hulk continues to feel the energy of that ceremony that took place ten months ago and looks forward to doing so much more.
* * *
KEY DATA / NEWS HOOKS:
Nearly a third of all American Indian and Alaska Native children live in poverty
32.8 percent of Native American children in single-parent homes live below the poverty level. This is the highest rate among minorities, and more than twice the rate for White children in similar homes.
SOURCE: "Children and the Households They Live In," a special report released by the Census Bureau.
About HULK HOGAN
Known most recently as the host of NBC’s top-rated “American Gladiator”, and host and Executive Producer of CMT’s series, “Celebrity Wrestling”, Hulk Hogan is one of the best-recognized celebrities in the United States.
A twelve- time world wrestling champion, including six WCW World Heavyweight belts, six WWE Championships, and a World Tag Team championship belt, Hulk Hogan is arguably the greatest wrestler in sports entertainment history. Rarely has an athlete held so many professional titles to his name in such a vast career.
Hulk Hogan is also well known among young fans for his four "demandments": which include training, saying prayers, eating vitamins, and believing in one self. As a result, he is one of the most-requested celebrities for the Make-a-Wish Foundation children’s charity.
About ERIC BISCHOFF
Eric Bischoff began his TV career in syndication and sales for an organization in Minneapolis known as the AWA in August of 1987. His transition from an obscure “office” position to an on-camera host for the company’s daily program on ESPN and in syndication was an event that truly defined the phrase “right time…right place”.
Being in the right place at the right time isn’t always simply coincidence. Indeed, in many respects it’s really all about passion, instinct, commitment, and risk.
Bischoff’s move from the AWA to Turner Broadcasting in 1991 and his subsequent path that began as on camera talent at Turner Broadcasting culminated in 1999 when he was named President of Turner/Time Warner’s WCW division.
During this period he had the opportunity to take a fledgling division of Turner Broadcasting that happened to be a personal favorite of Ted Turner, from a money losing-content producing lost leader (from a corporate point of view) to a $300+ million dollar leader in the industry that had ABC Television up at night wondering how to shore up the male audience that was making “Monday Nitro on TNT” their preferred destination during the NFL season.
Today, Bischoff and Jason Hervey own their own production company (BISCHOFF-HERVEY ENTERTAINMENT), developing television content for NBC, VH1, CMT, E! and many other outlets as well as developing licensing opportunities for entertainment brands..
About ERNIE STEVENS, JR.
Stevens is the Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, representing 184 tribes in gaming, based in Washington, D.C. Stevens is a former councilman for the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, as well as former 1st Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians. He is currently serving his fourth consecutive term as chairman for the association.
About the NATIONAL INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION (NIGA)
NIGA is a non-profit trade association comprised of 184 American Indian Nations and other non-voting associate members. The mission of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian people; economically, socially, and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policy makers, and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development. For more information, visit www.indiangaming.org.
About ID Interactive
ID Interactive LLC, producer of the Hulkamania multilevel progressive, is an independent game developer, designer and distributor with a domestic US focus on Indian Country and a history of commitment to charitable community programs. ID distributes games in the US, Western and Eastern Europe, Mexico, Central and South America and Asia. CEO Jon Goldstein is a founding partner of the Dreamseekers Foundation.
About Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation
Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation recognize students that are exceptionally talented and demonstrate skills that positively represent the Native American community. Recipients are qualified based on criteria such as, but not limited to: Course study, GPA, and Enrollment. The selection process for scholarship is competitive, and the award is distinct and prestigious.
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Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Hulkamania: Let the Battle Begin
Ric Flair has been coaxed out of retirement to battle Hulk Hogan himself in what may well be the ultimate grudge match. HULKAMANIA will also feature some of the top stars that compete all over the world including Brutus Beefcake, Aumaga, Kishi, Black Pearl, Mr Ken Anderson, Shanon Moore, Heidenreich, King V, Godfather, Brian Knobs, Nasty Boys, Orlando Jordan, Vampire Warrior, Val Venise, Stephanie Pietz, Koa Marie Gabric, Jimmy Hart and more in THE ULTIMATE WRESTLING SPECTACULAR!". (Credit: Hulkamania.com.au)
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Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Hulk Hogan still the showman at the age of 56, by Nick Walshaw - The Daily Telegraph - 22nd September 2009
HULKAMANIA is why his back concaves on the right. A souvenir from muscle ripping straight off the bone.
It's those scars on a knee torn by Diamond Dallas Page. On a leg broken by first coach Matsuda. On those matching hollows revealed when flexing both biceps.
"Yeah, tore them lifting Andre the Giant," Hulk Hogan shrugs. "It was Wrestlemania III and, while we hadn't planned it, Andre said 'if you reckon you can lift me brother, go for it'.
"Now you have to remember he'd weighed in earlier that day at Detroit airport. Exactly 308 kilos. But when I got in position man, I just went f... it and lifted."
Sitting in a tiny room on the second floor of Sydney's InterContinental Hotel, it's easy to see why Terry Gene Bollea - all bright pink shirt and matching bandanna - is universally loved.
Start of sidebar. Skip to end of sidebar.
End of sidebar. Return to start of sidebar.
Why some 20 years after first telling us train hard, say your prayers and take your vitamins, this mustachioed marauder is still barred from doing his interviews in hotel foyers.
"No, we've tried that," says his female publicist, weighed down with a pile of schedules and flight plans. "Mr Hogan was mobbed."
It's why, at age 56, Hollywood Hulk Hogan is once again donning those famed yellow tights to bring us his Let The Battle Begin Tour in November.
Letting us Hulkamaniacs finally see live this image that's adorned energy bars, mixmasters and A-Team episodes. Who in the 1990s outrated Disneyland as the No. 1 Make a Wish Foundation pick.
Who even today needs submission moves learned in Japan to ward off lunatic fans.
"On Sunday we were in Melbourne, going into a restaurant when this guy - you know what a Hells Angel looks like, right? - well, he came screaming across the room at me," Hogan shrugs.
"So I blocked him, hooked him and took him down. It was all over fairly quickly."
But this, Hogan stresses quickly, is all part of Hulkamania, brother.
"And I can accept that, yes, these days I'm getting older, slowing down," the 131kg millionaire grins. "That there will come a point in time when I have to retire gracefully.
"But there's a big difference between retirement and being tired. And brother, I'm not tired yet." (Credit: The Daily Telegraph)
Reader Comment
Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Piper, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, and too many more to list, thank you for the memories. Hulk Hogan's legend lives on and is alive and well down under in Australia. Australian's appreciate Hulk's hard work over the years and his own comeback of the decade. The way Hulk Hogan communicates his real life story is ultra impressive, and its great to see him putting in the hard yards, pounding the pavement and jetting around Australia to let the Australian public know that this upcoming tour is the real deal. The entertainment industry has been fuelled considerably by pro wrestling over the years, and guys like Hogan, Flair and Piper carried it on their backs, with switched on promoters at the likes of WWE, WCW and
NWA kicking it along. It appears that Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Jimmy Hart and Eric Bishcoff and co are putting together a great event here. For my money, having Hogan here means the show has already began. The coverage in the newspapers and Australian TV sure beats the hell out of some of the other stuff passed off as "entertainment news". Hulkamania forever. Wooooo! Just when they think they have the answers, Hogan and Flair change the questions.
Greg Tingle, Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
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It's those scars on a knee torn by Diamond Dallas Page. On a leg broken by first coach Matsuda. On those matching hollows revealed when flexing both biceps.
"Yeah, tore them lifting Andre the Giant," Hulk Hogan shrugs. "It was Wrestlemania III and, while we hadn't planned it, Andre said 'if you reckon you can lift me brother, go for it'.
"Now you have to remember he'd weighed in earlier that day at Detroit airport. Exactly 308 kilos. But when I got in position man, I just went f... it and lifted."
Sitting in a tiny room on the second floor of Sydney's InterContinental Hotel, it's easy to see why Terry Gene Bollea - all bright pink shirt and matching bandanna - is universally loved.
Start of sidebar. Skip to end of sidebar.
End of sidebar. Return to start of sidebar.
Why some 20 years after first telling us train hard, say your prayers and take your vitamins, this mustachioed marauder is still barred from doing his interviews in hotel foyers.
"No, we've tried that," says his female publicist, weighed down with a pile of schedules and flight plans. "Mr Hogan was mobbed."
It's why, at age 56, Hollywood Hulk Hogan is once again donning those famed yellow tights to bring us his Let The Battle Begin Tour in November.
Letting us Hulkamaniacs finally see live this image that's adorned energy bars, mixmasters and A-Team episodes. Who in the 1990s outrated Disneyland as the No. 1 Make a Wish Foundation pick.
Who even today needs submission moves learned in Japan to ward off lunatic fans.
"On Sunday we were in Melbourne, going into a restaurant when this guy - you know what a Hells Angel looks like, right? - well, he came screaming across the room at me," Hogan shrugs.
"So I blocked him, hooked him and took him down. It was all over fairly quickly."
But this, Hogan stresses quickly, is all part of Hulkamania, brother.
"And I can accept that, yes, these days I'm getting older, slowing down," the 131kg millionaire grins. "That there will come a point in time when I have to retire gracefully.
"But there's a big difference between retirement and being tired. And brother, I'm not tired yet." (Credit: The Daily Telegraph)
Reader Comment
Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Piper, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, and too many more to list, thank you for the memories. Hulk Hogan's legend lives on and is alive and well down under in Australia. Australian's appreciate Hulk's hard work over the years and his own comeback of the decade. The way Hulk Hogan communicates his real life story is ultra impressive, and its great to see him putting in the hard yards, pounding the pavement and jetting around Australia to let the Australian public know that this upcoming tour is the real deal. The entertainment industry has been fuelled considerably by pro wrestling over the years, and guys like Hogan, Flair and Piper carried it on their backs, with switched on promoters at the likes of WWE, WCW and
NWA kicking it along. It appears that Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Jimmy Hart and Eric Bishcoff and co are putting together a great event here. For my money, having Hogan here means the show has already began. The coverage in the newspapers and Australian TV sure beats the hell out of some of the other stuff passed off as "entertainment news". Hulkamania forever. Wooooo! Just when they think they have the answers, Hogan and Flair change the questions.
Greg Tingle, Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
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Wrestling gaming connection
Celebrate the iconic wrestlers, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair, with their gaming and igaming offerings.
The campaign is on the way that will see wrestling living legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair wrestle in Australia this November.
Wrestling fans and gaming fans may be interested in this bit of history:
Hulk Hogan was once a bank teller and played guitar in a rock band. One discovered he was trained in Japan by Hiro Matsuda, who broke his leg just to test his will. Hulk recovered from the injury, returned to training, and later found fame and fortune in the WWE (then World Wrestling Federation)
Starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III as Thunderlips
Hulk Hogan's first WWE match was against Ted DiBiase where Hogan was billed "The Incredible Hulk Hogan". WWE and later Terry "The Hulk" Bollea came to terms with Marvel Comics (Marvel Entertainment) and purchased the rights to use the name "Hulk".
Hogan defeated the late Andre The Giant in front of 93,173 people at WrestleMania III
Ric Flair was born Richard Morgan Fliehr on February 25, 1949
Flair is a recognized 16-time World Heavyweight Champion
*other pro wrestlers with a gaming connection include Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash, once going under the stage name of Vinnie Vegas" and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, who legend has it has frequented a well known land based casino in New Zealand. NextGen Gaming is rumoured to have developed an Andre The Giant themed online slot game.
Gaming connections include:
The Hulk online slot game
The Incredible Hulk online slot game
Wooooooo! North Carolina Education Lottery scratch ticket featuring Ric Flair
WWE Legends of Wrestling
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Media Man Australia
The campaign is on the way that will see wrestling living legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair wrestle in Australia this November.
Wrestling fans and gaming fans may be interested in this bit of history:
Hulk Hogan was once a bank teller and played guitar in a rock band. One discovered he was trained in Japan by Hiro Matsuda, who broke his leg just to test his will. Hulk recovered from the injury, returned to training, and later found fame and fortune in the WWE (then World Wrestling Federation)
Starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III as Thunderlips
Hulk Hogan's first WWE match was against Ted DiBiase where Hogan was billed "The Incredible Hulk Hogan". WWE and later Terry "The Hulk" Bollea came to terms with Marvel Comics (Marvel Entertainment) and purchased the rights to use the name "Hulk".
Hogan defeated the late Andre The Giant in front of 93,173 people at WrestleMania III
Ric Flair was born Richard Morgan Fliehr on February 25, 1949
Flair is a recognized 16-time World Heavyweight Champion
*other pro wrestlers with a gaming connection include Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash, once going under the stage name of Vinnie Vegas" and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, who legend has it has frequented a well known land based casino in New Zealand. NextGen Gaming is rumoured to have developed an Andre The Giant themed online slot game.
Gaming connections include:
The Hulk online slot game
The Incredible Hulk online slot game
Wooooooo! North Carolina Education Lottery scratch ticket featuring Ric Flair
WWE Legends of Wrestling
Global Gaming Directory Profiles
Hulk Hogan
The Incredible Hulk
Ric Flair
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
Andre The Giant
Sylvester Stallone
WWE Shop
Marvel Entertainment
Websites
Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin official website
Hulk Hogan official website
North Carolina Education Lottery
PartyCasino.com
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Media Man Australia
Education Lottery Introducing New Game with a Lot of Flair
-Two Additional Instant Games Also Headed to Stores-
RALEIGH- Wooooooo! That’s the name and hopefully what many players will be exclaiming after winning prizes on this new instant scratch-off game. Wooooooo!along with Blue Tripler Crossword and Lucky Gold will all be in stores starting Tuesday, Sept. 22.
Wooooooo! is a $5 scratch-off ticket featuring world-renowned retired wrestler Ric Flair. The game has eight top prizes of $100,000 and over 500,000 prizes between $10 and $200. Players have 16 chances to win on each ticket, which represent Flair’s 16 championship belts.
The NCEL is pleased to be teaming up with Flair in its effort to maximize revenue for the education programs it supports. We believe the Wooooooo! game has the potential to attract new players.
Blue Line Tripler Crossword is a $3 ticket that features over $6.6 million in total prizes in the game. Those prizes include six top prizes of $30,000 and 60 second tier prizes of $1,000 plus much more!
Lucky Gold is a $2 ticket with eight top prizes of $25,000. It also features over $7 million in total cash prizes in the game. Players who scratch and reveal a “moneybag” symbol win double the prize shown.
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RALEIGH- Wooooooo! That’s the name and hopefully what many players will be exclaiming after winning prizes on this new instant scratch-off game. Wooooooo!along with Blue Tripler Crossword and Lucky Gold will all be in stores starting Tuesday, Sept. 22.
Wooooooo! is a $5 scratch-off ticket featuring world-renowned retired wrestler Ric Flair. The game has eight top prizes of $100,000 and over 500,000 prizes between $10 and $200. Players have 16 chances to win on each ticket, which represent Flair’s 16 championship belts.
The NCEL is pleased to be teaming up with Flair in its effort to maximize revenue for the education programs it supports. We believe the Wooooooo! game has the potential to attract new players.
Blue Line Tripler Crossword is a $3 ticket that features over $6.6 million in total prizes in the game. Those prizes include six top prizes of $30,000 and 60 second tier prizes of $1,000 plus much more!
Lucky Gold is a $2 ticket with eight top prizes of $25,000. It also features over $7 million in total cash prizes in the game. Players who scratch and reveal a “moneybag” symbol win double the prize shown.
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Sunday, September 20, 2009
Media Man Australia public support of Hulk Hogan Hulkamania tour of Australia
Media Man Australia public support of Hulk Hogan Hulkamania tour of Australia via The Baltimore Sun online
As long as both Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair do some of their signature moves have the in ring charisma, I think the match up is still worth paying for. There will only every be one Hulk Hogan and one Ric Flair, and both are apparently prepared to put in all on the line to entertain the fans while they still can, and make a pay day in the process, which will help go towards the massive expenses they have both endured in the past few years. I think wrestling fans owe it to the guys and themselves to pay to see the match. You also can't blame them for wanting to have a working holiday down under here in Australia, and make a pay day and party with us Australians. Enjoy the match up and take the opportunity to see both legends go at while they can. Let's also see some technical wrestlers and other entertaining talent get locked into the card. Hulk and Flair, thanks for the memories over the decades, and we look forward to seeing you do your thing in Australia. Greg Tingle, founder and director, Media Man Australia
The Sunday Telegraph - reader feedback - 20th September 2009
There will only ever be one Hulk Hogan, and one Ric Flair. I think fans owe it to see and support living legends such as The Hulk and "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, while they can still do their thing. Hogan, Flair, Roddy Piper and the crew... thank you for the memories. New talent also have their chance to shine in the indy's, WWE feeder promotions and the WWE. Hulkamania for ever. Hulkamania has indeed run wild down under in Australia.
Bondi Beach #1 Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and Roddy Piper fan. Woooo!
Greg Tingle
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Wrestling
News
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As long as both Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair do some of their signature moves have the in ring charisma, I think the match up is still worth paying for. There will only every be one Hulk Hogan and one Ric Flair, and both are apparently prepared to put in all on the line to entertain the fans while they still can, and make a pay day in the process, which will help go towards the massive expenses they have both endured in the past few years. I think wrestling fans owe it to the guys and themselves to pay to see the match. You also can't blame them for wanting to have a working holiday down under here in Australia, and make a pay day and party with us Australians. Enjoy the match up and take the opportunity to see both legends go at while they can. Let's also see some technical wrestlers and other entertaining talent get locked into the card. Hulk and Flair, thanks for the memories over the decades, and we look forward to seeing you do your thing in Australia. Greg Tingle, founder and director, Media Man Australia
The Sunday Telegraph - reader feedback - 20th September 2009
There will only ever be one Hulk Hogan, and one Ric Flair. I think fans owe it to see and support living legends such as The Hulk and "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, while they can still do their thing. Hogan, Flair, Roddy Piper and the crew... thank you for the memories. New talent also have their chance to shine in the indy's, WWE feeder promotions and the WWE. Hulkamania for ever. Hulkamania has indeed run wild down under in Australia.
Bondi Beach #1 Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and Roddy Piper fan. Woooo!
Greg Tingle
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Wrestling
News
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Saturday, September 19, 2009
Triple H to accompany Money in Vegas - 17th September 2009
Floyd Mayweather Jr will be escorted to the ring by WWE superstar Triple H when he takes on Juan Manuel Marquez at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
The Pretty Boy is no stranger to the world of wrestling entertainment, having faced off against The Big Show at WrestleMania XXIV as well as hosting Monday night RAW earlier this summer.
And he will not be the first to be accompanied to the ring by a wrestler either, as Manny Pacquiao was joined by Batista on his way out to fight Ricky Hatton in May.
There could be divided loyalties for wrestling and boxing fans to contend with if Mayweather and Pacquiao do finally meet in a showdown next year, but for now the WWE is wholeheartedly backing the undefeated American.
Collaboration
Mayweather said: "Triple H is one of the greatest guys in the world and represents a whole universe of WWE fans that appreciate what he does.
"He and his stature are huge and I can't think of a better person to escort me to the ring for my return to boxing."
There is no doubt who D-Generation X star Triple H expects to prove victorious in Las Vegas on Saturday either.
"It is an honour to walk the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world back into the ring," said the WWE superstar.
"Floyd 'Money' Mayweather has shown WWE tremendous support and it is my pleasure to return the favour this Saturday by standing at his side as he defeats Marquez in what I am sure will be boxing's fight of the year."
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The Pretty Boy is no stranger to the world of wrestling entertainment, having faced off against The Big Show at WrestleMania XXIV as well as hosting Monday night RAW earlier this summer.
And he will not be the first to be accompanied to the ring by a wrestler either, as Manny Pacquiao was joined by Batista on his way out to fight Ricky Hatton in May.
There could be divided loyalties for wrestling and boxing fans to contend with if Mayweather and Pacquiao do finally meet in a showdown next year, but for now the WWE is wholeheartedly backing the undefeated American.
Collaboration
Mayweather said: "Triple H is one of the greatest guys in the world and represents a whole universe of WWE fans that appreciate what he does.
"He and his stature are huge and I can't think of a better person to escort me to the ring for my return to boxing."
There is no doubt who D-Generation X star Triple H expects to prove victorious in Las Vegas on Saturday either.
"It is an honour to walk the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world back into the ring," said the WWE superstar.
"Floyd 'Money' Mayweather has shown WWE tremendous support and it is my pleasure to return the favour this Saturday by standing at his side as he defeats Marquez in what I am sure will be boxing's fight of the year."
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New Ticket with a Lot of “Flair”, by Greg Tingle
If anyone wondered about how hot pro wrestling is right now, wonder no more. Wrestling is more Hollywood than Hollywood, and many of the professions top stars have massive crossover and mainstream appeal.
Look at "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair for example. The North Carolina Lottery has a Flair themed lottery ticket. Flair, the man known for taking ladies to "Space Mountain" and trademark "Whoooooo!" is also scheduled to wrestling Hulk Hogan down under in Australia starting on 21st November.
Casino and gaming buffs may also be aware that Hulk's "The Hulkamania Experience" land based slot machine is scheduled to soon hit some American casinos. The casino deal was done in conjunction with the National Indian Gaming Association, Dreamseekers Foundation, ID Interactive and Rainmaker Gaming Technology.
Hulk Hogan is arguably the biggest moneymaking and brand licensing machine pro wrestling has ever seen, with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin also said to be on his level.
Hogan and the the WWE (formally known as WWF) previously did business deal with Marvel Entertainment, thus securing the rights to use the name "Hulk". Marvel Entertainment, who were recently purchased by Disney, actually have "The Hulk" and "The Incredible Hulk" online slot machines.
Both Terry "The Hulk" Bollea (Hogan) and Ric Flair could both do with some strong pay days, be it from gaming or stepping back in the right, as both have endured some expense legal battles over the past few years. Hulk is playing up his single status to the ladies of Australia, and "Slick Ric" certainly has a reputation for Wooooing the ladies.
Hogan VS Flair, and Hogan and Flair, be it wrestling or gaming enterprises - Jackpot! Australian production companies are also talking reality television business with Hogan and Flair. "The Goanna" would be proud.
Media Man Australia is the agent for a number of Australia wrestling stars including John "Vulcan" Seru (from James Bond fame) and Steve "Crusher" Rackman (Crocodile Dundee).
*Greg Tingle is the founder and director of Media Man Australia, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory, and a long time pro wrestling fan!
Press Release below
NC Education Lottery Unveils a New Ticket with a Lot of “Flair”
RALEIGH- The North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) today unveiled a new sports-themed instant scratch-off ticket featuring world-renowned pro wrestler Ric Flair. The NCEL and “The Nature Boy” teamed up on the new game that will be available at lottery retail locations statewide starting Tuesday, Sept. 22.
“All of us at the NCEL are thrilled about this partnership and the potential it has for bringing in a different group of players, which could result in increased sales,” said Tom Shaheen, NCEL executive director. He added, “We are always looking for ways to appeal to new players so we can maximize sales and generate as much money as
possible for education.”
During the event that took place at the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, Flair expressed that education is important to him as well. To help get the word out about the ticket and to help the NCEL raise money for education, Flair said that he will make appearances at upcoming fairs around the state.
“Wooooooo!” is a $5 scratch-off ticket. The game features eight top prizes of $100,000 and over 500,000 prizes between $10 and $200. Players have 16 chances to win on each ticket, which corresponds with Flair’s 16 championship belts.
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Look at "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair for example. The North Carolina Lottery has a Flair themed lottery ticket. Flair, the man known for taking ladies to "Space Mountain" and trademark "Whoooooo!" is also scheduled to wrestling Hulk Hogan down under in Australia starting on 21st November.
Casino and gaming buffs may also be aware that Hulk's "The Hulkamania Experience" land based slot machine is scheduled to soon hit some American casinos. The casino deal was done in conjunction with the National Indian Gaming Association, Dreamseekers Foundation, ID Interactive and Rainmaker Gaming Technology.
Hulk Hogan is arguably the biggest moneymaking and brand licensing machine pro wrestling has ever seen, with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin also said to be on his level.
Hogan and the the WWE (formally known as WWF) previously did business deal with Marvel Entertainment, thus securing the rights to use the name "Hulk". Marvel Entertainment, who were recently purchased by Disney, actually have "The Hulk" and "The Incredible Hulk" online slot machines.
Both Terry "The Hulk" Bollea (Hogan) and Ric Flair could both do with some strong pay days, be it from gaming or stepping back in the right, as both have endured some expense legal battles over the past few years. Hulk is playing up his single status to the ladies of Australia, and "Slick Ric" certainly has a reputation for Wooooing the ladies.
Hogan VS Flair, and Hogan and Flair, be it wrestling or gaming enterprises - Jackpot! Australian production companies are also talking reality television business with Hogan and Flair. "The Goanna" would be proud.
Media Man Australia is the agent for a number of Australia wrestling stars including John "Vulcan" Seru (from James Bond fame) and Steve "Crusher" Rackman (Crocodile Dundee).
*Greg Tingle is the founder and director of Media Man Australia, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory, and a long time pro wrestling fan!
Press Release below
NC Education Lottery Unveils a New Ticket with a Lot of “Flair”
RALEIGH- The North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) today unveiled a new sports-themed instant scratch-off ticket featuring world-renowned pro wrestler Ric Flair. The NCEL and “The Nature Boy” teamed up on the new game that will be available at lottery retail locations statewide starting Tuesday, Sept. 22.
“All of us at the NCEL are thrilled about this partnership and the potential it has for bringing in a different group of players, which could result in increased sales,” said Tom Shaheen, NCEL executive director. He added, “We are always looking for ways to appeal to new players so we can maximize sales and generate as much money as
possible for education.”
During the event that took place at the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, Flair expressed that education is important to him as well. To help get the word out about the ticket and to help the NCEL raise money for education, Flair said that he will make appearances at upcoming fairs around the state.
“Wooooooo!” is a $5 scratch-off ticket. The game features eight top prizes of $100,000 and over 500,000 prizes between $10 and $200. Players have 16 chances to win on each ticket, which corresponds with Flair’s 16 championship belts.
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Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Hulkamania - Let the Battle Begin Hulk Hogan @ Rod Laver Arena
Press Release
For the first time ever, Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan will tour Australia. His new event HULKAMANIA - Let the Battle Begin, will be playing arenas in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, November 2009.
For over two decades the name Hulk Hogan has been synonymous with sports entertainment and professional wrestling. Having set live attendance records all over the world including a live gate of more that 96,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, Hulk Hogan has set his sites on Australia as his next frontier.
“I have been blessed with the opportunity to perform in front of fans around the world,” said Hogan. “I have always wanted to perform in Australia as I have heard Aussies are some of the greatest wrestling fans ever. I am grateful for this opportunity, and hope that this is just the beginning of a great thing!”
“In 2002 there were rumours of Hulk Hogan coming to Australia which sent wrestling fans into meltdown,” said promoter Michael Condon. “This time it’s real and confirmed and the Hulk is bringing some of the greats of wrestling with him.”
HULKAMANIA will also i some of the top stars that compete all over the world, and will include state of the art production. The arenas will be plastered with large screens to show the audience what is happening back stage in between wrestling matches. The night will also contain audience participation, a huge pyro techniques display and more.
From his early beginnings as a young wrestler training under the Tutoledge of the famed Hiro Matsuda who intentionally broke Hulk Hogan’s leg on his first day of training just to test his desire. Hulk Hogan’s larger that life persona and matching arms have turned the industry into the phenomenon it is today.
“We are thrilled to be working with Condon Sports and Entertainment group and KnokX Pro Entertainment” said Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment Television who is helping to bring Hulk Hogan to Australia for this tour.
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For the first time ever, Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan will tour Australia. His new event HULKAMANIA - Let the Battle Begin, will be playing arenas in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, November 2009.
For over two decades the name Hulk Hogan has been synonymous with sports entertainment and professional wrestling. Having set live attendance records all over the world including a live gate of more that 96,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, Hulk Hogan has set his sites on Australia as his next frontier.
“I have been blessed with the opportunity to perform in front of fans around the world,” said Hogan. “I have always wanted to perform in Australia as I have heard Aussies are some of the greatest wrestling fans ever. I am grateful for this opportunity, and hope that this is just the beginning of a great thing!”
“In 2002 there were rumours of Hulk Hogan coming to Australia which sent wrestling fans into meltdown,” said promoter Michael Condon. “This time it’s real and confirmed and the Hulk is bringing some of the greats of wrestling with him.”
HULKAMANIA will also i some of the top stars that compete all over the world, and will include state of the art production. The arenas will be plastered with large screens to show the audience what is happening back stage in between wrestling matches. The night will also contain audience participation, a huge pyro techniques display and more.
From his early beginnings as a young wrestler training under the Tutoledge of the famed Hiro Matsuda who intentionally broke Hulk Hogan’s leg on his first day of training just to test his desire. Hulk Hogan’s larger that life persona and matching arms have turned the industry into the phenomenon it is today.
“We are thrilled to be working with Condon Sports and Entertainment group and KnokX Pro Entertainment” said Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment Television who is helping to bring Hulk Hogan to Australia for this tour.
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Hulk Hogan's Hulkamania tour of Australia
Said to be on board for Hulk Hogan's Hulkamania tour of Australia: Ric Flair, Val Venis, The Godfather, Diamond Dallas Page, Umaga, Gangrel, Shannon Moore, Ken Anderson, The Nasty Boys, Jimmy Hart, Brutus Beefcake, and Lacey Von Erich. Rob Van Dam is in negotiations in addition to a number of former WWE Divas. Jeff Hardy talks advised numerous wrestling news media outlets. Headliner to be based on Hogan v Flair and talk of filming a reality TV show.
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Australian pro wrestling tour talks... Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair... Jeff Hardy talk; Jeff Jarrett pushes Aussie tour on Ten's Rove, Kurt Angle?
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Wrestling News Updated - Media Man Australia Network
WWE.com has removed the "Industry News" section from the front page of its website
Vince McMahon more open to ideas from lock room, insiders say product improving
John Cena doing fantastic community support work, Make-A-Wish Foundation et al
Jeff Hardy says goodbye to WWE family
Rey Mysterio Jr. suspended for 30 days
WWE ramps up Europe, dedicated websites for European regions and more tours upcoming
Bob Barker to host Monday Night Raw
Linda McMahon, CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, is considering running for the United States Senate
WWE Offers Free Tickets to US Military
More details on the WWE.com website and WWE Corporate website
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Vince McMahon more open to ideas from lock room, insiders say product improving
John Cena doing fantastic community support work, Make-A-Wish Foundation et al
Jeff Hardy says goodbye to WWE family
Rey Mysterio Jr. suspended for 30 days
WWE ramps up Europe, dedicated websites for European regions and more tours upcoming
Bob Barker to host Monday Night Raw
Linda McMahon, CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, is considering running for the United States Senate
WWE Offers Free Tickets to US Military
More details on the WWE.com website and WWE Corporate website
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009
WWE Living Legend News Update
Hulk Hogan turns 56 years old today.
Vince McMahon turns 64 years old on the 24th August. McMahon will be spending his birthday in Las Vegas, where WWE Raw will emanate from that night.
Ric Flair has been doing the news media rounds with Harley Race.
Roddy Piper continues to add excitement and ratings to wrestling shows.
Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat will one of the best on WWE current roster.
Andre The Giant online slot game strongly rumored via NextGen Gaming.
Shawn Michaels to work feud and angles with Triple H.
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Vince McMahon turns 64 years old on the 24th August. McMahon will be spending his birthday in Las Vegas, where WWE Raw will emanate from that night.
Ric Flair has been doing the news media rounds with Harley Race.
Roddy Piper continues to add excitement and ratings to wrestling shows.
Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat will one of the best on WWE current roster.
Andre The Giant online slot game strongly rumored via NextGen Gaming.
Shawn Michaels to work feud and angles with Triple H.
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Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Flair News: Ric Flair on the radio - Flair scratch-off Lottery card, Horsemen road stories, NWA Fanfest - 1st August 2009
Ric Flair had a 20-minute segment on the "Primetime with Packman" radio show on Friday afternoon in Charlotte, N.C. talking the Ric Flair lottery, the NWA Fanfest, and old Four Horsemen road stories.
Flair didn't "break any news" or talk update his WWE status, but he said will become the "official face" of the North Carolina Lottery on September 22. To coincide with the announcement, the lottery will be releasing a "Woo!" scratch-off card.
Flair also promoted the NWA Legends Fanfest in Charlotte next weekend that will feature the first Original Four Horsemen reunion in nearly 20 years, plus a Q&A session with Flair and Harley Race.
Most of the interview was Flair talking Charlotte sports and sharing some road stories, including a few recent stories involving Chicago White Sox GM Kenny Williams. (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
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Flair didn't "break any news" or talk update his WWE status, but he said will become the "official face" of the North Carolina Lottery on September 22. To coincide with the announcement, the lottery will be releasing a "Woo!" scratch-off card.
Flair also promoted the NWA Legends Fanfest in Charlotte next weekend that will feature the first Original Four Horsemen reunion in nearly 20 years, plus a Q&A session with Flair and Harley Race.
Most of the interview was Flair talking Charlotte sports and sharing some road stories, including a few recent stories involving Chicago White Sox GM Kenny Williams. (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
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Sunday, July 19, 2009
Jim Rose returns wrestling to its roots, By Marc Graser - Variety - 17th July 2009
Former WWE stars hope to pin hardcore fans
Just as more people are tuning in to watch men fight it out in a ring -- especially bouts produced by the WWE, TNA or UFC -- Jim Rose wants to return wrestling to its roots.
The colorful showman behind the Jim Rose Circus, an outrageous hour of comedy and stunts not for the faint of heart, has been selling out clubs across the country with a new show incorporating former headliners of Vince McMahon's WWE.
Woven into a loose narrative, Rose's new act has Jake "The Snake" Roberts, whose career inspired Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler," and Sinn Bodhi, formerly known as the tattooed circus freak Kizarney, break into fistfights, smash through tables, get hooked through the tongue, sprayed in the face with bear repellent, and encounter live scorpions and a 22-foot albino python. At one point, Bodhi is sealed in a "plastic bag of death," as air is vacuumed out of it.
"It's a soap opera like you'd see in wrestling (during a WWE show), but every night is different," Rose says. "There's a running theme but they're ad libbing. They're doing 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?' but one night you might get hurt a little more than the night before."
The over-the-top and very adult nature of the show reflects a time when fights were staged outside circus tents in order to sell tickets to crowds that would gather, Rose says. "The format is where wrestling came from," he says.
Word-of-mouth has drummed up most of the interest for Rose's show, which doesn't involve a traditional ring, just a stage. His show launched from Seattle in the 1990s, and opened for the likes of Nine Inch Nails and Marilyn Manson and headlined Lollapalooza. The Troubadour in L.A. hosts the show on July 22.
Rose also hopes to grow his audience beyond its cult following, producing videos for his site on MySpace and YouTube. A TV show is also being mulled.
"This is a very crazy reality show that's happening," Rose says. "If a television show is going to be fun, then let's go do it." (Credit: Variety)
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Just as more people are tuning in to watch men fight it out in a ring -- especially bouts produced by the WWE, TNA or UFC -- Jim Rose wants to return wrestling to its roots.
The colorful showman behind the Jim Rose Circus, an outrageous hour of comedy and stunts not for the faint of heart, has been selling out clubs across the country with a new show incorporating former headliners of Vince McMahon's WWE.
Woven into a loose narrative, Rose's new act has Jake "The Snake" Roberts, whose career inspired Darren Aronofsky's "The Wrestler," and Sinn Bodhi, formerly known as the tattooed circus freak Kizarney, break into fistfights, smash through tables, get hooked through the tongue, sprayed in the face with bear repellent, and encounter live scorpions and a 22-foot albino python. At one point, Bodhi is sealed in a "plastic bag of death," as air is vacuumed out of it.
"It's a soap opera like you'd see in wrestling (during a WWE show), but every night is different," Rose says. "There's a running theme but they're ad libbing. They're doing 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?' but one night you might get hurt a little more than the night before."
The over-the-top and very adult nature of the show reflects a time when fights were staged outside circus tents in order to sell tickets to crowds that would gather, Rose says. "The format is where wrestling came from," he says.
Word-of-mouth has drummed up most of the interest for Rose's show, which doesn't involve a traditional ring, just a stage. His show launched from Seattle in the 1990s, and opened for the likes of Nine Inch Nails and Marilyn Manson and headlined Lollapalooza. The Troubadour in L.A. hosts the show on July 22.
Rose also hopes to grow his audience beyond its cult following, producing videos for his site on MySpace and YouTube. A TV show is also being mulled.
"This is a very crazy reality show that's happening," Rose says. "If a television show is going to be fun, then let's go do it." (Credit: Variety)
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Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Donald Trump’s commercial-free Raw does big rating, by Kevin Eck - Baltimore Sun - 23rd June 2009
Whether it can be attributed to the publicity WWE received from the Donald Trump story line, the commercial-free format, the advertised main event of a Last Man Standing Match for the WWE title between Randy Orton and Triple H, or some combination of the three, one thing is for sure: Monday’s episode of Raw was a huge ratings success.
Raw drew a 4.5 rating (4.3 first hour; 4.8 second hour), a significant increase from last week’s 3.7. The show’s 6,813,000 viewers made it the most-watched episode of Raw since March 25, 2002, according to wwe.com.
You have to hand it to Trump. WrestleMania 23, which was built around his hair versus hair match against Vince McMahon, did a company-record 1.2 million pay-per-view buys in 2007, and now he is the central figure on the highest-rated Raw in more than seven years.
Based on the rating, I wonder if the Trump story line, which appeared to end on Monday after just one week, might continue at some point. A story on wwe.com about Trump’s appearance on Raw said “this may not be the end of the feud between these two world class promoters.” (Credit: Baltimore Sun)
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Raw drew a 4.5 rating (4.3 first hour; 4.8 second hour), a significant increase from last week’s 3.7. The show’s 6,813,000 viewers made it the most-watched episode of Raw since March 25, 2002, according to wwe.com.
You have to hand it to Trump. WrestleMania 23, which was built around his hair versus hair match against Vince McMahon, did a company-record 1.2 million pay-per-view buys in 2007, and now he is the central figure on the highest-rated Raw in more than seven years.
Based on the rating, I wonder if the Trump story line, which appeared to end on Monday after just one week, might continue at some point. A story on wwe.com about Trump’s appearance on Raw said “this may not be the end of the feud between these two world class promoters.” (Credit: Baltimore Sun)
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Monday, June 22, 2009
Wrestling News Media
Donald Trump appears on WWE RAW
Jake "The Snake" Roberts to go on tour
WWE releases Sim Snuka, Umaga
Tommy Dreamer wins ECW Championship
Filsinger Games releases Legends of Wresting game featuring Rob Van Dam
WWE Randy Savage Macho Madness DVD enjoys strong sales
WWE acknowledges passing away of Japanese pro wrestling legend Mitsuharu Misawa
Foxtel WWE buy rates hold firm
USA Network has best ever May results, assisted by WWE RAW
John Cena featured in Make-A-Wish latest 'Wish Stores'
Andre The Giant rumoured to feature in NextGen Gaming online slot game this year
Australian pro wrestling scene still moving forward, however unlikely to return to glory days success
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Jake "The Snake" Roberts to go on tour
WWE releases Sim Snuka, Umaga
Tommy Dreamer wins ECW Championship
Filsinger Games releases Legends of Wresting game featuring Rob Van Dam
WWE Randy Savage Macho Madness DVD enjoys strong sales
WWE acknowledges passing away of Japanese pro wrestling legend Mitsuharu Misawa
Foxtel WWE buy rates hold firm
USA Network has best ever May results, assisted by WWE RAW
John Cena featured in Make-A-Wish latest 'Wish Stores'
Andre The Giant rumoured to feature in NextGen Gaming online slot game this year
Australian pro wrestling scene still moving forward, however unlikely to return to glory days success
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Filsinger Games teams up with Rob Van Dam for "Legends Originals"
Filsinger Games has announced that former WWE and ECW champion Rob Van Dam will be part of an expansion pack of their Legends of Wrestling card game along with 11 other wrestlers. You can find out more at www.filsingergames.com
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Vinnie Brings The Donald Back Into The Act, by Mike Mooneyham - 21st June 2009
Last year Vince McMahon gave away a million dollars in an attempt to lure viewers to Monday Night Raw.
Now he’s pretending to have sold Raw, WWE’s flagship show, to the even richer and perhaps more megalomaniacal Donald Trump.
Last week’s “shocking” announcement on Raw didn’t produce the effect McMahon had hoped for. That’s because fans rarely believe anything the WWE owner says these days.
But even if the WWE Universe faithful didn’t buy the prank, Vince was betting on selling the angle to the mainstream media. It’s happened before, although the non-wrestling press has become smarter over the years.
Some media outlets, such as TV Guide and Bloomberg, initially reported it as fact. FoxBusiness.com posted the release itself. But they were the exceptions.
The hope now is that Trump, who once was brought in for a storyline feud with McMahon that culminated with The Donald shaving Vince’s head at Wrestlemania 23, will again produce some magic with McMahon.
McMahon, however, is in no danger of losing his company or Raw, which remains one of the top-rated shows on cable television.
WWE and USA Network even issued a bogus joint press release last week to announce the change in ownership. It was, McMahon stated, an undisclosed offer he “couldn’t refuse.”
USA was forced to release an apology Thursday.
“We intended the release to be promotional for that ongoing story arc on the series,” USA said in the statement. “There is no such actual ‘sale.’ We apologize for any confusion.”
The takeover plot continues Monday when the real estate mogul appears on a commercial-free episode of the show as its new owner.
It will mark the first time in more than 838 episodes that Raw will be commercial-free.
“I’m going to do things on the show that have never been done or seen before,” Trump boasted last week.
Whether or not that’s a good thing remains to be seen. Trump looks out of his element on a wrestling show. He’s certainly no Vince. And, like most non-wrestling personalities attempting to do pro wrestling, his delivery is forced and contrived.
- Hall of Famer and WWE fixture Jerry Brisco recently suffered what was believed to be as many as three strokes in a period of several days. Doctors also discovered a small hole in his heart and a heart valve irregularity, and have scheduled surgery for next week.
“Jerry is confident, as am I, that he will make a full recovery as he has been an athlete all his life and has never been a smoker, isn’t overweight, is in excellent physical shape for a man a little north of 60 who was still working out on the mat with his amateur wrestling team at a high school in Tampa where he volunteers,” Jim Ross posted on his blog.
Jerry is one of pro wrestling’s “good guys,” and our thoughts and prayers go out to him, brother Jack and the Brisco family.
- Mitsuharu Misawa, one of Japan’s greatest wrestlers over the past three decades, died last weekend during a tag-team bout in Hiroshima.
Misawa, just days shy of his 47th birthday, was competing in a tag-team match when he took a belly to back suplex from Akitoshi Saito and lost consciousness. The match was stopped and Misawa was administered to before being taken from the arena. He was declared dead at the hospital.
Misawa initially rose to fame in the pro ranks as Japan’s high-flying Tiger Mask, the second wrestler to use that name, during the mid-’80s. His popularity peaked in the early ‘90s when he and top rival Kenta Kobashi engaged in a classic series of matches that were considered among the greatest for that time period. Both were headliners for All Japan Pro Wrestling, a promotion that was considered the most physically demanding in the world, and both operated at extremely high levels.
A national amateur wrestling champion in high school, Misawa was discovered by All Japan owner Shohei “Giant” Baba and trained by Baba, The Destroyer (Dick Beyer) and Dory Funk Jr.
Misawa inherited the position of AJPW president following the death of Baba, but disagreements with widow Motoko Baba led to his departure from the company in 2000 and the formation of Pro Wrestling NOAH.
Misawa was owner of Pro Wrestling NOAH at the time of his death.
- WWE released both Candice Michelle and Sim Snuka on Friday.
Michelle, a former WWE women’s champ, has been recovering from an injury.
Snuka, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Superfly Jimmy Snuka, hasn’t been on WWE TV since January when he and Manu were kicked out of Randy Orton’s Legacy stable. Snuka made his WWE debut in 2006 as part of the Deuce and Domino tag team.
- Lucha star Dos Caras Jr. from Mexico’s EMLL promotion reportedly has signed a three-year contract with WWE.
- TNA’s Kurt Angle told a Detroit radio station Friday that he’d be open to one final run with WWE before he retires from the business.
“I can’t tell you where I’m going to be in three years. I’d like to be in TNA, but I can’t guarantee it,” Angle said on Sports Radio WDFN. “If I could have one last run, heck, I’d do it. Why not? Rumors are going to be flying now that Kurt Angle wants to go to WWE ... That’s completely untrue. I’m very happy where I am.”
“I’m no longer bitter about WWE. Vince McMahon and I had a falling out, but everything is cool now,” added Angle. “Him and I have kind of made peace with each other.”
- WWE will return to the North Charleston Coliseum on July 18 with a Smackdown show.
Tentative top bouts include Jeff Hardy vs. Edge, and a Fatal Four-Way with Christian, Finlay, Jack Swagger and Tommy Dreamer for the ECW crown. Others on the bill include C.M. Punk, Great Khali, John Morrison, Shelton Benjamin, Vladimir Kozlov, Evan Bourne and WWE divas Gail Kim, Melina, Natalya and Maria. (Credit: The Post and Courier)
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Now he’s pretending to have sold Raw, WWE’s flagship show, to the even richer and perhaps more megalomaniacal Donald Trump.
Last week’s “shocking” announcement on Raw didn’t produce the effect McMahon had hoped for. That’s because fans rarely believe anything the WWE owner says these days.
But even if the WWE Universe faithful didn’t buy the prank, Vince was betting on selling the angle to the mainstream media. It’s happened before, although the non-wrestling press has become smarter over the years.
Some media outlets, such as TV Guide and Bloomberg, initially reported it as fact. FoxBusiness.com posted the release itself. But they were the exceptions.
The hope now is that Trump, who once was brought in for a storyline feud with McMahon that culminated with The Donald shaving Vince’s head at Wrestlemania 23, will again produce some magic with McMahon.
McMahon, however, is in no danger of losing his company or Raw, which remains one of the top-rated shows on cable television.
WWE and USA Network even issued a bogus joint press release last week to announce the change in ownership. It was, McMahon stated, an undisclosed offer he “couldn’t refuse.”
USA was forced to release an apology Thursday.
“We intended the release to be promotional for that ongoing story arc on the series,” USA said in the statement. “There is no such actual ‘sale.’ We apologize for any confusion.”
The takeover plot continues Monday when the real estate mogul appears on a commercial-free episode of the show as its new owner.
It will mark the first time in more than 838 episodes that Raw will be commercial-free.
“I’m going to do things on the show that have never been done or seen before,” Trump boasted last week.
Whether or not that’s a good thing remains to be seen. Trump looks out of his element on a wrestling show. He’s certainly no Vince. And, like most non-wrestling personalities attempting to do pro wrestling, his delivery is forced and contrived.
- Hall of Famer and WWE fixture Jerry Brisco recently suffered what was believed to be as many as three strokes in a period of several days. Doctors also discovered a small hole in his heart and a heart valve irregularity, and have scheduled surgery for next week.
“Jerry is confident, as am I, that he will make a full recovery as he has been an athlete all his life and has never been a smoker, isn’t overweight, is in excellent physical shape for a man a little north of 60 who was still working out on the mat with his amateur wrestling team at a high school in Tampa where he volunteers,” Jim Ross posted on his blog.
Jerry is one of pro wrestling’s “good guys,” and our thoughts and prayers go out to him, brother Jack and the Brisco family.
- Mitsuharu Misawa, one of Japan’s greatest wrestlers over the past three decades, died last weekend during a tag-team bout in Hiroshima.
Misawa, just days shy of his 47th birthday, was competing in a tag-team match when he took a belly to back suplex from Akitoshi Saito and lost consciousness. The match was stopped and Misawa was administered to before being taken from the arena. He was declared dead at the hospital.
Misawa initially rose to fame in the pro ranks as Japan’s high-flying Tiger Mask, the second wrestler to use that name, during the mid-’80s. His popularity peaked in the early ‘90s when he and top rival Kenta Kobashi engaged in a classic series of matches that were considered among the greatest for that time period. Both were headliners for All Japan Pro Wrestling, a promotion that was considered the most physically demanding in the world, and both operated at extremely high levels.
A national amateur wrestling champion in high school, Misawa was discovered by All Japan owner Shohei “Giant” Baba and trained by Baba, The Destroyer (Dick Beyer) and Dory Funk Jr.
Misawa inherited the position of AJPW president following the death of Baba, but disagreements with widow Motoko Baba led to his departure from the company in 2000 and the formation of Pro Wrestling NOAH.
Misawa was owner of Pro Wrestling NOAH at the time of his death.
- WWE released both Candice Michelle and Sim Snuka on Friday.
Michelle, a former WWE women’s champ, has been recovering from an injury.
Snuka, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Superfly Jimmy Snuka, hasn’t been on WWE TV since January when he and Manu were kicked out of Randy Orton’s Legacy stable. Snuka made his WWE debut in 2006 as part of the Deuce and Domino tag team.
- Lucha star Dos Caras Jr. from Mexico’s EMLL promotion reportedly has signed a three-year contract with WWE.
- TNA’s Kurt Angle told a Detroit radio station Friday that he’d be open to one final run with WWE before he retires from the business.
“I can’t tell you where I’m going to be in three years. I’d like to be in TNA, but I can’t guarantee it,” Angle said on Sports Radio WDFN. “If I could have one last run, heck, I’d do it. Why not? Rumors are going to be flying now that Kurt Angle wants to go to WWE ... That’s completely untrue. I’m very happy where I am.”
“I’m no longer bitter about WWE. Vince McMahon and I had a falling out, but everything is cool now,” added Angle. “Him and I have kind of made peace with each other.”
- WWE will return to the North Charleston Coliseum on July 18 with a Smackdown show.
Tentative top bouts include Jeff Hardy vs. Edge, and a Fatal Four-Way with Christian, Finlay, Jack Swagger and Tommy Dreamer for the ECW crown. Others on the bill include C.M. Punk, Great Khali, John Morrison, Shelton Benjamin, Vladimir Kozlov, Evan Bourne and WWE divas Gail Kim, Melina, Natalya and Maria. (Credit: The Post and Courier)
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Monday, June 15, 2009
Pro wrestling legend dies in the ring - NineMSN - 15th June 2009
Mitsuharu Misawa, one of the most popular professional wrestlers in Japan, has died after being given a back suplex in a tag team match.
Misawa, 46, and Go Shiozaki were taking on Akitoshi Saito and Bison Smith in a GHC World Tag Team title match in Hiroshima on Saturday when the move was carried out on him.
PHOTOS: Deaths that shook the wrestling world
He suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to hospital but doctors confirmed his death shortly afterwards, a local police official told AFP by telephone.
Japanese sports newspapers said thousands of shocked spectators watched efforts to resuscitate him in the ring.
The back suplex involves a wrestler picking up his opponent and dropping him onto the mat.
Making his professional debut in 1981, Misawa became popular partly for wearing his trademark mask designed to look like a tiger's head.
He set up wrestling organisation Pro-Wrestling Noah in 2000 and became its president. (Credit: NineMSN)
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Misawa, 46, and Go Shiozaki were taking on Akitoshi Saito and Bison Smith in a GHC World Tag Team title match in Hiroshima on Saturday when the move was carried out on him.
PHOTOS: Deaths that shook the wrestling world
He suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to hospital but doctors confirmed his death shortly afterwards, a local police official told AFP by telephone.
Japanese sports newspapers said thousands of shocked spectators watched efforts to resuscitate him in the ring.
The back suplex involves a wrestler picking up his opponent and dropping him onto the mat.
Making his professional debut in 1981, Misawa became popular partly for wearing his trademark mask designed to look like a tiger's head.
He set up wrestling organisation Pro-Wrestling Noah in 2000 and became its president. (Credit: NineMSN)
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Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Wrestlers and Arnold Schwarzenegger Gambling, Poker Connection - Gambling911 - 4th May 2009
Ric Flair recently signed a deal to be a spokesperson for the lottery in the Carolinas... The Shelby, NC Star ran a story noting that Ric, David, and Reid Flair are scheduled to appear on Saturday at the Rec Center for a charity show to raise for the Shelby City Parks and Police Department. If he attends this would be Reid's first public appearance since his arrest last weekend.
"This is of course totally the opposite direction to Jesse Ventura's stance on gambling, at least publicly," notes Media Man, Greg Tingle.
Tingle made reference to Ventura's support of an online gambling enterprise, BetUS.com, where he was a paid spokesperson for more than two years. Interestingly enough, the state of Minnesota for which Ventura served as Governor, announced last week it will try to block access to online gambling websites from citizens of that state.
Then there is California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, a one time friend of both men, who reportedly would support an initiative in his state to legalize online poker.
In November 2004, an advertisement began airing in California featuring Ventura. In it, Ventura voices his opposition to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's policies regarding Native American casinos, the very casinos that stand in the way of the proposed poker legislation. Schwarzenegger and Ventura have not spoken in years, according to reports.
In September 2005, Ventura announced on The Mike Malloy Show that he was leaving the U.S. and planned to "have an adventure". In late October 2005, he went on the The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch and reiterated that he was leaving the U.S. due to, among other things, censorship. He has since moved to Baja California, Mexico. (Credit: Gambling911).
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"This is of course totally the opposite direction to Jesse Ventura's stance on gambling, at least publicly," notes Media Man, Greg Tingle.
Tingle made reference to Ventura's support of an online gambling enterprise, BetUS.com, where he was a paid spokesperson for more than two years. Interestingly enough, the state of Minnesota for which Ventura served as Governor, announced last week it will try to block access to online gambling websites from citizens of that state.
Then there is California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, a one time friend of both men, who reportedly would support an initiative in his state to legalize online poker.
In November 2004, an advertisement began airing in California featuring Ventura. In it, Ventura voices his opposition to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's policies regarding Native American casinos, the very casinos that stand in the way of the proposed poker legislation. Schwarzenegger and Ventura have not spoken in years, according to reports.
In September 2005, Ventura announced on The Mike Malloy Show that he was leaving the U.S. and planned to "have an adventure". In late October 2005, he went on the The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch and reiterated that he was leaving the U.S. due to, among other things, censorship. He has since moved to Baja California, Mexico. (Credit: Gambling911).
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Sunday, April 05, 2009
WWE Hall Of Fame 2009
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Tuesday, March 24, 2009
The Wrestler 'really got to me': Piper, by Brian Elliott - SLAM! Wrestling -
If there is one feeling that you get when you read through SLAM! Wrestling's archives, it's that the wrestling business is full of incredible highs, but also torturous lows. For all the adulation, there's a hefty price pay, a price which was recently explored in the movie The Wrestler, which earned Mickey Rourke a Golden Globe award for Best Actor, though controversially, not the Oscar.
One man oft-mentioned by Rourke in interviews about the film, was "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. Piper, of course, embodies the highs and lows of professional wrestling, and is a veteran in Hollywood too, with roles both big (They Live) and small. When he spoke to SLAM! Wrestling about the film, and about how it really was true to life for some wrestlers, it was clearly a highly emotional experience for him.
"As someone who has been in the business for a long time, I don't mind saying that the movie really got to me," Piper said. "I had the chance to speak to Mickey, and I told him, 'I don't know what kinda research you did, but you hit the nail right on the head.' What stood out to me as a wrestler was that at no time did that character ever get physical outside the ring. And that's very typical; most of us are pretty soft outside of the ring.
"But even moreso than that, the thing that probably grabbed me the hardest was the way it ended. All my brothers (wrestling peers) are dead, man. So, at the end, it caught me because it just went to black, and that's how it happens in our world. Look at Curt Hennig (who died in 2003 due to cocaine intoxication) -- he was the picture of health. And boom! Black. Not fade to black, just black. I've been to so many funerals."
A strong theme in the film is that wrestling's mortality rate amongst its high-profile performers is staggering in comparison to that of any other athletic endeavour. A study in the wake of the Benoit tragedy showed that 104 professional wrestlers under the age of 40 had died in the period 1997-2007. Forty of those were full-time professionals, who would were well-known to anyone who had followed the sport for even a short time.
"Thinking about the friends, the brothers I've lost, makes me feel lonesome. I lived with these guys, literally. I wonder why no-one on the outside catches on to what's happening? I guess it's because they don't care.
"Can you imagine what would happen if four Manchester United players died, all in separate instances?" Piper continued, using a European analogy as he prepared to visit the continent with his daughter. "Or if a soccer player killed himself, how much attention it would get? People would wonder what on earth is going on, and there'd be an investigation. But there's no investigation for these guys. When a professional wrestler dies, sure, they do an autopsy, but then they shuffle them on.
"In professional wrestling, we're always making contacts, finding a chemistry. Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier had a chemistry. Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan had a chemistry. Roddy Piper and Ric Flair had a chemistry. That's the reason these people drew money together. But you can't put all those chemistries in one room, and then start killing every second one. When someone you were that close with dies, it's part of you that goes, too."
The high death rate among professional wrestlers is made all the more poignant by the fact that a large percentage of them are due to heart attacks, believed to be caused largely by the use of steroids, which not only enhance muscularity, but the body's internal organs, too. This practise is also alluded to in the film, as Rourke's character suffers a heart attack, but even though he has an emergency bypass operation, continues to wrestle and even uses recreational drugs. Piper has seen the damage that all kinds of drugs -- performance-enhancing, painkilling, and recreational -- have done to wrestling's performers, and notes that when he wrestled, such activities were close to a necessary evil.
"It's a little different for the wrestlers today, but the schedule I had to keep left you not knowing who you were," said the 54-year-old. "In 1991, I did an afternoon show in Manchester, England, and an evening show in the same building. Then, I got on a plane from Manchester to Heathrow, and Heathrow to Connecticut. I went in and did five hours of voiceovers for television. Then I got on a plane to Alaska, wrestled there, flew back as far as Seattle, and then I rented a car and drove 160 miles home. And that was all in one loop, without a break.
"It's tough to make that route without a shot of whiskey," he continued, using the drink as a nom de plume for other substances. "I can recall being in Pittsburgh and being dragged out of my bed at 11 a.m. to go and kick off 60 interviews for television, and only then could I go back to my bed. So imagine the time-zones; the stop-start, quick, let's go kinda life. It's very difficult do these things, and be on at the same time."
Perhaps of all the overall themes of the movie, the most poignant is that of the lead character, 20 years past his prime but still having had success while at the peak of his powers, cannot afford to pay his rent, even while working at a deli during the day, and wrestling on weekends. For in the real wrestling world of WWE, there is no pension plan for its performers, who are labelled as independent contractors; Piper's recent appearances on Monday Night Raw and expected Wrestlemania 25 gig are paid on a per night basis. For those full-time WWE employees, it is understood that bookings for other companies are out of the question despite their "independent" status. A recently-dismissed lawsuit by three former WWE wrestlers brought this matter into the spotlight, and has noted that while the office staff at the company are entitled to the benefits in later life, the wrestlers are not. In turn, this has led to oft-heard calls for a wrestler's union to finally become a reality.
"You know, wrestling today really just means the WWE, and they're the only ones that could afford to do something like this," Piper said with an air of sadness. "The WWE have done some wonderful things for wrestlers. But we can't keep on dying. The wrestlers give their hearts -- they give the best part of their lives. So as the success goes on, why aren't they being taken care of?
"My generation and the generation before me -- these guys today shouldn't have to go through what we went through. They've got masseurs and therapists now, whereas to save money on the road, we would've ordered old pizza if we could. So we've taken the pain. I just think, 'C'mon guys, if it's a billion-dollar business, which it is, give it (a union) to them.' But wrestlers are afraid for their jobs, so it's probably only going to be pressure from the public that makes it happen."
Be that all as it may -- the drugs, the schedule, and the losses -- Piper's energetic tones, which only change with these more sombre recollections related to the film -- show that if it could be true of anyone, Piper was born to be a professional wrestler. In fact, he believes the wrestling lifestyle may have had the opposite effect on him, than it did for others; whereas some crumbled in the face of wrestling's harsh realities, the business gave him something to cling to.
"Before I got into wrestling, I wasn't going anywhere with my life. I was 15 years old and living in a youth hostel. I was an amateur wrestling champion, a Golden Gloves boxing champion, and I [later] earned my black belt in judo from Gene LeBell, but I didn't know what I was gonna do with my life," Piper said, continuing the story that has become folklore. "Then, I was at a wrestling show at the Winnipeg Arena in Canada, and one guy didn't show up. So my amateur wrestling coach, who was a professional wrestling referee, said 'I can get you $25.' I didn't know anything about professional wrestling, but I went in there and had probably the shortest match in the history of that arena.
"After that, I kept wrestling for the money. I went from doing nothing, to working as much as I could. It was the only kind of economic entity that I could cling to at the time. There were no questions asked; all that the other wrestlers asked was that you gave 100%.
"They were last of the Gorgeous George-era guys, who were finishing as I started, and they were really bitter about the business. But to me, they were great Dads; if you ever needed to learn how to take care of a family, or any advice, you had 300 miles driving in a car to listen to them. Wrestling gave me a shot -- I had to get on the field at some time in my life. For that, I'm eternally grateful."
The end of The Wrestler leaves open for interpretation the fate of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, and if life imitates art, in a similar way the destiny of professional wrestling current combatants is as of yet unknown.
Fans can only hope that more of them find the rewarding life in wrestling that Roddy Piper did, and not the pitfalls that befell Davey Boy Smith, Hercules Hernandez, Curt Hennig et al.
Author's note: Following this interview, Roddy Piper asked that we send a shout-out to Freya Miller. (Credit: SLAM Wrestling).
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One man oft-mentioned by Rourke in interviews about the film, was "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. Piper, of course, embodies the highs and lows of professional wrestling, and is a veteran in Hollywood too, with roles both big (They Live) and small. When he spoke to SLAM! Wrestling about the film, and about how it really was true to life for some wrestlers, it was clearly a highly emotional experience for him.
"As someone who has been in the business for a long time, I don't mind saying that the movie really got to me," Piper said. "I had the chance to speak to Mickey, and I told him, 'I don't know what kinda research you did, but you hit the nail right on the head.' What stood out to me as a wrestler was that at no time did that character ever get physical outside the ring. And that's very typical; most of us are pretty soft outside of the ring.
"But even moreso than that, the thing that probably grabbed me the hardest was the way it ended. All my brothers (wrestling peers) are dead, man. So, at the end, it caught me because it just went to black, and that's how it happens in our world. Look at Curt Hennig (who died in 2003 due to cocaine intoxication) -- he was the picture of health. And boom! Black. Not fade to black, just black. I've been to so many funerals."
A strong theme in the film is that wrestling's mortality rate amongst its high-profile performers is staggering in comparison to that of any other athletic endeavour. A study in the wake of the Benoit tragedy showed that 104 professional wrestlers under the age of 40 had died in the period 1997-2007. Forty of those were full-time professionals, who would were well-known to anyone who had followed the sport for even a short time.
"Thinking about the friends, the brothers I've lost, makes me feel lonesome. I lived with these guys, literally. I wonder why no-one on the outside catches on to what's happening? I guess it's because they don't care.
"Can you imagine what would happen if four Manchester United players died, all in separate instances?" Piper continued, using a European analogy as he prepared to visit the continent with his daughter. "Or if a soccer player killed himself, how much attention it would get? People would wonder what on earth is going on, and there'd be an investigation. But there's no investigation for these guys. When a professional wrestler dies, sure, they do an autopsy, but then they shuffle them on.
"In professional wrestling, we're always making contacts, finding a chemistry. Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier had a chemistry. Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan had a chemistry. Roddy Piper and Ric Flair had a chemistry. That's the reason these people drew money together. But you can't put all those chemistries in one room, and then start killing every second one. When someone you were that close with dies, it's part of you that goes, too."
The high death rate among professional wrestlers is made all the more poignant by the fact that a large percentage of them are due to heart attacks, believed to be caused largely by the use of steroids, which not only enhance muscularity, but the body's internal organs, too. This practise is also alluded to in the film, as Rourke's character suffers a heart attack, but even though he has an emergency bypass operation, continues to wrestle and even uses recreational drugs. Piper has seen the damage that all kinds of drugs -- performance-enhancing, painkilling, and recreational -- have done to wrestling's performers, and notes that when he wrestled, such activities were close to a necessary evil.
"It's a little different for the wrestlers today, but the schedule I had to keep left you not knowing who you were," said the 54-year-old. "In 1991, I did an afternoon show in Manchester, England, and an evening show in the same building. Then, I got on a plane from Manchester to Heathrow, and Heathrow to Connecticut. I went in and did five hours of voiceovers for television. Then I got on a plane to Alaska, wrestled there, flew back as far as Seattle, and then I rented a car and drove 160 miles home. And that was all in one loop, without a break.
"It's tough to make that route without a shot of whiskey," he continued, using the drink as a nom de plume for other substances. "I can recall being in Pittsburgh and being dragged out of my bed at 11 a.m. to go and kick off 60 interviews for television, and only then could I go back to my bed. So imagine the time-zones; the stop-start, quick, let's go kinda life. It's very difficult do these things, and be on at the same time."
Perhaps of all the overall themes of the movie, the most poignant is that of the lead character, 20 years past his prime but still having had success while at the peak of his powers, cannot afford to pay his rent, even while working at a deli during the day, and wrestling on weekends. For in the real wrestling world of WWE, there is no pension plan for its performers, who are labelled as independent contractors; Piper's recent appearances on Monday Night Raw and expected Wrestlemania 25 gig are paid on a per night basis. For those full-time WWE employees, it is understood that bookings for other companies are out of the question despite their "independent" status. A recently-dismissed lawsuit by three former WWE wrestlers brought this matter into the spotlight, and has noted that while the office staff at the company are entitled to the benefits in later life, the wrestlers are not. In turn, this has led to oft-heard calls for a wrestler's union to finally become a reality.
"You know, wrestling today really just means the WWE, and they're the only ones that could afford to do something like this," Piper said with an air of sadness. "The WWE have done some wonderful things for wrestlers. But we can't keep on dying. The wrestlers give their hearts -- they give the best part of their lives. So as the success goes on, why aren't they being taken care of?
"My generation and the generation before me -- these guys today shouldn't have to go through what we went through. They've got masseurs and therapists now, whereas to save money on the road, we would've ordered old pizza if we could. So we've taken the pain. I just think, 'C'mon guys, if it's a billion-dollar business, which it is, give it (a union) to them.' But wrestlers are afraid for their jobs, so it's probably only going to be pressure from the public that makes it happen."
Be that all as it may -- the drugs, the schedule, and the losses -- Piper's energetic tones, which only change with these more sombre recollections related to the film -- show that if it could be true of anyone, Piper was born to be a professional wrestler. In fact, he believes the wrestling lifestyle may have had the opposite effect on him, than it did for others; whereas some crumbled in the face of wrestling's harsh realities, the business gave him something to cling to.
"Before I got into wrestling, I wasn't going anywhere with my life. I was 15 years old and living in a youth hostel. I was an amateur wrestling champion, a Golden Gloves boxing champion, and I [later] earned my black belt in judo from Gene LeBell, but I didn't know what I was gonna do with my life," Piper said, continuing the story that has become folklore. "Then, I was at a wrestling show at the Winnipeg Arena in Canada, and one guy didn't show up. So my amateur wrestling coach, who was a professional wrestling referee, said 'I can get you $25.' I didn't know anything about professional wrestling, but I went in there and had probably the shortest match in the history of that arena.
"After that, I kept wrestling for the money. I went from doing nothing, to working as much as I could. It was the only kind of economic entity that I could cling to at the time. There were no questions asked; all that the other wrestlers asked was that you gave 100%.
"They were last of the Gorgeous George-era guys, who were finishing as I started, and they were really bitter about the business. But to me, they were great Dads; if you ever needed to learn how to take care of a family, or any advice, you had 300 miles driving in a car to listen to them. Wrestling gave me a shot -- I had to get on the field at some time in my life. For that, I'm eternally grateful."
The end of The Wrestler leaves open for interpretation the fate of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, and if life imitates art, in a similar way the destiny of professional wrestling current combatants is as of yet unknown.
Fans can only hope that more of them find the rewarding life in wrestling that Roddy Piper did, and not the pitfalls that befell Davey Boy Smith, Hercules Hernandez, Curt Hennig et al.
Author's note: Following this interview, Roddy Piper asked that we send a shout-out to Freya Miller. (Credit: SLAM Wrestling).
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Friday, March 06, 2009
"Legends of WrestleMania" video game demo to be released this week, Details on legal process involved - Pro Wrestling Torch - 4th March 2009
THQ will release a playable demo of WWE's "Legends of WrestleMania" video game tomorrow ahead of the video game's official release later this month.
The video game's marketing has focused on the Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant match at WrestleMania III. That match and characters involved, including Bobby Heenan, will be playable in the preview demo.
The process of adding the "legend" characters to the video game started with THQ's creative department, then went through the legal department to obtain licenses for each wrestler.
"First off the process starts here with the Creative team (we basically ask for everybody) and then it gets passed of to our awesome legal team," THQ's Paul Edwards said in a recent WWE chat. "They actually take on most of the work."
Edwards says if an obvious legend is not included on the game, it's most-likely because they could not obtain legal rights to the character.
"Once legal has it they have to go out and secure all of the deals for the talent," Edwards said. "Sadly, they can't always get the talent we want, due to various reasons that our out of our control."
The special edition video game took about a year and half to develop. That included creating new entrance music for wrestlers who never had theme music when they were with WWE.
THQ simplified the gameplay to make it easy for anyone to pick up and play. They eliminated referees, used arenas from WrestleManias 1-15, and limited the game's availability on video game system.
"We didn't make a PS2 version of the game because we really wanted to focus all our effort on the next-gen systems to make the game as high quality as we possibly could," Edwards said. "Basically we didn't want to get too distracted trying to over do it." (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
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The video game's marketing has focused on the Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant match at WrestleMania III. That match and characters involved, including Bobby Heenan, will be playable in the preview demo.
The process of adding the "legend" characters to the video game started with THQ's creative department, then went through the legal department to obtain licenses for each wrestler.
"First off the process starts here with the Creative team (we basically ask for everybody) and then it gets passed of to our awesome legal team," THQ's Paul Edwards said in a recent WWE chat. "They actually take on most of the work."
Edwards says if an obvious legend is not included on the game, it's most-likely because they could not obtain legal rights to the character.
"Once legal has it they have to go out and secure all of the deals for the talent," Edwards said. "Sadly, they can't always get the talent we want, due to various reasons that our out of our control."
The special edition video game took about a year and half to develop. That included creating new entrance music for wrestlers who never had theme music when they were with WWE.
THQ simplified the gameplay to make it easy for anyone to pick up and play. They eliminated referees, used arenas from WrestleManias 1-15, and limited the game's availability on video game system.
"We didn't make a PS2 version of the game because we really wanted to focus all our effort on the next-gen systems to make the game as high quality as we possibly could," Edwards said. "Basically we didn't want to get too distracted trying to over do it." (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
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The Wrestler - The New York Times
Review Summary
Everyone knows professional wrestling is fake. Everyone knows the same about movies. In both cases the eager spectators simultaneously admire the artifice and pretend it isn’t there, allowing themselves to believe that those people down in the ring or up on the screen are truly inflicting pain on one another. “The Wrestler,” Darren Aronofsky’s fourth feature (and winner of the top prize at the Venice Film Festival this year), cannily exploits this parallel and at the same time shows that, in both movies and wrestling, the line between reality and play-acting may be less clear than we assume. Shooting his battered hero mainly in trudging, hand-held tracking shots, Mr. Aronofsky, whose earlier movies include the brain-teasing “Pi” and the swooning, fantastical, unwatchable “Fountain,” here makes a convincing show of brute realism. The supermarkets, trailer parks, V.F.W. halls and run-down amphitheaters of New Jersey are convincingly drab, and the grain of the celluloid carries a sour and salty aura of weariness and defeat. But the story that emerges is disarmingly sweet, indeed at times downright saccharine — a familiar parable of squandered hopes and second chances. It’s a bit phony, perhaps, but to refuse to embrace the movie’s deep hokiness would be to cheat yourself of some of the profound pleasure it offers. — A. O. Scott, The New York Times (Credit: The New York Times)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Wrestling
Everyone knows professional wrestling is fake. Everyone knows the same about movies. In both cases the eager spectators simultaneously admire the artifice and pretend it isn’t there, allowing themselves to believe that those people down in the ring or up on the screen are truly inflicting pain on one another. “The Wrestler,” Darren Aronofsky’s fourth feature (and winner of the top prize at the Venice Film Festival this year), cannily exploits this parallel and at the same time shows that, in both movies and wrestling, the line between reality and play-acting may be less clear than we assume. Shooting his battered hero mainly in trudging, hand-held tracking shots, Mr. Aronofsky, whose earlier movies include the brain-teasing “Pi” and the swooning, fantastical, unwatchable “Fountain,” here makes a convincing show of brute realism. The supermarkets, trailer parks, V.F.W. halls and run-down amphitheaters of New Jersey are convincingly drab, and the grain of the celluloid carries a sour and salty aura of weariness and defeat. But the story that emerges is disarmingly sweet, indeed at times downright saccharine — a familiar parable of squandered hopes and second chances. It’s a bit phony, perhaps, but to refuse to embrace the movie’s deep hokiness would be to cheat yourself of some of the profound pleasure it offers. — A. O. Scott, The New York Times (Credit: The New York Times)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Wrestling
Former pro wrestler accused in nursing home death, by Steve Karnowski
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — During his glory days as a pro wrestler, Verne Gagne shared the spotlight with other burly men in trunks, guys with names like Killer Kowalski, Mad Dog Vachon, The Crusher and Baron Von Raschke.
But all of that seemed well in the past until just weeks ago, when authorities say Gagne, 82 and suffering from Alzheimer's disease, apparently body-slammed a 97-year-old fellow patient at the suburban nursing home where they both lived, causing the man's death.
Bloomington police are investigating, but not even the victim's widow wants to see the dementia-stricken Gagne prosecuted.
"It's been so hard on both families," said Greg Gagne, Gagne's son and a former wrestler himself.
Helmut Gutmann, a former cancer researcher who suffered from dementia himself, died Feb. 14, about three weeks after breaking his hip in the confrontation. Authorities ruled his death a homicide.
Police said there was no clear indication of what set Gagne off, and neither man could remember the incident afterward. Behavior and personality changes are common as Alzheimer's progresses, and victims of the mind-robbing disease can become agitated.
Like others with the disease, Gagne had all but lost his short-term memory, while his recollections of long-ago events were vivid. But whether he was suffering a flashback to his days in the ring, as some have speculated, is anybody's guess.
Police said they plan to forward the case to prosecutors by the end of the week for possible charges. Gagne, who has since turned 83, has been moved to another institution.
Joseph Daly, a former prosecutor who is now a professor at Hamline University Law School in St. Paul, said he doubts Gagne will be charged. State law prohibits prosecuting anyone who is too mentally deficient to understand the proceedings or offer a defense. Daly said that would appear to apply to Gagne.
"It's a tragedy for the man who was killed, it's a tragedy for the man's family, but it's equally a tragedy for the family of Verne Gagne," said Daly, who has warm memories of Gagne from his youth.
In the ring, Gagne (pronounced GAHN-yuh) drew on his background as a college wrestling champion in the 1940s, and typically finished off opponents with his trademark "sleeper hold" — a headlock that appeared to make the beaten man pass out.
Gutmann's widow, Betty Gutmann, said she was told by residents and staff members at the nursing home that Gagne picked her husband up and threw him to the ground. She said that they had had one scuffle before, when her husband had been shouting at other residents and Gagne put a chokehold on him. Gutmann wasn't hurt in that incident.
But Betty Gutmann is not blaming Gagne, saying he didn't know what he was doing.
She said most Alzheimer's victims are old and frail, and when they lash out, they don't usually cause much harm. The difference with Gagne is that "he was a professional athlete and was trained to do certain moves. This is what makes him much more dangerous than the ordinary person" with dementia.
Helmut Gutmann fled Nazi Germany in 1936, became a U.S. citizen and joined the Army, where he worked to try to develop an antidote for mustard gas, among other projects, according to his family. He spent 40 years as a cancer researcher at a veterans hospital in Minneapolis.
The company that runs the nursing home refused to comment, citing federal privacy laws.
Gagne was the founder and owner of the American Wrestling Association and wore its championship belt. In the 1960s and '70s, his "All-Star Wrestling" was a TV sensation. The show was a modest affair, taped before small audiences at various Minneapolis TV stations. But it was syndicated on up to 120 channels across the Midwest and as far away as San Francisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City and Winnipeg, Canada.
He mostly stopped wrestling in 1981 but remained active in the business. He trained more than 140 wrestlers from the late 1950s up until 1990, including Blackjack Lanza, Larry "The Axe" Hennig, The Iron Sheik, Sgt. Slaughter and Jesse "The Body" Ventura, who later became governor of Minnesota.
Times turned tough for Gagne in the early 1980s with the rise of the glitzier World Wrestling Federation (now World Wrestling Entertainment), which went national on cable TV. Vince McMahon's WWF lured away the AWA's flashiest star at the time, Hulk Hogan, and other fan favorites, Greg Gagne recalled. The AWA, founded in 1960, folded in 1991.
In the 1990s, Hennepin County took Verne Gagne's 58 acres and home on Lake Minnetonka for a park, paying him only a fraction of what the family thought it was worth, Greg Gagne said. By the time that fight was over and the bills were paid, he said, his parents had little money left.
Another blow came three years ago when Gagne was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the Mayo Clinic, his son said.
"His short-term memory is not there," Greg Gagne said. "But we were up there the other day, and if you talk about his first-grade teacher he can discuss that." He said his father also reminisces about his days as a wrestler and football player at the University of Minnesota.
Daly, the law professor, counts himself among the many saddened by what happened at the nursing home. He fondly recalled a day when he was a teenager working at a local drug store and Gagne came in and struck up a conversation.
"Here he was, talking to a teenager about wrestling, about sports, about life," Daly said. "I remember thinking, `Wow, what a nice person.'"
On the Net:
Gagne Wrestling Association: http://www.gagnewrestlingacademy.com
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
But all of that seemed well in the past until just weeks ago, when authorities say Gagne, 82 and suffering from Alzheimer's disease, apparently body-slammed a 97-year-old fellow patient at the suburban nursing home where they both lived, causing the man's death.
Bloomington police are investigating, but not even the victim's widow wants to see the dementia-stricken Gagne prosecuted.
"It's been so hard on both families," said Greg Gagne, Gagne's son and a former wrestler himself.
Helmut Gutmann, a former cancer researcher who suffered from dementia himself, died Feb. 14, about three weeks after breaking his hip in the confrontation. Authorities ruled his death a homicide.
Police said there was no clear indication of what set Gagne off, and neither man could remember the incident afterward. Behavior and personality changes are common as Alzheimer's progresses, and victims of the mind-robbing disease can become agitated.
Like others with the disease, Gagne had all but lost his short-term memory, while his recollections of long-ago events were vivid. But whether he was suffering a flashback to his days in the ring, as some have speculated, is anybody's guess.
Police said they plan to forward the case to prosecutors by the end of the week for possible charges. Gagne, who has since turned 83, has been moved to another institution.
Joseph Daly, a former prosecutor who is now a professor at Hamline University Law School in St. Paul, said he doubts Gagne will be charged. State law prohibits prosecuting anyone who is too mentally deficient to understand the proceedings or offer a defense. Daly said that would appear to apply to Gagne.
"It's a tragedy for the man who was killed, it's a tragedy for the man's family, but it's equally a tragedy for the family of Verne Gagne," said Daly, who has warm memories of Gagne from his youth.
In the ring, Gagne (pronounced GAHN-yuh) drew on his background as a college wrestling champion in the 1940s, and typically finished off opponents with his trademark "sleeper hold" — a headlock that appeared to make the beaten man pass out.
Gutmann's widow, Betty Gutmann, said she was told by residents and staff members at the nursing home that Gagne picked her husband up and threw him to the ground. She said that they had had one scuffle before, when her husband had been shouting at other residents and Gagne put a chokehold on him. Gutmann wasn't hurt in that incident.
But Betty Gutmann is not blaming Gagne, saying he didn't know what he was doing.
She said most Alzheimer's victims are old and frail, and when they lash out, they don't usually cause much harm. The difference with Gagne is that "he was a professional athlete and was trained to do certain moves. This is what makes him much more dangerous than the ordinary person" with dementia.
Helmut Gutmann fled Nazi Germany in 1936, became a U.S. citizen and joined the Army, where he worked to try to develop an antidote for mustard gas, among other projects, according to his family. He spent 40 years as a cancer researcher at a veterans hospital in Minneapolis.
The company that runs the nursing home refused to comment, citing federal privacy laws.
Gagne was the founder and owner of the American Wrestling Association and wore its championship belt. In the 1960s and '70s, his "All-Star Wrestling" was a TV sensation. The show was a modest affair, taped before small audiences at various Minneapolis TV stations. But it was syndicated on up to 120 channels across the Midwest and as far away as San Francisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City and Winnipeg, Canada.
He mostly stopped wrestling in 1981 but remained active in the business. He trained more than 140 wrestlers from the late 1950s up until 1990, including Blackjack Lanza, Larry "The Axe" Hennig, The Iron Sheik, Sgt. Slaughter and Jesse "The Body" Ventura, who later became governor of Minnesota.
Times turned tough for Gagne in the early 1980s with the rise of the glitzier World Wrestling Federation (now World Wrestling Entertainment), which went national on cable TV. Vince McMahon's WWF lured away the AWA's flashiest star at the time, Hulk Hogan, and other fan favorites, Greg Gagne recalled. The AWA, founded in 1960, folded in 1991.
In the 1990s, Hennepin County took Verne Gagne's 58 acres and home on Lake Minnetonka for a park, paying him only a fraction of what the family thought it was worth, Greg Gagne said. By the time that fight was over and the bills were paid, he said, his parents had little money left.
Another blow came three years ago when Gagne was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the Mayo Clinic, his son said.
"His short-term memory is not there," Greg Gagne said. "But we were up there the other day, and if you talk about his first-grade teacher he can discuss that." He said his father also reminisces about his days as a wrestler and football player at the University of Minnesota.
Daly, the law professor, counts himself among the many saddened by what happened at the nursing home. He fondly recalled a day when he was a teenager working at a local drug store and Gagne came in and struck up a conversation.
"Here he was, talking to a teenager about wrestling, about sports, about life," Daly said. "I remember thinking, `Wow, what a nice person.'"
On the Net:
Gagne Wrestling Association: http://www.gagnewrestlingacademy.com
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Rowdy Roddy's Promo 'Pure Piper', by Mike Mooneyham - 22nd February 2009
There used to be a saying in the wrestling business that a true star could always "talk people into the building."
You didn't necessarily have to have the skill set of a Lou Thesz or the showmanship of a Gorgeous George (although those qualities certainly didn't hurt). But you did have to possess the ability to connect emotionally with your audience and give them a reason to part with their hard-earned cash.
That's exactly what Roddy Piper did last week on Raw when the battled-scarred veteran delivered one of the most impassioned promos to hit the wrestling airwaves in a long time. This wasn't one of Rowdy Roddy's rambling, sometimes incoherent interviews of recent years. This was vintage Piper, long regarded as one of the best stick men in the business, making Chris Jericho a bigger heel with every word that came out of his mouth.
At age 54, Piper didn't need to put himself over or try to steal any thunder from Jericho, who has become one of the most effective heels in the wrestling business over the past year. His interview put the spotlight squarely on Jericho and his Wrestlemania-bound program with actor Mickey Rourke.
It's the kind of stuff that draws fans into the storyline and, more importantly, gives them a reason to care about what happens in the ring. It's also what made Piper such a valuable commodity in the business for more than a quarter of a century.
"It was one of Piper's very best promos in his newer, kinder persona the past decade," said wrestling historian and photographer Mike Lano. "Very passionate, and more shoot than work in terms of everything he said about needing to respect both the business itself and the legends like himself who paved the way for a Chris Jericho to portray his current, cocky, know-it-all self. Piper gave a very heartfelt, unique promo on Raw that we've not heard from him before."
Lano, who has known Piper since his early ring days in Los Angeles during the mid-'70s, says the promo was pure Piper.
"That was as pure Rodney Toombs as it gets ... the truth that some actually need to hear (certainly not the real Chris Irvine) in the biz - delivered with magic and eloquence by the great orator himself."
Piper, who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in late 2006, now only infrequently appears on shows in the well-deserved role of "legend." But he proved last week that he can still work the magic and make people believe just like he did during the glory days of Mid-Atlantic Wrestling, Georgia Championship Wrestling and countless other territories throughout the country, as well as the World Wrestling Federation's national expansion in the mid-'80s.
- Give credit to WWE for a marked improvement in character and storyline development in recent months. One puzzling aspect, however, is how they have struggled with an otherwise can't-miss angle with Randy Orton. He's the hottest heel in the business in spite of having Shane McMahon, a 39-year-old non-wrestler, pounding him from pillar to post on recent shows, including No Way Out and the following night on Raw. Orton didn't lose either match, but he needed help from Legacy cohorts Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes. That's no way to portray your top moneymaking heel.
And I'm still trying to figure out why the company recently explained Orton's rash of violent behavior by declaring the self-proclaimed "Legend Killer" had the behavioral disorder IED (intermittent explosive disorder). It's also interesting to note that a number of medical sources link the disorder to steroids as IED can be exacerbated by steroid use based on chemical changes in the individual's brain. Orton, not surprisingly, has ties to past steroid use.
Orton, nevertheless, has earned his way to the top of the WWE food chain. He very well could be the most compelling character in the company, and his in-ring ability improves each week. Hopefully the creative team won't make the same mistake twice by turning him babyface. At least not anytime soon.
- WWE officials are ecstatic over Raw's 4.1 rating for Monday night's show where nearly six million viewers tuned in. The number was the highest since December 2007.
- Steve Austin, who will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in April, was being considered for a main-event match at Wrestlemania, most likely against Orton, but that possibility now seems remote in light of last weekend's title changes at No Way Out.
Now officially on "the road to Wrestlemania," the top bouts appear to be Orton vs. Triple H, with the current WWE world champ defending the title and the honor of the McMahon family (wife Stephanie, brother-in-law Shane and father-in-law Vince); John Cena vs. Edge for the WWE heavyweight title; and "Mr. Wrestlemania" Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker with Taker's Mania streak on the line.
Mickey Rourke, who appears to be the sentimental favorite going into tonight's Academy Awards show, is scheduled to be this year's guest celebrity in an angle with Chris Jericho.
Hulk Hogan said Friday on the Bubba The Love Sponge show that it was unlikely he would appear at Wrestlemania 25. The Hulkster said a recent conversation with Vince McMahon failed to produce a mutually acceptable scenario.
Rumors of a possible Hogan vs. Chris Jericho or Hogan vs. John Cena match had been floated in recent weeks. The 55-year-old Hogan has tried to drum up support for a Wrestlemania appearance the past three years without results. Hogan could conceivably be brought in for this year's 25th anniversary show if Rourke decides not to step into the ring.
- Comments continue to come in from the wrestling community regarding "The Wrestler."
Charlie Thesz, widow of legendary six-time NWA world champion Lou Thesz, was among those disappointed with the movie.
"I respect the independent film industry and working within a budget, but more research would have been a good investment," she said last week. "I didn't consider it a statement on the lower end of professional wrestling, as much as on the lower end of humanity. However, if wrestling was the chosen venue, why not have the professionalism in the film industry to honestly represent the wrestling industry? I am not denying the seediness of pro wrestling at its lowest level. I guess it is how my doctor friends feel about medical shows ... we are a little too smart for our own enjoyment."
Thomas Simpson, a professor at the University of South Carolina-Union and a College of Charleston alumnus who helped found the North Carolina-based OMEGA wrestling promotion, credits Rourke with a wonderful performance and thought "The Wrestler" was "an extremely well-made film."
"However, it is as realistic as Aranofski's 'Pi,'" added Simpson, referring to a 1998 psychological thriller directed by "The Wrestler" filmmaker Darren Aronofsky. "Early in the film, when the caricature promoter stiffs Randy 'The Ram' and he just sits there and takes it, that's a fantasy. If you want to see a 'legend' or a 'name' get angry, short their pay. I've been witness to some ugly incidents over the years (none due to my own actions). I found it hard to believe Randy was sleeping in his van. Someone like him would have a mark around who would put him up. Showing him on the gas was also a joke; indy guys his age don't have the means to do it. That movie is just pure melodramatic hooey."
- The proposed sitcom starring TNA star Mick Foley has been derailed, and producer Richard O'Sullivan is none too happy.
The South Carolina-born writer, producer and director is fuming over the fact that Foley backed out of the "Have A Nice Day" project. The comedy was built around Foley's true-life personality. He was to have played himself - a former pro wrestler and best-selling author who was pursuing an acting career. Producers had hoped to roll by this spring.
O'Sullivan says Foley had helped initiate the Lost Colony Entertainment project in 2008 with longtime friend Gail Bleckman of New York-based Amdram Productions. O'Sullivan came aboard as a writer and producer shortly thereafter and scripted the show's pilot episode.
"Mick has said over and over that he was disappointed with the whole show-pitching process because he had shows rejected so many times. And I related to that, and empathized with him. But what I can't relate to is his passive-aggressive BS attitude.
"If Jim Belushi wants a show, his agent or his production company set up meetings, they go in to talk to packagers, get other name talent attached, talk to financiers, then they go sit down with networks and they push to get a show. Mick didn't want to do that. He wanted something hand-delivered to him like (agent) Barry Bloom hand-delivers him his wrestling contracts."
O'Sullivan says that's not how the non-wrestling show-biz world works.
"Nobody hand-delivers anything to anybody in TV or film. Marshall Herskovitz is the president of the Producers Guild of America, and he had to launch a show on the Internet because he couldn't get network distribution. Martin Scorsese has had trouble getting projects launched. Robert Rodriquez has had major projects yanked out from under him at big studios. (Steven) Spielberg has even had to battle tooth-and-nail to wrestle Dreamworks back and get it positioned with the right deal.
"But guys like that keep going. They keep busting their (behinds). They never sit back and say 'Barry, bring me this.' Mick, though, has grown accustomed to having deals brought to him by Barry Bloom on a silver platter. And for the past 15 years, he's had two companies waiting in the wings to vie for his services. He bounced from WCW to WWE then to TNA. He always had that deal waiting for him like the morning paper and yeah, good for him, he broke his body for two decades in wrestling and he deserves to have those deals ... in wrestling. But what he doesn't deserve is the right to (take advantage of) other people on a whim."
O'Sullivan says Foley cited time constraints, specifically his TNA wrestling schedule and family commitments, as reasons for backing out of the project. He also questions whether Foley was really committed.
Foley himself expressed some reservation about the project during an interview several months ago. "You have to sell these concepts to the networks," Foley said in October. "Best I can tell that hasn't happened. I might be so tied up with TNA that I might not have time to make a decent attempt at network television."
O'Sullivan says the sitcom would have given both Foley and TNA major exposure.
"I'm terribly sorry that Hollywood isn't just sitting there waiting for Mick Foley to climb out of the ring and hobble over for a big guaranteed check and a start date. His name means very little outside of wrestling. It did 10 years ago but those days are long gone. His name meant a little when he was WWE and it means a little at Spike, but that network isn't throwing money into production."
O'Sullivan says one thing the show had going for it was "the Mickey Rourke buzz" as a result of the commercial success of "The Wrestler."
"It had a shot of being sold because studios and networks are taking a look at wrestling-related content now. But even that has a shelf life. The window isn't going to stay open for long. Hollywood-at-large isn't 'the Barry Bloom vacuum.' It's a whole other animal. And if he wanted it, he would've worked for it. And if he didn't want it, he had no right to string along a bunch of other people, then yank the carpet out from under them."
O'Sullivan says it wasn't the first time Foley had backed out of a similar project. The wrestler, he notes, last year returned to WWE without informing his partners in the sitcom and didn't call anyone until four days after he appeared on WWE television. O'Sullivan says he blew it off at the time as just being "wrestling."
"They don't play by the same rules as the rest of society."
Several months later, says O'Sullivan, Foley approached another one of the show's producers and indicated that he was unhappy with the WWE work environment and was interested in coming back to the sitcom. O'Sullivan says at the time they were talking to several "name actors" about replacing Foley on the show.
"After scribes and producers had worked for close to a year on the show - writing and rewriting scripts, crisscrossing the country to attach talent (including, at Foley's personal request, former porn star Christy Canyon), and setting up pitches at various television outlets - Foley suddenly backed out of the project again, citing time constraints."
Although O'Sullivan now says his team "has other fish to fry," he's having a hard time accepting what happened.
"What he did to the team working on his show was far worse than what Vince McMahon did to him. Vince McMahon gave him a platform to perform on and paid him handsomely to do it. The folks working on Mick's project were working on spec, based solely on his involvement and participation and he couldn't be bothered to either honor his word or break it off before they got in too deep."
"I was a Mick Foley fan going back to his 'Cactus Jack Manson' days in the late 80's," says O'Sullivan. "I'll never disparage him for his hard work and dedication in wrestling. And deep down, he's probably not a horrible person. But he handled this situation very badly, was utterly selfish and disrespectful to people who were busting their (behinds) for him, and I don't have much respect for him at this point."
- The always-controversial Jesse "The Body" Ventura has taken on Major League Baseball and commissioner Bud Selig.
Noting that there's little difference between WWE owner Vince McMahon, who was accused and later found not guilty of distributing steroids to wrestlers during the early '90s, and Selig, who has overseen the increasing use of steroids in baseball, Ventura called for equally harsh criticism of Selig.
"In the early '90s, the federal government came into pro wrestling and tried to put Vince McMahon in prison for steroid use of wrestlers," the former pro wrestler and Minnesota governor recently told NBC's affiliate in Denver. "My question is: They've now determined 104 baseball players failed their steroid test in 2003 - 104. They indicted Vince McMahon; why aren't they indicting Bud Selig? He's the head of baseball ... it happened on his watch."
The baseball controversy recently hit fever pitch when Alex Rodriguez admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs for three years between 2001-03. Rodriguez was one of 104 players that tested positive in a 2003 test that was supposed to be anonymous and merely for informational purposes.
"What you have here is two sets of law enforcement," Ventura told the TV station. "One set: 'Oh, pro wrestling, let's go after the head of that and put him in prison for steroid use.' And pro wrestling is not even an athletic competition. We went to court and said we're sports entertainment. Here, you have a legitimate athletic competition with 104 guys using illegal drugs - cheating - and where's the indictment of Bud Selig on this?"
"They indicted Vince McMahon. He had to beat it with his own lawyers or go to prison," Ventura said. "How come Selig isn't being treated the same way?"
Ventura, who admitted in the '90s that he used steroids while he was a pro wrestler in the '80s, said he doubts that Selig and the other MLB owners were ignorant of the apparently rampant steroid use.
"You can't tell me for one minute that Bud Selig and the owners didn't know," said Ventura. "They were profiting from it. Baseball was dead in the water until the big home run race between (Mark) McGwire and Sosa - Sammy - and that rejuvenated baseball, made all the profits so Bud Selig could make $17 million a year."
- Condolences to Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk on the loss of their mother, Dorothy Funk Culver, 89, who recently passed away in Amarillo, Texas.
- D.H. Smith (Harry Smith), son of Diana Hart and the late British Bulldog (Davey Boy Smith), and T.J. Wilson, who the elder Smith trained, are expected to join Randy Orton's Legacy group. Wilson, going by the name of Tyson Kidd, made his WWE television debut on a recent edition of ECW on Sci-Fi and was managed by real-life girlfriend and fellow Calgary native Natalya (Nattie Neidhart).
Wilson was adopted into the Hart family at the age of 10 after befriending Teddy Hart. He also lived with Harry Smith for several years. He has dated Neidhart since 2001, and the two have lived together for more than five years.
WWE released the talented Scotty Goldman (former Ring of Honor star Colt Cabana) last week in somewhat of a surprise move.
- Robert Roode has signed a five-year contract extension with TNA.
"If TNA didn't step up to the plate, I would have tried a little bit harder (with WWE)," Roode told the Petersborough Examiner in his hometown in Ontario, Canada. "I have an agent working for me as well. It was one of those things where my heart wanted to stay here. And TNA wanted me to stay there too. So they stepped up to the plate and gave me a really nice offer."
- Last week's TNA Impact show set a company record with a 1.3 rating and nearly 1.9 million viewers. The show featured an "empty arena" match between Sting and Kurt Angle. The previous record was 1.8 million viewers on Jan. 15.
- Jim Cornette's much-anticipated book on The Midnight Express is expected to be out in April.
- From the "my how time flies" department: 16-time world champion "Nature Boy" Ric Flair celebrates his 60th birthday on Wednesday.
- Chris "The Masterpiece" Masters and Lodi will appear at an Old School Championship Wrestling show at 6 p.m. March 1 at Weekend's Pub, 428 Red Bank Road, Goose Creek. Former WCW performer Lodi also will defend his Universal title against Johnny Blaze.
Adult admission is $8; kids 12 and under $5. For more information, visit www.oscwonline.com or call 743-4800. (Credit: Mike Mooneyham)
Media Man Australia Profiles
"Rowdy" Roddy Piper
Wrestling
WWE
You didn't necessarily have to have the skill set of a Lou Thesz or the showmanship of a Gorgeous George (although those qualities certainly didn't hurt). But you did have to possess the ability to connect emotionally with your audience and give them a reason to part with their hard-earned cash.
That's exactly what Roddy Piper did last week on Raw when the battled-scarred veteran delivered one of the most impassioned promos to hit the wrestling airwaves in a long time. This wasn't one of Rowdy Roddy's rambling, sometimes incoherent interviews of recent years. This was vintage Piper, long regarded as one of the best stick men in the business, making Chris Jericho a bigger heel with every word that came out of his mouth.
At age 54, Piper didn't need to put himself over or try to steal any thunder from Jericho, who has become one of the most effective heels in the wrestling business over the past year. His interview put the spotlight squarely on Jericho and his Wrestlemania-bound program with actor Mickey Rourke.
It's the kind of stuff that draws fans into the storyline and, more importantly, gives them a reason to care about what happens in the ring. It's also what made Piper such a valuable commodity in the business for more than a quarter of a century.
"It was one of Piper's very best promos in his newer, kinder persona the past decade," said wrestling historian and photographer Mike Lano. "Very passionate, and more shoot than work in terms of everything he said about needing to respect both the business itself and the legends like himself who paved the way for a Chris Jericho to portray his current, cocky, know-it-all self. Piper gave a very heartfelt, unique promo on Raw that we've not heard from him before."
Lano, who has known Piper since his early ring days in Los Angeles during the mid-'70s, says the promo was pure Piper.
"That was as pure Rodney Toombs as it gets ... the truth that some actually need to hear (certainly not the real Chris Irvine) in the biz - delivered with magic and eloquence by the great orator himself."
Piper, who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in late 2006, now only infrequently appears on shows in the well-deserved role of "legend." But he proved last week that he can still work the magic and make people believe just like he did during the glory days of Mid-Atlantic Wrestling, Georgia Championship Wrestling and countless other territories throughout the country, as well as the World Wrestling Federation's national expansion in the mid-'80s.
- Give credit to WWE for a marked improvement in character and storyline development in recent months. One puzzling aspect, however, is how they have struggled with an otherwise can't-miss angle with Randy Orton. He's the hottest heel in the business in spite of having Shane McMahon, a 39-year-old non-wrestler, pounding him from pillar to post on recent shows, including No Way Out and the following night on Raw. Orton didn't lose either match, but he needed help from Legacy cohorts Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes. That's no way to portray your top moneymaking heel.
And I'm still trying to figure out why the company recently explained Orton's rash of violent behavior by declaring the self-proclaimed "Legend Killer" had the behavioral disorder IED (intermittent explosive disorder). It's also interesting to note that a number of medical sources link the disorder to steroids as IED can be exacerbated by steroid use based on chemical changes in the individual's brain. Orton, not surprisingly, has ties to past steroid use.
Orton, nevertheless, has earned his way to the top of the WWE food chain. He very well could be the most compelling character in the company, and his in-ring ability improves each week. Hopefully the creative team won't make the same mistake twice by turning him babyface. At least not anytime soon.
- WWE officials are ecstatic over Raw's 4.1 rating for Monday night's show where nearly six million viewers tuned in. The number was the highest since December 2007.
- Steve Austin, who will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in April, was being considered for a main-event match at Wrestlemania, most likely against Orton, but that possibility now seems remote in light of last weekend's title changes at No Way Out.
Now officially on "the road to Wrestlemania," the top bouts appear to be Orton vs. Triple H, with the current WWE world champ defending the title and the honor of the McMahon family (wife Stephanie, brother-in-law Shane and father-in-law Vince); John Cena vs. Edge for the WWE heavyweight title; and "Mr. Wrestlemania" Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker with Taker's Mania streak on the line.
Mickey Rourke, who appears to be the sentimental favorite going into tonight's Academy Awards show, is scheduled to be this year's guest celebrity in an angle with Chris Jericho.
Hulk Hogan said Friday on the Bubba The Love Sponge show that it was unlikely he would appear at Wrestlemania 25. The Hulkster said a recent conversation with Vince McMahon failed to produce a mutually acceptable scenario.
Rumors of a possible Hogan vs. Chris Jericho or Hogan vs. John Cena match had been floated in recent weeks. The 55-year-old Hogan has tried to drum up support for a Wrestlemania appearance the past three years without results. Hogan could conceivably be brought in for this year's 25th anniversary show if Rourke decides not to step into the ring.
- Comments continue to come in from the wrestling community regarding "The Wrestler."
Charlie Thesz, widow of legendary six-time NWA world champion Lou Thesz, was among those disappointed with the movie.
"I respect the independent film industry and working within a budget, but more research would have been a good investment," she said last week. "I didn't consider it a statement on the lower end of professional wrestling, as much as on the lower end of humanity. However, if wrestling was the chosen venue, why not have the professionalism in the film industry to honestly represent the wrestling industry? I am not denying the seediness of pro wrestling at its lowest level. I guess it is how my doctor friends feel about medical shows ... we are a little too smart for our own enjoyment."
Thomas Simpson, a professor at the University of South Carolina-Union and a College of Charleston alumnus who helped found the North Carolina-based OMEGA wrestling promotion, credits Rourke with a wonderful performance and thought "The Wrestler" was "an extremely well-made film."
"However, it is as realistic as Aranofski's 'Pi,'" added Simpson, referring to a 1998 psychological thriller directed by "The Wrestler" filmmaker Darren Aronofsky. "Early in the film, when the caricature promoter stiffs Randy 'The Ram' and he just sits there and takes it, that's a fantasy. If you want to see a 'legend' or a 'name' get angry, short their pay. I've been witness to some ugly incidents over the years (none due to my own actions). I found it hard to believe Randy was sleeping in his van. Someone like him would have a mark around who would put him up. Showing him on the gas was also a joke; indy guys his age don't have the means to do it. That movie is just pure melodramatic hooey."
- The proposed sitcom starring TNA star Mick Foley has been derailed, and producer Richard O'Sullivan is none too happy.
The South Carolina-born writer, producer and director is fuming over the fact that Foley backed out of the "Have A Nice Day" project. The comedy was built around Foley's true-life personality. He was to have played himself - a former pro wrestler and best-selling author who was pursuing an acting career. Producers had hoped to roll by this spring.
O'Sullivan says Foley had helped initiate the Lost Colony Entertainment project in 2008 with longtime friend Gail Bleckman of New York-based Amdram Productions. O'Sullivan came aboard as a writer and producer shortly thereafter and scripted the show's pilot episode.
"Mick has said over and over that he was disappointed with the whole show-pitching process because he had shows rejected so many times. And I related to that, and empathized with him. But what I can't relate to is his passive-aggressive BS attitude.
"If Jim Belushi wants a show, his agent or his production company set up meetings, they go in to talk to packagers, get other name talent attached, talk to financiers, then they go sit down with networks and they push to get a show. Mick didn't want to do that. He wanted something hand-delivered to him like (agent) Barry Bloom hand-delivers him his wrestling contracts."
O'Sullivan says that's not how the non-wrestling show-biz world works.
"Nobody hand-delivers anything to anybody in TV or film. Marshall Herskovitz is the president of the Producers Guild of America, and he had to launch a show on the Internet because he couldn't get network distribution. Martin Scorsese has had trouble getting projects launched. Robert Rodriquez has had major projects yanked out from under him at big studios. (Steven) Spielberg has even had to battle tooth-and-nail to wrestle Dreamworks back and get it positioned with the right deal.
"But guys like that keep going. They keep busting their (behinds). They never sit back and say 'Barry, bring me this.' Mick, though, has grown accustomed to having deals brought to him by Barry Bloom on a silver platter. And for the past 15 years, he's had two companies waiting in the wings to vie for his services. He bounced from WCW to WWE then to TNA. He always had that deal waiting for him like the morning paper and yeah, good for him, he broke his body for two decades in wrestling and he deserves to have those deals ... in wrestling. But what he doesn't deserve is the right to (take advantage of) other people on a whim."
O'Sullivan says Foley cited time constraints, specifically his TNA wrestling schedule and family commitments, as reasons for backing out of the project. He also questions whether Foley was really committed.
Foley himself expressed some reservation about the project during an interview several months ago. "You have to sell these concepts to the networks," Foley said in October. "Best I can tell that hasn't happened. I might be so tied up with TNA that I might not have time to make a decent attempt at network television."
O'Sullivan says the sitcom would have given both Foley and TNA major exposure.
"I'm terribly sorry that Hollywood isn't just sitting there waiting for Mick Foley to climb out of the ring and hobble over for a big guaranteed check and a start date. His name means very little outside of wrestling. It did 10 years ago but those days are long gone. His name meant a little when he was WWE and it means a little at Spike, but that network isn't throwing money into production."
O'Sullivan says one thing the show had going for it was "the Mickey Rourke buzz" as a result of the commercial success of "The Wrestler."
"It had a shot of being sold because studios and networks are taking a look at wrestling-related content now. But even that has a shelf life. The window isn't going to stay open for long. Hollywood-at-large isn't 'the Barry Bloom vacuum.' It's a whole other animal. And if he wanted it, he would've worked for it. And if he didn't want it, he had no right to string along a bunch of other people, then yank the carpet out from under them."
O'Sullivan says it wasn't the first time Foley had backed out of a similar project. The wrestler, he notes, last year returned to WWE without informing his partners in the sitcom and didn't call anyone until four days after he appeared on WWE television. O'Sullivan says he blew it off at the time as just being "wrestling."
"They don't play by the same rules as the rest of society."
Several months later, says O'Sullivan, Foley approached another one of the show's producers and indicated that he was unhappy with the WWE work environment and was interested in coming back to the sitcom. O'Sullivan says at the time they were talking to several "name actors" about replacing Foley on the show.
"After scribes and producers had worked for close to a year on the show - writing and rewriting scripts, crisscrossing the country to attach talent (including, at Foley's personal request, former porn star Christy Canyon), and setting up pitches at various television outlets - Foley suddenly backed out of the project again, citing time constraints."
Although O'Sullivan now says his team "has other fish to fry," he's having a hard time accepting what happened.
"What he did to the team working on his show was far worse than what Vince McMahon did to him. Vince McMahon gave him a platform to perform on and paid him handsomely to do it. The folks working on Mick's project were working on spec, based solely on his involvement and participation and he couldn't be bothered to either honor his word or break it off before they got in too deep."
"I was a Mick Foley fan going back to his 'Cactus Jack Manson' days in the late 80's," says O'Sullivan. "I'll never disparage him for his hard work and dedication in wrestling. And deep down, he's probably not a horrible person. But he handled this situation very badly, was utterly selfish and disrespectful to people who were busting their (behinds) for him, and I don't have much respect for him at this point."
- The always-controversial Jesse "The Body" Ventura has taken on Major League Baseball and commissioner Bud Selig.
Noting that there's little difference between WWE owner Vince McMahon, who was accused and later found not guilty of distributing steroids to wrestlers during the early '90s, and Selig, who has overseen the increasing use of steroids in baseball, Ventura called for equally harsh criticism of Selig.
"In the early '90s, the federal government came into pro wrestling and tried to put Vince McMahon in prison for steroid use of wrestlers," the former pro wrestler and Minnesota governor recently told NBC's affiliate in Denver. "My question is: They've now determined 104 baseball players failed their steroid test in 2003 - 104. They indicted Vince McMahon; why aren't they indicting Bud Selig? He's the head of baseball ... it happened on his watch."
The baseball controversy recently hit fever pitch when Alex Rodriguez admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs for three years between 2001-03. Rodriguez was one of 104 players that tested positive in a 2003 test that was supposed to be anonymous and merely for informational purposes.
"What you have here is two sets of law enforcement," Ventura told the TV station. "One set: 'Oh, pro wrestling, let's go after the head of that and put him in prison for steroid use.' And pro wrestling is not even an athletic competition. We went to court and said we're sports entertainment. Here, you have a legitimate athletic competition with 104 guys using illegal drugs - cheating - and where's the indictment of Bud Selig on this?"
"They indicted Vince McMahon. He had to beat it with his own lawyers or go to prison," Ventura said. "How come Selig isn't being treated the same way?"
Ventura, who admitted in the '90s that he used steroids while he was a pro wrestler in the '80s, said he doubts that Selig and the other MLB owners were ignorant of the apparently rampant steroid use.
"You can't tell me for one minute that Bud Selig and the owners didn't know," said Ventura. "They were profiting from it. Baseball was dead in the water until the big home run race between (Mark) McGwire and Sosa - Sammy - and that rejuvenated baseball, made all the profits so Bud Selig could make $17 million a year."
- Condolences to Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk on the loss of their mother, Dorothy Funk Culver, 89, who recently passed away in Amarillo, Texas.
- D.H. Smith (Harry Smith), son of Diana Hart and the late British Bulldog (Davey Boy Smith), and T.J. Wilson, who the elder Smith trained, are expected to join Randy Orton's Legacy group. Wilson, going by the name of Tyson Kidd, made his WWE television debut on a recent edition of ECW on Sci-Fi and was managed by real-life girlfriend and fellow Calgary native Natalya (Nattie Neidhart).
Wilson was adopted into the Hart family at the age of 10 after befriending Teddy Hart. He also lived with Harry Smith for several years. He has dated Neidhart since 2001, and the two have lived together for more than five years.
WWE released the talented Scotty Goldman (former Ring of Honor star Colt Cabana) last week in somewhat of a surprise move.
- Robert Roode has signed a five-year contract extension with TNA.
"If TNA didn't step up to the plate, I would have tried a little bit harder (with WWE)," Roode told the Petersborough Examiner in his hometown in Ontario, Canada. "I have an agent working for me as well. It was one of those things where my heart wanted to stay here. And TNA wanted me to stay there too. So they stepped up to the plate and gave me a really nice offer."
- Last week's TNA Impact show set a company record with a 1.3 rating and nearly 1.9 million viewers. The show featured an "empty arena" match between Sting and Kurt Angle. The previous record was 1.8 million viewers on Jan. 15.
- Jim Cornette's much-anticipated book on The Midnight Express is expected to be out in April.
- From the "my how time flies" department: 16-time world champion "Nature Boy" Ric Flair celebrates his 60th birthday on Wednesday.
- Chris "The Masterpiece" Masters and Lodi will appear at an Old School Championship Wrestling show at 6 p.m. March 1 at Weekend's Pub, 428 Red Bank Road, Goose Creek. Former WCW performer Lodi also will defend his Universal title against Johnny Blaze.
Adult admission is $8; kids 12 and under $5. For more information, visit www.oscwonline.com or call 743-4800. (Credit: Mike Mooneyham)
Media Man Australia Profiles
"Rowdy" Roddy Piper
Wrestling
WWE
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Mickey Rourke countdown -- one day left
Mickey Rourke is up for Best Actor at Sunday's Academy Awards for his powerful portrayal of Randy the Ram Robinson in "The Wrestler." Win or lose, we know Rourke can act like a wrestler. But how many wrestlers can really act?
Well, there's Duane Johnson, better known as The Rock. He's has significant roles in "The Scorpion King," "The Mummy Returns," "Walking Tall," "Gridiron Gang" and "Get Smart," among other films and TV shows. And while he's not bad as an actor, neither his performances nor the films in which he's worked are awards-worthy.
And there's Hulk Hogan, who's been in "Rocky III," "Mr. Nanny," and "Suburban Commando," among others. But again, while highly entertaining, no one has taken the Hulkster's acting or his movies all that seriously, and for good reason.
Rowdy Roddy Piper may have given the best serious dramatic performance by a current or former professional wrestler when he starred in John Carpenter's "They Live" (1988).
Piper plays a construction worker trying to find work in tough economic times who gradually comes to understand the society is being controlled by non-human aliens. Piper's performance isn't quite on the level of Mickey Rourke's and "They Live" isn't in "The Wrestler's" class but Piper is believable, in a serious role, and the film, despite having an aura of intentional camp, has a well-deserved cult following because its underlying themes about threats to our humanity are as compelling today as they were 21 years ago.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wresting
Well, there's Duane Johnson, better known as The Rock. He's has significant roles in "The Scorpion King," "The Mummy Returns," "Walking Tall," "Gridiron Gang" and "Get Smart," among other films and TV shows. And while he's not bad as an actor, neither his performances nor the films in which he's worked are awards-worthy.
And there's Hulk Hogan, who's been in "Rocky III," "Mr. Nanny," and "Suburban Commando," among others. But again, while highly entertaining, no one has taken the Hulkster's acting or his movies all that seriously, and for good reason.
Rowdy Roddy Piper may have given the best serious dramatic performance by a current or former professional wrestler when he starred in John Carpenter's "They Live" (1988).
Piper plays a construction worker trying to find work in tough economic times who gradually comes to understand the society is being controlled by non-human aliens. Piper's performance isn't quite on the level of Mickey Rourke's and "They Live" isn't in "The Wrestler's" class but Piper is believable, in a serious role, and the film, despite having an aura of intentional camp, has a well-deserved cult following because its underlying themes about threats to our humanity are as compelling today as they were 21 years ago.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wresting
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Bret Hart rips "The Wrestler," thanks Vince McMahon for his wrestling career - Pro Wrestling Torch - 16th February 2009
Former WWE champion Bret Hart had only heard about "The Wrestler" from colleagues and friends before recently watching Darren Aronofsky's critically-acclaimed film. Now, Hart believes the movie is a "dark misinterpretation" of the wrestling business.
Hart is most concerned about audiences walking away from the movie thinking every story in wrestling has a tragic ending.
"The film isn't so much an exposé of the wrestling business as it really is; rather, it shows us what a lot of people outside the business think it is," Bret wrote in a column published Macleans Magazine in Canada. "I'm uncomfortable that audiences will unconsciously assume every wrestling has-been comes to a tragic end."
Hart, as a former World champ and not a sad former wrestler, says wrestlers will feel embarrassed "by the film's unbalanced portrayal in which there's no respect for our art or our dignity."
In a surprising gesture, Hart also thanked Vince McMahon for creating a mainstream platform for wrestlers to thrive.
"Wrestling has given me a great life and for that I thank Vince McMahon," Hart said. "Vince and I have had major differences, but... it's only fair I give the devil his due, because it's Vince who succeeded in taking pro wrestling out of back alleys and dingy halls like those in the movie and made it marketable, mainstream and just plain fun to watch."
Hart said many wrestlers "swerve off the road" after their careers because they don't know how to live off the road, but not every story goes so far off the given path, such as "The Wrestler" depicts.
"Although the film speaks superbly to the speed bumps all pro wrestlers navigate, I'm happy to report most of us don't swerve off the road quite so severely," he said.
Greg Tingle comment...
Bret Hart makes some very good points here regarding 'The Wrestler'. The film shows one of the worst case scenarios imaginable. One may may choose to make comparisons of Randy "The Ram" Robinson to that of Jake "The Snake" Roberts, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper or whomever, but not all the original WWE and WWF cast is dead. Obviously Owen Hart's untimely death comes to mind, however that was stunt related. Was Owen "forced" or cornered to do the stunt, or not, is something that has been well documented in the past. When boundaries and pushed to extremes that is when people can get seriously hurt or die. I recall world renowned businessman, Sir Richard Branson, taking a stunt fall down a high rise building to launch a Virgin brand product a few years ago. Richard Branson is the ultimate boss at Virgin, so he would have had to agree to pushing the boundaries to the extreme, and he did get bruises up in the progress. How far from death he was, we will never know, just as we don't know how far pro wrestlers travel to the line. Bret Hart is more than qualified to speak and document his thoughts on 'The Wrestler'. It's refreshing to see Hart and McMahon agree on something...The WWE is not 'The Wrestler', however the pro wrestling business does carry one of the highest early mortality rates of any business. John "Bradshaw" Layfield has also made some very valid points in his commentary about "The Wrestler". Some pro wrestlers may have had it even worse that Randy, but thankfully the vast majority have it much better than "The Ram". Bret Hart, Vince McMahon and Mickey Rourke are all champions who have survived very different roads to be in the position they assume today. They are all successful, whatever "successful" is these days. They are all alive and appear happy, and largely enjoy the respect of the masses. Here's to Bret speaking out and defending the professional which made him a legend.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
The Wrestler
Wrestling
Hart is most concerned about audiences walking away from the movie thinking every story in wrestling has a tragic ending.
"The film isn't so much an exposé of the wrestling business as it really is; rather, it shows us what a lot of people outside the business think it is," Bret wrote in a column published Macleans Magazine in Canada. "I'm uncomfortable that audiences will unconsciously assume every wrestling has-been comes to a tragic end."
Hart, as a former World champ and not a sad former wrestler, says wrestlers will feel embarrassed "by the film's unbalanced portrayal in which there's no respect for our art or our dignity."
In a surprising gesture, Hart also thanked Vince McMahon for creating a mainstream platform for wrestlers to thrive.
"Wrestling has given me a great life and for that I thank Vince McMahon," Hart said. "Vince and I have had major differences, but... it's only fair I give the devil his due, because it's Vince who succeeded in taking pro wrestling out of back alleys and dingy halls like those in the movie and made it marketable, mainstream and just plain fun to watch."
Hart said many wrestlers "swerve off the road" after their careers because they don't know how to live off the road, but not every story goes so far off the given path, such as "The Wrestler" depicts.
"Although the film speaks superbly to the speed bumps all pro wrestlers navigate, I'm happy to report most of us don't swerve off the road quite so severely," he said.
Greg Tingle comment...
Bret Hart makes some very good points here regarding 'The Wrestler'. The film shows one of the worst case scenarios imaginable. One may may choose to make comparisons of Randy "The Ram" Robinson to that of Jake "The Snake" Roberts, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper or whomever, but not all the original WWE and WWF cast is dead. Obviously Owen Hart's untimely death comes to mind, however that was stunt related. Was Owen "forced" or cornered to do the stunt, or not, is something that has been well documented in the past. When boundaries and pushed to extremes that is when people can get seriously hurt or die. I recall world renowned businessman, Sir Richard Branson, taking a stunt fall down a high rise building to launch a Virgin brand product a few years ago. Richard Branson is the ultimate boss at Virgin, so he would have had to agree to pushing the boundaries to the extreme, and he did get bruises up in the progress. How far from death he was, we will never know, just as we don't know how far pro wrestlers travel to the line. Bret Hart is more than qualified to speak and document his thoughts on 'The Wrestler'. It's refreshing to see Hart and McMahon agree on something...The WWE is not 'The Wrestler', however the pro wrestling business does carry one of the highest early mortality rates of any business. John "Bradshaw" Layfield has also made some very valid points in his commentary about "The Wrestler". Some pro wrestlers may have had it even worse that Randy, but thankfully the vast majority have it much better than "The Ram". Bret Hart, Vince McMahon and Mickey Rourke are all champions who have survived very different roads to be in the position they assume today. They are all successful, whatever "successful" is these days. They are all alive and appear happy, and largely enjoy the respect of the masses. Here's to Bret speaking out and defending the professional which made him a legend.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
The Wrestler
Wrestling
The Hitman versus ‘The Wrestler’ - Maclean's - 16th February 2009
This former champion finds the Mickey Rourke movie disturbing and disrespectful
The Wrestler is being lauded as the definitive portrayal of pro wrestling, but I submit that’s only because no one has asked a real wrestling champion about it—until now. In the movie, Randy “The Ram” Robinson was a main-eventer who sold out Madison Square Garden. So was I. The movie opens with a montage of clippings and event posters eerily similar to the ones in my personal collection. I lived that life for real. I liked the movie, and I’m disturbed by it.
In director Darren Aronofsky’s astutely layered vision there are glimpses into a shrouded world considered fake by all but those who live in it—for them, it’s the only reality they know. Nuggets of truth make the story believable. Mickey Rourke’s clairvoyant performance makes it compelling.
The film isn’t so much an exposé of the wrestling business as it really is; rather, it shows us what a lot of people outside the business think it is. With this dark misinterpretation presented in such a plausible and dramatic way, many wrestlers who’ve sacrificed so much to entertain their fans—their bodies, their families—now feel embarrassed by the film’s unbalanced portrayal in which there’s no respect for our art or our dignity. I’m uncomfortable that audiences will unconsciously assume every wrestling has-been comes to a tragic end.
Traditional sports have an off-season but me and the boys were on the road 300 days a year. As a former WWF (now WWE) champion I travelled the world for 23 years straight, 1978 to 2000, wrestling every night, sometimes more than once, plus promotional appearances and working out. It takes over your life 24/7 and, especially before cellphones and email, no matter how hard I tried, it was impossible not to become distant from my family, my kids. Most, maybe all, the boys suffered the same isolation, and soon strangers became family and family became strangers. Almost all who escaped came back, having no clue how to make it on the outside.
Pro wrestlers don’t have medical benefits, a pension plan, or a union. I’m not complaining. Wrestling has been very good to me, despite heart-wrenching disappointments, betrayals, and too many deaths to want to count any more—including my youngest brother, Owen, who fell to his demise from the rafters of an arena on a WWF pay-per- view during an ill-conceived stunt.
I was retired from the ring by an errant kick to the head, on live pay-per-view, which resulted in a concussion so brutal my doctor used the word hamburger to describe the back of my brain. That was followed by a stroke that paralyzed the entire left side of my body. Battling back was the toughest fight of my life by far, and, although I’m left with permanent effects, I’m grateful that when people meet me I can still measure up to their memory of the hero I’d long pretended to be. I still sign autographs all over the world and my fans still come out in droves. I’m humbled when they tell me, time and again, that my wrestling character inspired them in some way to make positive changes in their lives.
Wrestling has given me a great life and for that I thank Vince McMahon. Vince and I have had major differences, but I’ve not minced words and my autobiography (Hitman) is a testament to that. When evaluating the impact of The Wrestler on the wrestling business it’s only fair I give the devil his due, because it’s Vince who succeeded in taking pro wrestling out of back alleys and dingy halls like those in the movie and made it marketable, mainstream and just plain fun to watch. He couldn’t have done it without a talented roster of wrestlers. To go out there and tell a credible and dramatic story with no retakes, in front of a live audience, with nothing but your body, your opponent, and a 20- by 20-foot ring, is an art form that takes dedicated training, physical and mental stamina, athletic agility, charisma and ring psychology to create what I always thought of as mini-movies. Those who perform this art old-school take pride in creating the illusion of realism without actually hurting our opponents.
We don’t know what wrong turn brought Randy the Ram to subsist in desperation on the lowest fringes of some perverted putrefaction that barely resembles the wrestling business I know. Although the film speaks superbly to the speed bumps all pro wrestlers navigate, I’m happy to report most of us don’t swerve off the road quite so severely.
Bret Hart is the author of Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling (Credit: Maclean's)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
The Wrestler
Wrestling
The Wrestler is being lauded as the definitive portrayal of pro wrestling, but I submit that’s only because no one has asked a real wrestling champion about it—until now. In the movie, Randy “The Ram” Robinson was a main-eventer who sold out Madison Square Garden. So was I. The movie opens with a montage of clippings and event posters eerily similar to the ones in my personal collection. I lived that life for real. I liked the movie, and I’m disturbed by it.
In director Darren Aronofsky’s astutely layered vision there are glimpses into a shrouded world considered fake by all but those who live in it—for them, it’s the only reality they know. Nuggets of truth make the story believable. Mickey Rourke’s clairvoyant performance makes it compelling.
The film isn’t so much an exposé of the wrestling business as it really is; rather, it shows us what a lot of people outside the business think it is. With this dark misinterpretation presented in such a plausible and dramatic way, many wrestlers who’ve sacrificed so much to entertain their fans—their bodies, their families—now feel embarrassed by the film’s unbalanced portrayal in which there’s no respect for our art or our dignity. I’m uncomfortable that audiences will unconsciously assume every wrestling has-been comes to a tragic end.
Traditional sports have an off-season but me and the boys were on the road 300 days a year. As a former WWF (now WWE) champion I travelled the world for 23 years straight, 1978 to 2000, wrestling every night, sometimes more than once, plus promotional appearances and working out. It takes over your life 24/7 and, especially before cellphones and email, no matter how hard I tried, it was impossible not to become distant from my family, my kids. Most, maybe all, the boys suffered the same isolation, and soon strangers became family and family became strangers. Almost all who escaped came back, having no clue how to make it on the outside.
Pro wrestlers don’t have medical benefits, a pension plan, or a union. I’m not complaining. Wrestling has been very good to me, despite heart-wrenching disappointments, betrayals, and too many deaths to want to count any more—including my youngest brother, Owen, who fell to his demise from the rafters of an arena on a WWF pay-per- view during an ill-conceived stunt.
I was retired from the ring by an errant kick to the head, on live pay-per-view, which resulted in a concussion so brutal my doctor used the word hamburger to describe the back of my brain. That was followed by a stroke that paralyzed the entire left side of my body. Battling back was the toughest fight of my life by far, and, although I’m left with permanent effects, I’m grateful that when people meet me I can still measure up to their memory of the hero I’d long pretended to be. I still sign autographs all over the world and my fans still come out in droves. I’m humbled when they tell me, time and again, that my wrestling character inspired them in some way to make positive changes in their lives.
Wrestling has given me a great life and for that I thank Vince McMahon. Vince and I have had major differences, but I’ve not minced words and my autobiography (Hitman) is a testament to that. When evaluating the impact of The Wrestler on the wrestling business it’s only fair I give the devil his due, because it’s Vince who succeeded in taking pro wrestling out of back alleys and dingy halls like those in the movie and made it marketable, mainstream and just plain fun to watch. He couldn’t have done it without a talented roster of wrestlers. To go out there and tell a credible and dramatic story with no retakes, in front of a live audience, with nothing but your body, your opponent, and a 20- by 20-foot ring, is an art form that takes dedicated training, physical and mental stamina, athletic agility, charisma and ring psychology to create what I always thought of as mini-movies. Those who perform this art old-school take pride in creating the illusion of realism without actually hurting our opponents.
We don’t know what wrong turn brought Randy the Ram to subsist in desperation on the lowest fringes of some perverted putrefaction that barely resembles the wrestling business I know. Although the film speaks superbly to the speed bumps all pro wrestlers navigate, I’m happy to report most of us don’t swerve off the road quite so severely.
Bret Hart is the author of Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling (Credit: Maclean's)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
The Wrestler
Wrestling
Sunday, February 01, 2009
WWE News: JBL describes his biggest fear of ending up broke, like in "The Wrestler", By James Caldwell, PWTorch.com assistant editor
In the current U.S. economic situation, diversifying where the money is coming from and where investment money is going is very important to maintain a healthy financial position.
Eventually we'll see how WWE's incoming revenue and outgoing investments fared in the fourth quarter 2008 and overall year, as the company is delayed in announcing revenue results for last quarter, but WWE Raw star JBL is taking the "diversification" route very seriously.
He reveals in his latest WWE Universe blog that it's partly out of fear for ending up broke, with real-life imitating art through the Shawn Michaels employment storyline.
JBL has diversified his income sources through the creation of Layfield Energy to distribute energy-related products in case the WWE career and financial analyst positions fall through. Yet, he remains haunted by a fear in the wrestling aspect of his job aspirations.
"My biggest fear is to end up broke," JBL said on WWE Universe. "I once saw an old wrestler who had made a lot of money working as the ground keeper at a Red Roof in Charlotte - that has haunted me to this day."
JBL points to his age as one reason why recently watching "The Wrestler" movie "scares me." Motivated partially by fear, JBL doesn't want end up like some of his peers.
"It's one reason I work so hard to not be him," JBL said. "Because there are a lot of guys who have made a lot of money who have ended up broke, and that is very sad."
Link: JBL blog on WWE Universe.
Caldwell's Analysis: It's tough to thrive in the current economic environment because it's easy to live in a state of fear about job security, not only in WWE, but in real-world jobs where valued workers are actually called employees, not bogus independent contractors. Every day, I hear about a friend who's living in fear of losing his or her job, or recently was laid off. I'm sure many of you Torch readers have experienced someone close being in that situation.
It's certainly not a WWE-only thing, but many wrestlers are considered to be paranoid by nature because they're competing for TV spots and PPV headlining-matches in a very subjective environment of deciding who gets those spots. So, when you see a wrestler protect his body in the ring or wrestle a soft match, don't think it's because the wrestler is trying to cheat the fans, but because he has to protect his investment on a constant basis, especially with WWE releasing talent left and right.
Which brings me to another point on the ultimate oxymoron in the world of an "independent contractor being released." How does someone who's considered "independent" of a company become released? WWE doesn't have any right to "release" someone, when the contractor - in the spirit of the law - should control the work he or she is to perform. It's completely ludicrous. End Rant.
Greg Tingle comment...
All respect to JBL for speaking on these things. My late father, who was mates (and workmates) with a few of the Australian pro wrestlers in the 1980s, thanks to the truck driving profession (where a few of the pro wrestlers got their real pay days) told me.. "balance is the key". I'm not certain the term had been coined back then, but he meant Mind, Body and Spirit. We said along the lines of "work on the body and work on the mind, and work hard".
It's in the best interests of the wrestlers (and their loved ones) that they do prepare for rainy day. As we know, the WWE business model can only allow for a certain amount of workers to be on the books at any one time. It's great the pro wrestling can offer huge exposure via the audience and to network big wigs and the like. Standing out from the pack and being very good or excellent at something else has proven to be a largely successful formula. The best wrestlers are usually very good actors, and they take that mainstream, sometimes with assistance from WWE Studios, sometimes in non WWE productions.
Wrestlers doing MMA, indy productions and "shoot interviews" has mixed results for their career path.
The bottom line is that the pro wrestler needs to do their best, in and out of the ring, to help ensure their livelihood for the day that they hang up their tights and are no longer wanted or needed by the world's top and highest paying pro wrestling promotions. The worker needs to protect their best interests, and that includes taking calculated risks and putting on the best show possible, that both promoter and fans will be happy with, but not killing themselves by getting banged up too badly in the progress.
Next time you think about giving a star rating to a pro wrestling match, think outside the square and take into consideration that the wrestler may be pacing themselves or be in the middle of a hectic travel schedule, or even be in great pain.
JBL's holistic approach - wrestling, financials, private business, commentating and the spot of writing, and intelligent choice of life and business partners, appears to be very sound, and would appear to be a good model for other pro wrestlers to follow. Of course, most pro wrestlers haven't got their pro wrestling to JBL's stage, but it sure the hell is something to aspire to.
I witnessed JBL wrestle in person at a roughhouse wrestling venue in Germany approx 15 years ago, and I had no idea he would make it as big as he has. Nothing stays the same forever... careers go in cycles - up and down. JBL was putting the work in way back then, and I had no idea that he was heading for greatness, but he sure worked hard in the match. JBL must have had a plan and a vision, and he knew where was heading - to the top of one of the the professions in the world.
Disclaimer: I joined JBL's Layfield Energy b2b program as a both a mark of respect and support for wrestlers who can see beyond the flashy lights and body slamming. Our website already has WWE, MBS and JBL content, and attracts over 1 million hits per month, so it was a perfect fit. If it makes some good money for me, that's a bonus, but I did as respect and to support JBL's smarts, guts and leadership. It's great to see that more pro wrestlers and starting to "get it", and much like (some) Australian NRL (National Rugby League) players and clubs, are taking steps to plan for the future, for when their bodies or desire won't be up to being just that "slice of meat" that the promoters hired them to be. The business needs more JBL's, and I would think the McMahon and other top promoters would be supportive. It also helps protect their investment and reputations. Here's to success on all levels.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
John Bradshaw Layfield
Layfield's Energy
Wrestling
The Wrestler
Eventually we'll see how WWE's incoming revenue and outgoing investments fared in the fourth quarter 2008 and overall year, as the company is delayed in announcing revenue results for last quarter, but WWE Raw star JBL is taking the "diversification" route very seriously.
He reveals in his latest WWE Universe blog that it's partly out of fear for ending up broke, with real-life imitating art through the Shawn Michaels employment storyline.
JBL has diversified his income sources through the creation of Layfield Energy to distribute energy-related products in case the WWE career and financial analyst positions fall through. Yet, he remains haunted by a fear in the wrestling aspect of his job aspirations.
"My biggest fear is to end up broke," JBL said on WWE Universe. "I once saw an old wrestler who had made a lot of money working as the ground keeper at a Red Roof in Charlotte - that has haunted me to this day."
JBL points to his age as one reason why recently watching "The Wrestler" movie "scares me." Motivated partially by fear, JBL doesn't want end up like some of his peers.
"It's one reason I work so hard to not be him," JBL said. "Because there are a lot of guys who have made a lot of money who have ended up broke, and that is very sad."
Link: JBL blog on WWE Universe.
Caldwell's Analysis: It's tough to thrive in the current economic environment because it's easy to live in a state of fear about job security, not only in WWE, but in real-world jobs where valued workers are actually called employees, not bogus independent contractors. Every day, I hear about a friend who's living in fear of losing his or her job, or recently was laid off. I'm sure many of you Torch readers have experienced someone close being in that situation.
It's certainly not a WWE-only thing, but many wrestlers are considered to be paranoid by nature because they're competing for TV spots and PPV headlining-matches in a very subjective environment of deciding who gets those spots. So, when you see a wrestler protect his body in the ring or wrestle a soft match, don't think it's because the wrestler is trying to cheat the fans, but because he has to protect his investment on a constant basis, especially with WWE releasing talent left and right.
Which brings me to another point on the ultimate oxymoron in the world of an "independent contractor being released." How does someone who's considered "independent" of a company become released? WWE doesn't have any right to "release" someone, when the contractor - in the spirit of the law - should control the work he or she is to perform. It's completely ludicrous. End Rant.
Greg Tingle comment...
All respect to JBL for speaking on these things. My late father, who was mates (and workmates) with a few of the Australian pro wrestlers in the 1980s, thanks to the truck driving profession (where a few of the pro wrestlers got their real pay days) told me.. "balance is the key". I'm not certain the term had been coined back then, but he meant Mind, Body and Spirit. We said along the lines of "work on the body and work on the mind, and work hard".
It's in the best interests of the wrestlers (and their loved ones) that they do prepare for rainy day. As we know, the WWE business model can only allow for a certain amount of workers to be on the books at any one time. It's great the pro wrestling can offer huge exposure via the audience and to network big wigs and the like. Standing out from the pack and being very good or excellent at something else has proven to be a largely successful formula. The best wrestlers are usually very good actors, and they take that mainstream, sometimes with assistance from WWE Studios, sometimes in non WWE productions.
Wrestlers doing MMA, indy productions and "shoot interviews" has mixed results for their career path.
The bottom line is that the pro wrestler needs to do their best, in and out of the ring, to help ensure their livelihood for the day that they hang up their tights and are no longer wanted or needed by the world's top and highest paying pro wrestling promotions. The worker needs to protect their best interests, and that includes taking calculated risks and putting on the best show possible, that both promoter and fans will be happy with, but not killing themselves by getting banged up too badly in the progress.
Next time you think about giving a star rating to a pro wrestling match, think outside the square and take into consideration that the wrestler may be pacing themselves or be in the middle of a hectic travel schedule, or even be in great pain.
JBL's holistic approach - wrestling, financials, private business, commentating and the spot of writing, and intelligent choice of life and business partners, appears to be very sound, and would appear to be a good model for other pro wrestlers to follow. Of course, most pro wrestlers haven't got their pro wrestling to JBL's stage, but it sure the hell is something to aspire to.
I witnessed JBL wrestle in person at a roughhouse wrestling venue in Germany approx 15 years ago, and I had no idea he would make it as big as he has. Nothing stays the same forever... careers go in cycles - up and down. JBL was putting the work in way back then, and I had no idea that he was heading for greatness, but he sure worked hard in the match. JBL must have had a plan and a vision, and he knew where was heading - to the top of one of the the professions in the world.
Disclaimer: I joined JBL's Layfield Energy b2b program as a both a mark of respect and support for wrestlers who can see beyond the flashy lights and body slamming. Our website already has WWE, MBS and JBL content, and attracts over 1 million hits per month, so it was a perfect fit. If it makes some good money for me, that's a bonus, but I did as respect and to support JBL's smarts, guts and leadership. It's great to see that more pro wrestlers and starting to "get it", and much like (some) Australian NRL (National Rugby League) players and clubs, are taking steps to plan for the future, for when their bodies or desire won't be up to being just that "slice of meat" that the promoters hired them to be. The business needs more JBL's, and I would think the McMahon and other top promoters would be supportive. It also helps protect their investment and reputations. Here's to success on all levels.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
John Bradshaw Layfield
Layfield's Energy
Wrestling
The Wrestler
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
'Legends of Wrestling' is a great look back, by Mark Satrang, Pro Wrestling Examiner - 27th January 2009
Today, January 27, 2009, World Wrestling Entertainment released another fantastic DVD set, this one entitled “Legends of Wrestling.”
The 3-disc boxed set features a series of roundtable discussions from long-time wrestling personalities and Hall of Famers in their own right, talking about other legends and important moments in wrestling history. The format features a moderator and four long-time wrestling personalities sitting roundtable style giving their uncensored thoughts on the subjects at hand. The discussion is truly unscripted and unfiltered, as these panelists have known and worked with these discussion subjects for a long time, and all have their own unique thoughts, whether good or bad. It’s a good thing there is a moderator to keep the subject on task or else the charismatic panel would take the discussion somewhere completely off subject.
The first disc features a panel discussion on former World Heavyweight Champions Sgt. Slaughter and “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. In addition to the discussion a series of matches from both men’s careers are included as extras on the disc.
The second disc follows the same format with a roundtable discussion on Jerry “The King” Lawler and Junkyard Dog, two men who were big stars in their own right in World Wrestling Entertainment, but were also very successful in the “old days” of the territory system.
The third disc is the most interesting of the boxed set, as the roundtable discusses “Heatseekers” in wrestling, which essentially was a talk about controversial or unpopular people and characters in wrestling history. The extras features matches from a variety of “heatseekers,” including the Fabulous Freebirds, Scott Hall, Vince Russo, Buff Bagwell and others. The roundtable talk is definitely the most entertaining of the three discs.
As an extra bonus, Best Buy is also selling three separate DVDs with more roundtable discussions and match extras. One highlights former WWE Champions Andre the Giant & the Iron Sheik, a second is about another pair of former WWE Champions in Hulk Hogan & Bob Backlund and the third and final disc discusses the always wild and controversial characters of Rowdy Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
These roundtable discussions are absolutely fascinating for a wrestling history nerd like myself. It’s great to be able to “pull back the curtain” and see what these industry greats think of their peers good or bad. And much like having a conversation with any “old-timer,” a lot of funny stories come out the discussion. A lot of the panelists are good friends and you can see that camaraderie come out while they talk with each other.
The match extras are an absolutely great bonus for the DVDs, but the discussions are definitely the highlight of the discs. This is only six of the Legends roundtables as more have been recorded and distributed via WWE 24/7, and I’m sure if this set does well we can be sure to see more released on DVD in the near future.
For a fan old-school wrestling or just wants to learn about wrestling from those who lived it this is right up your alley. The actual quality of the match extras are hit or miss, but the roundtable discussions are absolutely fantastic and worth the “price of admission.” (Credit: Pro Wrestling Examiner)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
WWE
The 3-disc boxed set features a series of roundtable discussions from long-time wrestling personalities and Hall of Famers in their own right, talking about other legends and important moments in wrestling history. The format features a moderator and four long-time wrestling personalities sitting roundtable style giving their uncensored thoughts on the subjects at hand. The discussion is truly unscripted and unfiltered, as these panelists have known and worked with these discussion subjects for a long time, and all have their own unique thoughts, whether good or bad. It’s a good thing there is a moderator to keep the subject on task or else the charismatic panel would take the discussion somewhere completely off subject.
The first disc features a panel discussion on former World Heavyweight Champions Sgt. Slaughter and “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. In addition to the discussion a series of matches from both men’s careers are included as extras on the disc.
The second disc follows the same format with a roundtable discussion on Jerry “The King” Lawler and Junkyard Dog, two men who were big stars in their own right in World Wrestling Entertainment, but were also very successful in the “old days” of the territory system.
The third disc is the most interesting of the boxed set, as the roundtable discusses “Heatseekers” in wrestling, which essentially was a talk about controversial or unpopular people and characters in wrestling history. The extras features matches from a variety of “heatseekers,” including the Fabulous Freebirds, Scott Hall, Vince Russo, Buff Bagwell and others. The roundtable talk is definitely the most entertaining of the three discs.
As an extra bonus, Best Buy is also selling three separate DVDs with more roundtable discussions and match extras. One highlights former WWE Champions Andre the Giant & the Iron Sheik, a second is about another pair of former WWE Champions in Hulk Hogan & Bob Backlund and the third and final disc discusses the always wild and controversial characters of Rowdy Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
These roundtable discussions are absolutely fascinating for a wrestling history nerd like myself. It’s great to be able to “pull back the curtain” and see what these industry greats think of their peers good or bad. And much like having a conversation with any “old-timer,” a lot of funny stories come out the discussion. A lot of the panelists are good friends and you can see that camaraderie come out while they talk with each other.
The match extras are an absolutely great bonus for the DVDs, but the discussions are definitely the highlight of the discs. This is only six of the Legends roundtables as more have been recorded and distributed via WWE 24/7, and I’m sure if this set does well we can be sure to see more released on DVD in the near future.
For a fan old-school wrestling or just wants to learn about wrestling from those who lived it this is right up your alley. The actual quality of the match extras are hit or miss, but the roundtable discussions are absolutely fantastic and worth the “price of admission.” (Credit: Pro Wrestling Examiner)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
WWE
Monday, January 26, 2009
Access Exclusive: Mickey Rourke To Get In The Ring With WWE For ‘Wrestlemania' - 25th January 2009
LOS ANGELES, Calif.
Mickey Rourke has received critical acclaim for his comeback role in “The Wrestler,” where he plays a former pro wrestling legend who falls on hard times.
And on the red carpet at the 15th Annual SAG Awards on Sunday night in Hollywood, the actor revealed he’s about to get in the ring in real life.
Rourke will be participating in WWE’s “Wrestlemania 25” in Houston on April 5.
“The boys from the WWE called me and asked me to do it,” Rourke told Access Hollywood. “I said, ‘I want to.’ I’m talking with [WWE legend] Rowdy Roddy Piper about it.”
In fact, Rourke, whose role in “The Wrestler” earned him a SAG nomination for Best Actor (as well as an Academy Award nomination and a win at the Golden Globes earlier this month), said the professional wrestling industry has been extremely supportive of his portrayal of the sport.
“The nicest thing has been the whole wrestling community embracing us,” Rourke said on the red carpet. “The movie was about their world.”
And when he does jump into the ring with WWE, it appears the actor may already have his sights set on an opponent.
“Chris Jericho, you better get in shape,” Rourke added. “Because I’m coming after your a**.” (Credit: Access Hollywood)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Roddy Piper
WrestleMania
WWE
Wrestling
Mickey Rourke has received critical acclaim for his comeback role in “The Wrestler,” where he plays a former pro wrestling legend who falls on hard times.
And on the red carpet at the 15th Annual SAG Awards on Sunday night in Hollywood, the actor revealed he’s about to get in the ring in real life.
Rourke will be participating in WWE’s “Wrestlemania 25” in Houston on April 5.
“The boys from the WWE called me and asked me to do it,” Rourke told Access Hollywood. “I said, ‘I want to.’ I’m talking with [WWE legend] Rowdy Roddy Piper about it.”
In fact, Rourke, whose role in “The Wrestler” earned him a SAG nomination for Best Actor (as well as an Academy Award nomination and a win at the Golden Globes earlier this month), said the professional wrestling industry has been extremely supportive of his portrayal of the sport.
“The nicest thing has been the whole wrestling community embracing us,” Rourke said on the red carpet. “The movie was about their world.”
And when he does jump into the ring with WWE, it appears the actor may already have his sights set on an opponent.
“Chris Jericho, you better get in shape,” Rourke added. “Because I’m coming after your a**.” (Credit: Access Hollywood)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Roddy Piper
WrestleMania
WWE
Wrestling
Monday, January 12, 2009
The great contender, by Stephanie Bunbury - The Age - 11th January 2009
Once considered down for the final count, Hollywood maverick Mickey Rourke is back in the ring and how, writes Stephanie Bunbury.
Couldabeen a contender. Nobody fits that phrase better than Mickey Rourke. Remember how he started out? Hailed as the new Marlon Brando in his breakthrough film Diner (1982), Rourke was then an actor of subtlety and can't-take-your-eyes-off-him presence who was also, just by the way, a smouldering sex god. It took just a few years, however, before he managed to squander those gifts through sheer craziness. Mid-'90s, Mickey Rourke was living on hand-outs from a mate, trying to be a pro boxer even though he was middle-aged. Every now and then he would do a day or two on films that hardly anyone saw or would want to see. Even his psychiatrist told him that out of all the hot talent in Hollywood of the time, only he could fall that far.
But now, quite miraculously, Mickey Rourke has been reborn as not simply a contender, but a hot tip for this year's best actor Oscar. In The Wrestler, the new film from Darren Aronofsky, Rourke plays washed-up Randy the Ram, a man who has lived only for the tinny glory of playing the good guy in the spit-and-sawdust theatrics of wrestling shows. Like Rourke himself, Randy is a clanking wreck after too many crashes on the ropes and cheap steroids; like Rourke, he chose hell-raising over child-raising and is paying for it in loneliness and a grey sense of general regret. Even as a member of the audience, it is painful seeing these parallels played out. Rourke, meanwhile, gives the performance of a lifetime. A Golden Globe nomination is already in the bag.
I met Mickey Rourke for the first time when Sin City premiered in Cannes in 2005. That was his real comeback; even though he was unrecognisable under a comic-book facial prosthetic. The part of Marvin, crazed avenger, was only one of the film's several leads, but everyone was talking about him. Mickey was talking about himself too; in fact, he would tell anyone anything. This was partly a habit born of therapy - at one stage in his chequered life, Rourke was going three times a week - but it was also born of gratitude. "You know," he told the Observer recently, "many years have gone by when no one wanted me to sit in a room and ask me questions ... so I'm thankful for it. It's been a long, long time."
Of course, he had quite a story to tell and, as a showman, he knew it. Young Mickey, he says, grew up tough in a dangerous, almost entirely black neighbourhood in Miami, shielding himself and his little brother, Joey, from an abusive stepfather. He started boxing in his teens, fighting the likes of Luis Rodriguez (who was soon to win the world middleweight title) until a bad concussion brought his time in gloves to an abrupt halt. So he worked his way into the Actors' Studio in New York - he liked the idea, he says, of becoming someone else - and became the Mickey Rourke we know from films such as Coppola's Rumble Fish, Alan Parker's Angel Heart and Barbet Schroeder's Barfly, in which he seemingly channelled the Beat writer Charles Bukowski.
But even after he became feted, famous and, briefly, fabulously rich, Rourke was still a fighter. "Working with Mickey Rourke is a nightmare," said Parker after they made Angel Heart. "He is very dangerous on the set because you never know what he's going to do." There were fights in nightclubs and tantrums on sets; there was the gang of Cuban heavies who went everywhere with him; in 1994, he was charged with assaulting his then wife, Carre Otis. By that time, he was virtually unemployable. "Of course, the drinking and the drugs ... did it," he says. "But the real problem was that I was nuts and angry and ashamed, too, and that shame turned into anger." During his worst period, however, he believes boxing was his salvation. That was when he was training seriously. "It was like a cleansing period. It was the point where I was the most out of control and it was almost the saving grace, because I could go into something and be an animal, which is what I was." But nobody in the film business will ever share that view, because fighting men at least a decade younger than him left him with a face that needed several reconstructions. His nose was rebuilt with cartilage from his ear. Rourke had become a wreck.
Then, in 1996, he failed his memory test and had to stop boxing altogether. That really was the nadir of his life. "I was heartbroken." Otis, "the woman I loved so f---ing much and still love", divorced him in 1998. He had nothing and nobody. He thought about killing himself; only the dependence of his pack of chihuahuas, whose various descendants remain his only companions, kept him here. He likes small dogs, he says, because you can cuddle them and feel their hearts beating. Their tiny lives were his responsibility.
And, as it turned out, he still had acting. After Otis left him, Rourke had a moment in front of the mirror when he saw what others saw - "You know, the armour; it scared the f--- out of me" - and resolved to change his life. It was a long road back, personally and professionally, but old stalwarts helped: Francis Ford Coppola gave him a part in The Rainmaker in 1997; Steve Buscemi had him for Animal Factory the next year and people began to notice that, yes, crazy Mickey Rourke was good again. Now it seems he is making up for lost time. Just this year, he has made The Informers, directed by Australian Gregor Jordan - in which he is reunited with 9 1/2 Weeks co-star Kim Basinger - and an Elmore Leonard adaptation, The Killshot, for John Madden. Another ensemble piece, 13, with Jason Statham, Sam Riley and Ray Winstone, all of whom he greatly admires, is now in post-production. And The Wrestler, of course, is doing its triumphant rounds. Mickey may have been crushed to a pulp back there, but he's back in the ring.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist, Rourke says soberly, to see why Darren Aronofsky wanted him to play Randy the Ram. He is no rocket scientist - he often observes how much smarter, "so Jewish and intelligent" Aronofsky is - but he knew that his own past was about to be exploited. "Working with a guy like Darren ..." he says, trailing off into a heavy sigh. "I knew he was going to want me to revisit some dark places I didn't want to revisit. Because I work a certain way, where I make it all very personal - I'll use things from my life, from my ex-wife to my childhood, so it's real - I thought, 'God, I don't know if I want to work that hard and give that much'." He also knew that Aronofsky would be able to push all his buttons, whether he wanted to work that hard or not. When most of the film's financiers refused to back The Wrestler, originally planned as a blockbuster, if Rourke played the lead, he says he was the only person who wasn't disappointed.
Aronofsky, however, was determined to have him. He wasn't worried that he would be difficult. "You know, he's done so many characters in so many films and somehow he's got through them. So I knew I could get through it with him. It was just a matter of what it would take." So he rewrote The Wrestler as a low-budget film; one remaining financier was prepared to put up $US6 million for a film with Rourke in it, so he cut his cloth accordingly.
Rourke, meanwhile, found that he really did want to do those hard yards. He had recognised that it was important to push himself artistically if he wasn't going to slip into straight-to-video misery again. Besides, he adds with that old edge of menace, he is relentlessly competitive. "I used to love playing football in high school; I don't want to lose a game by one touchdown or one point. And I don't want to lose when I'm acting. Darren's going to challenge me to bring it and to be the best actor I can be, and I'm going to give him every f---ing thing. I'm going to give him my f---ing blood. I got no problem with that at all. People go 'it isn't competitive'. But it is competitive."
Making the film was tough physically, of course; Rourke, now 56 (although he admits only to 52), trained with real wrestlers for three months, trying to learn what they might learn in five years about how to fall and get shaken around. Having been a boxer, he started out with no respect for the choreographed entertainment that is wrestling. He soon changed his opinion. "You still make sacrifices. You still get hurt. When a guy who weighs 230 pounds picks you up and throws you, f---! You feel it in every bone in your body. I'm not a kid any more. Here still hurts. And here. And here," he says, pointing to various bits of his frame.
The mood changed, however, once they started filming and he discovered that his hardest scenes were not the fights but those with Evan Rachel Wood, who plays Randy's estranged daughter, Stephanie. Rourke and Wood did not meet until they did their first scene together; Aronofsky kept them apart, wanting to keep their onscreen relationship "awkward and uncomfortable". For him, Rourke says, that first encounter immediately brought back his reunion with his own father in his mid-20s, wanting to know why he had abandoned his children. It was harrowing. "I didn't even know her name," he says. "We just did it. We introduced ourselves like a week or two later. I couldn't remember her name anyway." By the end of the shoot, he was completely wrung out. "I ended up not being able to get out of bed for four days, crying hysterically. I thought I was dying."
Fragility was always one of Rourke's many attractions; he may not have been boxing when he was at his acting peak, but he still seemed authentically, appealingly bruised. The Wrestler screened for the first time at the Venice Film Festival, accompanied by the usual intensive round of press promotion. Rourke disappeared just before our interview; someone, apparently, had upset him. Had he snapped? The publicist assured us he would return, but was visibly afraid he wouldn't. Twenty minutes went by.
He did come back, genial but clearly tired, the face around the dark glasses even more pouched, battered and puffy than it was when boxing and plastic surgery first put paid to his youthful beauty. He said, quite recently, that he felt more at peace than ever before. "But there's always going to be a war going on inside of me. That's just, I think, my make-up ... I've just got to keep a lid on it." And with the lid back on, the stories start, each one sounding like a script written for Sterling Hayden or Stallone or, indeed, Mickey Rourke himself.
According to a recent feature in the New York Times magazine, in which the writer doggedly chased up Rourke's stepfather and someone who knew him from his teen boxing years, it seems that many of these stories may not be exactly true. None of the amateur boxing officials and trainers he interviewed believed Rourke had been involved with the Golden Gloves competitions, as he claims. His stepfather, Eugene Addis, is now 81; he not only denies abusing his stepsons, which is hardly surprising, but says they didn't even live in the tough part of town where Rourke says he learned to defend himself. And while Mickey was "a helluva athlete", it was his stepfather who marched him down to the boxing gym because he thought he needed toughening up. "The trainer worked with him for six months and said, 'I can't get him into the ring to fight'." When there was a fight after school, he claims, the supposedly streetwise Mickey fetched the man he now called Daddy, too scared to have a go.
But none of this counts for much. A Mickey Rourke who wants to delude himself that he was hard is just as poignant, in his own way, as a Mickey who was hard because he was beaten. At the very least, he grew up with a stepfather who still believes that a bloody nose after school could have been the making of him. Perhaps that later stuff - "the anger and the armour and the toughness and all that macho shit and the craziness and the being unaccountable and not worried about consequences", as he puts it - compensated for his failure to measure up. Whatever, his behaviour was genuinely hair-raising. That we know for sure. Whether or not he fought in the Golden Gloves, he's a real contender now.
Perhaps, come March, someone holding a golden statuette on a Hollywood stage will say his name. I hope so. Because even if he is a fabulist and a fantasist, everyone loves a loser who bounces back to land that killer punch. Anyway, fable has a very honourable history. And as good a film as The Wrestler is, it is Mickey Rourke himself who is the stuff of myth. M
The Wrestler screens from Thursday. (Credit: The Age)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Movie Reviews
Couldabeen a contender. Nobody fits that phrase better than Mickey Rourke. Remember how he started out? Hailed as the new Marlon Brando in his breakthrough film Diner (1982), Rourke was then an actor of subtlety and can't-take-your-eyes-off-him presence who was also, just by the way, a smouldering sex god. It took just a few years, however, before he managed to squander those gifts through sheer craziness. Mid-'90s, Mickey Rourke was living on hand-outs from a mate, trying to be a pro boxer even though he was middle-aged. Every now and then he would do a day or two on films that hardly anyone saw or would want to see. Even his psychiatrist told him that out of all the hot talent in Hollywood of the time, only he could fall that far.
But now, quite miraculously, Mickey Rourke has been reborn as not simply a contender, but a hot tip for this year's best actor Oscar. In The Wrestler, the new film from Darren Aronofsky, Rourke plays washed-up Randy the Ram, a man who has lived only for the tinny glory of playing the good guy in the spit-and-sawdust theatrics of wrestling shows. Like Rourke himself, Randy is a clanking wreck after too many crashes on the ropes and cheap steroids; like Rourke, he chose hell-raising over child-raising and is paying for it in loneliness and a grey sense of general regret. Even as a member of the audience, it is painful seeing these parallels played out. Rourke, meanwhile, gives the performance of a lifetime. A Golden Globe nomination is already in the bag.
I met Mickey Rourke for the first time when Sin City premiered in Cannes in 2005. That was his real comeback; even though he was unrecognisable under a comic-book facial prosthetic. The part of Marvin, crazed avenger, was only one of the film's several leads, but everyone was talking about him. Mickey was talking about himself too; in fact, he would tell anyone anything. This was partly a habit born of therapy - at one stage in his chequered life, Rourke was going three times a week - but it was also born of gratitude. "You know," he told the Observer recently, "many years have gone by when no one wanted me to sit in a room and ask me questions ... so I'm thankful for it. It's been a long, long time."
Of course, he had quite a story to tell and, as a showman, he knew it. Young Mickey, he says, grew up tough in a dangerous, almost entirely black neighbourhood in Miami, shielding himself and his little brother, Joey, from an abusive stepfather. He started boxing in his teens, fighting the likes of Luis Rodriguez (who was soon to win the world middleweight title) until a bad concussion brought his time in gloves to an abrupt halt. So he worked his way into the Actors' Studio in New York - he liked the idea, he says, of becoming someone else - and became the Mickey Rourke we know from films such as Coppola's Rumble Fish, Alan Parker's Angel Heart and Barbet Schroeder's Barfly, in which he seemingly channelled the Beat writer Charles Bukowski.
But even after he became feted, famous and, briefly, fabulously rich, Rourke was still a fighter. "Working with Mickey Rourke is a nightmare," said Parker after they made Angel Heart. "He is very dangerous on the set because you never know what he's going to do." There were fights in nightclubs and tantrums on sets; there was the gang of Cuban heavies who went everywhere with him; in 1994, he was charged with assaulting his then wife, Carre Otis. By that time, he was virtually unemployable. "Of course, the drinking and the drugs ... did it," he says. "But the real problem was that I was nuts and angry and ashamed, too, and that shame turned into anger." During his worst period, however, he believes boxing was his salvation. That was when he was training seriously. "It was like a cleansing period. It was the point where I was the most out of control and it was almost the saving grace, because I could go into something and be an animal, which is what I was." But nobody in the film business will ever share that view, because fighting men at least a decade younger than him left him with a face that needed several reconstructions. His nose was rebuilt with cartilage from his ear. Rourke had become a wreck.
Then, in 1996, he failed his memory test and had to stop boxing altogether. That really was the nadir of his life. "I was heartbroken." Otis, "the woman I loved so f---ing much and still love", divorced him in 1998. He had nothing and nobody. He thought about killing himself; only the dependence of his pack of chihuahuas, whose various descendants remain his only companions, kept him here. He likes small dogs, he says, because you can cuddle them and feel their hearts beating. Their tiny lives were his responsibility.
And, as it turned out, he still had acting. After Otis left him, Rourke had a moment in front of the mirror when he saw what others saw - "You know, the armour; it scared the f--- out of me" - and resolved to change his life. It was a long road back, personally and professionally, but old stalwarts helped: Francis Ford Coppola gave him a part in The Rainmaker in 1997; Steve Buscemi had him for Animal Factory the next year and people began to notice that, yes, crazy Mickey Rourke was good again. Now it seems he is making up for lost time. Just this year, he has made The Informers, directed by Australian Gregor Jordan - in which he is reunited with 9 1/2 Weeks co-star Kim Basinger - and an Elmore Leonard adaptation, The Killshot, for John Madden. Another ensemble piece, 13, with Jason Statham, Sam Riley and Ray Winstone, all of whom he greatly admires, is now in post-production. And The Wrestler, of course, is doing its triumphant rounds. Mickey may have been crushed to a pulp back there, but he's back in the ring.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist, Rourke says soberly, to see why Darren Aronofsky wanted him to play Randy the Ram. He is no rocket scientist - he often observes how much smarter, "so Jewish and intelligent" Aronofsky is - but he knew that his own past was about to be exploited. "Working with a guy like Darren ..." he says, trailing off into a heavy sigh. "I knew he was going to want me to revisit some dark places I didn't want to revisit. Because I work a certain way, where I make it all very personal - I'll use things from my life, from my ex-wife to my childhood, so it's real - I thought, 'God, I don't know if I want to work that hard and give that much'." He also knew that Aronofsky would be able to push all his buttons, whether he wanted to work that hard or not. When most of the film's financiers refused to back The Wrestler, originally planned as a blockbuster, if Rourke played the lead, he says he was the only person who wasn't disappointed.
Aronofsky, however, was determined to have him. He wasn't worried that he would be difficult. "You know, he's done so many characters in so many films and somehow he's got through them. So I knew I could get through it with him. It was just a matter of what it would take." So he rewrote The Wrestler as a low-budget film; one remaining financier was prepared to put up $US6 million for a film with Rourke in it, so he cut his cloth accordingly.
Rourke, meanwhile, found that he really did want to do those hard yards. He had recognised that it was important to push himself artistically if he wasn't going to slip into straight-to-video misery again. Besides, he adds with that old edge of menace, he is relentlessly competitive. "I used to love playing football in high school; I don't want to lose a game by one touchdown or one point. And I don't want to lose when I'm acting. Darren's going to challenge me to bring it and to be the best actor I can be, and I'm going to give him every f---ing thing. I'm going to give him my f---ing blood. I got no problem with that at all. People go 'it isn't competitive'. But it is competitive."
Making the film was tough physically, of course; Rourke, now 56 (although he admits only to 52), trained with real wrestlers for three months, trying to learn what they might learn in five years about how to fall and get shaken around. Having been a boxer, he started out with no respect for the choreographed entertainment that is wrestling. He soon changed his opinion. "You still make sacrifices. You still get hurt. When a guy who weighs 230 pounds picks you up and throws you, f---! You feel it in every bone in your body. I'm not a kid any more. Here still hurts. And here. And here," he says, pointing to various bits of his frame.
The mood changed, however, once they started filming and he discovered that his hardest scenes were not the fights but those with Evan Rachel Wood, who plays Randy's estranged daughter, Stephanie. Rourke and Wood did not meet until they did their first scene together; Aronofsky kept them apart, wanting to keep their onscreen relationship "awkward and uncomfortable". For him, Rourke says, that first encounter immediately brought back his reunion with his own father in his mid-20s, wanting to know why he had abandoned his children. It was harrowing. "I didn't even know her name," he says. "We just did it. We introduced ourselves like a week or two later. I couldn't remember her name anyway." By the end of the shoot, he was completely wrung out. "I ended up not being able to get out of bed for four days, crying hysterically. I thought I was dying."
Fragility was always one of Rourke's many attractions; he may not have been boxing when he was at his acting peak, but he still seemed authentically, appealingly bruised. The Wrestler screened for the first time at the Venice Film Festival, accompanied by the usual intensive round of press promotion. Rourke disappeared just before our interview; someone, apparently, had upset him. Had he snapped? The publicist assured us he would return, but was visibly afraid he wouldn't. Twenty minutes went by.
He did come back, genial but clearly tired, the face around the dark glasses even more pouched, battered and puffy than it was when boxing and plastic surgery first put paid to his youthful beauty. He said, quite recently, that he felt more at peace than ever before. "But there's always going to be a war going on inside of me. That's just, I think, my make-up ... I've just got to keep a lid on it." And with the lid back on, the stories start, each one sounding like a script written for Sterling Hayden or Stallone or, indeed, Mickey Rourke himself.
According to a recent feature in the New York Times magazine, in which the writer doggedly chased up Rourke's stepfather and someone who knew him from his teen boxing years, it seems that many of these stories may not be exactly true. None of the amateur boxing officials and trainers he interviewed believed Rourke had been involved with the Golden Gloves competitions, as he claims. His stepfather, Eugene Addis, is now 81; he not only denies abusing his stepsons, which is hardly surprising, but says they didn't even live in the tough part of town where Rourke says he learned to defend himself. And while Mickey was "a helluva athlete", it was his stepfather who marched him down to the boxing gym because he thought he needed toughening up. "The trainer worked with him for six months and said, 'I can't get him into the ring to fight'." When there was a fight after school, he claims, the supposedly streetwise Mickey fetched the man he now called Daddy, too scared to have a go.
But none of this counts for much. A Mickey Rourke who wants to delude himself that he was hard is just as poignant, in his own way, as a Mickey who was hard because he was beaten. At the very least, he grew up with a stepfather who still believes that a bloody nose after school could have been the making of him. Perhaps that later stuff - "the anger and the armour and the toughness and all that macho shit and the craziness and the being unaccountable and not worried about consequences", as he puts it - compensated for his failure to measure up. Whatever, his behaviour was genuinely hair-raising. That we know for sure. Whether or not he fought in the Golden Gloves, he's a real contender now.
Perhaps, come March, someone holding a golden statuette on a Hollywood stage will say his name. I hope so. Because even if he is a fabulist and a fantasist, everyone loves a loser who bounces back to land that killer punch. Anyway, fable has a very honourable history. And as good a film as The Wrestler is, it is Mickey Rourke himself who is the stuff of myth. M
The Wrestler screens from Thursday. (Credit: The Age)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Movie Reviews
Rourke rebounds with wrestler - 8th January 2009
Mickey Rourke thought his career was over.
The 56-year-old Nine 1/2 Weeks actor believed his acting career was finished, before landing the role of an ageing grappler in new movie The Wrestler.
Now he has been nominated for a Golden Globe and is one of the favourites for a Best Actor Oscar nod for his role as Randy 'The Ram' Robinson, and he can't believe the comeback he has made after 15 years in the wilderness.
The twice-divorced actor said: Randy has been in the twilight of his career for several years. He thinks he has one more game in him - one more shot. He wants to come back again.
I know what that feels like. Randy was somebody 20 years ago and so was Mickey Rourke. When you used to be a somebody and you aren't anybody anymore, you live in what my doctor calls a state of shame. Hollywood is a very unforgiving place, but I took a nosedive all by myself, no one pushed me.
Mickey - who was one of the biggest stars of the 80s before his wild partying and difficult behaviour made him a Hollywood outcast - accepts he only has himself to blame for his enormous fall from grace.
He added to Britain's The Sun newspaper: I was on the bench for 13 years.
Time goes by and you start to think, 'Man, is it really over like everyone says it is?' I would be buying cigarettes and some jerk would say to me, 'Hey, didn't you used to be in the movies?'
Before I got to the top of the mountain I jumped off headfirst. I had a lot of lessons to learn the hard way. I thought I would get back in after a year or two but the struggle to come back has been over 15 years.
BANG! Showbiz (Credit: Fairfax)
The 56-year-old Nine 1/2 Weeks actor believed his acting career was finished, before landing the role of an ageing grappler in new movie The Wrestler.
Now he has been nominated for a Golden Globe and is one of the favourites for a Best Actor Oscar nod for his role as Randy 'The Ram' Robinson, and he can't believe the comeback he has made after 15 years in the wilderness.
The twice-divorced actor said: Randy has been in the twilight of his career for several years. He thinks he has one more game in him - one more shot. He wants to come back again.
I know what that feels like. Randy was somebody 20 years ago and so was Mickey Rourke. When you used to be a somebody and you aren't anybody anymore, you live in what my doctor calls a state of shame. Hollywood is a very unforgiving place, but I took a nosedive all by myself, no one pushed me.
Mickey - who was one of the biggest stars of the 80s before his wild partying and difficult behaviour made him a Hollywood outcast - accepts he only has himself to blame for his enormous fall from grace.
He added to Britain's The Sun newspaper: I was on the bench for 13 years.
Time goes by and you start to think, 'Man, is it really over like everyone says it is?' I would be buying cigarettes and some jerk would say to me, 'Hey, didn't you used to be in the movies?'
Before I got to the top of the mountain I jumped off headfirst. I had a lot of lessons to learn the hard way. I thought I would get back in after a year or two but the struggle to come back has been over 15 years.
BANG! Showbiz (Credit: Fairfax)
Sunday, January 11, 2009
The comeback king, by Joe Queenan - The Sydney Morning Herald - 10th January 2009
A few weeks ago, I was cantering towards the marvellous Joan Miro exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York when I heard one of the snooty, condescending senior citizens at the information desk ask her companion: "Have you seen that new Mickey O'Rourke movie?" Her interlocutor, the classic Gotham culture-vulture who has read every uplifting book and watched every heartbreaking film without seeming to have benefited from the experiences, replied: "Not yet. But it's on my list for the holidays."
Here in a nutshell was everything that is wrong with the wave of Mickey Rourke hysteria that began sweeping the US after The Wrestler was released last month. One, it's Mickey Rourke, not Mickey O'Rourke, ladies. Two, smartly dressed culture-vultures don't belong at a wrestling movie; there's nothing in it for you; it isn't aimed at your demographic. And three, all of you Johnny-come-latelies now on the Mickey Rourke bandwagon - where have you been all these years? Where were you when he sucked?
How many of you saw Harley Davidson And The Marlboro Man? Where were you when Mickey was scuffling for nickels and dimes in Masked And Anonymous? How many of you parvenus paid to see The Pledge, Domino, Desperate Hours, or Homeboy? I did.
I raise these questions as someone who has viewed Mickey Rourke as a fixture in his life for the past 27 years, ever since Diner was released. Spellbound, like so many other filmgoers, by Rourke's performance as the mischievous but charming Boogie, I watched in mounting dismay as his once-promising career stalled, then unravelled, then imploded.
His weird, self-destructive behaviour - he briefly retired to take up prize-fighting; he was arrested for assaulting his wife, Carre Otis; he became obsessed with dogs; he started terrifying directors by bringing his own bodyguards to film sets - inspired a 1992 Movieline article entitled "Mickey Rourke for a Day", in which I acted out scenes from the actor's life and films as varied as 9½ Weeks, Wild Orchid, Barfly and A Prayer For The Dying. The article was turned into a film by Gary Johnstone that can be seen on the internet at any hour of the day or night.
The premise of both the film and the article was that Rourke had miraculously abolished the distinction between his personal life and the repellent characters he played, engendering a "cosmic Mickey Rourkeanism". In the television film, I rolled around in the gutter, induced perfectly innocent women to swallow hot peppers, climbed into the ring and duked it out with a professional boxer, barged into editors' offices and threatened to punch out their lights and just generally behaved like a pig.
The film ended up being a paean of sorts to the actor, a backhanded homage, as I was forced to admit that what at first seemed like a walk in the park was anything but. Sure, a determined journalist could keep up the abhorrent Mickey Rourke act for 24 hours or so. But Rourke had to do it every single day of his life. My hat was off to him.
For the next 13 years, I monitored Rourke's strange, perplexing career. Most people I knew were unaware that he was still breathing, much less working. Not me.
Whenever a Mickey Rourke movie was released, I saw it, no matter how bad, no matter how obscure. It was a hobby of mine; one I enjoyed. It was like collecting Spandau Ballet bootlegs. Then, after Darren Aronofsky's The Wrestler began drawing critical raves at film festivals in Europe and Canada last year, I started to feel a certain proprietary resentment towards all the swine jumping on the Mickey Rourke bandwagon.
Yes, Mickey was back. But the cognoscenti and hipsters huddling in the fashionably murky arthouse cinemas didn't even know where he was back from. They didn't know about films like Animal Factory, Thicker Than Blood, They Crawl or Shergar. They didn't know about Out In Fifty, Shades or the horrendous remake of Get Carter. And none of them knew that Mickey had once played St Francis of Assisi in a film entitled Francesco.
I did. I owned it.
The unvarnished truth is this: Mickey Rourke's overnight comeback is neither as surprising nor as precipitate as people would like to believe. Yes, he is the prodigal son returning from the fleshpots but while he was down there he was not merely cavorting. He was working, trying to get his career back on track. In 1997, Francis Ford Coppola (who helped launch Rourke's career with the 1983 film Rumble Fish) gave him a small part in The Rainmaker. It was the first movie of any consequence that Rourke had made since Angel Heart in 1987 and reminded at least some people that beneath all that sociopathic behaviour lurked genuine talent.
For the next 10 years, Rourke laboriously worked his way back into Hollywood's consciousness, if not the public's. He made a lot of bad movies but he also made a few good ones. Today, there is a suggestion afoot that director Darren Aronofsky tracked down the actor in a cave or a homeless shelter and personally lifted him out of the slime to cast him in The Wrestler. But this is not true.
Rourke has been working steadily, admittedly in obscurity, for years. He wasn't simply handed his chance for a comeback. In a roundabout way, he earned it. And when the opportunity arose, he seized it. He answered the bell.
What's more, The Wrestler would not be much of a film without Mickey Rourke. Written by Robert Siegel, formerly an editor at the satirical newspaper The Onion, The Wrestler is essentially Rocky in tights, a Cuisinart collection of hoary cliches that have been seen in films as varied as Requiem For A Heavyweight, The Wild Bunch, Fat City, Raging Bull and not one but six Sylvester Stallone films. The washed-up jock trying to win the affection of his child has been a Hollywood standby since King Vidor made The Champ in 1931. Nor is this the first time we have seen the stripper with the heart of gold (Marisa Tomei; if you're pushing 40 from the wrong side and trying to scare up an Academy Award nomination, this is where you go).
At various junctures, most particularly when a gimpy, bespectacled wrestler assaults Rourke's character with a staple gun, the film verges on farce.
What saves The Wrestler is that it is a film with a heart, and the heart is Mickey Rourke's. The Wrestler recounts the saga of Robin Ramzinski, a burned-out fiftysomething who was once one of the top draws in the professional wrestling circuit but is now a has-been living in a North Jersey trailer park. Busted up and broken down, "the Ram" is trying to pull his personal life back together as his career winds towards its end.
This in itself is a bitter-sweet set-up, since professional wrestling is viewed by the general public as a white-trash sham; in effect, the Ram is trying to recapture the glory of a profession that has no claim to true glory. But while it is true wrestling is staged and choreographed, the stunts themselves are dangerous and people get hurt in the ring, just like acrobats, lion tamers and circus clowns. The violence may be simulated but the pain of simulating violence is real.
Rourke, for the first time in decades, radiates the sweetness and innocence that he first displayed in Diner, the film that made him famous. Diner vaulted Kevin Bacon and Ellen Barkin to fame but it is also the film that gave us the appalling Daniel Stern and the oafish Steve Guttenberg. That hams like Stern and Guttenberg should have enjoyed far greater box-office success than the truly gifted Rourke is one of the bitter-sweet ironies of his comeback in The Wrestler.
The saga of Mickey Rourke is one of the saddest in the history of motion pictures. Some men have failure thrust upon them but Rourke went out and seized it by the throat. At a very early point in his career, Rourke made a fatal decision to turn down roles where he would play the man in the white hat and to instead appear in an interminable series of films lionising slimeballs.
The movie business is not hard to figure out. The public wants to see actors they admire playing characters they like. Henry Fonda played a villain exactly once in his career, as did Harrison Ford. Tom Cruise was a superb villain in Michael Mann's Collateral but he then went back to his day job, playing a slew of perfectly capital fellows.
For whatever the reason, Rourke either never figured out how the movie industry works or simply rejected its ground rules. Now, all these years later, the bulb has lit up. Where he goes from here is unclear; his face is a wreck; his leading-man days are over.
But in an era of creampuffs like Josh Hartnett and Orlando Bloom, it's great to have him back.
The Guardian
The Wrestler is out on Thursday. (Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Movie Reviews
Here in a nutshell was everything that is wrong with the wave of Mickey Rourke hysteria that began sweeping the US after The Wrestler was released last month. One, it's Mickey Rourke, not Mickey O'Rourke, ladies. Two, smartly dressed culture-vultures don't belong at a wrestling movie; there's nothing in it for you; it isn't aimed at your demographic. And three, all of you Johnny-come-latelies now on the Mickey Rourke bandwagon - where have you been all these years? Where were you when he sucked?
How many of you saw Harley Davidson And The Marlboro Man? Where were you when Mickey was scuffling for nickels and dimes in Masked And Anonymous? How many of you parvenus paid to see The Pledge, Domino, Desperate Hours, or Homeboy? I did.
I raise these questions as someone who has viewed Mickey Rourke as a fixture in his life for the past 27 years, ever since Diner was released. Spellbound, like so many other filmgoers, by Rourke's performance as the mischievous but charming Boogie, I watched in mounting dismay as his once-promising career stalled, then unravelled, then imploded.
His weird, self-destructive behaviour - he briefly retired to take up prize-fighting; he was arrested for assaulting his wife, Carre Otis; he became obsessed with dogs; he started terrifying directors by bringing his own bodyguards to film sets - inspired a 1992 Movieline article entitled "Mickey Rourke for a Day", in which I acted out scenes from the actor's life and films as varied as 9½ Weeks, Wild Orchid, Barfly and A Prayer For The Dying. The article was turned into a film by Gary Johnstone that can be seen on the internet at any hour of the day or night.
The premise of both the film and the article was that Rourke had miraculously abolished the distinction between his personal life and the repellent characters he played, engendering a "cosmic Mickey Rourkeanism". In the television film, I rolled around in the gutter, induced perfectly innocent women to swallow hot peppers, climbed into the ring and duked it out with a professional boxer, barged into editors' offices and threatened to punch out their lights and just generally behaved like a pig.
The film ended up being a paean of sorts to the actor, a backhanded homage, as I was forced to admit that what at first seemed like a walk in the park was anything but. Sure, a determined journalist could keep up the abhorrent Mickey Rourke act for 24 hours or so. But Rourke had to do it every single day of his life. My hat was off to him.
For the next 13 years, I monitored Rourke's strange, perplexing career. Most people I knew were unaware that he was still breathing, much less working. Not me.
Whenever a Mickey Rourke movie was released, I saw it, no matter how bad, no matter how obscure. It was a hobby of mine; one I enjoyed. It was like collecting Spandau Ballet bootlegs. Then, after Darren Aronofsky's The Wrestler began drawing critical raves at film festivals in Europe and Canada last year, I started to feel a certain proprietary resentment towards all the swine jumping on the Mickey Rourke bandwagon.
Yes, Mickey was back. But the cognoscenti and hipsters huddling in the fashionably murky arthouse cinemas didn't even know where he was back from. They didn't know about films like Animal Factory, Thicker Than Blood, They Crawl or Shergar. They didn't know about Out In Fifty, Shades or the horrendous remake of Get Carter. And none of them knew that Mickey had once played St Francis of Assisi in a film entitled Francesco.
I did. I owned it.
The unvarnished truth is this: Mickey Rourke's overnight comeback is neither as surprising nor as precipitate as people would like to believe. Yes, he is the prodigal son returning from the fleshpots but while he was down there he was not merely cavorting. He was working, trying to get his career back on track. In 1997, Francis Ford Coppola (who helped launch Rourke's career with the 1983 film Rumble Fish) gave him a small part in The Rainmaker. It was the first movie of any consequence that Rourke had made since Angel Heart in 1987 and reminded at least some people that beneath all that sociopathic behaviour lurked genuine talent.
For the next 10 years, Rourke laboriously worked his way back into Hollywood's consciousness, if not the public's. He made a lot of bad movies but he also made a few good ones. Today, there is a suggestion afoot that director Darren Aronofsky tracked down the actor in a cave or a homeless shelter and personally lifted him out of the slime to cast him in The Wrestler. But this is not true.
Rourke has been working steadily, admittedly in obscurity, for years. He wasn't simply handed his chance for a comeback. In a roundabout way, he earned it. And when the opportunity arose, he seized it. He answered the bell.
What's more, The Wrestler would not be much of a film without Mickey Rourke. Written by Robert Siegel, formerly an editor at the satirical newspaper The Onion, The Wrestler is essentially Rocky in tights, a Cuisinart collection of hoary cliches that have been seen in films as varied as Requiem For A Heavyweight, The Wild Bunch, Fat City, Raging Bull and not one but six Sylvester Stallone films. The washed-up jock trying to win the affection of his child has been a Hollywood standby since King Vidor made The Champ in 1931. Nor is this the first time we have seen the stripper with the heart of gold (Marisa Tomei; if you're pushing 40 from the wrong side and trying to scare up an Academy Award nomination, this is where you go).
At various junctures, most particularly when a gimpy, bespectacled wrestler assaults Rourke's character with a staple gun, the film verges on farce.
What saves The Wrestler is that it is a film with a heart, and the heart is Mickey Rourke's. The Wrestler recounts the saga of Robin Ramzinski, a burned-out fiftysomething who was once one of the top draws in the professional wrestling circuit but is now a has-been living in a North Jersey trailer park. Busted up and broken down, "the Ram" is trying to pull his personal life back together as his career winds towards its end.
This in itself is a bitter-sweet set-up, since professional wrestling is viewed by the general public as a white-trash sham; in effect, the Ram is trying to recapture the glory of a profession that has no claim to true glory. But while it is true wrestling is staged and choreographed, the stunts themselves are dangerous and people get hurt in the ring, just like acrobats, lion tamers and circus clowns. The violence may be simulated but the pain of simulating violence is real.
Rourke, for the first time in decades, radiates the sweetness and innocence that he first displayed in Diner, the film that made him famous. Diner vaulted Kevin Bacon and Ellen Barkin to fame but it is also the film that gave us the appalling Daniel Stern and the oafish Steve Guttenberg. That hams like Stern and Guttenberg should have enjoyed far greater box-office success than the truly gifted Rourke is one of the bitter-sweet ironies of his comeback in The Wrestler.
The saga of Mickey Rourke is one of the saddest in the history of motion pictures. Some men have failure thrust upon them but Rourke went out and seized it by the throat. At a very early point in his career, Rourke made a fatal decision to turn down roles where he would play the man in the white hat and to instead appear in an interminable series of films lionising slimeballs.
The movie business is not hard to figure out. The public wants to see actors they admire playing characters they like. Henry Fonda played a villain exactly once in his career, as did Harrison Ford. Tom Cruise was a superb villain in Michael Mann's Collateral but he then went back to his day job, playing a slew of perfectly capital fellows.
For whatever the reason, Rourke either never figured out how the movie industry works or simply rejected its ground rules. Now, all these years later, the bulb has lit up. Where he goes from here is unclear; his face is a wreck; his leading-man days are over.
But in an era of creampuffs like Josh Hartnett and Orlando Bloom, it's great to have him back.
The Guardian
The Wrestler is out on Thursday. (Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Movie Reviews
Saturday, January 10, 2009
The Wrestler (2008 film) - Wikipedia
The Wrestler is a film directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Mickey Rourke, Ernest Miller, Marisa Tomei and Evan Rachel Wood. Production began in January 2008. The film premiered at the 2008 Venice Film Festival, winning the Golden Lion Award. Fox Searchlight acquired rights to distribute the film in the U.S.; it was released in a limited capacity on December 17, 2008, and will be released nationwide on January 16, 2009.
Plot
Randy "The Ram" Robinson (Mickey Rourke) is a professional wrestler from the 1980s, twenty years past his prime, wrestling on the weekends in independent and semi-pro matches in the Elizabeth, New Jersey area, for extra money. After a show, a promoter proposes a 20th anniversary rematch with his most notable opponent, the Ayatollah, which sold out Madison Square Garden the first time around. Randy agrees, hoping this high-profile match could help him get back to the top.
Randy goes home and is locked out of his trailer for not paying the rent. He takes pain medication and falls asleep in the back of his Dodge van. The next day he goes to work, loading boxes at a supermarket. At night he visits a strip club where he has taken a liking to an older stripper named Cassidy (Marisa Tomei). He continues the training rituals for his wrestling appearance, including steroid usage. The next show is a particularly brutal "hardcore" match, in which Randy and his opponent (real life wrestler Dylan Summers, a.k.a. Necro Butcher) use various weapons on each other including thumbtacks, staple guns, barbed wire and glass. Randy suffers numerous gashes, including a deep cut on his chest from the barbed wire. Post-match, Randy is treated by a doctor backstage, but has a heart attack soon after and collapses.
The heart attack necessitates a bypass operation and Randy is told by the doctor that his weak heart cannot support steroids or even wrestling anymore. Randy cancels all his upcoming matches. Faced with his mortality, he tells Cassidy about his heart attack and tries to woo her. She warms to him at first (explaining that she has a son and plans of a move to Trenton) but quickly diverts back to her rule of not dating customers, leaving Randy alone in a bar. Randy visits his estranged daughter, Stephanie (Evan Rachel Wood), but she curses him out for being a bad father. On his second visit to Stephanie's place, Randy brings a thoughtful gift and blunt words about how he messed up as a dad. They agree to meet for dinner.
After watching a wrestling match, Randy gets drunk and has sex with a woman, sleeping the entire next day from exhaustion - and, thereby, missing his dinner date with Stephanie. He goes to her house in the middle of the night, where she angrily tells him he has never been and never will be a father to her. Randy goes to work, where he deliberately cuts himself in the deli meat slicer, screams at his boss, and quits his job. He calls up the promoter to say the Ayatollah match is back on. Before the match, Cassidy unexpectedly arrives (having quit her job to be with him) and apologizes, urging him not to wrestle for the sake of his health. Randy explains that the real world doesn't care about him, and the only place he belongs is in the ring - the fans being his true family.
Randy gives an emotional speech to the crowd. During the match, his heart strains, but he continues despite the Ayatollah's concern. Randy fights through the pain, and slowly climbs to the top rope to deliver his signature "Ram Jam" finisher. In the final shot he salutes the fans, leaps from the ropes, and the screen fades to black.
Cast
Mickey Rourke as Randy "The Ram" Robinson
Ernest Miller as Bob/"The Ayatollah"
Marisa Tomei as Cassidy / Pam
Evan Rachel Wood as Stephanie Robinson
Todd Barry as Wayne
Also appearing in the film are actual professional wrestlers: Necro Butcher, Nick Berk, DJ Hyde, Johnny Mangus, Whacks, Kid USA, Ron Killings, Claudio Castagnoli, Romeo Roselli, John Zandig and Nigel McGuinness. In addition, several local New Jersey wrestlers from Bodyslam Wrestling Organization and NWA Liberty States appear in the crowd during Randy's match against Tommy Rotten.
Production
The Wrestler was scripted by former The Onion writer Robert Siegel and entered development at director Darren Aronofsky's Protozoa Pictures. Actor Nicolas Cage entered negotiations in October 2007 to star in the film's lead role as Randy "Ram" Robinson, a former wrestler. The following month, Cage left the project after attending a Ring of Honor show in New York City, and Mickey Rourke replaced the actor in the lead role. According to Aronofsky, Cage pulled out of the movie because Aronofsky wanted Rourke as the lead character. Aronofsky stated that Cage was "a complete gentleman, and he understood that my heart was with Mickey and he stepped aside. I have so much respect for Nic Cage as an actor and I think it really could have worked with Nic but… you know, Nic was incredibly supportive of Mickey and he is old friends with Mickey and really wanted to help with this opportunity, so he pulled himself out of the race." Production began in January 2008, with filming taking place in Elizabeth, NJ, Linden, NJ, Rahway, NJ and New York.. Scenes were also shot at Alhambra Arena in Philadelphia. Afa Anoa'i, a former professional wrestler, was hired to train Rourke for his role. Anoai brought his two main trainers, Jon Trosky and Tom Farra to work with Rourke for eight weeks. Both trainers also have parts in the movie.
Music
Clint Mansell, the composer for Aronofsky's previous films, π, Requiem for a Dream, and The Fountain, reprised his role as composer for The Wrestler. A new Bruce Springsteen song, also titled "The Wrestler", plays over the film's closing credits.
Awards and nominations
The film won the Golden Lion Award at its premiere at the Venice Film Festival. On December 11, 2008, it was nominated for three Golden Globes: Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for Rourke, Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for Marisa Tomei, and Best Original Song for "The Wrestler".
Reception
The Wrestler has received overwhelmingly strong critical acclaim.
Rotten Tomatoes reported that 98% of critics gave the film positive write-ups based upon a sample of 111, with an average score of 8.2/10. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the film has received an average score of 81, based on 27 reviews. Mickey Rourke, in particular, has received considerable critical acclaim for his performance in the film. Alonso Duralde, of MSNBC, said, "Rourke's work transcends mere stunt-casting; his performance is a howl of pain that seems to come from a very real place." The movie currently holds a ranking of 8.7 on IMDB and is #66 on that websites Top 250. Todd McCarthy, of Variety, said, "Rourke creates a galvanizing, humorous, deeply moving portrait that instantly takes its place among the great, iconic screen performances."
Ben Mankiewicz, from At The Movies, said, "To put it simply, this is the best film I've seen this year."
Website
The Wrestler
Plot
Randy "The Ram" Robinson (Mickey Rourke) is a professional wrestler from the 1980s, twenty years past his prime, wrestling on the weekends in independent and semi-pro matches in the Elizabeth, New Jersey area, for extra money. After a show, a promoter proposes a 20th anniversary rematch with his most notable opponent, the Ayatollah, which sold out Madison Square Garden the first time around. Randy agrees, hoping this high-profile match could help him get back to the top.
Randy goes home and is locked out of his trailer for not paying the rent. He takes pain medication and falls asleep in the back of his Dodge van. The next day he goes to work, loading boxes at a supermarket. At night he visits a strip club where he has taken a liking to an older stripper named Cassidy (Marisa Tomei). He continues the training rituals for his wrestling appearance, including steroid usage. The next show is a particularly brutal "hardcore" match, in which Randy and his opponent (real life wrestler Dylan Summers, a.k.a. Necro Butcher) use various weapons on each other including thumbtacks, staple guns, barbed wire and glass. Randy suffers numerous gashes, including a deep cut on his chest from the barbed wire. Post-match, Randy is treated by a doctor backstage, but has a heart attack soon after and collapses.
The heart attack necessitates a bypass operation and Randy is told by the doctor that his weak heart cannot support steroids or even wrestling anymore. Randy cancels all his upcoming matches. Faced with his mortality, he tells Cassidy about his heart attack and tries to woo her. She warms to him at first (explaining that she has a son and plans of a move to Trenton) but quickly diverts back to her rule of not dating customers, leaving Randy alone in a bar. Randy visits his estranged daughter, Stephanie (Evan Rachel Wood), but she curses him out for being a bad father. On his second visit to Stephanie's place, Randy brings a thoughtful gift and blunt words about how he messed up as a dad. They agree to meet for dinner.
After watching a wrestling match, Randy gets drunk and has sex with a woman, sleeping the entire next day from exhaustion - and, thereby, missing his dinner date with Stephanie. He goes to her house in the middle of the night, where she angrily tells him he has never been and never will be a father to her. Randy goes to work, where he deliberately cuts himself in the deli meat slicer, screams at his boss, and quits his job. He calls up the promoter to say the Ayatollah match is back on. Before the match, Cassidy unexpectedly arrives (having quit her job to be with him) and apologizes, urging him not to wrestle for the sake of his health. Randy explains that the real world doesn't care about him, and the only place he belongs is in the ring - the fans being his true family.
Randy gives an emotional speech to the crowd. During the match, his heart strains, but he continues despite the Ayatollah's concern. Randy fights through the pain, and slowly climbs to the top rope to deliver his signature "Ram Jam" finisher. In the final shot he salutes the fans, leaps from the ropes, and the screen fades to black.
Cast
Mickey Rourke as Randy "The Ram" Robinson
Ernest Miller as Bob/"The Ayatollah"
Marisa Tomei as Cassidy / Pam
Evan Rachel Wood as Stephanie Robinson
Todd Barry as Wayne
Also appearing in the film are actual professional wrestlers: Necro Butcher, Nick Berk, DJ Hyde, Johnny Mangus, Whacks, Kid USA, Ron Killings, Claudio Castagnoli, Romeo Roselli, John Zandig and Nigel McGuinness. In addition, several local New Jersey wrestlers from Bodyslam Wrestling Organization and NWA Liberty States appear in the crowd during Randy's match against Tommy Rotten.
Production
The Wrestler was scripted by former The Onion writer Robert Siegel and entered development at director Darren Aronofsky's Protozoa Pictures. Actor Nicolas Cage entered negotiations in October 2007 to star in the film's lead role as Randy "Ram" Robinson, a former wrestler. The following month, Cage left the project after attending a Ring of Honor show in New York City, and Mickey Rourke replaced the actor in the lead role. According to Aronofsky, Cage pulled out of the movie because Aronofsky wanted Rourke as the lead character. Aronofsky stated that Cage was "a complete gentleman, and he understood that my heart was with Mickey and he stepped aside. I have so much respect for Nic Cage as an actor and I think it really could have worked with Nic but… you know, Nic was incredibly supportive of Mickey and he is old friends with Mickey and really wanted to help with this opportunity, so he pulled himself out of the race." Production began in January 2008, with filming taking place in Elizabeth, NJ, Linden, NJ, Rahway, NJ and New York.. Scenes were also shot at Alhambra Arena in Philadelphia. Afa Anoa'i, a former professional wrestler, was hired to train Rourke for his role. Anoai brought his two main trainers, Jon Trosky and Tom Farra to work with Rourke for eight weeks. Both trainers also have parts in the movie.
Music
Clint Mansell, the composer for Aronofsky's previous films, π, Requiem for a Dream, and The Fountain, reprised his role as composer for The Wrestler. A new Bruce Springsteen song, also titled "The Wrestler", plays over the film's closing credits.
Awards and nominations
The film won the Golden Lion Award at its premiere at the Venice Film Festival. On December 11, 2008, it was nominated for three Golden Globes: Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for Rourke, Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for Marisa Tomei, and Best Original Song for "The Wrestler".
Reception
The Wrestler has received overwhelmingly strong critical acclaim.
Rotten Tomatoes reported that 98% of critics gave the film positive write-ups based upon a sample of 111, with an average score of 8.2/10. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the film has received an average score of 81, based on 27 reviews. Mickey Rourke, in particular, has received considerable critical acclaim for his performance in the film. Alonso Duralde, of MSNBC, said, "Rourke's work transcends mere stunt-casting; his performance is a howl of pain that seems to come from a very real place." The movie currently holds a ranking of 8.7 on IMDB and is #66 on that websites Top 250. Todd McCarthy, of Variety, said, "Rourke creates a galvanizing, humorous, deeply moving portrait that instantly takes its place among the great, iconic screen performances."
Ben Mankiewicz, from At The Movies, said, "To put it simply, this is the best film I've seen this year."
Website
The Wrestler
TNA iMPACT!, by Greg Miller - 16th September 2008
Rating 3.5 stars
Price $109.95
Summary
TNA iMPACT! had a lot of potential, but it didn't follow through on most of it. Beyond the limited/repetitive moves, lackluster CAW, and scaled back online, my main problem is that iMPACT! doesn't feel like real wrestling. The opponents never stay down long enough, there's an announce table and announcer voices, but no announcer bodies, there are no championship belts to wear or defend, chairs are just sitting around the outside of the ring, there is no rope break, and every match is no count out/no DQ.
IF you wanted to bring the pageantry and bone-crushing moves of professional wrestling to your console of choice, there's pretty much been just one game in town for the last several years. However, that's all about to change. TNA iMPACT! is here to officially end the monopoly on licensed professional wrestling videogames.
If you need a quick primer, Total Nonstop Action was founded in 2002 by former WWE and WCW star Jeff Jarrett along with his father. Since then, the organization has moved to a six-sided ring, landed a Thursday night spot on SpikeTV, and picked up a number of big time professional wrestling stars such as Kurt Angle, Sting, and Kevin Nash. Now, Midway is bringing the high flying moves of the federation to videogame fans across the world.
The first time I got the chance to sit down with the developers behind iMPACT!, they admitted that they couldn't match the competition's feature set their first time out of the gate but were focusing on bringing a brand-new, fun gameplay experience to the market.
In more than a few ways, Midway succeeded.
iMPACT! utilizes a simplified control scheme in an attempt to nail that "pick up and play" experience. The face buttons govern punches, kicks, grabs, and actions, while the shoulder buttons reverse, run, taunt, and modify moves to be stronger. The left stick moves your guy (sorry, gals and guys starved for female contact, there are no lady competitors), and in multi-man battles, the right stick changes targets. When you're pinned, you'll need to rock your joystick side to side to fill a kickout meter.
You take these easy to use/difficult to master controls into seven arenas and nine match types that are all no count out/no DQ as one of about 25 TNA wrestlers in front of several crowds. The results will be impressive at first.
Right off the bat, iMPACT! looks good. The character models are detailed with the shine you'd expect from their real life, sweaty counterparts but more impressive is the animation system iMPACT! deploys. In the game, moves and grapples blend together so you can go from a suplex to an arm bar submission to a couple of stomps without having to stand there for a second while a reaction animation plays out. Anytime you're playing, you can break up a move or deal out an attack.
Now, when you're playing you'll have a three part heads-up display on the screen – a silhouette to manage limb damage, an iMPACT! meter above your name, and a stun meter behind your name. As the match wears on, all the parts will change – the silhouette parts will change from green to red as you take attacks, iMPACT! will slowly fill with yellow as you pull off moves, and the stun meter will slowly fill with red as you get tossed around by your opponent.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Games
Video Games
Price $109.95
Summary
TNA iMPACT! had a lot of potential, but it didn't follow through on most of it. Beyond the limited/repetitive moves, lackluster CAW, and scaled back online, my main problem is that iMPACT! doesn't feel like real wrestling. The opponents never stay down long enough, there's an announce table and announcer voices, but no announcer bodies, there are no championship belts to wear or defend, chairs are just sitting around the outside of the ring, there is no rope break, and every match is no count out/no DQ.
IF you wanted to bring the pageantry and bone-crushing moves of professional wrestling to your console of choice, there's pretty much been just one game in town for the last several years. However, that's all about to change. TNA iMPACT! is here to officially end the monopoly on licensed professional wrestling videogames.
If you need a quick primer, Total Nonstop Action was founded in 2002 by former WWE and WCW star Jeff Jarrett along with his father. Since then, the organization has moved to a six-sided ring, landed a Thursday night spot on SpikeTV, and picked up a number of big time professional wrestling stars such as Kurt Angle, Sting, and Kevin Nash. Now, Midway is bringing the high flying moves of the federation to videogame fans across the world.
The first time I got the chance to sit down with the developers behind iMPACT!, they admitted that they couldn't match the competition's feature set their first time out of the gate but were focusing on bringing a brand-new, fun gameplay experience to the market.
In more than a few ways, Midway succeeded.
iMPACT! utilizes a simplified control scheme in an attempt to nail that "pick up and play" experience. The face buttons govern punches, kicks, grabs, and actions, while the shoulder buttons reverse, run, taunt, and modify moves to be stronger. The left stick moves your guy (sorry, gals and guys starved for female contact, there are no lady competitors), and in multi-man battles, the right stick changes targets. When you're pinned, you'll need to rock your joystick side to side to fill a kickout meter.
You take these easy to use/difficult to master controls into seven arenas and nine match types that are all no count out/no DQ as one of about 25 TNA wrestlers in front of several crowds. The results will be impressive at first.
Right off the bat, iMPACT! looks good. The character models are detailed with the shine you'd expect from their real life, sweaty counterparts but more impressive is the animation system iMPACT! deploys. In the game, moves and grapples blend together so you can go from a suplex to an arm bar submission to a couple of stomps without having to stand there for a second while a reaction animation plays out. Anytime you're playing, you can break up a move or deal out an attack.
Now, when you're playing you'll have a three part heads-up display on the screen – a silhouette to manage limb damage, an iMPACT! meter above your name, and a stun meter behind your name. As the match wears on, all the parts will change – the silhouette parts will change from green to red as you take attacks, iMPACT! will slowly fill with yellow as you pull off moves, and the stun meter will slowly fill with red as you get tossed around by your opponent.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Games
Video Games
Rourke off the ropes, by Kerrie Murphy - The Australian - 27th December 2008
With all the buzz surrounding Darren Aronofsky's new film The Wrestler, it's tempting to give tuxedo makers time off and just hand Mickey Rourke the Oscar for best actor now. That Rourke has so quickly been anointed statue-worthy is a little surprising - this is a comeback that would impress Robert Downey Jr - but it's not half as surprising as the fact the movie is about professional wrestling.
The film, which chronicles the decline of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a headline act of 1980s rock'n'roll wrestling, now trying to reclaim past glories in school halls while working at a local supermarket, may seem an unlikely candidate for acclaim.
Respect and pro wrestling rarely go hand inhand. A combination of spectacle and athleticism, awkwardly dubbed "sports entertainment", it is, to use the parlance of a wrestling commentator, the red-headed step-child of entertainment.
Movies and wrestling have never had a particularly warm relationship. As Aronofsky told Film Journal Magazine: "Most films that deal with wrestling make fun of it ... I think people basically roll it off saying, 'Oh it's fake' and they forget all about it."
It's true that watching World Wrestling Entertainment can stretch credulity. We know the match is predetermined. We can see that the ref is not so distracted by the buxom valet that he can't hear the heel (wrestling slang for bad guy) landing a low blow on the face of the good guy.
But look beyond the garish tights and histrionics and wrestling is not so easy to dismiss.
Unlike movie actors and other entertainers, wrestlers have no stunt doubles, no crash mats. When hardcore wrestling arrived in the '90s, martial arts weapons and bowling balls became standard issue. In one scene in The Wrestler, The Ram and his opponent discuss how a staple gun can be used; a later scene shows a medic removing the staples from his torso and arms. This is not fanciful movie invention.
Just ask Mick Foley, the masked wrestler "Mankind", who had a successful run in the WWE in the late '90s and wrote several best-selling books about his experiences. One of his most famous matches was The Hell in the Cell 1994, where Foley was chokeslammed by "The Undertaker" on top of a cage, falling several metres into the ring and landing on top of a pile of thumbtacks and a steel chair. "I had one and a half teeth knocked out, 15 stitches below my lip, a dislocated jaw, a dislocated left shoulder, a bruised kidney and a couple of cracked ribs," he told me in 1999. "I imagine I had a concussion, although I didn't get that checked." This from a man who was already down half an ear after getting his head caught between the ropes.
Wrestlers can seem quite blase about routine head injuries. "There have been times where I was talking complete Greek and I wouldn't realise it," says WWE chairman Vince McMahon. "All you can do is laugh. Post-concussion syndrome they call it."
Even Rourke, who famously quit acting in 1991 to become a boxer, was surprised at the far greater risk of injury from wrestling. "I got hurt more in the three months doing the wrestling than in 16 years of boxing," he said at a New York press conference. "I think I had three MRIs in two months."
While Aronofsky's film lays bare the real pain experienced by these sportsmen, it also provides a glimpse of the tricks and make-believe that make up their carnival world.
It shows the wrestlers roughly outlining their match beforehand or, if they have particular confidence in each other, calling it on the fly by surreptitiously whispering the moves to each other as they go.
Then there's the matter of blading.
A wrestler will often hide a small piece of razorblade behind the tape on his wristbands. When he's face down on the ground after a "brutal" attack, he will discreetly cut his forehead, an area that can appear to produce a lot of blood, especially when it's mixed with sweat, and not cause too much damage apart from scarring. (That's no stunt blade Rourke uses in the film.)
Then there's the whole notion of play-acting, of being a character. Christian Bale can take off his Batman suit at the end of the day but the best wrestlers don't. As wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson once noted, a wrestling character is an extension of the wrestler's personality "with the volume turned all the way up". There can be a painful disjunction between the superman of the ring and the human being, though: one attracts legions of admiring fans; the other can hardly pay the rent on his trailer.
Which is what makes The Wrestler so heartbreaking. Fame, as we know, is a fickle mistress, but she seems particularly harsh on pro wrestlers. Not only is there the matter of being a has-been, there's the broken body: a combination of all that physical exertion and injury, and the steroids and painkillers that flood the locker rooms (not to mention the recreational drugs that go hand in hand with the party lifestyle of travelling on the road).
Barry W.Blaustein's 1999 documentary Beyond the Mat, with wrestling legend Jake "The Snake" Roberts smoking crack in his motel room and trying to make up with his estranged daughter, shows that The Ram's problems are not far from the truth.
And wrestlers such as The Ram are the lucky ones. They're not like Darren Drozdov, who became a paraplegic at the age of 30 after a pile-driver went wrong in a match. Or one of the 24 well-known wrestlers under 50 who have died since 2000, including WWE headliner Chris Benoit, who tragically killed his wife, son and himself last year.
Even in the bizarre world of sports entertainment, some unpalatable truths about the human condition emerge.
The Wrestler opens on January 15. (Credit: The Australian)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
WWE
Movie Reviews
The film, which chronicles the decline of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a headline act of 1980s rock'n'roll wrestling, now trying to reclaim past glories in school halls while working at a local supermarket, may seem an unlikely candidate for acclaim.
Respect and pro wrestling rarely go hand inhand. A combination of spectacle and athleticism, awkwardly dubbed "sports entertainment", it is, to use the parlance of a wrestling commentator, the red-headed step-child of entertainment.
Movies and wrestling have never had a particularly warm relationship. As Aronofsky told Film Journal Magazine: "Most films that deal with wrestling make fun of it ... I think people basically roll it off saying, 'Oh it's fake' and they forget all about it."
It's true that watching World Wrestling Entertainment can stretch credulity. We know the match is predetermined. We can see that the ref is not so distracted by the buxom valet that he can't hear the heel (wrestling slang for bad guy) landing a low blow on the face of the good guy.
But look beyond the garish tights and histrionics and wrestling is not so easy to dismiss.
Unlike movie actors and other entertainers, wrestlers have no stunt doubles, no crash mats. When hardcore wrestling arrived in the '90s, martial arts weapons and bowling balls became standard issue. In one scene in The Wrestler, The Ram and his opponent discuss how a staple gun can be used; a later scene shows a medic removing the staples from his torso and arms. This is not fanciful movie invention.
Just ask Mick Foley, the masked wrestler "Mankind", who had a successful run in the WWE in the late '90s and wrote several best-selling books about his experiences. One of his most famous matches was The Hell in the Cell 1994, where Foley was chokeslammed by "The Undertaker" on top of a cage, falling several metres into the ring and landing on top of a pile of thumbtacks and a steel chair. "I had one and a half teeth knocked out, 15 stitches below my lip, a dislocated jaw, a dislocated left shoulder, a bruised kidney and a couple of cracked ribs," he told me in 1999. "I imagine I had a concussion, although I didn't get that checked." This from a man who was already down half an ear after getting his head caught between the ropes.
Wrestlers can seem quite blase about routine head injuries. "There have been times where I was talking complete Greek and I wouldn't realise it," says WWE chairman Vince McMahon. "All you can do is laugh. Post-concussion syndrome they call it."
Even Rourke, who famously quit acting in 1991 to become a boxer, was surprised at the far greater risk of injury from wrestling. "I got hurt more in the three months doing the wrestling than in 16 years of boxing," he said at a New York press conference. "I think I had three MRIs in two months."
While Aronofsky's film lays bare the real pain experienced by these sportsmen, it also provides a glimpse of the tricks and make-believe that make up their carnival world.
It shows the wrestlers roughly outlining their match beforehand or, if they have particular confidence in each other, calling it on the fly by surreptitiously whispering the moves to each other as they go.
Then there's the matter of blading.
A wrestler will often hide a small piece of razorblade behind the tape on his wristbands. When he's face down on the ground after a "brutal" attack, he will discreetly cut his forehead, an area that can appear to produce a lot of blood, especially when it's mixed with sweat, and not cause too much damage apart from scarring. (That's no stunt blade Rourke uses in the film.)
Then there's the whole notion of play-acting, of being a character. Christian Bale can take off his Batman suit at the end of the day but the best wrestlers don't. As wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson once noted, a wrestling character is an extension of the wrestler's personality "with the volume turned all the way up". There can be a painful disjunction between the superman of the ring and the human being, though: one attracts legions of admiring fans; the other can hardly pay the rent on his trailer.
Which is what makes The Wrestler so heartbreaking. Fame, as we know, is a fickle mistress, but she seems particularly harsh on pro wrestlers. Not only is there the matter of being a has-been, there's the broken body: a combination of all that physical exertion and injury, and the steroids and painkillers that flood the locker rooms (not to mention the recreational drugs that go hand in hand with the party lifestyle of travelling on the road).
Barry W.Blaustein's 1999 documentary Beyond the Mat, with wrestling legend Jake "The Snake" Roberts smoking crack in his motel room and trying to make up with his estranged daughter, shows that The Ram's problems are not far from the truth.
And wrestlers such as The Ram are the lucky ones. They're not like Darren Drozdov, who became a paraplegic at the age of 30 after a pile-driver went wrong in a match. Or one of the 24 well-known wrestlers under 50 who have died since 2000, including WWE headliner Chris Benoit, who tragically killed his wife, son and himself last year.
Even in the bizarre world of sports entertainment, some unpalatable truths about the human condition emerge.
The Wrestler opens on January 15. (Credit: The Australian)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
WWE
Movie Reviews
Friday, January 02, 2009
CALDWELL'S Daily Word 1/1: Happy New Year, HBK employee program, McMahon and Torch reader response to "The Wrestler"
-- In a few weeks, we'll know whether "The Wrestler" will have a seat at the table for the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony that recognizes the best in movies for the year. Mickey Rourke is a virtual lock to be nominated for Best Actor, as is Bruce Springsteen's "The Wrestler" track for Best Original Song in a movie.
If WWE's Vince McMahon had a vote, he certainly wouldn't pick "The Wrestler," as we reported yesterday that McMahon believes the movie is below WWE. The thematic material related to wrestling is set in the long-forgotten territory era and under-the-radar independent wrestling scene of today, which gives the movie its gritty feel perfect for Mickey Rourke's character.
WWE wants to distance itself from pro wrestling, as evidenced by corporate-friendly statements from CEO Linda McMahon about the company not being in the wrestling business, but the entertainment genre, competing against the NFL, NBA, and entertainers putting on rock concerts.
McMahon most-likely feels the movie being any way associated with WWE would bring the company down to a level they long-since tried to escape from. WWE's attitude of superiority has been displayed in recent JBL promos and the Shawn Michaels "employee" storyline where HBK is willing to sell his soul to JBL to prevent becoming Randy "the Ram" Robinson.
The real story continues to be wrestlers being gobbled up and spit out if they aren't protective of themselves and the investment they're making with their bodies. Other than the two irreplaceables - John Cena and Triple H - McMahon can always find someone else to slide onto the card.
"The Wrestler" hits too close to home with McMahon, who obviously doesn't want his company associated with low-rent indy wrestling, but also because he's the corporate face of a wrestling business that couldn't generate mainstream interest unless someone died or was blown up in a limo.
Now, the positive accolades are going to a movie that focuses on something outside the WWE machine and not kids dancing in the ring with Finlay or WWE touring Iraq. McMahon simply won't stand for that.
Torch reader stonecoldmark commented on the article we posted yesterday about WWE's official anti-"The Wrestler" position after McMahon picked up his movie screening in December. Here's what scmark had to say:
Ask Jake Roberts or Roddy Piper if any of what is in "The Wrester" pertains to them. The Wrestler is about what happens when the WWE dumps these guys. Guys like Duggan are lucky Vince still keeps them employed. Even HUGE stars like Hogan and Flair can be included. Flair never knew when to call it quits because it's all he's known. Hogan would still give it a try if Vince gave him a chance.
The Wrestler should be a calling card for anyone that wants to get into the biz, not everyone can get a job in the big-time and if you do save that money. This film speaks to not just wrestlers, but can apply to any job where the excitement, fame, and money can fade seemingly overnight. Just ask Mickey Rourke. The movie is his life.
Vince is right it's not the WWE, but does that mean his guys are treated any better? Not on your life with that schedule. I think wrestling five or six days a week is just as bad as taking a stapler to your head for one night on a Saturday in Secaucus.
Greg Tingle comment...
The Wrestler is not the WWE, however parts of do tell part of the story of workers with the WWWE in years gone by. Thank god that The Wrestler is not the WWE, and Vince McMahon and the top brass at the WWE have every right to distance themselves from the film. At least some lessons got learned along the way, and the WWE body count is not as high as it once was. If pro wrestling schools showed The Wrestler to potential students before they signed on I think its likely that the sign up rates for wrestling academy's would decline. One needs to be mindful of what they wish for - they might just get it. The Wrestler is a perfect example of show business not being all it's often cranked up to be, and in my position as a media agent I'm in the position to know this. All respect to Roddy Piper, Greg Valentine and many other legends for supporting The Wrestler and Mickey Rourke's effort. Piper's line about it being "not his story, but it is my story" is classic, but in reality Piper came out of the business in better shape than most, and he still picks up a WWE cheque from time to time. Are we one step closer to a wrestling union? I doubt it, but you never know. The US is cracking down on gambling and other moral and ethics type matters, but will they care enough to ensure professional entertainers, wrestlers and the like don't end up on the scrap heap when promoters are finished getting their slice of meat from them? McMahon has cleaned up his act a hell of a lot over the past 5 years or so, and let's hope other wrestling promoters do the same. The Wrestler gets 5 stars for impact, story telling and acting, and talk about a movie for the times.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
If WWE's Vince McMahon had a vote, he certainly wouldn't pick "The Wrestler," as we reported yesterday that McMahon believes the movie is below WWE. The thematic material related to wrestling is set in the long-forgotten territory era and under-the-radar independent wrestling scene of today, which gives the movie its gritty feel perfect for Mickey Rourke's character.
WWE wants to distance itself from pro wrestling, as evidenced by corporate-friendly statements from CEO Linda McMahon about the company not being in the wrestling business, but the entertainment genre, competing against the NFL, NBA, and entertainers putting on rock concerts.
McMahon most-likely feels the movie being any way associated with WWE would bring the company down to a level they long-since tried to escape from. WWE's attitude of superiority has been displayed in recent JBL promos and the Shawn Michaels "employee" storyline where HBK is willing to sell his soul to JBL to prevent becoming Randy "the Ram" Robinson.
The real story continues to be wrestlers being gobbled up and spit out if they aren't protective of themselves and the investment they're making with their bodies. Other than the two irreplaceables - John Cena and Triple H - McMahon can always find someone else to slide onto the card.
"The Wrestler" hits too close to home with McMahon, who obviously doesn't want his company associated with low-rent indy wrestling, but also because he's the corporate face of a wrestling business that couldn't generate mainstream interest unless someone died or was blown up in a limo.
Now, the positive accolades are going to a movie that focuses on something outside the WWE machine and not kids dancing in the ring with Finlay or WWE touring Iraq. McMahon simply won't stand for that.
Torch reader stonecoldmark commented on the article we posted yesterday about WWE's official anti-"The Wrestler" position after McMahon picked up his movie screening in December. Here's what scmark had to say:
Ask Jake Roberts or Roddy Piper if any of what is in "The Wrester" pertains to them. The Wrestler is about what happens when the WWE dumps these guys. Guys like Duggan are lucky Vince still keeps them employed. Even HUGE stars like Hogan and Flair can be included. Flair never knew when to call it quits because it's all he's known. Hogan would still give it a try if Vince gave him a chance.
The Wrestler should be a calling card for anyone that wants to get into the biz, not everyone can get a job in the big-time and if you do save that money. This film speaks to not just wrestlers, but can apply to any job where the excitement, fame, and money can fade seemingly overnight. Just ask Mickey Rourke. The movie is his life.
Vince is right it's not the WWE, but does that mean his guys are treated any better? Not on your life with that schedule. I think wrestling five or six days a week is just as bad as taking a stapler to your head for one night on a Saturday in Secaucus.
Greg Tingle comment...
The Wrestler is not the WWE, however parts of do tell part of the story of workers with the WWWE in years gone by. Thank god that The Wrestler is not the WWE, and Vince McMahon and the top brass at the WWE have every right to distance themselves from the film. At least some lessons got learned along the way, and the WWE body count is not as high as it once was. If pro wrestling schools showed The Wrestler to potential students before they signed on I think its likely that the sign up rates for wrestling academy's would decline. One needs to be mindful of what they wish for - they might just get it. The Wrestler is a perfect example of show business not being all it's often cranked up to be, and in my position as a media agent I'm in the position to know this. All respect to Roddy Piper, Greg Valentine and many other legends for supporting The Wrestler and Mickey Rourke's effort. Piper's line about it being "not his story, but it is my story" is classic, but in reality Piper came out of the business in better shape than most, and he still picks up a WWE cheque from time to time. Are we one step closer to a wrestling union? I doubt it, but you never know. The US is cracking down on gambling and other moral and ethics type matters, but will they care enough to ensure professional entertainers, wrestlers and the like don't end up on the scrap heap when promoters are finished getting their slice of meat from them? McMahon has cleaned up his act a hell of a lot over the past 5 years or so, and let's hope other wrestling promoters do the same. The Wrestler gets 5 stars for impact, story telling and acting, and talk about a movie for the times.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Hulk Hogan enjoying ‘second half’ of his life, by Peter Centineo - The Black Hills Pioneer
Wrestling superstar comes to reservation, Rapid City to boost Native Americans
Sitting in his hotel room after arriving at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn Thursday night, wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan’s eyes were red and he was a bit road-weary.
Hogan had just gotten in after visiting the Porcupine Indian Reservation earlier in the day, meeting with the locals and just having a good time with close friend Ernie Stevens Jr. and a host of others. His visit was part of his work with Dreamseekers Foundation, which he and Stevens Jr. formed several years ago to help tribal nations battle poverty, violence and a lack of resources.
And even though Hogan was visibly tired from his adventures that day, his eyes lit up when he shared his experiences.
“We saw three eagles,” he said excitedly. “One was sitting on a fencepost and there were a few others overhead. It was pretty amazing. I’d never seen an eagle that close.”
Stevens Jr. just shook his head and smiled. He and Hogan have been friends for several years, and the two have a lot of admiration for each other.
“The Hulk is an amazing man. He a great friend,” Stevens Jr. said.
Hogan said all the Native American people he met Thursday were friendly and polite, wishing him well at every turn.
“We were driving and we stopped at a Common Cents to get something to drink. A lot of people came up to shake hands and talk. What great people we met today,” he said. “We saw people walking down the road and we’d just stop and pick them up and give them a ride.
“Where I’m from (Florida) we’d be afraid to pick anyone up because we’d be afraid they’d kill us. But we gave a lot of people rides. We didn’t know their agenda. We just helped them out.”
The wrestling legend, who turned 55 this summer, may be a bit older, but he doesn’t lack enthusiasm especially when talking about Dreamseekers. He and Stevens Jr. formed Dreamseekers Foundation several years ago with hopes that the foundation could generate funds to help tribal nations that face numerous problems. Hogan became aware of health-care problems Native American children face in 2005, and after meeting and talking with Stevens Jr. they decided to join forces to help Native American people.
Hogan is hoping his Hulkamania Experience (TM), a multilevel progressive video slot-series based on his adventures, will be in Oklahoma and California casinos this year. A portion of the proceeds from the machines will go to Dreamseekers and those funds will go to those in need. Stevens Jr. is chairman for the National Indian Gaming Association.
“When I met Ernie I thought what better way to use the Hulk brand name then to help these people. I had no idea about what kinds of problems these people face as far as healthcare goes,” Hogan said. “Then I found out about other problems like suicide and alcoholism. I felt I could help to address some of the needs these people have.”
Dreamseekers is in its infancy. The foundation has funds coming in, but they are hoping the Hulk’s machines will provide a steady source of revenue. Other sources will be sought as well, but all those involved are willing to wait and do things the right way. There are a lot of things to tackle, but Hogan said they’ll take it step by step.
“I think we can have a big impact on a lot of people’s lives,” Hogan said. “That’s what it’s all about. It’s all about helping people. I’m really just starting to understand what it’s all about. We’re going to take it one piece at a time and keep pushing forward.”
Hogan is involved with many other charitable organizations. He also works quite a bit with the Make A Wish foundation and the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Hogan recently received the National Indian Gaming Association’s Humanitarian Award for his work on behalf of Dreamseekers at the Las Vegas Global Gaming Expo in November, and it’s an honor he didn’t take lightly.
“When I do something I’m all in. If I don’t want to do something I’m all out. I’m all in on this. We have great people working with us who are dedicated to what we’re trying to do,” he said. “I’m sitting in this room with these people and five years from now I expect to be here again with this same group of people. Nobody is going anywhere.”
Hogan’s career in pro wrestling is well documented with six WWF and WCW titles. At 6-7, 275 pounds, he was larger than life in the ring and drew the adulation of millions of fans the world over. He may not be the force he once was in the ring but he’s making his presence known on television and with his philanthropic ways.
Born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Ga., he never loses touch with who he is and what he wants to do. He’s at peace with himself and isn’t the hyper Hulk Hogan character people have come to know through wrestling. Out of the ring he’s engaging and mellow, and puts people at ease.
“I’m in the second half,” Hogan says with a smile. “It’s no secret I don’t have any hair and I’m getting a little older. I was in the ring with Rick Flair last week and managed to pull a few muscles but I didn’t break anything.”
Hogan’s personal life has also been well documented and he’s had his share of personal battles over the past year. But if Hogan is down about any personal struggles he’s had he sure doesn’t show it. He loves being Terry Bollea, but he never grows tired of becoming Hulk Hogan.
“I’ve been blessed my whole life and I’m blessed to be part of what we’re doing here. To have kids 7 and 8 years old coming up to me for autographs is really something,” he said. “I’d hate to be one of those guys who used to be popular and now don’t get any attention. It seems like more and more people are wanting to see the Hulk and that’s a lot of fun.”
Stevens Jr. said Hogan’s presence in Indian Country never goes unnoticed.
“Moms, dads, little kids all love Hulk Hogan. I’m bowled over and amazed how many people love this man,” Stevens Jr. said. “Here is a man who is a superstar and he reached out to me telling me he wanted to help Indian kids. That’s an amazing person.” (Credit: The Black Hills Pioneer)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Casino News
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Sitting in his hotel room after arriving at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn Thursday night, wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan’s eyes were red and he was a bit road-weary.
Hogan had just gotten in after visiting the Porcupine Indian Reservation earlier in the day, meeting with the locals and just having a good time with close friend Ernie Stevens Jr. and a host of others. His visit was part of his work with Dreamseekers Foundation, which he and Stevens Jr. formed several years ago to help tribal nations battle poverty, violence and a lack of resources.
And even though Hogan was visibly tired from his adventures that day, his eyes lit up when he shared his experiences.
“We saw three eagles,” he said excitedly. “One was sitting on a fencepost and there were a few others overhead. It was pretty amazing. I’d never seen an eagle that close.”
Stevens Jr. just shook his head and smiled. He and Hogan have been friends for several years, and the two have a lot of admiration for each other.
“The Hulk is an amazing man. He a great friend,” Stevens Jr. said.
Hogan said all the Native American people he met Thursday were friendly and polite, wishing him well at every turn.
“We were driving and we stopped at a Common Cents to get something to drink. A lot of people came up to shake hands and talk. What great people we met today,” he said. “We saw people walking down the road and we’d just stop and pick them up and give them a ride.
“Where I’m from (Florida) we’d be afraid to pick anyone up because we’d be afraid they’d kill us. But we gave a lot of people rides. We didn’t know their agenda. We just helped them out.”
The wrestling legend, who turned 55 this summer, may be a bit older, but he doesn’t lack enthusiasm especially when talking about Dreamseekers. He and Stevens Jr. formed Dreamseekers Foundation several years ago with hopes that the foundation could generate funds to help tribal nations that face numerous problems. Hogan became aware of health-care problems Native American children face in 2005, and after meeting and talking with Stevens Jr. they decided to join forces to help Native American people.
Hogan is hoping his Hulkamania Experience (TM), a multilevel progressive video slot-series based on his adventures, will be in Oklahoma and California casinos this year. A portion of the proceeds from the machines will go to Dreamseekers and those funds will go to those in need. Stevens Jr. is chairman for the National Indian Gaming Association.
“When I met Ernie I thought what better way to use the Hulk brand name then to help these people. I had no idea about what kinds of problems these people face as far as healthcare goes,” Hogan said. “Then I found out about other problems like suicide and alcoholism. I felt I could help to address some of the needs these people have.”
Dreamseekers is in its infancy. The foundation has funds coming in, but they are hoping the Hulk’s machines will provide a steady source of revenue. Other sources will be sought as well, but all those involved are willing to wait and do things the right way. There are a lot of things to tackle, but Hogan said they’ll take it step by step.
“I think we can have a big impact on a lot of people’s lives,” Hogan said. “That’s what it’s all about. It’s all about helping people. I’m really just starting to understand what it’s all about. We’re going to take it one piece at a time and keep pushing forward.”
Hogan is involved with many other charitable organizations. He also works quite a bit with the Make A Wish foundation and the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Hogan recently received the National Indian Gaming Association’s Humanitarian Award for his work on behalf of Dreamseekers at the Las Vegas Global Gaming Expo in November, and it’s an honor he didn’t take lightly.
“When I do something I’m all in. If I don’t want to do something I’m all out. I’m all in on this. We have great people working with us who are dedicated to what we’re trying to do,” he said. “I’m sitting in this room with these people and five years from now I expect to be here again with this same group of people. Nobody is going anywhere.”
Hogan’s career in pro wrestling is well documented with six WWF and WCW titles. At 6-7, 275 pounds, he was larger than life in the ring and drew the adulation of millions of fans the world over. He may not be the force he once was in the ring but he’s making his presence known on television and with his philanthropic ways.
Born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Ga., he never loses touch with who he is and what he wants to do. He’s at peace with himself and isn’t the hyper Hulk Hogan character people have come to know through wrestling. Out of the ring he’s engaging and mellow, and puts people at ease.
“I’m in the second half,” Hogan says with a smile. “It’s no secret I don’t have any hair and I’m getting a little older. I was in the ring with Rick Flair last week and managed to pull a few muscles but I didn’t break anything.”
Hogan’s personal life has also been well documented and he’s had his share of personal battles over the past year. But if Hogan is down about any personal struggles he’s had he sure doesn’t show it. He loves being Terry Bollea, but he never grows tired of becoming Hulk Hogan.
“I’ve been blessed my whole life and I’m blessed to be part of what we’re doing here. To have kids 7 and 8 years old coming up to me for autographs is really something,” he said. “I’d hate to be one of those guys who used to be popular and now don’t get any attention. It seems like more and more people are wanting to see the Hulk and that’s a lot of fun.”
Stevens Jr. said Hogan’s presence in Indian Country never goes unnoticed.
“Moms, dads, little kids all love Hulk Hogan. I’m bowled over and amazed how many people love this man,” Stevens Jr. said. “Here is a man who is a superstar and he reached out to me telling me he wanted to help Indian kids. That’s an amazing person.” (Credit: The Black Hills Pioneer)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Casino News
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WHAT'CHA GONNA DO ... WHEN THE HULK HOGAN SLOT MACHINE RUNS WILD ON YOU?
LAS VEGAS, NV. On Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12 noon, Hulk Hogan will be honored by National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. in conjunction with the Global Gaming Expo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. He will receive the “Humanitarian Award” for his work on behalf of the “Dreamseekers” Foundation.
Working with the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation at the National Indian Gaming Association, Hulk and Dreamseekers have committed to building the non-profit organization in partnership with Indian Country to provide needed assistance to Native America youth and their families.
Hulk Hogan, one of the most successful entertainment personalities and Executive Producer/host of the “Celebrity Championship Wrestling” series on CMT, will participate in the foundation’s activities by providing a familiar public face and forwarding the organization’s goal: providing greater opportunities for youth in Indian Country. Hulk Hogan has made it a priority to start this program in areas of Indian Country with the most need.
Once the project is implemented, the Dreamseekers Foundation hopes to provide a significant amount per annum to tribal nations that face adversities such as poverty, violence and lack of various resources. “We’re specifically focusing on efforts to improve healthcare and education for Native youth and their families around the country, as well as give them access to as many other critical opportunities as possible,” said Ernie Stevens Jr., co-founder of the foundation.
The Hulkamania Experience TM, a multilevel progressive video-slot series based on the adventures of the iconic superstar, is expected to debut at the 2008 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas and roll out nationally during the next several months. As a part of the foundation’s fundraising initiative, a portion of the proceeds from The Hulkamania Experience tm will go towards the various health and education initiatives yet to be determined by the foundation.
The game, developed in conjunction with Rainmaker Gaming Technology and ID Interactive, LLC, represents a fundamentally new approach towards community involvement in Indian Country. Hulk’s efforts alongside that of the National Indian Gaming Association are a first of their kind, and it all spawned from an initial conversation between Ernie Stevens, Jr. and Hogan. “Hulk simply asked what he could do to help Indian Country, and we both agreed that it all starts with our children,” Stevens said.
“American Indian children are more likely to live in poverty than any other racial or ethnic group in this country“, Hogan noted, citing recent U.S. Census Bureau data. “It’s time to change that, and I’m proud to be associated with that effort,” said Hulk Hogan.
"This is an exciting opportunity to use the Hulk Hogan brand in a fulfilling way that makes a difference in people’s lives at the local level,” says Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment, Hogan’s partners in the project.
Last year Hogan was a recipient of a very high honor on behalf of the tribal leaders and the traditional community of South Dakota for his help in Indian Country while attending the Lakota Nation Invitational in Rapid City, SD. It was one of very few times in history that someone from outside the community has received such a prestigious honor. Hulk continues to feel the energy of that ceremony that took place ten months ago and looks forward to doing so much more.
* * *
KEY DATA / NEWS HOOKS:
* Nearly a third of all American Indian and Alaska Native children live in poverty
* 32.8 percent of Native American children in single-parent homes live below the poverty level. This is the highest rate among minorities, and more than twice the rate for White children in similar homes.
* SOURCE: "Children and the Households They Live In," a special report released by the Census Bureau.
About HULK HOGAN
Known most recently as the host of NBC’s top-rated “American Gladiator”, and host and Executive Producer of CMT’s series, “Celebrity Wrestling”, Hulk Hogan is one of the best-recognized celebrities in the United States.
A twelve- time world wrestling champion, including six WCW World Heavyweight belts, six WWE Championships, and a World Tag Team championship belt, Hulk Hogan is arguably the greatest wrestler in sports entertainment history. Rarely has an athlete held so many professional titles to his name in such a vast career.
Hulk Hogan is also well known among young fans for his four "demandments": which include training, saying prayers, eating vitamins, and believing in one self. As a result, he is one of the most-requested celebrities for the Make-a-Wish Foundation children’s charity.
About ERIC BISCHOFF
Eric Bischoff began his TV career in syndication and sales for an organization in Minneapolis known as the AWA in August of 1987. His transition from an obscure “office” position to an on-camera host for the company’s daily program on ESPN and in syndication was an event that truly defined the phrase “right time…right place”.
Being in the right place at the right time isn’t always simply coincidence. Indeed, in many respects it’s really all about passion, instinct, commitment, and risk. Bischoff’s move from the AWA to Turner Broadcasting in 1991 and his subsequent path that began as on camera talent at Turner Broadcasting culminated in 1999 when he was named President of Turner/Time Warner’s WCW division.
During this period he had the opportunity to take a fledgling division of Turner Broadcasting that happened to be a personal favorite of Ted Turner, from a money losing-content producing lost leader (from a corporate point of view) to a $300+ million dollar leader in the industry that had ABC Television up at night wondering how to shore up the male audience that was making “Monday Nitro on TNT” their preferred destination during the NFL season.
Today, Bischoff and Jason Hervey own their own production company (BISCHOFF-HERVEY ENTERTAINMENT), developing television content for NBC, VH1, CMT, E! and many other outlets as well as developing licensing opportunities for entertainment brands..
About ERNIE STEVENS, JR.
Stevens is the Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, representing 184 tribes in gaming, based in Washington, D.C. Stevens is a former councilman for the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, as well as former 1st Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians. He is currently serving his fourth consecutive term as chairman for the association.
About the NATIONAL INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION (NIGA)
NIGA is a non-profit trade association comprised of 184 American Indian Nations and other non-voting associate members. The mission of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian people; economically, socially, and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policy makers, and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development. For more information, visit www.indiangaming.org.
About ID Interactive
ID Interactive LLC, producer of the Hulkamania multilevel progressive, is an independent game developer, designer and distributor with a domestic US focus on Indian Country and a history of commitment to charitable community programs. ID distributes games in the US, Western and Eastern Europe, Mexico, Central and South America and Asia. CEO Jon Goldstein is a founding partner of the Dreamseekers Foundation.
About Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation
Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation recognize students that are exceptionally talented and demonstrate skills that positively represent the Native American community. Recipients are qualified based on criteria such as, but not limited to: Course study, GPA, and Enrollment. The selection process for scholarship is competitive, and the award is distinct and prestigious.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Native American Indians
Casino News
Entertainment News
Working with the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation at the National Indian Gaming Association, Hulk and Dreamseekers have committed to building the non-profit organization in partnership with Indian Country to provide needed assistance to Native America youth and their families.
Hulk Hogan, one of the most successful entertainment personalities and Executive Producer/host of the “Celebrity Championship Wrestling” series on CMT, will participate in the foundation’s activities by providing a familiar public face and forwarding the organization’s goal: providing greater opportunities for youth in Indian Country. Hulk Hogan has made it a priority to start this program in areas of Indian Country with the most need.
Once the project is implemented, the Dreamseekers Foundation hopes to provide a significant amount per annum to tribal nations that face adversities such as poverty, violence and lack of various resources. “We’re specifically focusing on efforts to improve healthcare and education for Native youth and their families around the country, as well as give them access to as many other critical opportunities as possible,” said Ernie Stevens Jr., co-founder of the foundation.
The Hulkamania Experience TM, a multilevel progressive video-slot series based on the adventures of the iconic superstar, is expected to debut at the 2008 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas and roll out nationally during the next several months. As a part of the foundation’s fundraising initiative, a portion of the proceeds from The Hulkamania Experience tm will go towards the various health and education initiatives yet to be determined by the foundation.
The game, developed in conjunction with Rainmaker Gaming Technology and ID Interactive, LLC, represents a fundamentally new approach towards community involvement in Indian Country. Hulk’s efforts alongside that of the National Indian Gaming Association are a first of their kind, and it all spawned from an initial conversation between Ernie Stevens, Jr. and Hogan. “Hulk simply asked what he could do to help Indian Country, and we both agreed that it all starts with our children,” Stevens said.
“American Indian children are more likely to live in poverty than any other racial or ethnic group in this country“, Hogan noted, citing recent U.S. Census Bureau data. “It’s time to change that, and I’m proud to be associated with that effort,” said Hulk Hogan.
"This is an exciting opportunity to use the Hulk Hogan brand in a fulfilling way that makes a difference in people’s lives at the local level,” says Eric Bischoff of Bischoff Hervey Entertainment, Hogan’s partners in the project.
Last year Hogan was a recipient of a very high honor on behalf of the tribal leaders and the traditional community of South Dakota for his help in Indian Country while attending the Lakota Nation Invitational in Rapid City, SD. It was one of very few times in history that someone from outside the community has received such a prestigious honor. Hulk continues to feel the energy of that ceremony that took place ten months ago and looks forward to doing so much more.
* * *
KEY DATA / NEWS HOOKS:
* Nearly a third of all American Indian and Alaska Native children live in poverty
* 32.8 percent of Native American children in single-parent homes live below the poverty level. This is the highest rate among minorities, and more than twice the rate for White children in similar homes.
* SOURCE: "Children and the Households They Live In," a special report released by the Census Bureau.
About HULK HOGAN
Known most recently as the host of NBC’s top-rated “American Gladiator”, and host and Executive Producer of CMT’s series, “Celebrity Wrestling”, Hulk Hogan is one of the best-recognized celebrities in the United States.
A twelve- time world wrestling champion, including six WCW World Heavyweight belts, six WWE Championships, and a World Tag Team championship belt, Hulk Hogan is arguably the greatest wrestler in sports entertainment history. Rarely has an athlete held so many professional titles to his name in such a vast career.
Hulk Hogan is also well known among young fans for his four "demandments": which include training, saying prayers, eating vitamins, and believing in one self. As a result, he is one of the most-requested celebrities for the Make-a-Wish Foundation children’s charity.
About ERIC BISCHOFF
Eric Bischoff began his TV career in syndication and sales for an organization in Minneapolis known as the AWA in August of 1987. His transition from an obscure “office” position to an on-camera host for the company’s daily program on ESPN and in syndication was an event that truly defined the phrase “right time…right place”.
Being in the right place at the right time isn’t always simply coincidence. Indeed, in many respects it’s really all about passion, instinct, commitment, and risk. Bischoff’s move from the AWA to Turner Broadcasting in 1991 and his subsequent path that began as on camera talent at Turner Broadcasting culminated in 1999 when he was named President of Turner/Time Warner’s WCW division.
During this period he had the opportunity to take a fledgling division of Turner Broadcasting that happened to be a personal favorite of Ted Turner, from a money losing-content producing lost leader (from a corporate point of view) to a $300+ million dollar leader in the industry that had ABC Television up at night wondering how to shore up the male audience that was making “Monday Nitro on TNT” their preferred destination during the NFL season.
Today, Bischoff and Jason Hervey own their own production company (BISCHOFF-HERVEY ENTERTAINMENT), developing television content for NBC, VH1, CMT, E! and many other outlets as well as developing licensing opportunities for entertainment brands..
About ERNIE STEVENS, JR.
Stevens is the Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, representing 184 tribes in gaming, based in Washington, D.C. Stevens is a former councilman for the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, as well as former 1st Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians. He is currently serving his fourth consecutive term as chairman for the association.
About the NATIONAL INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION (NIGA)
NIGA is a non-profit trade association comprised of 184 American Indian Nations and other non-voting associate members. The mission of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian people; economically, socially, and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policy makers, and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development. For more information, visit www.indiangaming.org.
About ID Interactive
ID Interactive LLC, producer of the Hulkamania multilevel progressive, is an independent game developer, designer and distributor with a domestic US focus on Indian Country and a history of commitment to charitable community programs. ID distributes games in the US, Western and Eastern Europe, Mexico, Central and South America and Asia. CEO Jon Goldstein is a founding partner of the Dreamseekers Foundation.
About Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation
Dreamseekers and the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation recognize students that are exceptionally talented and demonstrate skills that positively represent the Native American community. Recipients are qualified based on criteria such as, but not limited to: Course study, GPA, and Enrollment. The selection process for scholarship is competitive, and the award is distinct and prestigious.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Native American Indians
Casino News
Entertainment News
WWE Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Hulkamania Slot Coming Soon
Pro wrestling icon, Hulk Hogan, will soon have his own slot in casinos around the world.
Rumour also has it that the late, great, Andre The Giant will also have a slot based on him, and Andre's slot game will be found in various online casinos!
Pro wrestling has mainstream appeal and caters for young and old alike, so it should be of little surprise that wrestling icons would have their own slot games. This trend appears a natural progression from movie blockbusters being turned into films such as Top Gun and The Godfather (PartyCasino.com) and Marvel Comics with the likes of The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Spider-Man and Iron Man.
2009 promises to be a banner year from entertainment industry themed slots, and WWE icons and entertainment industry mainstays are set to be in the thick of the action and excitement. POW and Hell Yeah!
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
Rumour also has it that the late, great, Andre The Giant will also have a slot based on him, and Andre's slot game will be found in various online casinos!
Pro wrestling has mainstream appeal and caters for young and old alike, so it should be of little surprise that wrestling icons would have their own slot games. This trend appears a natural progression from movie blockbusters being turned into films such as Top Gun and The Godfather (PartyCasino.com) and Marvel Comics with the likes of The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Spider-Man and Iron Man.
2009 promises to be a banner year from entertainment industry themed slots, and WWE icons and entertainment industry mainstays are set to be in the thick of the action and excitement. POW and Hell Yeah!
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
Monday, December 29, 2008
Wrestling Star Features On Slot Machine
Hulk Hogan to appear on new video slot machine developed by US firm.
One of the world's most famous wrestlers is set to enter the gaming market with a new slot machine offering.
Former World Wrestling Federation star Hulk Hogan has put his name to The Hulkamania Experience, a progressive video slot based on his glory days in the ring.
Due to hit US casinos in early 2009, the machine will be unveiled by developers Rainmaker Gaming Technology and IDInteractive at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas next month.
The Dreamseekers Foundation, a non-profit organisation which works to improve living conditions for Native American families, is in line to receive a substantial proportion of revenues from the slots game.
"We're thrilled to work with such a worthy cause and such an incredible superstar," said Ike McFadden, director of marketing at IDInteractive.
At next month's gaming exhibition, Hogan is set to receive a humanitarian award from the National Indian Gaming Association in recognition of his work with the Dreamseekers Foundation.
Media Man Australia and Casino News Media has also learned that there are plans for a leader in the online casino game market to develop a themed slot game on Andre The Giant.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
New Games
Slots
Casino News
One of the world's most famous wrestlers is set to enter the gaming market with a new slot machine offering.
Former World Wrestling Federation star Hulk Hogan has put his name to The Hulkamania Experience, a progressive video slot based on his glory days in the ring.
Due to hit US casinos in early 2009, the machine will be unveiled by developers Rainmaker Gaming Technology and IDInteractive at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas next month.
The Dreamseekers Foundation, a non-profit organisation which works to improve living conditions for Native American families, is in line to receive a substantial proportion of revenues from the slots game.
"We're thrilled to work with such a worthy cause and such an incredible superstar," said Ike McFadden, director of marketing at IDInteractive.
At next month's gaming exhibition, Hogan is set to receive a humanitarian award from the National Indian Gaming Association in recognition of his work with the Dreamseekers Foundation.
Media Man Australia and Casino News Media has also learned that there are plans for a leader in the online casino game market to develop a themed slot game on Andre The Giant.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
New Games
Slots
Casino News
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Jeff Hardy...WWE Champion, A Personal Look...."The Wrestler" ...A Few Random Thoughts
Wed, 12/17/2008 - 7:11pm — J.R.
Posted in:Wrestling
It is always good to arrive back in Oklahoma safe and sound after a 5 day road trip that at times felt longer. At least the weather was warmer in Buffalo and in Baltimore for the most part than it was back in Oklahoma while I was away. It was a momentous week within the WWE with Jeff Hardy joining the ranks of those who have held the coveted WWE Title. Most onlookers would likely have never put Jeff Hardy in the same sentence with the likes of Bruno Sammartino, the first, truly dominate WWE Champion, but the history books will now always reflect that the son of a rural mail carrier from North Carolina is among the men who have had the responsibility of holding the WWE's most coveted and tenured title.
When I first met Jeff and his older brother Mat they were a tag team who came to selected WWE TV tapings in the southeast and were normally used as cannon fodder for the featured, antagonistic tag teams of the WWE. Their matches occasionally aired on WWE Superstars but more often on WWE Challenge did not last long but the two brothers, who designed and sewed their own wrestling attire, never failed to make a memorable accounting of themselves albeit usually in a losing effort. Looking back on those days around '98 I don't recall the two teens ever winning a match.
Nonetheless the Hardy Brothers had the wonderful gift of passion and had excellent skill sets for their roles and I vividly recall that many tag teams requested to work with Matt and Jeff on those short, one sided bouts of that era.
Jeff's past has been well documented but it merits saying that the younger Hardy, not unlike many of us, has made bad decisions in his life but not without penalty. Jeff left the WWE the first time on my watch. I had one vision for him and he had another. I think I was right, and still do, while I'm sure that Jeff feels that he did what he needed to do at the time which unfortunately resulted in him leaving the WWE. Those days are more like a blur to me now but I can say that at no time did I ever feel that Jeff Hardy was a bad kid. Perhaps I could have done a better job in managing him and mentoring him but the bottom line is that he left the company and at the time I thought, "what a waste of talent."
Jeff's last misstep cost him a Wrestlemania appearance and the payday that would have gone with it including 60 days away from the business of which he was born to be a part. Lost income as a result of that indiscretion had to easily exceed six figures. That's a lesson learned the hard way but a lesson learned nonetheless.
I have read where some fans are uncomfortable with Jeff Hardy being the WWE Champion because of his past "strikes." I have read where some fans feel that because Jeff won the WWE Title at one of the WWE's perceived "secondary" pay per views that it is a tainted title win. Others have predicted that Jeff will be the proverbial "interim" champion and will be losing the title before new merchandise can be made and distributed.
Ironically, prior to Sunday's Armageddon PPV, one of the hottest topics on our Q&A section of our site and on other sites was "When is Jeff Hardy going to win the WWE Title?"
I prefer to look at Jeff's victory which came in one of the best Triple Threat matches I can ever remember broadcasting in a positive manner. The new champion is unique, young, deserving, innovative, and provides several options for a variety of challengers with which to have some potentially, excellent matches.
How long will Jeff Hardy be at the top of the WWE mountain as the WWE Champion? I have no idea other than the obvious answer, " until he loses it." I choose to look at this as an adventure for the talented, young man and to vicariously travel with him on it.
It should be a helluva ride.
One thing that I am thankful for is that I had the opportunity to be a part of the broadcast team that called the match Sunday. Those types of moments are still special to me and aren't just another day at the office. Years from now when I am off the road and selling BBQ full time for a living I can always pop in a DVD of that night or tune into WWE 24/7 On Demand and mentally re-create the extraordinary night when a life long wrestling fan who, from the age of 9, was raised by a single parent and who learned many of his skills on a trampoline lived the dream of a life time.
Like I said, it should be one helluva ride.
Congratulations Jeff and enjoy your accomplishment. You persevered and never quit. You deserve the opportunity and I for one hope that your WWE Title reign is as unique and memorable as is your personality and approach to the business.
"The Wrestler" is going to be in theaters every where soon and I am anxious to see it. I am not concerned about the perception some may get from the film as it relates to the wrestling business. From what I understand from those that have seen the film and by what I have read about it, "The Wrestler" represents an era of wrestling that wasn't a positive representation of the genre but an accurate one based on the individuals who chose to live their lives in an undesirable manner. The wrestling business is not unlike any other form of sports or entertainment in that it does have its non flattering side. That's what an entity gets when they deal with humans who have proved time and again that they are far from perfect. I can assure you that the wrestling business was a traveling Wild West show in the 70's when I got in it. For a young man from rural, eastern Oklahoma I saw things my first couple of years in the business of which I had never dreamed. When wrestling had territories that regularly ran the same markets weekly, the facilitating of many things not advisable was somewhat easy. Not every wrestler partook but enough did to adversely affect the perception of the business. The trend did not end after the 70's as temptations and circumstances helped facilitate more self destruction by those that lived life in the fast lane. However, without question, I can honestly say that things are much better now as it relates to the overall aspect of the business of which I am associated.
However, the past is what it is and history can't and shouldn't be erased but instead be utilized to better the future.
I am sure that for many of us who have lived most of our adult lives immersed inside the wrestling business that the film "The Wrestler" will remind us of many of our peers including many that are no longer with us. That won't elicit happy memories but the film's message could certainly be a sobering one and may help encourage those that emotionally invest in the fictional story of "Randy the Ram" to make better decisions in their lives no matter their vocation.
Speaking of making good decisions, I am proud that the superstar formally known as "Cherry" is heading back to college and taking a sabbatical from the ring. I applaud this young lady's decision as her education is vital in today's world and if she chooses she can always resume her wrestling career. Wrestlers with no college degree or nothing to fall back on if things don't work out for them in the business put themselves in a position to be paranoid and insecure more often than not which can't be deemed any thing but unhealthy.
Friday Night Smackdown is really in-ring, wrestling heavy this week which is a good thing from where I sit.
There's a wrestling connection between the only two players to ever be named AP college football All Americans, James Laurinaitis and Bill Fralic. Laurinaitis, Ohio State's #33 who will graduate with a bachelor's degree after his 4 years for the Buckeyes, is the son of Road Warrior Animal as we all know while Fralic once wrestled in Wrestlemania in a Battle Royal. Fralic and I were friends when I lived in Atlanta and worked with WCW and the Falcons and he was a wrestling fan while growing up in Pittsburgh and a Bruno Sammartino fan in particular. The younger Laurninaitis could end up in a WWE ring after his NFL career finishes but major money awaits James who is a guaranteed first round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Fralic even used the prospect of a pro wrestling career to leverage more money out of the Falcons who made him the #3 overall pick in the draft.
We are Toronto bound next week for a huge Monday in TO with Friday Night Smackdown being taped prior to Monday night Raw going live at 9, I assume. Nonetheless both Monday and Friday shows will emanate from Toronto while ECW will have a "best of" type show as I understand it Christmas week. The great fans in Toronto should get their money's worth as the ACC should be packed Monday night for a star studded evening.
Thanks for all your business in our on line store, in our restaurants in Oklahoma, and for telling your friends about our site. Don't forget that my Smackdown blog will go live on WWE.com Thursday evening or Friday morning.
We are still working on your holiday orders and if you hurry we will do our best to get your shipments to you when you need them.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
(Credit: J.R's Blog)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Posted in:Wrestling
It is always good to arrive back in Oklahoma safe and sound after a 5 day road trip that at times felt longer. At least the weather was warmer in Buffalo and in Baltimore for the most part than it was back in Oklahoma while I was away. It was a momentous week within the WWE with Jeff Hardy joining the ranks of those who have held the coveted WWE Title. Most onlookers would likely have never put Jeff Hardy in the same sentence with the likes of Bruno Sammartino, the first, truly dominate WWE Champion, but the history books will now always reflect that the son of a rural mail carrier from North Carolina is among the men who have had the responsibility of holding the WWE's most coveted and tenured title.
When I first met Jeff and his older brother Mat they were a tag team who came to selected WWE TV tapings in the southeast and were normally used as cannon fodder for the featured, antagonistic tag teams of the WWE. Their matches occasionally aired on WWE Superstars but more often on WWE Challenge did not last long but the two brothers, who designed and sewed their own wrestling attire, never failed to make a memorable accounting of themselves albeit usually in a losing effort. Looking back on those days around '98 I don't recall the two teens ever winning a match.
Nonetheless the Hardy Brothers had the wonderful gift of passion and had excellent skill sets for their roles and I vividly recall that many tag teams requested to work with Matt and Jeff on those short, one sided bouts of that era.
Jeff's past has been well documented but it merits saying that the younger Hardy, not unlike many of us, has made bad decisions in his life but not without penalty. Jeff left the WWE the first time on my watch. I had one vision for him and he had another. I think I was right, and still do, while I'm sure that Jeff feels that he did what he needed to do at the time which unfortunately resulted in him leaving the WWE. Those days are more like a blur to me now but I can say that at no time did I ever feel that Jeff Hardy was a bad kid. Perhaps I could have done a better job in managing him and mentoring him but the bottom line is that he left the company and at the time I thought, "what a waste of talent."
Jeff's last misstep cost him a Wrestlemania appearance and the payday that would have gone with it including 60 days away from the business of which he was born to be a part. Lost income as a result of that indiscretion had to easily exceed six figures. That's a lesson learned the hard way but a lesson learned nonetheless.
I have read where some fans are uncomfortable with Jeff Hardy being the WWE Champion because of his past "strikes." I have read where some fans feel that because Jeff won the WWE Title at one of the WWE's perceived "secondary" pay per views that it is a tainted title win. Others have predicted that Jeff will be the proverbial "interim" champion and will be losing the title before new merchandise can be made and distributed.
Ironically, prior to Sunday's Armageddon PPV, one of the hottest topics on our Q&A section of our site and on other sites was "When is Jeff Hardy going to win the WWE Title?"
I prefer to look at Jeff's victory which came in one of the best Triple Threat matches I can ever remember broadcasting in a positive manner. The new champion is unique, young, deserving, innovative, and provides several options for a variety of challengers with which to have some potentially, excellent matches.
How long will Jeff Hardy be at the top of the WWE mountain as the WWE Champion? I have no idea other than the obvious answer, " until he loses it." I choose to look at this as an adventure for the talented, young man and to vicariously travel with him on it.
It should be a helluva ride.
One thing that I am thankful for is that I had the opportunity to be a part of the broadcast team that called the match Sunday. Those types of moments are still special to me and aren't just another day at the office. Years from now when I am off the road and selling BBQ full time for a living I can always pop in a DVD of that night or tune into WWE 24/7 On Demand and mentally re-create the extraordinary night when a life long wrestling fan who, from the age of 9, was raised by a single parent and who learned many of his skills on a trampoline lived the dream of a life time.
Like I said, it should be one helluva ride.
Congratulations Jeff and enjoy your accomplishment. You persevered and never quit. You deserve the opportunity and I for one hope that your WWE Title reign is as unique and memorable as is your personality and approach to the business.
"The Wrestler" is going to be in theaters every where soon and I am anxious to see it. I am not concerned about the perception some may get from the film as it relates to the wrestling business. From what I understand from those that have seen the film and by what I have read about it, "The Wrestler" represents an era of wrestling that wasn't a positive representation of the genre but an accurate one based on the individuals who chose to live their lives in an undesirable manner. The wrestling business is not unlike any other form of sports or entertainment in that it does have its non flattering side. That's what an entity gets when they deal with humans who have proved time and again that they are far from perfect. I can assure you that the wrestling business was a traveling Wild West show in the 70's when I got in it. For a young man from rural, eastern Oklahoma I saw things my first couple of years in the business of which I had never dreamed. When wrestling had territories that regularly ran the same markets weekly, the facilitating of many things not advisable was somewhat easy. Not every wrestler partook but enough did to adversely affect the perception of the business. The trend did not end after the 70's as temptations and circumstances helped facilitate more self destruction by those that lived life in the fast lane. However, without question, I can honestly say that things are much better now as it relates to the overall aspect of the business of which I am associated.
However, the past is what it is and history can't and shouldn't be erased but instead be utilized to better the future.
I am sure that for many of us who have lived most of our adult lives immersed inside the wrestling business that the film "The Wrestler" will remind us of many of our peers including many that are no longer with us. That won't elicit happy memories but the film's message could certainly be a sobering one and may help encourage those that emotionally invest in the fictional story of "Randy the Ram" to make better decisions in their lives no matter their vocation.
Speaking of making good decisions, I am proud that the superstar formally known as "Cherry" is heading back to college and taking a sabbatical from the ring. I applaud this young lady's decision as her education is vital in today's world and if she chooses she can always resume her wrestling career. Wrestlers with no college degree or nothing to fall back on if things don't work out for them in the business put themselves in a position to be paranoid and insecure more often than not which can't be deemed any thing but unhealthy.
Friday Night Smackdown is really in-ring, wrestling heavy this week which is a good thing from where I sit.
There's a wrestling connection between the only two players to ever be named AP college football All Americans, James Laurinaitis and Bill Fralic. Laurinaitis, Ohio State's #33 who will graduate with a bachelor's degree after his 4 years for the Buckeyes, is the son of Road Warrior Animal as we all know while Fralic once wrestled in Wrestlemania in a Battle Royal. Fralic and I were friends when I lived in Atlanta and worked with WCW and the Falcons and he was a wrestling fan while growing up in Pittsburgh and a Bruno Sammartino fan in particular. The younger Laurninaitis could end up in a WWE ring after his NFL career finishes but major money awaits James who is a guaranteed first round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Fralic even used the prospect of a pro wrestling career to leverage more money out of the Falcons who made him the #3 overall pick in the draft.
We are Toronto bound next week for a huge Monday in TO with Friday Night Smackdown being taped prior to Monday night Raw going live at 9, I assume. Nonetheless both Monday and Friday shows will emanate from Toronto while ECW will have a "best of" type show as I understand it Christmas week. The great fans in Toronto should get their money's worth as the ACC should be packed Monday night for a star studded evening.
Thanks for all your business in our on line store, in our restaurants in Oklahoma, and for telling your friends about our site. Don't forget that my Smackdown blog will go live on WWE.com Thursday evening or Friday morning.
We are still working on your holiday orders and if you hurry we will do our best to get your shipments to you when you need them.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
(Credit: J.R's Blog)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Snuka, Piper and Muraco team up for TV show
Media Man Australia inside sources have leaked the news that WWE legends, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka and Don "The Rock" Muraco will be teaming up for a TV show. More news as it comes to hand.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Andre The Giant Online Slot To Be Released By CryptoLogic
Media Man Australia has learned that CryptoLogic will be releasing an Andre The Giant online slot game. More details as they come to hand.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Slots
Andre The Giant
New Games
Casino News
Media Man Australia Profiles
Slots
Andre The Giant
New Games
Casino News
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
WWWA honors Bruno Sammartino, and vice versa, by Lou Rabito - Philly.com - 6th November 2008
He sold out Madison Square Garden, the Spectrum, and other arenas in his career, but when Bruno Sammartino accepts a wrestling Hall of Fame induction tomorrow for what he says might be the first time, the ceremony won't take place in one of those hallowed halls of headlocks.
Rather, it will be held at Marjeane Caterers in Lansdale, where the only high school in the borough doesn't even have a wrestling program.
It's all because pro wrestling's evolution into a showcase for scantily dressed women and ribald entertainment - and its history of drug-related deaths - turned one of its greatest champions into, for years, a Hall of Fame don't-wannabe.
"I've rejected just about every wrestling Hall of Fame that has tried to induct me," Sammartino said.
But an invitation from Dino Sanna, owner of the Montgomery County-based World Wide Wrestling Alliance, changed his mind, and tomorrow night at 7 he will become the first wrestler immortalized by the minor-league WWWA.
Sanna, who lives in Hatfield, has been Sammartino's friend for more than 25 years. Sammartino has advised him on running the organization and has appeared at shows.
Sammartino, 73, who has lived in the Pittsburgh suburb of North Hills since he emigrated from Italy in 1950, was champion of the World Wide Wrestling Federation - forerunner of the World Wrestling Federation and today's World Wrestling Entertainment - from 1963-71 and from 1973-77. These days, the scripted championships rarely last even a year.
The differences between the eras, though, go far beyond that.
In Sammartino's G-rated heyday, the male wrestlers were brawny and the female wrestlers looked like, well, wrestlers. These days, in the Vince McMahon-led WWE, the men tend to resemble bodybuilders and the women exotic dancers, and some engage in story lines that push even R-rated limits.
Also, substance abuse has increased. At least 65 pro wrestlers younger than 50 have died in the last decade, and the cause of death was consistent with steroid use in more than half the cases, the Orlando Sentinel reported this year.
"As a guy who wrestled for many, many years, it's very bothersome to me what I've seen," Sammartino said. "That's why I won't have anything to do with wrestling anymore, as far as the major leagues, because of what they've brought it down to - to the gutter, as far as I'm concerned."
The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in Amsterdam, N.Y., targeted Sammartino as part of its initial, 13-member class in 2002. He refused to take part, he said, because a couple of the organizers had "lied" to him. (In a display of brass-knuckles bravado, the hall inducted him anyway.)
Sammartino declined to elaborate on the lie, but the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that the dispute was over McMahon's involvement with the New York organization.
Two years later, the WWE revived its hall, which had not inducted anyone since the mid-1990s. "I wasn't considered the first year," Sammartino said, "but I think they got a pretty good backlash from it from the fans. . . . I don't think they expected that kind of reaction." He said McMahon's attorney had contacted his, and then him directly, "and, of course, I wouldn't have anything to do with it each time."
This time is different. Sanna sought Sammartino's advice before starting the WWWA in the early 1980s. Sammartino preached old-school, and Sanna listened. The WWWA touts its "family friendly" wrestling.
"I've taken his advice from the very first day, and we're still around," Sanna said.
(Credit: Philly.com)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bruno Sammartino
Rather, it will be held at Marjeane Caterers in Lansdale, where the only high school in the borough doesn't even have a wrestling program.
It's all because pro wrestling's evolution into a showcase for scantily dressed women and ribald entertainment - and its history of drug-related deaths - turned one of its greatest champions into, for years, a Hall of Fame don't-wannabe.
"I've rejected just about every wrestling Hall of Fame that has tried to induct me," Sammartino said.
But an invitation from Dino Sanna, owner of the Montgomery County-based World Wide Wrestling Alliance, changed his mind, and tomorrow night at 7 he will become the first wrestler immortalized by the minor-league WWWA.
Sanna, who lives in Hatfield, has been Sammartino's friend for more than 25 years. Sammartino has advised him on running the organization and has appeared at shows.
Sammartino, 73, who has lived in the Pittsburgh suburb of North Hills since he emigrated from Italy in 1950, was champion of the World Wide Wrestling Federation - forerunner of the World Wrestling Federation and today's World Wrestling Entertainment - from 1963-71 and from 1973-77. These days, the scripted championships rarely last even a year.
The differences between the eras, though, go far beyond that.
In Sammartino's G-rated heyday, the male wrestlers were brawny and the female wrestlers looked like, well, wrestlers. These days, in the Vince McMahon-led WWE, the men tend to resemble bodybuilders and the women exotic dancers, and some engage in story lines that push even R-rated limits.
Also, substance abuse has increased. At least 65 pro wrestlers younger than 50 have died in the last decade, and the cause of death was consistent with steroid use in more than half the cases, the Orlando Sentinel reported this year.
"As a guy who wrestled for many, many years, it's very bothersome to me what I've seen," Sammartino said. "That's why I won't have anything to do with wrestling anymore, as far as the major leagues, because of what they've brought it down to - to the gutter, as far as I'm concerned."
The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in Amsterdam, N.Y., targeted Sammartino as part of its initial, 13-member class in 2002. He refused to take part, he said, because a couple of the organizers had "lied" to him. (In a display of brass-knuckles bravado, the hall inducted him anyway.)
Sammartino declined to elaborate on the lie, but the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that the dispute was over McMahon's involvement with the New York organization.
Two years later, the WWE revived its hall, which had not inducted anyone since the mid-1990s. "I wasn't considered the first year," Sammartino said, "but I think they got a pretty good backlash from it from the fans. . . . I don't think they expected that kind of reaction." He said McMahon's attorney had contacted his, and then him directly, "and, of course, I wouldn't have anything to do with it each time."
This time is different. Sanna sought Sammartino's advice before starting the WWWA in the early 1980s. Sammartino preached old-school, and Sanna listened. The WWWA touts its "family friendly" wrestling.
"I've taken his advice from the very first day, and we're still around," Sanna said.
(Credit: Philly.com)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bruno Sammartino
Sunday, November 09, 2008
The Wrestler, by Todd McCarthy - Variety - 4th September 2008
A Wild Bunch (France) presentation of a Protozoa Pictures (U.S.) production. (International sales: Wild Bunch, Paris.) Produced by Scott Franklin, Darren Aronofsky. Executive producers, Vincent Maraval, Agnes Mentre, Jennifer Roth. Co-producer, Mark Heyman. Directed by Darren Aronofsky. Screenplay, Robert Siegel.
Randy "the Ram" Robinson - Mickey Rourke
Cassidy/Pam - Marisa Tomei
Stephanie - Evan Rachel Wood
Talk about comebacks. After many years in the wilderness and being considered MIA professionally, Mickey Rourke, just like the washed-up character he plays, attempts a return to the big show in "The Wrestler." Not only does he pull it off, but Rourke creates a galvanizing, humorous, deeply moving portrait that instantly takes its place among the great, iconic screen performances. An elemental story simply and brilliantly told, Darren Aronofsky's fourth feature is a winner from every possible angle, although it will require deft handling by a smart distributor to overcome public preconceptions about Rourke, the subject matter and the nature of the film.
Co-produced by Wild Bunch in France, where Rourke has retained his most loyal following through thick and thin, this is nonetheless an American picture through and through, beginning with the way it strongly evokes the gritty working-class atmosphere of numerous '70s dramas. Spare but vital, and with the increasingly arty mannerisms of Aronofsky's previous work completely stripped away, the film has the clarity and simplicity of a great Hemingway short story -- there's nothing extraneous, the characters must face up to their limited options in life, and the dialogue in Robert Siegel's superior script is inflected with the poetry of the everyday.
All the same, for the first few minutes one could be excused for imagining the film was directed by Belgium's Dardenne brothers, as ace lenser Maryse Alberti's camera relentlessly follows around aging wrestler Randy "the Ram" Robinson (Rourke) from the back, concentrating on his long, dyed-blond hair and hulking body before fully revealing his mottled, puffy face. This guy is 20 years past his prime, but he's still in pretty good shape and aims to get back on top on the pro wrestling circuit.
Ram seems to have always been a big fan favorite -- he is one of their own, a fearless bruiser the white working stiffs can root for against the assorted freaks, ethnic interlopers and outright villains in this macho cartoon universe. A beguiling early scene that firmly sets the movie on its tracks shows an event's muscled participants, all warmly easygoing and chummy with one another, pairing up and discussing what moves they'll make in their matches. A similar later scene has one of the wrestlers offering Ram his choices from a laundry list of dubious-sounding pharmaceuticals.
Apart from the momentary camaraderie of his ringmates, however, Ram is alone in life. At the outset, he's also penniless, locked out of his dismal trailer home until he can pay up. He works occasionally, lugging cartons at a big-box store, and his tough-guy posture is adored by small kids, but he's got no friends and nothing to show for his strenuous efforts.
From time to time, he has a drink at a gentlemen's club, where he visits aging stripper Cassidy (Marisa Tomei), whose days of using her body for her livelihood are similarly numbered. After getting a load of some of Ram's battle scars, Cassidy, whose real name is Pam, tells him he ought to see "The Passion of the Christ." "They threw everything at him," she says, to which Ram guesses Jesus must have been a "tough dude." Ram must confront his mortality after the film's second wrestling match, a bout so gruesome and barbarous it will force some people to look away.
Assessing his options while recovering, Ram decides to gently step up his relationship with Pam, as well as to try to reconnect with his daughter, Stephanie (Evan Rachel Wood), whom he hasn't seen in years. Both women have good reasons not to allow such a damaged man into their intimate lives, but even their most tentative signals of openness give Ram reason to hope for a new chapter in his life. His encounters with them are sensitively written and acted with impressive insight and delicacy, and Ram has one monologue in which he lays his feelings bare to Stephanie at a deserted old Jersey boardwalk -- "I deserve to be alone," he admits -- that is so great, one wishes it were longer.
After a stint at a deli counter that is the source of more good character humor, Ram decides to unretire and fight in a 20th-anniversary rematch of one of his most legendary bouts, "Ram vs. Ayatollah." Despite the hoopla, the way it all plays out is as far from "Rocky Balboa" as one could get, resulting in a climax that is exhilarating, funny and moving.
Shot in rough-and-ready handheld style, pic atmospherically reeks of low-rent lodgings, clubs, American Legion halls, shops and makeshift dressing rooms on the Eastern seaboard in winter (it locationed in New Jersey and Philadelphia). Stylistically, it's agile, alert and most interested in what's going on in the characters' faces.
And that is a lot. Physically imposing at 57, with a face that bespeaks untold battering and alteration, Rourke is simply staggering as Ram. The camera is rarely off him, and one doesn't want it to be, so entirely does he express the full life of this man with his every word and gesture. Ram's life has been dominated by pain in all its forms, but he's also devoted it to the one thing he loves and excels at, so he asks for no sympathy; he may have regrets, but no complaints.
As vibrant -- and as naked -- as she was in last year's "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead," Tomei is in top, emotionally forthright form as she charts a life passage similar to Ram's, if much less extreme. Once her character stops stonewalling her father and hears him out, Wood provides a fine foil for Rourke in their turbulent scenes together. The many supporting thesps, especially the wrestling world habitues, are richly amusing and salt-of-the-earth.
Camera (Technicolor, widescreen), Maryse Alberti; editor, Andrew Weisblum; music, Clint Mansell; music supervisors, Jim Black, Gabe Hilfer; production designer, Timothy Grimes; art director, Matthew Munn; set decorator, Theo Sena; costume designer, Amy Westcott; sound (Dolby Digital), Ken Ishii; assistant director, Richard Graves; casting, Mary Vernieu, Suzanne Smith-Crowley. Reviewed at CAA screening room, Los Angeles, Sept. 2, 2008.(In Venice Film Festival -- competing; Toronto Film Festival -- Gala Premieres; New York Film Festival -- closer.) Running time: 109 MIN.
(Credit: Variety)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Randy "the Ram" Robinson - Mickey Rourke
Cassidy/Pam - Marisa Tomei
Stephanie - Evan Rachel Wood
Talk about comebacks. After many years in the wilderness and being considered MIA professionally, Mickey Rourke, just like the washed-up character he plays, attempts a return to the big show in "The Wrestler." Not only does he pull it off, but Rourke creates a galvanizing, humorous, deeply moving portrait that instantly takes its place among the great, iconic screen performances. An elemental story simply and brilliantly told, Darren Aronofsky's fourth feature is a winner from every possible angle, although it will require deft handling by a smart distributor to overcome public preconceptions about Rourke, the subject matter and the nature of the film.
Co-produced by Wild Bunch in France, where Rourke has retained his most loyal following through thick and thin, this is nonetheless an American picture through and through, beginning with the way it strongly evokes the gritty working-class atmosphere of numerous '70s dramas. Spare but vital, and with the increasingly arty mannerisms of Aronofsky's previous work completely stripped away, the film has the clarity and simplicity of a great Hemingway short story -- there's nothing extraneous, the characters must face up to their limited options in life, and the dialogue in Robert Siegel's superior script is inflected with the poetry of the everyday.
All the same, for the first few minutes one could be excused for imagining the film was directed by Belgium's Dardenne brothers, as ace lenser Maryse Alberti's camera relentlessly follows around aging wrestler Randy "the Ram" Robinson (Rourke) from the back, concentrating on his long, dyed-blond hair and hulking body before fully revealing his mottled, puffy face. This guy is 20 years past his prime, but he's still in pretty good shape and aims to get back on top on the pro wrestling circuit.
Ram seems to have always been a big fan favorite -- he is one of their own, a fearless bruiser the white working stiffs can root for against the assorted freaks, ethnic interlopers and outright villains in this macho cartoon universe. A beguiling early scene that firmly sets the movie on its tracks shows an event's muscled participants, all warmly easygoing and chummy with one another, pairing up and discussing what moves they'll make in their matches. A similar later scene has one of the wrestlers offering Ram his choices from a laundry list of dubious-sounding pharmaceuticals.
Apart from the momentary camaraderie of his ringmates, however, Ram is alone in life. At the outset, he's also penniless, locked out of his dismal trailer home until he can pay up. He works occasionally, lugging cartons at a big-box store, and his tough-guy posture is adored by small kids, but he's got no friends and nothing to show for his strenuous efforts.
From time to time, he has a drink at a gentlemen's club, where he visits aging stripper Cassidy (Marisa Tomei), whose days of using her body for her livelihood are similarly numbered. After getting a load of some of Ram's battle scars, Cassidy, whose real name is Pam, tells him he ought to see "The Passion of the Christ." "They threw everything at him," she says, to which Ram guesses Jesus must have been a "tough dude." Ram must confront his mortality after the film's second wrestling match, a bout so gruesome and barbarous it will force some people to look away.
Assessing his options while recovering, Ram decides to gently step up his relationship with Pam, as well as to try to reconnect with his daughter, Stephanie (Evan Rachel Wood), whom he hasn't seen in years. Both women have good reasons not to allow such a damaged man into their intimate lives, but even their most tentative signals of openness give Ram reason to hope for a new chapter in his life. His encounters with them are sensitively written and acted with impressive insight and delicacy, and Ram has one monologue in which he lays his feelings bare to Stephanie at a deserted old Jersey boardwalk -- "I deserve to be alone," he admits -- that is so great, one wishes it were longer.
After a stint at a deli counter that is the source of more good character humor, Ram decides to unretire and fight in a 20th-anniversary rematch of one of his most legendary bouts, "Ram vs. Ayatollah." Despite the hoopla, the way it all plays out is as far from "Rocky Balboa" as one could get, resulting in a climax that is exhilarating, funny and moving.
Shot in rough-and-ready handheld style, pic atmospherically reeks of low-rent lodgings, clubs, American Legion halls, shops and makeshift dressing rooms on the Eastern seaboard in winter (it locationed in New Jersey and Philadelphia). Stylistically, it's agile, alert and most interested in what's going on in the characters' faces.
And that is a lot. Physically imposing at 57, with a face that bespeaks untold battering and alteration, Rourke is simply staggering as Ram. The camera is rarely off him, and one doesn't want it to be, so entirely does he express the full life of this man with his every word and gesture. Ram's life has been dominated by pain in all its forms, but he's also devoted it to the one thing he loves and excels at, so he asks for no sympathy; he may have regrets, but no complaints.
As vibrant -- and as naked -- as she was in last year's "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead," Tomei is in top, emotionally forthright form as she charts a life passage similar to Ram's, if much less extreme. Once her character stops stonewalling her father and hears him out, Wood provides a fine foil for Rourke in their turbulent scenes together. The many supporting thesps, especially the wrestling world habitues, are richly amusing and salt-of-the-earth.
Camera (Technicolor, widescreen), Maryse Alberti; editor, Andrew Weisblum; music, Clint Mansell; music supervisors, Jim Black, Gabe Hilfer; production designer, Timothy Grimes; art director, Matthew Munn; set decorator, Theo Sena; costume designer, Amy Westcott; sound (Dolby Digital), Ken Ishii; assistant director, Richard Graves; casting, Mary Vernieu, Suzanne Smith-Crowley. Reviewed at CAA screening room, Los Angeles, Sept. 2, 2008.(In Venice Film Festival -- competing; Toronto Film Festival -- Gala Premieres; New York Film Festival -- closer.) Running time: 109 MIN.
(Credit: Variety)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Friday, November 07, 2008
Wrestler will 'beat the hell out of Dicko', by Sean Cusick - NineMSN - 9th November 2008
Ian "Dicko" Dickson is in for a rude shock if he thinks his impending wrestling match with a pro wrestler will be child's play, his opponent has warned.
Melbourne's "King of Hardcore" KrackerJak is eager to get his hands on the Australian Idol judge, after Dickson ridiculed the wrestling industry on his Vega radio show.
"I'm going to do horrible things to him tonight, make no mistakes about it," KrackerJak told ninemsn.
"A lot of people like to have a laugh at wrestling, but not many are brave or stupid enough to jump in the ring and try it for themselves.
"He's going to be in incredible pain tomorrow … it takes years to build up the physical conditioning that you need to crash around the ring and get repeatedly punched in the head."
KrackerJak, 29, has been wrestling for eight years and is known for his brutal style.
While the matches are obviously staged, he has subjected himself to dangerous manoeuvres including being stabbed with scissors and thrown onto thumbtacks.
KrackerJak says the most excruciating pain he has experienced was from a botched spinal tap after suffering a severe concussion.
"Scissors, barb wire, thumbtacks, forks, chairs and tables - you name it, I've hurt someone with it," KrackerJak said.
"I like to get really hardcore on an opponent at times.
"But let's face it, wrestling against some fat guy from the radio, I probably won't need to set him on fire or anything like that."
Dickson has assumed the wrestling moniker "The Guv'nor" and has been training for the past two weeks.
However, despite the chance of injury, the wrestler also known as "The Mad Bastard" claims he has no intentions of treating Dickson with kid gloves.
"I haven't had to sign any legal documents that say I have to go easy on him, which I think is another mistake on his part," KrackerJak said.
"I want to teach him some respect about the industry that I love. He will learn that wrestling really does hurt like hell."
The pair will do battle at around 10pm AEDT tonight at Melbourne's Hi-Fi Bar.
(Credit: NineMSN)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Melbourne's "King of Hardcore" KrackerJak is eager to get his hands on the Australian Idol judge, after Dickson ridiculed the wrestling industry on his Vega radio show.
"I'm going to do horrible things to him tonight, make no mistakes about it," KrackerJak told ninemsn.
"A lot of people like to have a laugh at wrestling, but not many are brave or stupid enough to jump in the ring and try it for themselves.
"He's going to be in incredible pain tomorrow … it takes years to build up the physical conditioning that you need to crash around the ring and get repeatedly punched in the head."
KrackerJak, 29, has been wrestling for eight years and is known for his brutal style.
While the matches are obviously staged, he has subjected himself to dangerous manoeuvres including being stabbed with scissors and thrown onto thumbtacks.
KrackerJak says the most excruciating pain he has experienced was from a botched spinal tap after suffering a severe concussion.
"Scissors, barb wire, thumbtacks, forks, chairs and tables - you name it, I've hurt someone with it," KrackerJak said.
"I like to get really hardcore on an opponent at times.
"But let's face it, wrestling against some fat guy from the radio, I probably won't need to set him on fire or anything like that."
Dickson has assumed the wrestling moniker "The Guv'nor" and has been training for the past two weeks.
However, despite the chance of injury, the wrestler also known as "The Mad Bastard" claims he has no intentions of treating Dickson with kid gloves.
"I haven't had to sign any legal documents that say I have to go easy on him, which I think is another mistake on his part," KrackerJak said.
"I want to teach him some respect about the industry that I love. He will learn that wrestling really does hurt like hell."
The pair will do battle at around 10pm AEDT tonight at Melbourne's Hi-Fi Bar.
(Credit: NineMSN)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Vale Walter 'Killer" Kowalski - ABC Radio National - 30th October 2008
The golden years of wrestling in Australia were between 1964 and 1978 when World Championship Wrestling was on Channel 9 every weekend. It was a magic time and it had life long consequences....
The legendary professional wrestler, 'Killer' Kowalski, who died aged 81 on 30 August this year, had a big impact on my life.
This came about through an article in TV Week around 1965. It told of how in real life Kowalski was a university graduate, with a deep interest in spirituality and philosophy. I learned from this that a man can be tough and strong and also be an intellectual. This was an important lesson for someone who was into ideas at a young age. It made me feel less marginal and okay about continuing in a scholarly direction.
I first saw him in 1964, when I was thirteen and Channel Nine's 'World Championship Wrestling' program had just started. The televised bouts advertised grudges that we viewers would pay big money to see in full gory glory at venues like Festival Hall and the Sydney Stadium.
I was there, at the old Tin Shed, which was colloquial Melburnian for Festival Hall, when Kowalski took on the likes of the 'Golden Greek' Spiros Arion, the 'Flying French Canadian' Emile Dupre, Domenic De Nucci, Dick Steinborn, Tex McKenzie, Larry O'Dea, Ron Miller and Mario Milano.
The Killer's winning manoeuvre was a submission hold called the claw hold. Kowalski would pummel his opponent, stomp and knee-drop to their mid-section, and then clasp both hands onto the abdominal region, digging in deeper and deeper with his fingers until he was manipulating their intestines. To develop the strength and skill to do this, he trained each day by squeezing tennis balls with his fingers until the balls popped. At any rate, that's how I remember him explaining it to the late great wrestling commentator, Jack Little, one Sunday lunchtime.
Kowalski enthralled me by his physique and strength. He stood at two metres and weighed 127 kilos. There was no flab, and the proportioning of his muscularity was just how my mates and pencil-necked me wanted to be. The problem was Kowalski was one of the bad guys in the ring; a 'heel' to use the lingo of the business. We admired his strength but wanted to see him beaten.
Kowalski was brilliant in tapping into the mass psychology of the audience. He needed no fancy gimmicks or costumes. He struck fear into us with a glance.
In August 1965, I wrote a fan letter to the Killer care of channel 9. The reply came from Nine's Publicity Department. I still have it. It said: "... time does not permit Killer Kowalski to answer any letters. I hope you are not too disappointed... but he did appreciate receiving your letter".
"Not TOO disappointed"!!! Of course I was disappointed, VERY disappointed. And for some reason, I kept the letter, not realizing that three decades later, it would allow my life, momentarily, to intersect with that of the man himself.
In 1996, I came across a report about a wrestling school run by Kowalski in Boston, so I decided to write again - enclosing a copy of the 1965 letter from Nine. I told the Killer how he had helped keep me on a scholarly path in my early teenage years. I also told him that I had become a father and had a two year old son named Joey.
It was an absolute surprise and delight to receive a reply two weeks later. There, in large format, was a stunning photo of Kowalski, in his sixties but still a magnificent specimen. The photo was inscribed in his handwriting with the words: "To Joey and Barry York, two great champions. Best of luck, Killer Kowalski".
The autographed photo is now framed and hangs in my study, where I continue to read, research and write.
Thank you and Vale: Walter 'Killer' Kowalski.
(Credit: ABC Radio National)
Guests
Barry York
Canberra based historian
Further Information
Ron Miller web site
Producer
Sue Clark
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter 'Killer' Kowalski
The legendary professional wrestler, 'Killer' Kowalski, who died aged 81 on 30 August this year, had a big impact on my life.
This came about through an article in TV Week around 1965. It told of how in real life Kowalski was a university graduate, with a deep interest in spirituality and philosophy. I learned from this that a man can be tough and strong and also be an intellectual. This was an important lesson for someone who was into ideas at a young age. It made me feel less marginal and okay about continuing in a scholarly direction.
I first saw him in 1964, when I was thirteen and Channel Nine's 'World Championship Wrestling' program had just started. The televised bouts advertised grudges that we viewers would pay big money to see in full gory glory at venues like Festival Hall and the Sydney Stadium.
I was there, at the old Tin Shed, which was colloquial Melburnian for Festival Hall, when Kowalski took on the likes of the 'Golden Greek' Spiros Arion, the 'Flying French Canadian' Emile Dupre, Domenic De Nucci, Dick Steinborn, Tex McKenzie, Larry O'Dea, Ron Miller and Mario Milano.
The Killer's winning manoeuvre was a submission hold called the claw hold. Kowalski would pummel his opponent, stomp and knee-drop to their mid-section, and then clasp both hands onto the abdominal region, digging in deeper and deeper with his fingers until he was manipulating their intestines. To develop the strength and skill to do this, he trained each day by squeezing tennis balls with his fingers until the balls popped. At any rate, that's how I remember him explaining it to the late great wrestling commentator, Jack Little, one Sunday lunchtime.
Kowalski enthralled me by his physique and strength. He stood at two metres and weighed 127 kilos. There was no flab, and the proportioning of his muscularity was just how my mates and pencil-necked me wanted to be. The problem was Kowalski was one of the bad guys in the ring; a 'heel' to use the lingo of the business. We admired his strength but wanted to see him beaten.
Kowalski was brilliant in tapping into the mass psychology of the audience. He needed no fancy gimmicks or costumes. He struck fear into us with a glance.
In August 1965, I wrote a fan letter to the Killer care of channel 9. The reply came from Nine's Publicity Department. I still have it. It said: "... time does not permit Killer Kowalski to answer any letters. I hope you are not too disappointed... but he did appreciate receiving your letter".
"Not TOO disappointed"!!! Of course I was disappointed, VERY disappointed. And for some reason, I kept the letter, not realizing that three decades later, it would allow my life, momentarily, to intersect with that of the man himself.
In 1996, I came across a report about a wrestling school run by Kowalski in Boston, so I decided to write again - enclosing a copy of the 1965 letter from Nine. I told the Killer how he had helped keep me on a scholarly path in my early teenage years. I also told him that I had become a father and had a two year old son named Joey.
It was an absolute surprise and delight to receive a reply two weeks later. There, in large format, was a stunning photo of Kowalski, in his sixties but still a magnificent specimen. The photo was inscribed in his handwriting with the words: "To Joey and Barry York, two great champions. Best of luck, Killer Kowalski".
The autographed photo is now framed and hangs in my study, where I continue to read, research and write.
Thank you and Vale: Walter 'Killer' Kowalski.
(Credit: ABC Radio National)
Guests
Barry York
Canberra based historian
Further Information
Ron Miller web site
Producer
Sue Clark
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter 'Killer' Kowalski
Sunday, October 26, 2008
PRESS RELEASE- WORLD PREMIER OF TIGER KHAN- FIRE IN THE BLOOD
FROM THE ASSOCIATE PRODUCER OF THE WRESTLER
Contacts:
Evan Ginzburg- evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com
Franco Frassetti- franco.frassetti@gmail.com
Marlon “Tiger Khan” Kalkai was a pro wrestler who travelled the world for well over a decade in pursuit of his dream- making it in the world of professional wrestling.
Along the way he made some bad choices and that dream tragically died with him in 2006.
In the documentary Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood, Finamore-Frassetti Productions and Tiger’s close friend Evan Ginzburg look at the colorful life and tragic death at age 33 of this respected and beloved athlete.
Frassetti is an experienced documentary director whose upcoming film In The Ring of Honor chronicles the life and times of Bruno Sammartino. Evan Ginzburg served as Associate Producer on Darren Aronofsky’s critically acclaimed The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke. The picture won best film at the 2008 Venice Film Festival and will close the prestigious New York Film Festival.
Two plus years in the making, Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood features original music by Sounds of Tibet and Ansel Matthews, footage from the poignant 2007 Tiger Khan Memorial Show, rare photographs, interviews with legendary professional wrestlers, animation, in-ring footage of Tiger in action, as well as interview footage of Tiger himself talking about his passion for life and the wrestling business.
Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood premiers at the Pioneer Theater in New York’s East Village on October 26th at 9PM. Tickets are $10.00 each ($6.50 students/seniors/members). A Q&A with filmmakers Evan Ginzburg & Franco Frassetti follows the showing.
The Pioneer Theater is located at 155 East 3rd Street at Avenue A in New York City. For further information call theater at 212-591-0434. Advance tickets NOW AVAILABLE- visit www.twoboots.com/pioneer and click by showtime or call (800) 595-4849 (service charges apply).
Producer/Director Franco Frassetti and Evan Ginzburg are available for interviews in conjunction with this movie.
Hear more about the film on the 3rd Annual Tiger Khan Memorial Radio Tribute Sunday night October 19th from 7-9PM EST on Evan Ginzburg’s Legends Radio (co-hosted by Dr. Mike Lano) and heard live at www.legendsradio.net and www.wrestling-radio.com (archived 24/7 at same stations) as well as on www.wrestlingrespect.com’s interview with Evan Ginzburg- both archived below. Just click to listen.
Join noted pro wrestlers and the filmmakers at the world premier of Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood on Sunday October 26th at 9PM. Log onto www.evanginzburg.com, www.wrestlingthenandnow.com, and www.twoboots.com/pioneer for further details, directions to theater (F or V train to 2nd Ave Station), and updates.
3rd Annual Tiger Khan Memorial Radio Show Sunday 10/19
Edition of Evan Ginzburg’s Legends Radio co-hosted by
Dr. Mike Lano
Guests include:
Franco Frassetti (Co-Director/Producer Tiger Khan-Fire in the Blood)
Lee Peterson General Manager of Pioneer Theater
Eric Adamz
http://www.garageband.com/mp3cat/.UZCMYi_M7Kqi/01_10_19_08_Legends_Radio.mp3
WRESLTINGRESPECT.COM INTERVIEWS EVAN GINZBURG ABOUT HIS ROLE IN THE WRESTLER, TIGER KHAN- FIRE IN THE BLOOD & MUCH MORE. LISTEN HERE… Wrestling Respect (www.wrestlingrespect.com) is a new web site and audio show that focuses on New England-based independent promotions plus Ring of Honor, Chikara, TNA, WWE, and all other organizations that run shows in the region. The site's founder, Joshua B, spent 14 years in the music industry where he had the opportunity to interview many artists, musicians, and producers. Now he has taken that experience and applied it to his long-time interest in pro wrestling. His home studio, dubbed the Golden Touch studio, now pulls double duty as pro wrestling personality interview headquarters. Episode #1 of Wrestling Respect features an hour plus interview with New England Championship Wrestling president and co-owner, Sheldon Goldberg. The next interview was conducted at the studio with the help of an American Sign Language interpreter, and was later transcribed into text. The interviewee was Matt Calamare, the region's only deaf referee and wrestler. Now, Joshua B is pleased to announce the availability of the second Wrestling Respect audio show, a 70 minute interview with Evan Ginzburg. The radio host, writer, producer, teacher, club promoter, and manager called the Golden Touch studio from his New York apartment and went in-depth about The Wrestler and many other topics including his time at WBAI radio, his Legends Radio internet show, and much more. But possibly most fascinating are his first-hand accounts of being on the set of The Wrestler, and the six years of preparation leading up to it. Evan's accounts and stories will give you chills. On this episode of Wrestling Respect, you'll also hear about Chikara's return to Framingham, MA, Ring of Honor's return to Connecticut, and the Killer Kowalski Memorial Wrestling show coming this Sunday, October 26 to Malden, MA. Visit www.wrestlingrespect.com to hear the show now or to download it for listening at your convenience. If you like what you hear, subscribe to the Wrestling Respect podcast so you'll never miss an episode.
Contact: Joshua B, joshuab@wrestlingrespect.com
Web Site: http://www.wrestlingrespect.com
RSS Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/wrestlingrespectpodcast
CLICK BELOW TO LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH EVAN GINZBURG:
http://www.wrestlingrespect.com/2008/10/23/wrestling-respect-2-evan-ginzburg-interview
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Contacts:
Evan Ginzburg- evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com
Franco Frassetti- franco.frassetti@gmail.com
Marlon “Tiger Khan” Kalkai was a pro wrestler who travelled the world for well over a decade in pursuit of his dream- making it in the world of professional wrestling.
Along the way he made some bad choices and that dream tragically died with him in 2006.
In the documentary Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood, Finamore-Frassetti Productions and Tiger’s close friend Evan Ginzburg look at the colorful life and tragic death at age 33 of this respected and beloved athlete.
Frassetti is an experienced documentary director whose upcoming film In The Ring of Honor chronicles the life and times of Bruno Sammartino. Evan Ginzburg served as Associate Producer on Darren Aronofsky’s critically acclaimed The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke. The picture won best film at the 2008 Venice Film Festival and will close the prestigious New York Film Festival.
Two plus years in the making, Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood features original music by Sounds of Tibet and Ansel Matthews, footage from the poignant 2007 Tiger Khan Memorial Show, rare photographs, interviews with legendary professional wrestlers, animation, in-ring footage of Tiger in action, as well as interview footage of Tiger himself talking about his passion for life and the wrestling business.
Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood premiers at the Pioneer Theater in New York’s East Village on October 26th at 9PM. Tickets are $10.00 each ($6.50 students/seniors/members). A Q&A with filmmakers Evan Ginzburg & Franco Frassetti follows the showing.
The Pioneer Theater is located at 155 East 3rd Street at Avenue A in New York City. For further information call theater at 212-591-0434. Advance tickets NOW AVAILABLE- visit www.twoboots.com/pioneer and click by showtime or call (800) 595-4849 (service charges apply).
Producer/Director Franco Frassetti and Evan Ginzburg are available for interviews in conjunction with this movie.
Hear more about the film on the 3rd Annual Tiger Khan Memorial Radio Tribute Sunday night October 19th from 7-9PM EST on Evan Ginzburg’s Legends Radio (co-hosted by Dr. Mike Lano) and heard live at www.legendsradio.net and www.wrestling-radio.com (archived 24/7 at same stations) as well as on www.wrestlingrespect.com’s interview with Evan Ginzburg- both archived below. Just click to listen.
Join noted pro wrestlers and the filmmakers at the world premier of Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood on Sunday October 26th at 9PM. Log onto www.evanginzburg.com, www.wrestlingthenandnow.com, and www.twoboots.com/pioneer for further details, directions to theater (F or V train to 2nd Ave Station), and updates.
3rd Annual Tiger Khan Memorial Radio Show Sunday 10/19
Edition of Evan Ginzburg’s Legends Radio co-hosted by
Dr. Mike Lano
Guests include:
Franco Frassetti (Co-Director/Producer Tiger Khan-Fire in the Blood)
Lee Peterson General Manager of Pioneer Theater
Eric Adamz
http://www.garageband.com/mp3cat/.UZCMYi_M7Kqi/01_10_19_08_Legends_Radio.mp3
WRESLTINGRESPECT.COM INTERVIEWS EVAN GINZBURG ABOUT HIS ROLE IN THE WRESTLER, TIGER KHAN- FIRE IN THE BLOOD & MUCH MORE. LISTEN HERE… Wrestling Respect (www.wrestlingrespect.com) is a new web site and audio show that focuses on New England-based independent promotions plus Ring of Honor, Chikara, TNA, WWE, and all other organizations that run shows in the region. The site's founder, Joshua B, spent 14 years in the music industry where he had the opportunity to interview many artists, musicians, and producers. Now he has taken that experience and applied it to his long-time interest in pro wrestling. His home studio, dubbed the Golden Touch studio, now pulls double duty as pro wrestling personality interview headquarters. Episode #1 of Wrestling Respect features an hour plus interview with New England Championship Wrestling president and co-owner, Sheldon Goldberg. The next interview was conducted at the studio with the help of an American Sign Language interpreter, and was later transcribed into text. The interviewee was Matt Calamare, the region's only deaf referee and wrestler. Now, Joshua B is pleased to announce the availability of the second Wrestling Respect audio show, a 70 minute interview with Evan Ginzburg. The radio host, writer, producer, teacher, club promoter, and manager called the Golden Touch studio from his New York apartment and went in-depth about The Wrestler and many other topics including his time at WBAI radio, his Legends Radio internet show, and much more. But possibly most fascinating are his first-hand accounts of being on the set of The Wrestler, and the six years of preparation leading up to it. Evan's accounts and stories will give you chills. On this episode of Wrestling Respect, you'll also hear about Chikara's return to Framingham, MA, Ring of Honor's return to Connecticut, and the Killer Kowalski Memorial Wrestling show coming this Sunday, October 26 to Malden, MA. Visit www.wrestlingrespect.com to hear the show now or to download it for listening at your convenience. If you like what you hear, subscribe to the Wrestling Respect podcast so you'll never miss an episode.
Contact: Joshua B, joshuab@wrestlingrespect.com
Web Site: http://www.wrestlingrespect.com
RSS Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/wrestlingrespectpodcast
CLICK BELOW TO LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH EVAN GINZBURG:
http://www.wrestlingrespect.com/2008/10/23/wrestling-respect-2-evan-ginzburg-interview
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Meet TNA’s biggest star: Vince McMahon, by Kevin Eck - The Baltimore Sun
I didn’t keep count, but it seemed to me that Vince McMahon’s name was mentioned more times on TNA Impact last night than Samoa Joe’s, Sting’s and Kurt Angle’s – combined.
Angle and Jeff Jarrett made the WWE chairman the focus of their angle, and even Mick Foley took a shot at his former boss in his much-anticipated debut promo.
TNA’s obsession with McMahon is nothing new. They’ve parodied him in the past, and let’s not forget those lame anti-WWE segments that were done by VKM (Vincent Kennedy McMahon, get it?).
The constant mentions of McMahon, the “machine up North,” past WWE story lines and current WWE stars make TNA look second rate and desperate for attention. How many times do you think WWE will reference TNA tonight on Smackdown or Monday night on Raw? There’s a better chance of Ted Nugent endorsing Barack Obama for president than there is of Samoa Joe or Jarrett getting a shout out from Triple H or Chris Jericho (both of whom were mentioned on Impact last night, by the way).
I understand that to hardcore TNA fans McMahon is the enemy, and that a heel will get heat by praising him, and a babyface will get a pop by insulting him. But I don’t think it will sell tickets or pay-per-views.
When ECW in its heyday went after WWE and WCW it was cool because they were the outlaw company rebelling against “the man.” It was what ECW was all about. TNA is not ECW and this is not 1997. The company would be better served concentrating on its own talented roster and story lines than on Vinny Mac.
Other thoughts on last night’s show:
This is what I wrote on June 1 of last year in regard to the death of Jarrett’s wife, Jill, who lost her battle with cancer the week before:
“I just don’t want to see a heel bring up Jill’s death in a disrespectful manner in order to get heat and start a feud with Jarrett.”
Sure enough, Angle, who reportedly is going through a divorce from his wife, Karen, said in his promo that he “wasn’t the only one who has lost his wife.”
As I have said before, I know this is wrestling and that real-life personal issues are often brought into story lines. I’m usually OK with it, but I draw the line at death. I wasn’t comfortable with MVP trying to get heat by bringing up Jeff Hardy’s dog, who died when Hardy’s house burned down last March, but, as much as I love dogs, a pet is not a human being. To bring the death of a wrestler or a wrestler’s spouse into a story line is disgusting.
I didn’t like it when WWE did it with Eddie Guerrero and I don’t like it now with Jarrett’s wife. It amazes me that Vickie Guerrero and Jeff Jarrett go along with it, but wrestling people are just a different breed, and using deaths in story lines has been going on in the business for decades. ...
It was refreshing to hear Sting say this week that he and Ric Flair “didn’t always see eye to eye.” That’s quite an understatement to anyone who watched them feud for over a decade in WCW, but at least it’s better than Sting referring to Flair as “a confidant and a brother.” …
Rhaka Khan definitely was a surprise as ODB’s mystery partner against The Beautiful People. Khan was a little clumsy in the ring, but she did show some personality as a babyface. …
I loved Robert Roode’s lid, but not nearly as much as Jacqueline’s shirt.
Greg Tingle comment
Pro wrestling Yankee style is finally getting interesting again. Inside references, real heat between promotions and talent, death, pet and divorce references. The storylines are supposed to resemble something believable right, with a logical and compelling sequence of events, which doesn't reflect the cartoon character stuff from the 90's when IRS , Vinny Vegas and Doink was all the rage... not. Could this be NWO part 3 or 4? Your getting strong readership from down in Sydney, Australia, so the very much global audience must tell a story also. Are the web stats up also?
(Credit: The Baltimore Sun)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Angle and Jeff Jarrett made the WWE chairman the focus of their angle, and even Mick Foley took a shot at his former boss in his much-anticipated debut promo.
TNA’s obsession with McMahon is nothing new. They’ve parodied him in the past, and let’s not forget those lame anti-WWE segments that were done by VKM (Vincent Kennedy McMahon, get it?).
The constant mentions of McMahon, the “machine up North,” past WWE story lines and current WWE stars make TNA look second rate and desperate for attention. How many times do you think WWE will reference TNA tonight on Smackdown or Monday night on Raw? There’s a better chance of Ted Nugent endorsing Barack Obama for president than there is of Samoa Joe or Jarrett getting a shout out from Triple H or Chris Jericho (both of whom were mentioned on Impact last night, by the way).
I understand that to hardcore TNA fans McMahon is the enemy, and that a heel will get heat by praising him, and a babyface will get a pop by insulting him. But I don’t think it will sell tickets or pay-per-views.
When ECW in its heyday went after WWE and WCW it was cool because they were the outlaw company rebelling against “the man.” It was what ECW was all about. TNA is not ECW and this is not 1997. The company would be better served concentrating on its own talented roster and story lines than on Vinny Mac.
Other thoughts on last night’s show:
This is what I wrote on June 1 of last year in regard to the death of Jarrett’s wife, Jill, who lost her battle with cancer the week before:
“I just don’t want to see a heel bring up Jill’s death in a disrespectful manner in order to get heat and start a feud with Jarrett.”
Sure enough, Angle, who reportedly is going through a divorce from his wife, Karen, said in his promo that he “wasn’t the only one who has lost his wife.”
As I have said before, I know this is wrestling and that real-life personal issues are often brought into story lines. I’m usually OK with it, but I draw the line at death. I wasn’t comfortable with MVP trying to get heat by bringing up Jeff Hardy’s dog, who died when Hardy’s house burned down last March, but, as much as I love dogs, a pet is not a human being. To bring the death of a wrestler or a wrestler’s spouse into a story line is disgusting.
I didn’t like it when WWE did it with Eddie Guerrero and I don’t like it now with Jarrett’s wife. It amazes me that Vickie Guerrero and Jeff Jarrett go along with it, but wrestling people are just a different breed, and using deaths in story lines has been going on in the business for decades. ...
It was refreshing to hear Sting say this week that he and Ric Flair “didn’t always see eye to eye.” That’s quite an understatement to anyone who watched them feud for over a decade in WCW, but at least it’s better than Sting referring to Flair as “a confidant and a brother.” …
Rhaka Khan definitely was a surprise as ODB’s mystery partner against The Beautiful People. Khan was a little clumsy in the ring, but she did show some personality as a babyface. …
I loved Robert Roode’s lid, but not nearly as much as Jacqueline’s shirt.
Greg Tingle comment
Pro wrestling Yankee style is finally getting interesting again. Inside references, real heat between promotions and talent, death, pet and divorce references. The storylines are supposed to resemble something believable right, with a logical and compelling sequence of events, which doesn't reflect the cartoon character stuff from the 90's when IRS , Vinny Vegas and Doink was all the rage... not. Could this be NWO part 3 or 4? Your getting strong readership from down in Sydney, Australia, so the very much global audience must tell a story also. Are the web stats up also?
(Credit: The Baltimore Sun)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Saturday, September 27, 2008
A matter of factions, by Kevin Eck - The Baltimore Sun - 25th September 2008
Ric Flair is a free agent making personal appearances throughout the country and Mick Foley is working for TNA, but both are on a WWE program that has been running this month. Before each departed from WWE, the two legendary stars participated in a roundtable discussion with Tazz, Jim Ross and Gene Okerlund about wrestling factions on WWE 24/7’s Legends of Wrestling show.
In addition to the novelty of seeing Flair and Foley in one of their final appearances with the company (not to mention the novelty of seeing them seated next to each other given their past real-life heat), the show is worth watching because Flair holds nothing back. He had some interesting things to say about the nWo, Shane Douglas and some former members of the Four Horsemen.
Speaking of the Horsemen, they received a lot of love on the show – and rightfully so. It was kind of funny, though, how everyone – especially Tazz – gushed about the Horsemen with Flair sitting there. Flair wasn’t shy about putting himself over, either. When asked to name the top three factions of all-time, he named the two that he was in – the Horsemen and Evolution.
Here are my picks for the top five factions:
1. The Four Horsemen: As much as I would like to be a rebel and make a controversial selection for the top spot, I have to be honest, and that means joining the Horsemen lovefest. There were numerous Horsemen combinations over the years, but there were two that stood far above the others. And neither involves Paul Roma or Steve McMichael. I really liked the original lineup of Flair, Tully Blanchard and Ole and Arn Anderson. All four guys could wrestle, cut great promos and get under the fans’ skin. The best lineup as far as wrestling ability and star power, however, was Flair, Blanchard, Arn Anderson and Barry Windham. Windham wasn’t close to Ole Anderson on the mic, but he was significantly better in the ring and was nearly 20 years younger. Both of these versions of the Horsemen were money draws and had classic feuds with NWA stars such as Dusty Rhodes, The Road Warriors, Magnum T.A., Sting, The Rock and Roll Express, Nikita Koloff and Lex Luger.
2. The nWo: The nWo storyline was one of the most successful and influential angles of all time and a big reason for WCW’s 83-week winning streak in the Monday night ratings war with WWE. To me, the nWo was Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, although it was still a red-hot angle at the time when Syxx (Sean Waltman) and The Giant (Paul Wight) joined the group. As more and more members joined, however, the nWo began losing its luster.
3. The Fabulous Freebirds: Whether they were heels or babyfaces, Michael Hayes, Terry Gordy and Buddy Roberts drew money wherever they went. The Badstreet boys had their most successful run in Texas, where they had a legendary feud with the Von Erichs. Each man brought something different to the group: Hayes was the charismatic mouthpiece, Gordy was the big man and the best worker and Roberts was the grizzled veteran. Jimmy Garvin later became a Freebird, but he wasn’t there during the glory days.
4. DX: Along with Steve Austin, DX helped usher in WWE’s incredibly successful “Attitude” era. When Shawn Michaels dropped his babyface act, Triple H abandoned his Greenwich, Conn., snob gimmick and the two real-life friends turned the volume up on their smart-aleck personalities to form DX (along with Chyna), it was must-see TV. Considered an nWo rip-off at first, DX eventually became the cooler of the two factions. After Michaels departed due to a back injury, DX – led by Triple H, who was joined in the group by Chyna, X-Pac (Waltman) and The New Age Outlaws (Road Dogg and Billy Gunn) – became a hugely popular babyface act.
5. The Dangerous Alliance: The stable of manager Paul E. Dangerously (Paul Heyman) did not have the longevity or impact of the others on this list, but it was a talented ensemble. The group, which consisted of Steve Austin (when he was “Stunning” and not yet “Stone Cold”), Rick Rude, Arn Anderson, Larry Zbyszko, Bobby Easton and Madusa, had a good run in WCW in the early ’90s. All of the guys were established stars and good workers and most of them were proficient talkers – although none were better on the mic than Dangerously. Rude was the centerpiece of the Alliance and had memorable feuds with Ricky Steamboat and Sting.
(Credit: The Baltimore Sun)
Greg Tingle comment
The NWO was the strongest in Australia. Also don't forget Australia's World Championship Wrestling circa 1970 with The People's Army and the Mercenary Soldiers. Long live Big Bad John, Killer Karl Kox and Steve "The Crusher" Rackman.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Wrestling
In addition to the novelty of seeing Flair and Foley in one of their final appearances with the company (not to mention the novelty of seeing them seated next to each other given their past real-life heat), the show is worth watching because Flair holds nothing back. He had some interesting things to say about the nWo, Shane Douglas and some former members of the Four Horsemen.
Speaking of the Horsemen, they received a lot of love on the show – and rightfully so. It was kind of funny, though, how everyone – especially Tazz – gushed about the Horsemen with Flair sitting there. Flair wasn’t shy about putting himself over, either. When asked to name the top three factions of all-time, he named the two that he was in – the Horsemen and Evolution.
Here are my picks for the top five factions:
1. The Four Horsemen: As much as I would like to be a rebel and make a controversial selection for the top spot, I have to be honest, and that means joining the Horsemen lovefest. There were numerous Horsemen combinations over the years, but there were two that stood far above the others. And neither involves Paul Roma or Steve McMichael. I really liked the original lineup of Flair, Tully Blanchard and Ole and Arn Anderson. All four guys could wrestle, cut great promos and get under the fans’ skin. The best lineup as far as wrestling ability and star power, however, was Flair, Blanchard, Arn Anderson and Barry Windham. Windham wasn’t close to Ole Anderson on the mic, but he was significantly better in the ring and was nearly 20 years younger. Both of these versions of the Horsemen were money draws and had classic feuds with NWA stars such as Dusty Rhodes, The Road Warriors, Magnum T.A., Sting, The Rock and Roll Express, Nikita Koloff and Lex Luger.
2. The nWo: The nWo storyline was one of the most successful and influential angles of all time and a big reason for WCW’s 83-week winning streak in the Monday night ratings war with WWE. To me, the nWo was Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, although it was still a red-hot angle at the time when Syxx (Sean Waltman) and The Giant (Paul Wight) joined the group. As more and more members joined, however, the nWo began losing its luster.
3. The Fabulous Freebirds: Whether they were heels or babyfaces, Michael Hayes, Terry Gordy and Buddy Roberts drew money wherever they went. The Badstreet boys had their most successful run in Texas, where they had a legendary feud with the Von Erichs. Each man brought something different to the group: Hayes was the charismatic mouthpiece, Gordy was the big man and the best worker and Roberts was the grizzled veteran. Jimmy Garvin later became a Freebird, but he wasn’t there during the glory days.
4. DX: Along with Steve Austin, DX helped usher in WWE’s incredibly successful “Attitude” era. When Shawn Michaels dropped his babyface act, Triple H abandoned his Greenwich, Conn., snob gimmick and the two real-life friends turned the volume up on their smart-aleck personalities to form DX (along with Chyna), it was must-see TV. Considered an nWo rip-off at first, DX eventually became the cooler of the two factions. After Michaels departed due to a back injury, DX – led by Triple H, who was joined in the group by Chyna, X-Pac (Waltman) and The New Age Outlaws (Road Dogg and Billy Gunn) – became a hugely popular babyface act.
5. The Dangerous Alliance: The stable of manager Paul E. Dangerously (Paul Heyman) did not have the longevity or impact of the others on this list, but it was a talented ensemble. The group, which consisted of Steve Austin (when he was “Stunning” and not yet “Stone Cold”), Rick Rude, Arn Anderson, Larry Zbyszko, Bobby Easton and Madusa, had a good run in WCW in the early ’90s. All of the guys were established stars and good workers and most of them were proficient talkers – although none were better on the mic than Dangerously. Rude was the centerpiece of the Alliance and had memorable feuds with Ricky Steamboat and Sting.
(Credit: The Baltimore Sun)
Greg Tingle comment
The NWO was the strongest in Australia. Also don't forget Australia's World Championship Wrestling circa 1970 with The People's Army and the Mercenary Soldiers. Long live Big Bad John, Killer Karl Kox and Steve "The Crusher" Rackman.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Wrestling
Wrestling events, shows - The Miami Herald - 11th September 2008
Wrestlers Rescue, a very worthy cause, is Sunday, Sept. 14 at the Radisson in Piscataway, N.J.
Meet Torrie Wilson, Terri Runnels, Mick Foley, Dawn Marie, Tammy Sytch, Missy Hyatt, Iron Sheik, Superfly Snuka, Greg Valentine, Lou Albano, Balls Mahoney, Nikolai Volkoff, Lanny Poffo, Brutus Beefcake, JJ Dillon, Sandman, Manny Fernandez, Baywatch's Traci Bingham, boxing legend Emile Griffith and others.
There will be a wrestling convention/autograph session and a semi-formal dinner with the stars. For up-to-date information on the star-studded celebrity guests, schedule, prices, super tickets, auction, charity, etc. visit WrestlersRescue.Org. Check out sendspace.com/file/jh6awk.
Questions about the event, e-mail Michele at wrestlersrescue@aol.com.
• Independent Championship Wrestling, Inc, is 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14 at its headquarters, 124 NW 15th Ave., Miami.
ICW champ Shawn Prime vs. DSW/NRW/NAW champ J-Biggs. ICW United States tag team champs Dade County Collision vs. The Midnight Studds (J.T. Flash and Bobby Sanford).
In a six-man Bull in the Ring match, ICW Pure X Crown champ Skull Mussolini vs. Cuba's Q-Ba Libre vs. United Kingdom's The Photogenix's Romano Exchange ST and Vega vs. former FOW Light Heavyweight champ J-Dawg Brooks vs. The Network's Five Star Superstar Maxx Stardom.
ICW women's champ Angel Rose of the Network vs. Caribbean Queen Calypso. For the Latin American title, The Wild Stallions (Latin American champ Ricky Turbo and Anjel Gibson) vs. The Rude Awakening's Teddy Khan and that masked man Skorpio.
Parts Unknown native Hitman Machine wvs. Upper Classman Ernest R. Alexander III. Also, The Network's Mykal Manix, Rude Awakening's David Diamond and Kristy Kash, ICW Director of Authority Dash Maverick and ICW Commissioner Joker.
Tickets $5 general admission, free children 3-and-younger. Visit IndyCW.com. E-mail ICWowner@bellsouth.net.
• Florida Championship Wrestling, the feeder group to WWE, is 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Bourbon Street Night Club, 4331 US 19 N., New Port Richey, Fla. Tickets $7 at the door.
• Jersey All Pro Wrestling teams with the Beachwood Pine Beach Little League for a fundraiser to benefit the organization at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at the Toms River Intermediate South Middle School, 1675 Pinewald Rd., Beachwood, N.J.
See TNA's The War Machine Rhino, Black Machismo Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt and TNA and JAPW tag team champs LAX. Plus, former WWE star Nunzio, the SATs, JAPW's Dan Maff, The Heavy Hitters, Champion Kenny Omega, New Jersey state champ The Grim Reefer and more.
Call 201-377-0308 or e-mail Frank at fatfrkjap1@aol.com.
• APWF is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at Matanzas High School, 3535 N Old Kings Rd., Palm Coast, Fla.
Former WWE developmental talent Francisco Ciatso with Hardcore Giant Ron Niemi vs. TNA's Kip James, formerly of WWE. Hardcore Giant Ron Niemi vs. former WWE star Jake The Snake Roberts. Former WWE star Doug Basham vs. The Sheik. Former WWE and TNA stars Shane Twins vs. Loggers. The Bug vs. CJ O'Doyle. Pat McGroin and Kory Chavis vs. The Lifeguards.
Tickets $20 ringside, $10 bleachers. Proceeds benefit the Matanzas Pirate Football Team. Call 813-960-8412.
• The Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup is Friday, Sept. 26 at The New Lakes in the Regency Park Civic Center, 8330 Civic Dr., Port Richey, Fla. and Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Brooksville National Guard Armory, 16386 Springhill Dr., Brooksville, Fla.
The participants are Gran Akuma (Chikara Pro), Jigsaw (Ring of Honor), Campus Legend Brad Attitude (former WWE development), Jaison Moore (Pro Wrestling Riot), Craig Classic (Big Japan Pro Wrestling), Nooie Lee (GEAR), Sweet and Sour Larry Sweeney (Ring of Honor/FIP), Kenny King (Ring of Honor/FIP), Sal Rinauro (Ring of Honor/G.E.A.R.), C.J. O'Doyle (Pro Wrestling Riot), Erick Stevens (Ring of Honor/Full Impact Pro), Tommy Taylor (former WWE Development), Addicted To Love Rhett Titus (Ring of Honor), Jon Davis (Believe/D1PW), Chris Jones (Pro Wrestling Fusion) and Chris Gray (former WWE development).
The Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup in conjunction with the Tammie Hamaoui Foundation, Pro Wrestling Riot, World Wrestling Network and Floridawrestlingfans.com will be running this year's tournament as fundraiser for Port Richey 2-year-old Devin Deschaine and his mom.
She is single and needs help paying the bills. He also has a few upcoming procedures his insurance won't cover.
Devin is in Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. About 600 children in the country will be diagnosed with Neuroblastoma each year. About 30 percent will survive.
In November 2002, independent wrestling star Jeff Peterson lost his long battle with cancer. On May 16, 2003, the Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup, a 16-competitor tournament in honor of the fallen star, debuted in Florida.
Previous winners of the annual tournament are Reckless Youth Tom Carter, Justice, Chris Sabin, Milano Collection AT and Chris Hero.
To purchase tickets or to make donations, go to jpc2008.com.
• Total Nonstop Action Pro Wrestling makes its South Florida debut at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami in Coral Gables.
See TNA champ Samoa Joe, Booker T, A.J. Styles, TNA Knockouts women's champ Taylor Wilde, Christian Cage, Awesome Kong, TNA tag team champs Beer Money, Inc. ( James Storm and Robert Roode), Jacqueline, Motorcity Machine Guns, Cute Kip, TNA X Division champ Petey Williams, Consequences Creed, Traci Brooks and more.
Tickets ($20-$50) are on sale at the BankUnited Center Box Office, TicketMaster locations, TicketMaster online or charge by phone at 305-358-5885. TNA iMPACT! is 9 p.m. Thursdays on Spike TV.
• TNA is 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28 at The Lakeland Center. Tickets also are on sale. Prices vary.
• TNA tapes TNA iMPACT! four times a month at Soundstage 21 of Universal Studios Orlando. Admission is free. Seats are first come, first serve.
• Pro Wrestling Unplugged is 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, N.J.
PWU Title: Steel Cage: Teddy Fine with George Frankenstein vs. The Hardcore Icon The Sandman. Diamond Dallas Page and All Money is Legal vs. Savio Vega and the S.A.T. (Jose and Joel Maximo).
The New Jersey All Stars (Rage and Westler) vs. Angus Brothers vs. Team Macktion (T.J. and Kirby Mack) vs. a mystery tag team. DWF Tag Team Titles: The Lost Boyz (Yar and Wolf) with Doc Diamond vs. The Latin Connection (D-Krazed and El Monstro).
Ladder Grudge Match: Aramis vs. Lucky of the New Jersey All-Stars. DWF Title: Steel Cage: Rockin' Rebel vs. Sinister X.
Johnny Kashmere vs. Devon Moore. Barbed Wire Steel Cage: Kevin James vs. Joe Ettell vs. Loco. Rich Swann vs. Rocky Styles.
Two Ring Battle Royal: Cousin Luke, Bushwhacker Luke, 7-0 Annihilation, Twisted Sand (the son of the Sandman), The Southern Enforcer, the magician the Amazing John, Dr. Ruthless, Dave McCormick of PhiladelphiaRevolution.com, Man-Thing, Kwami, Salvatore Soprano with George Fuggetaboutit, Kage, Bash Manta, Big Nasty, a member of Survial Rate Zero and more.
• Former WWE star Savio Vega will conduct a training seminar 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28 at Devastation University in Pennsauken, N.J.
Learn from the former member of The Nation of Domination and Los Boricuas. Cost is $25. Vega is a TNA talent coordinator and a talent scout in Puerto Rico.
• The first DVD release through Combat Zone Wrestling's new international distribution deal is a historical look at some of the fieriest and most extreme matches in the company's near 10-year hardcore history, entitled Hotter Than Hell.
The DVD, which captures some of the classic moments in CZW history, will be released Sept. 30 in North America via Locomotive Vision/Ryko Distribution. Visit czwrestling.com.
• Fans seeking to participate in the South Florida homecoming of popular mixed martial arts star Kimbo Slice of Perrine have the opportunity to reserve their seats now. Slice will face MMA legend and former WWE/TNA pro wrestler Ken Shamrock, and the event will be broadcast live on CBS.
Tickets for the event on Saturday, Oct. 4 at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise start at $30. They are available at Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 954-523-3309 in Broward County, 305-358-5885 in Dade County and 561-966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices 954-835-7825.
The first live fight on Oct. 4 begins at 6 p.m.
The fight card, headlined by the unbeaten, exciting Kimbo and talented, undefeated women's superstar Gina Carano is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.'s live fight division, EliteXC.
A major MMA attraction, Kimbo (3-0) possesses ferocious striking skills and is coming off a thrilling third-round TKO over England's James Colossus Thompson on May 31.
''I'll fight anybody, anywhere, but it's always nice to fight at home,'' said Kimbo, who required 62 seconds to dispatch of his initial two opponents.
Kimbo, also known as Kevin Ferguson, made a name for himself on the Internet where videos of the bald, bearded, menacing-looking, former underground bare-knuckle street fighter have been downloaded literally millions of times on YouTube.
Carano, also known as Crush on American Gladiators, is the most recognizable female MMA fighter in the world. A Muay Thai specialist, she registered a second-round TKO over Kaitlin Young in her last start on May 31.
Carano battles Kelly Kobald.
Also, Jake Shields vs. Paul Daley for the EliteXC Welterweight title. Murilo Ninja Rua vs. Benji Radach and more. Visit elitexc.com.
The third installment of CBS ELITEXC Saturday Night Fights will be broadcast live 9-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 on CBS.
• WWE's Monday Night Raw is 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa. Tickets go on sale Saturday, Oct. 4. Prices $70, $50, $40, $30 and $20.
WWE Raw has a house show 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 at the Bank Atlantic Center in (South Florida) Sunrise. Tickets ($60, $45, $35, $25 and $20) are on sale at the Bank Atlantic Center Box Office, TicketMaster locations, TicketMaster online or charge by phone at 305-358-5885.
WWE SmackDown/ECW has a house show 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at the Leon County Civic Center in Tallahassee. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 24. Prices $40, $30, $25 and $20.
• Ring of Honor, based in Bristol, Pa., is 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 at the (South Florida) Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Dr.
ROH is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Orlando Downtown Recreation Complex, 649 W Linvingston St. Call 215-781-2500. Visit rohwrestling.com or tickets.com.
• Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling television series debuts 8 p.m. EST Oct. 18 on cable channel CMT.
The celebrities are Dustin Diamond from Saved by the Bell, Tiffany, Todd Bridges from Different Strokes, Trishelle from Real World, boxer Butterbean, Nikki Ziering from Playboy, Sylvester Stallone's acting/singing brother Frank, Erin Murphy from Bewitched, Danny Bonaduce and former NBA player Dennis Rodman. They will be learning to wrestle.
The reality-type television show, under the direction of Eric Bischoff (AWA/WCW/WWE), Jason Hervey (Wonder Years) and Hogan, was filmed in a converted warehouse in California.
WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart, Bischoff and Hogan will be the judges. Rodman previously worked with Bischoff and Hogan in WCW. Sylvester Stallone inducted Hogan into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Bischoff and Hervey run their own production company and co-produced a reality show on television sitcom star Scott Baio for VH-1 and actor/singer Billy Ray Cyrus for CMT as well as I Want To Be a Hilton for NBC. Hogan starred in Hogan Knows Best on VH-1.
• D1PW's second anniversary show is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Davie PAL Gym, 4300 SW 57th Ter., (South Florida) Davie.
The Marquee Bruce Santee vs. former WWE star Savio Vega. Maximum Capacity vs. former WWE Spirit Squad member Mikey.
Francisco Ciatso with Amy Vitale vs. Jerrelle Clark. Tommy Vandal vs. Johnny Vandal in a ladder match.
Loggers vs. Heartbreak Express. Chris Jones vs. Dantastic. Falcon vs. Fabulous Frank. Sammie Joe vs. Lou Cypher.
Lifgeuards vs. Dark City Fight Club. Kimberly vs. Kellie. Craig Classic, Jaison Moore and more. Tickets $12 adults, $5 kids.
Call 954-554-7688. Visit d1pw.com.
• The Killer Kowalski Memorial Wrestling Show is 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26 at the Irish-American Club in Malden, Mass. Proceeds will benefit the Walter Killer Kowalski Memorial Fund. See Tito Santana, Nikolai Volkoff and more. Visit superstarprowrestling.com.
• Florida Championship Wrestling, the feeder group to WWE, is Saturday, Nov. 15 at the Lee County Civic Center in Fort Myers, Fla. See talent signed to WWE developmental contracts. Go to fcwwrestling.com.
• The Funking Conservatory in Ocala, Fla. is the official training center in America for All Japan Pro Wrestling.
All Japan Pro Wrestling is run by President Keiji Muto (Great Muta), Osamu Nishimura, Masanobu Fuchi, Kyohei Wada and Uchida San.
The legendary Dory Funk Jr. heads the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School. Visit dory-funk.com.
• Between The Ropes wrestling radio is 6-8 p.m. EST Tuesdays on ESPN Florida AM 1080 and AM 1060. Brian Fritz, Vito DeNucci and Dickerman host the show which is simulcast worldwide online at BetweenTheRopes.com.
(Credit: The Miami Herald)
Meet Torrie Wilson, Terri Runnels, Mick Foley, Dawn Marie, Tammy Sytch, Missy Hyatt, Iron Sheik, Superfly Snuka, Greg Valentine, Lou Albano, Balls Mahoney, Nikolai Volkoff, Lanny Poffo, Brutus Beefcake, JJ Dillon, Sandman, Manny Fernandez, Baywatch's Traci Bingham, boxing legend Emile Griffith and others.
There will be a wrestling convention/autograph session and a semi-formal dinner with the stars. For up-to-date information on the star-studded celebrity guests, schedule, prices, super tickets, auction, charity, etc. visit WrestlersRescue.Org. Check out sendspace.com/file/jh6awk.
Questions about the event, e-mail Michele at wrestlersrescue@aol.com.
• Independent Championship Wrestling, Inc, is 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14 at its headquarters, 124 NW 15th Ave., Miami.
ICW champ Shawn Prime vs. DSW/NRW/NAW champ J-Biggs. ICW United States tag team champs Dade County Collision vs. The Midnight Studds (J.T. Flash and Bobby Sanford).
In a six-man Bull in the Ring match, ICW Pure X Crown champ Skull Mussolini vs. Cuba's Q-Ba Libre vs. United Kingdom's The Photogenix's Romano Exchange ST and Vega vs. former FOW Light Heavyweight champ J-Dawg Brooks vs. The Network's Five Star Superstar Maxx Stardom.
ICW women's champ Angel Rose of the Network vs. Caribbean Queen Calypso. For the Latin American title, The Wild Stallions (Latin American champ Ricky Turbo and Anjel Gibson) vs. The Rude Awakening's Teddy Khan and that masked man Skorpio.
Parts Unknown native Hitman Machine wvs. Upper Classman Ernest R. Alexander III. Also, The Network's Mykal Manix, Rude Awakening's David Diamond and Kristy Kash, ICW Director of Authority Dash Maverick and ICW Commissioner Joker.
Tickets $5 general admission, free children 3-and-younger. Visit IndyCW.com. E-mail ICWowner@bellsouth.net.
• Florida Championship Wrestling, the feeder group to WWE, is 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Bourbon Street Night Club, 4331 US 19 N., New Port Richey, Fla. Tickets $7 at the door.
• Jersey All Pro Wrestling teams with the Beachwood Pine Beach Little League for a fundraiser to benefit the organization at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at the Toms River Intermediate South Middle School, 1675 Pinewald Rd., Beachwood, N.J.
See TNA's The War Machine Rhino, Black Machismo Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt and TNA and JAPW tag team champs LAX. Plus, former WWE star Nunzio, the SATs, JAPW's Dan Maff, The Heavy Hitters, Champion Kenny Omega, New Jersey state champ The Grim Reefer and more.
Call 201-377-0308 or e-mail Frank at fatfrkjap1@aol.com.
• APWF is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at Matanzas High School, 3535 N Old Kings Rd., Palm Coast, Fla.
Former WWE developmental talent Francisco Ciatso with Hardcore Giant Ron Niemi vs. TNA's Kip James, formerly of WWE. Hardcore Giant Ron Niemi vs. former WWE star Jake The Snake Roberts. Former WWE star Doug Basham vs. The Sheik. Former WWE and TNA stars Shane Twins vs. Loggers. The Bug vs. CJ O'Doyle. Pat McGroin and Kory Chavis vs. The Lifeguards.
Tickets $20 ringside, $10 bleachers. Proceeds benefit the Matanzas Pirate Football Team. Call 813-960-8412.
• The Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup is Friday, Sept. 26 at The New Lakes in the Regency Park Civic Center, 8330 Civic Dr., Port Richey, Fla. and Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Brooksville National Guard Armory, 16386 Springhill Dr., Brooksville, Fla.
The participants are Gran Akuma (Chikara Pro), Jigsaw (Ring of Honor), Campus Legend Brad Attitude (former WWE development), Jaison Moore (Pro Wrestling Riot), Craig Classic (Big Japan Pro Wrestling), Nooie Lee (GEAR), Sweet and Sour Larry Sweeney (Ring of Honor/FIP), Kenny King (Ring of Honor/FIP), Sal Rinauro (Ring of Honor/G.E.A.R.), C.J. O'Doyle (Pro Wrestling Riot), Erick Stevens (Ring of Honor/Full Impact Pro), Tommy Taylor (former WWE Development), Addicted To Love Rhett Titus (Ring of Honor), Jon Davis (Believe/D1PW), Chris Jones (Pro Wrestling Fusion) and Chris Gray (former WWE development).
The Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup in conjunction with the Tammie Hamaoui Foundation, Pro Wrestling Riot, World Wrestling Network and Floridawrestlingfans.com will be running this year's tournament as fundraiser for Port Richey 2-year-old Devin Deschaine and his mom.
She is single and needs help paying the bills. He also has a few upcoming procedures his insurance won't cover.
Devin is in Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. About 600 children in the country will be diagnosed with Neuroblastoma each year. About 30 percent will survive.
In November 2002, independent wrestling star Jeff Peterson lost his long battle with cancer. On May 16, 2003, the Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup, a 16-competitor tournament in honor of the fallen star, debuted in Florida.
Previous winners of the annual tournament are Reckless Youth Tom Carter, Justice, Chris Sabin, Milano Collection AT and Chris Hero.
To purchase tickets or to make donations, go to jpc2008.com.
• Total Nonstop Action Pro Wrestling makes its South Florida debut at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami in Coral Gables.
See TNA champ Samoa Joe, Booker T, A.J. Styles, TNA Knockouts women's champ Taylor Wilde, Christian Cage, Awesome Kong, TNA tag team champs Beer Money, Inc. ( James Storm and Robert Roode), Jacqueline, Motorcity Machine Guns, Cute Kip, TNA X Division champ Petey Williams, Consequences Creed, Traci Brooks and more.
Tickets ($20-$50) are on sale at the BankUnited Center Box Office, TicketMaster locations, TicketMaster online or charge by phone at 305-358-5885. TNA iMPACT! is 9 p.m. Thursdays on Spike TV.
• TNA is 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28 at The Lakeland Center. Tickets also are on sale. Prices vary.
• TNA tapes TNA iMPACT! four times a month at Soundstage 21 of Universal Studios Orlando. Admission is free. Seats are first come, first serve.
• Pro Wrestling Unplugged is 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, N.J.
PWU Title: Steel Cage: Teddy Fine with George Frankenstein vs. The Hardcore Icon The Sandman. Diamond Dallas Page and All Money is Legal vs. Savio Vega and the S.A.T. (Jose and Joel Maximo).
The New Jersey All Stars (Rage and Westler) vs. Angus Brothers vs. Team Macktion (T.J. and Kirby Mack) vs. a mystery tag team. DWF Tag Team Titles: The Lost Boyz (Yar and Wolf) with Doc Diamond vs. The Latin Connection (D-Krazed and El Monstro).
Ladder Grudge Match: Aramis vs. Lucky of the New Jersey All-Stars. DWF Title: Steel Cage: Rockin' Rebel vs. Sinister X.
Johnny Kashmere vs. Devon Moore. Barbed Wire Steel Cage: Kevin James vs. Joe Ettell vs. Loco. Rich Swann vs. Rocky Styles.
Two Ring Battle Royal: Cousin Luke, Bushwhacker Luke, 7-0 Annihilation, Twisted Sand (the son of the Sandman), The Southern Enforcer, the magician the Amazing John, Dr. Ruthless, Dave McCormick of PhiladelphiaRevolution.com, Man-Thing, Kwami, Salvatore Soprano with George Fuggetaboutit, Kage, Bash Manta, Big Nasty, a member of Survial Rate Zero and more.
• Former WWE star Savio Vega will conduct a training seminar 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28 at Devastation University in Pennsauken, N.J.
Learn from the former member of The Nation of Domination and Los Boricuas. Cost is $25. Vega is a TNA talent coordinator and a talent scout in Puerto Rico.
• The first DVD release through Combat Zone Wrestling's new international distribution deal is a historical look at some of the fieriest and most extreme matches in the company's near 10-year hardcore history, entitled Hotter Than Hell.
The DVD, which captures some of the classic moments in CZW history, will be released Sept. 30 in North America via Locomotive Vision/Ryko Distribution. Visit czwrestling.com.
• Fans seeking to participate in the South Florida homecoming of popular mixed martial arts star Kimbo Slice of Perrine have the opportunity to reserve their seats now. Slice will face MMA legend and former WWE/TNA pro wrestler Ken Shamrock, and the event will be broadcast live on CBS.
Tickets for the event on Saturday, Oct. 4 at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise start at $30. They are available at Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 954-523-3309 in Broward County, 305-358-5885 in Dade County and 561-966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices 954-835-7825.
The first live fight on Oct. 4 begins at 6 p.m.
The fight card, headlined by the unbeaten, exciting Kimbo and talented, undefeated women's superstar Gina Carano is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.'s live fight division, EliteXC.
A major MMA attraction, Kimbo (3-0) possesses ferocious striking skills and is coming off a thrilling third-round TKO over England's James Colossus Thompson on May 31.
''I'll fight anybody, anywhere, but it's always nice to fight at home,'' said Kimbo, who required 62 seconds to dispatch of his initial two opponents.
Kimbo, also known as Kevin Ferguson, made a name for himself on the Internet where videos of the bald, bearded, menacing-looking, former underground bare-knuckle street fighter have been downloaded literally millions of times on YouTube.
Carano, also known as Crush on American Gladiators, is the most recognizable female MMA fighter in the world. A Muay Thai specialist, she registered a second-round TKO over Kaitlin Young in her last start on May 31.
Carano battles Kelly Kobald.
Also, Jake Shields vs. Paul Daley for the EliteXC Welterweight title. Murilo Ninja Rua vs. Benji Radach and more. Visit elitexc.com.
The third installment of CBS ELITEXC Saturday Night Fights will be broadcast live 9-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 on CBS.
• WWE's Monday Night Raw is 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa. Tickets go on sale Saturday, Oct. 4. Prices $70, $50, $40, $30 and $20.
WWE Raw has a house show 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 at the Bank Atlantic Center in (South Florida) Sunrise. Tickets ($60, $45, $35, $25 and $20) are on sale at the Bank Atlantic Center Box Office, TicketMaster locations, TicketMaster online or charge by phone at 305-358-5885.
WWE SmackDown/ECW has a house show 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at the Leon County Civic Center in Tallahassee. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 24. Prices $40, $30, $25 and $20.
• Ring of Honor, based in Bristol, Pa., is 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 at the (South Florida) Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Dr.
ROH is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Orlando Downtown Recreation Complex, 649 W Linvingston St. Call 215-781-2500. Visit rohwrestling.com or tickets.com.
• Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling television series debuts 8 p.m. EST Oct. 18 on cable channel CMT.
The celebrities are Dustin Diamond from Saved by the Bell, Tiffany, Todd Bridges from Different Strokes, Trishelle from Real World, boxer Butterbean, Nikki Ziering from Playboy, Sylvester Stallone's acting/singing brother Frank, Erin Murphy from Bewitched, Danny Bonaduce and former NBA player Dennis Rodman. They will be learning to wrestle.
The reality-type television show, under the direction of Eric Bischoff (AWA/WCW/WWE), Jason Hervey (Wonder Years) and Hogan, was filmed in a converted warehouse in California.
WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart, Bischoff and Hogan will be the judges. Rodman previously worked with Bischoff and Hogan in WCW. Sylvester Stallone inducted Hogan into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Bischoff and Hervey run their own production company and co-produced a reality show on television sitcom star Scott Baio for VH-1 and actor/singer Billy Ray Cyrus for CMT as well as I Want To Be a Hilton for NBC. Hogan starred in Hogan Knows Best on VH-1.
• D1PW's second anniversary show is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Davie PAL Gym, 4300 SW 57th Ter., (South Florida) Davie.
The Marquee Bruce Santee vs. former WWE star Savio Vega. Maximum Capacity vs. former WWE Spirit Squad member Mikey.
Francisco Ciatso with Amy Vitale vs. Jerrelle Clark. Tommy Vandal vs. Johnny Vandal in a ladder match.
Loggers vs. Heartbreak Express. Chris Jones vs. Dantastic. Falcon vs. Fabulous Frank. Sammie Joe vs. Lou Cypher.
Lifgeuards vs. Dark City Fight Club. Kimberly vs. Kellie. Craig Classic, Jaison Moore and more. Tickets $12 adults, $5 kids.
Call 954-554-7688. Visit d1pw.com.
• The Killer Kowalski Memorial Wrestling Show is 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26 at the Irish-American Club in Malden, Mass. Proceeds will benefit the Walter Killer Kowalski Memorial Fund. See Tito Santana, Nikolai Volkoff and more. Visit superstarprowrestling.com.
• Florida Championship Wrestling, the feeder group to WWE, is Saturday, Nov. 15 at the Lee County Civic Center in Fort Myers, Fla. See talent signed to WWE developmental contracts. Go to fcwwrestling.com.
• The Funking Conservatory in Ocala, Fla. is the official training center in America for All Japan Pro Wrestling.
All Japan Pro Wrestling is run by President Keiji Muto (Great Muta), Osamu Nishimura, Masanobu Fuchi, Kyohei Wada and Uchida San.
The legendary Dory Funk Jr. heads the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School. Visit dory-funk.com.
• Between The Ropes wrestling radio is 6-8 p.m. EST Tuesdays on ESPN Florida AM 1080 and AM 1060. Brian Fritz, Vito DeNucci and Dickerman host the show which is simulcast worldwide online at BetweenTheRopes.com.
(Credit: The Miami Herald)
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Update From The King
I know I have not upated my site with a personal message in a very long time. I apologize for this. No real excuse other than I have been extremely busy and I am the world's biggest procrastinator. But now I feel the need to explain some recent "news" concerning the King and more or less let everyone hear what happened straight from the horse's mouth, or in this case, the King's mouth. I have been a professional wrestler for over 30 years now and I thought I had seen it all, but this past week someone pulled a "new one" on me. I think most people know that my primary job is as color commentator on WWE's Monday Night Raw TV show on USA network. On that show I wrestle occasionally, but mostly commentate. Aside from that, I still wrestle on a weekly basis in our Tennessee wrestling company, and on various independent shows from time to time. Well, last week, (Friday, June 15, 2007) we had a show at Sam's Town Casino in Tunica, Mississippi. We do shows there on a monthly basis. I wrestled former WWE star, Mr Hughes on the semi-final match, and the final match of the night was a cage match featuring the Assassins, managed by a guy called the "Big Cheese" against Corey Maclin and Birdman Koko B. Ware. After my match was over, I stood in the back and watched the last match from behind the stage curtains. As their match ended, and the "Big Cheese" was on his way back to the stage through the fans, a minor altercation took place and someone said, "that idiot "Cheese" just hit a fan!" I actually didn't see that but I did then see security and a crowd gathering in that area. So as the "Big Cheese" came up the stairs to the stage I proceeded to run out on the stage to make a little "comeback" on the "Cheese" to divert attention from the fracas he had just caused. As I approached him, he begged off in typical bad guy fashion and then I gave him a little kick and then one punch. He took what we call a "bump" by falling backward and attempting to roll his overweight body in a back somersault. He then jumped up and ran off the side of the stage. That was the end of my involvement in the match. After that, both Maclin and Koko made another "comeback" on the "Big Cheese" and chased him to the dressing room, where "Cheese" apparently grabbed his bag and clothes and ran out to his car screaming...."Jerry Lawler hit me too hard! Jerry Lawler was "shooting" on me! I'm out of here!" That was the last anyone saw of the "Big Cheese." At least we thought. The following Wednesday, as I was dressing to go play softball, my phone rang and a friend of mine from WMC TV5 was on the other end. She said, "Have you heard about the charges filed against you down in Mississippi?" When I said, "no," she went on to explain that Tunica, Ms authorities had called the TV station to tell them that "Cheese" had come in and filed assault charges against me and that there was now a warrant out for my arrest. She had to assure me she wasn't joking, and I finally believed her when another TV reporter beeped in with the same information. I found out that "Cheese" filed a complaint and a sworn affidavit that claimed I punched him three times in his face and that it wasn't part of the "script." As I told the TV reporters, if I got arrested every time I punched a manager or wrestler on a wrestling show over my 30 plus year career, I'd be on death row! Koko B. Ware would be the "Birdman" of Alcatraz! Jails around the country would be filled with guilty grapplers! I guess I should go and have Mr Hughes arrested because he hit me about 50 times during our match that night! This whole situation would be laughable if it were not real. I am just shocked that the Mississippi law enforcement people would actually issue a warrant when one wrestler walked in and said that another wrestler, "hit me "too hard" during a wrestling show." Anyway, I am sure there will be more details to come on this unusual incident. Our next event at Sam's Town Casino is scheduled for July 20, at which time the Mississippi authorities claim they will "serve" me. We'll see..... If anyone out there has ever heard of anything similar to this, please let me know. As I said, I've been in this business for over 30 years and this is a first for me! Stay tuned.....
(Credit: Jerry "The King" Lawler)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Jerry "The King" Lawler
(Credit: Jerry "The King" Lawler)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Jerry "The King" Lawler
$uper $lam, by Randy Shemanski - 25th September 2008
Wrestling stars join with local athlete to raise money at North Pocono High School
Rowdy Roddy Piper enjoyed almost unparalleled success as a professional wrestler from the early 1980s through the late 1990s. With his trademark kilt and bagpipes, Piper was one of the most despised, yet most recognizable, wrestlers during the sport's heyday.
Now, at age 54, Piper has slowed down, only doing a few appearances now and then, mainly to help raise money in small communities or for families in need. "I'm just a big marshmallow," he says of his willingness to help those in need.
Piper will join Jerry "The King" Lawler, Hacksaw Jim Duggan and female pro wrestling stars Cherry and Velvet Sky for Moscow Mania, a fundraiser for the North Pocono Athletic Boosters, on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at North Pocono High School.
Former North Pocono football standout A.J. Sabatelle will also step into the ring for one of the eight scheduled bouts. There will also be a Meet & Greet for fans from 5 to 7:30 p.m. to give fans an opportunity to get autographs and pictures with the wrestlers.
While Moscow Mania won't feature all of the glitz and glamour one might see during a *Monday Night RAW* telecast, it will provide a trip down memory lane for wrestling fans in their mid-20s or older, as well as a chance for fans to see local boy Sabatelle in action.
Some fans in the 570 might remember when Hacksaw Jim Duggan fought Andre The Giant at the Scranton CYC (now the Lackawanna Student Union) in the late 1980s as the feature bout on a pro wrestling card. The match was a draw as both wrestlers were counted out after the match spilled out of the ring. But the most memorable moment of the fight for this fan, who was barely old enough to notice girls at the time, was a point early in the match when The Giant screamed at the referee (f-bombs included) after Duggan apparently bit his ear. And you thought Mike Tyson was the only pugilist with an affinity for ear cartilage.
Anyway, back to Moscow Mania.
For Piper, the fundraiser, which is being presented by Northeast Wrestling, represents a chance to step back into the ring and perform, something he rarely does these days.
"I don't know when my last appearance is going to be," Piper told ec by phone from his home just outside Portland, Ore. "I keep saying this is the last one. I lie to my kilt and my boots. Just one more time. They scream at me as I pull them out of my bag. 'You liar.' "
Piper was one of the sport's most recognizable stars when he played foil to arguably the most popular pro wrestler of all time, Hulk Hogan. Despite performing in front of hundreds of thousands and becoming a popular figure worldwide, Piper said he does not miss wrestling.
"Whether I fight in Madison Square Garden again, it would not hurt me," he said. "I wouldn't think about it because I had the honor and privilege of being there so many times that a bit of that thrill is gone. ... I'm old school, I'm an improv guy, I don't know what I'm going to say most of the time. I definitely never knew what I was going to do when I was going to fight, and that doesn't seem to mesh (now). So, I don't enjoy that as much anymore."
But, when a smaller event like Moscow Mania comes up, Piper is often willing to lend a hand.
"(I don't mind helping with) something when just every once in a while you can come in and say hi and it's more a family event," he said. "If it wasn't for these people, I wouldn't have a family."
For Sabatelle, the event is a chance to perform in front of family and friends, while helping to raise money to support athletes who are busting their butts on the same playing fields he competed on before graduating from North Pocono in 2002.
"I'm excited that these stars are going to be here and I get to wrestle in the same place as them in front of my friends ... in the same place I had gym class," he said.
Sabatelle, who lives in Madisonville, decided to get into professional wrestling after his football career ended following college. He went to wrestling school in Whitehall, where he was trained by pro wrestling Hall of Famer Afa, "The Wild Somoan."
Now, he's hoping Saturday's event gives him a chance to open some eyes, as he's still looking for the break that could boost his career into big time pro wrestling.
"It's going to be crazy. It's just really cool that I get to be in the same place as these guys, the same show," Sabatelle said. "It's real exciting for somebody that's trying to get into the business. You hope something might catch somebody's eye that might say something to somebody else. I'd love to go farther with this. That's the whole reason for me (wrestling)."
After spending time passing fliers around the community and trying to get the word out about the fundraiser, Sabatelle's ready for his bout against Brian Anthony. With the local boy and the pro wrestling stars on the schedule, he's hoping it's a successful event.
"I think it's going to be a great show," he said.
Moscow Mania will take place Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at North Pocono High School at 701 Church St. in Moscow. Tickets are $15-30 and can be purchased at locations throughout the community or at the door. High school and college students can show their school ID at the door and receive a general admission ticket for only $10. For more info, visit www.northeastwrestling.com
Where to buy tickets
North Pocono High School, Moscow
Bill's Shop Rite, Daleville
Browns A Plus, Dunmore
Battaglia's Sporting Goods, Scranton
Sabatelle's Food Market, Pittston
Tobacco Road Shop, Hamlin
-rshemanski@timesshamrock.com
(Credit: Electric City)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Rowdy Roddy Piper
Wrestling
Rowdy Roddy Piper enjoyed almost unparalleled success as a professional wrestler from the early 1980s through the late 1990s. With his trademark kilt and bagpipes, Piper was one of the most despised, yet most recognizable, wrestlers during the sport's heyday.
Now, at age 54, Piper has slowed down, only doing a few appearances now and then, mainly to help raise money in small communities or for families in need. "I'm just a big marshmallow," he says of his willingness to help those in need.
Piper will join Jerry "The King" Lawler, Hacksaw Jim Duggan and female pro wrestling stars Cherry and Velvet Sky for Moscow Mania, a fundraiser for the North Pocono Athletic Boosters, on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at North Pocono High School.
Former North Pocono football standout A.J. Sabatelle will also step into the ring for one of the eight scheduled bouts. There will also be a Meet & Greet for fans from 5 to 7:30 p.m. to give fans an opportunity to get autographs and pictures with the wrestlers.
While Moscow Mania won't feature all of the glitz and glamour one might see during a *Monday Night RAW* telecast, it will provide a trip down memory lane for wrestling fans in their mid-20s or older, as well as a chance for fans to see local boy Sabatelle in action.
Some fans in the 570 might remember when Hacksaw Jim Duggan fought Andre The Giant at the Scranton CYC (now the Lackawanna Student Union) in the late 1980s as the feature bout on a pro wrestling card. The match was a draw as both wrestlers were counted out after the match spilled out of the ring. But the most memorable moment of the fight for this fan, who was barely old enough to notice girls at the time, was a point early in the match when The Giant screamed at the referee (f-bombs included) after Duggan apparently bit his ear. And you thought Mike Tyson was the only pugilist with an affinity for ear cartilage.
Anyway, back to Moscow Mania.
For Piper, the fundraiser, which is being presented by Northeast Wrestling, represents a chance to step back into the ring and perform, something he rarely does these days.
"I don't know when my last appearance is going to be," Piper told ec by phone from his home just outside Portland, Ore. "I keep saying this is the last one. I lie to my kilt and my boots. Just one more time. They scream at me as I pull them out of my bag. 'You liar.' "
Piper was one of the sport's most recognizable stars when he played foil to arguably the most popular pro wrestler of all time, Hulk Hogan. Despite performing in front of hundreds of thousands and becoming a popular figure worldwide, Piper said he does not miss wrestling.
"Whether I fight in Madison Square Garden again, it would not hurt me," he said. "I wouldn't think about it because I had the honor and privilege of being there so many times that a bit of that thrill is gone. ... I'm old school, I'm an improv guy, I don't know what I'm going to say most of the time. I definitely never knew what I was going to do when I was going to fight, and that doesn't seem to mesh (now). So, I don't enjoy that as much anymore."
But, when a smaller event like Moscow Mania comes up, Piper is often willing to lend a hand.
"(I don't mind helping with) something when just every once in a while you can come in and say hi and it's more a family event," he said. "If it wasn't for these people, I wouldn't have a family."
For Sabatelle, the event is a chance to perform in front of family and friends, while helping to raise money to support athletes who are busting their butts on the same playing fields he competed on before graduating from North Pocono in 2002.
"I'm excited that these stars are going to be here and I get to wrestle in the same place as them in front of my friends ... in the same place I had gym class," he said.
Sabatelle, who lives in Madisonville, decided to get into professional wrestling after his football career ended following college. He went to wrestling school in Whitehall, where he was trained by pro wrestling Hall of Famer Afa, "The Wild Somoan."
Now, he's hoping Saturday's event gives him a chance to open some eyes, as he's still looking for the break that could boost his career into big time pro wrestling.
"It's going to be crazy. It's just really cool that I get to be in the same place as these guys, the same show," Sabatelle said. "It's real exciting for somebody that's trying to get into the business. You hope something might catch somebody's eye that might say something to somebody else. I'd love to go farther with this. That's the whole reason for me (wrestling)."
After spending time passing fliers around the community and trying to get the word out about the fundraiser, Sabatelle's ready for his bout against Brian Anthony. With the local boy and the pro wrestling stars on the schedule, he's hoping it's a successful event.
"I think it's going to be a great show," he said.
Moscow Mania will take place Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at North Pocono High School at 701 Church St. in Moscow. Tickets are $15-30 and can be purchased at locations throughout the community or at the door. High school and college students can show their school ID at the door and receive a general admission ticket for only $10. For more info, visit www.northeastwrestling.com
Where to buy tickets
North Pocono High School, Moscow
Bill's Shop Rite, Daleville
Browns A Plus, Dunmore
Battaglia's Sporting Goods, Scranton
Sabatelle's Food Market, Pittston
Tobacco Road Shop, Hamlin
-rshemanski@timesshamrock.com
(Credit: Electric City)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Rowdy Roddy Piper
Wrestling
Monday, September 15, 2008
World Championship Wrestling on DVD
"Ruff Tuff & Real" Available Now!
The documentary plus classic matches 3 DVD set.
The history and memories of World Championship Wrestling in Australia.
Ron Miller, Australian Heavyweight Wrestling Champion from 1975 to 1984, takes us on a journey back to when all these lords of the ring thundered rage and reigned from the top rope Downunder and across the world. Ron travels Australia and the USA to find which friends and foes are still fighting fit from the glory days of wrestling…
Ruff, Tuff and Real” not only relives the “Saturday” television and weekday
stadium bouts, but discovers “where are they now.” We speak with Aussies
Ron Miller, Mario Milano, Steve Rackman, George Barnes, Ex-pat Jack
Claybourne, Announcer Mike Cleary (also Doco Narrator) and Larry O’Dea’s
family. Traveling then to Hawaii, Ron finds King Curtis… then it’s on to Las
Vegas and the Annual Cauliflower Alley Fighters’ Convention, where Ron
Miller tracks down Yankee greats Harley Race, Nick Bockwinkel, Ox Baker,
Red Bastien and wrestling managers, JJ Dillon and ‘Playboy’ Garry Hart.
Exclusive classic TV video and Stadium film footage of the wrestlers interviewed and many greats who have passed on. There are one on one’s for the world titles, tag teams, fighters’ managers who insisted on getting in on the act.
It was reality television decades before the term was coined and it gave the many fans a real kick watching their favourites battle with nothing but their strength and showmanship.
Ron Miller is now in his 60’s, but his memory and love of the great wrestling days is sharp and clear. He can remember the good and frequent press, the camaraderie, the extensive Australian and successful USA Tours and the many injuries.
Made by Australian owned and based Instinct Television, “Ruff Tuff and Real” is a one hour commercial documentary that speaks to a fan audience who want to remember… and a new audience who want to know where the current USA wrestling phenomenon came from. More than just footage of big blokes kicking the hell out of each other, this is a critical, cultural moment in Australia’s lifetime… but mostly, it’s just bloody good entertainment.
(Credit: Ron Miller)
Website
World Championship Wrestling
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ron Miller
The documentary plus classic matches 3 DVD set.
The history and memories of World Championship Wrestling in Australia.
Ron Miller, Australian Heavyweight Wrestling Champion from 1975 to 1984, takes us on a journey back to when all these lords of the ring thundered rage and reigned from the top rope Downunder and across the world. Ron travels Australia and the USA to find which friends and foes are still fighting fit from the glory days of wrestling…
Ruff, Tuff and Real” not only relives the “Saturday” television and weekday
stadium bouts, but discovers “where are they now.” We speak with Aussies
Ron Miller, Mario Milano, Steve Rackman, George Barnes, Ex-pat Jack
Claybourne, Announcer Mike Cleary (also Doco Narrator) and Larry O’Dea’s
family. Traveling then to Hawaii, Ron finds King Curtis… then it’s on to Las
Vegas and the Annual Cauliflower Alley Fighters’ Convention, where Ron
Miller tracks down Yankee greats Harley Race, Nick Bockwinkel, Ox Baker,
Red Bastien and wrestling managers, JJ Dillon and ‘Playboy’ Garry Hart.
Exclusive classic TV video and Stadium film footage of the wrestlers interviewed and many greats who have passed on. There are one on one’s for the world titles, tag teams, fighters’ managers who insisted on getting in on the act.
It was reality television decades before the term was coined and it gave the many fans a real kick watching their favourites battle with nothing but their strength and showmanship.
Ron Miller is now in his 60’s, but his memory and love of the great wrestling days is sharp and clear. He can remember the good and frequent press, the camaraderie, the extensive Australian and successful USA Tours and the many injuries.
Made by Australian owned and based Instinct Television, “Ruff Tuff and Real” is a one hour commercial documentary that speaks to a fan audience who want to remember… and a new audience who want to know where the current USA wrestling phenomenon came from. More than just footage of big blokes kicking the hell out of each other, this is a critical, cultural moment in Australia’s lifetime… but mostly, it’s just bloody good entertainment.
(Credit: Ron Miller)
Website
World Championship Wrestling
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ron Miller
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Wrestler hurt in family feud, by Marlon Walker - Fairfax - 10th September 2008
Raleigh, North Carolina.- A fight between former professional wrestler Ric Flair and his daughter's 22-year-old boyfriend left the 59-year-old Flair bloodied and bruised, police said today.
Neither man was charged by police in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, but Flair's daughter, Ashley Elizabeth Fliehr, was charged for resisting police after she became belligerent and kicked an officer.
Neighbours called police on Friday about a fight at an apartment. Officers followed a trail of blood to the wrestler's apartment.
Officers found Flair, whose real name is Richard Fliehr, on a bed in the back room. The boyfriend was in another part of the apartment.
Flair admitted fighting with the boyfriend but said he did not want to press charges, Gunter said.
Flair, known for his platinum blond hair, fur-lined robes and signature ``Wooooo!'' catchphrase, retired earlier this year after a
36-year career. He had wrestled for a number of big-name organisations, including World Championship Wrestling and World Wrestling Entertainment.
He is a 16-time world heavyweight champion and a member of WWE's Hall of Fame.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ric Flair
Neither man was charged by police in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, but Flair's daughter, Ashley Elizabeth Fliehr, was charged for resisting police after she became belligerent and kicked an officer.
Neighbours called police on Friday about a fight at an apartment. Officers followed a trail of blood to the wrestler's apartment.
Officers found Flair, whose real name is Richard Fliehr, on a bed in the back room. The boyfriend was in another part of the apartment.
Flair admitted fighting with the boyfriend but said he did not want to press charges, Gunter said.
Flair, known for his platinum blond hair, fur-lined robes and signature ``Wooooo!'' catchphrase, retired earlier this year after a
36-year career. He had wrestled for a number of big-name organisations, including World Championship Wrestling and World Wrestling Entertainment.
He is a 16-time world heavyweight champion and a member of WWE's Hall of Fame.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ric Flair
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Premonition, by Jamie Pandaram - The Sydney Morning Herald - 6th September 2008
The ultimate fighting heavyweight championship bout between Randy Couture and Brock Lesnar in November will break pay-per-view subscription records for the, ahem, sport. While Lesnar is a relative newcomer to mixed martial arts (MMA) and boasts an unimpressive 2-1 record - hardly worthy of shot at the title - UFC organisers have wasted no time making him the contender. This is because Lesnar made his name in World Wrestling Entertainment, the scripted pro wrestling saga that dominates pay-per-view subscription figures. Lesnar was not only a three-time WWE champion but one of the show's most impressive athletes before he quit in 2004 to pursue an NFL career. Lesnar has been given a crack at the championship when others may have been more deserving - dollars make sense. Couture (16-8) is the only fighter in history to win the UFC world heavyweight title three times. "There is one goal that I've had since I started training in MMA and that is to capture the title," said Lesnar, who possibly has the biggest trapezius muscles of any human alive.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
UFC
MMA
WWE
Foxtel
PPV
Sports Betting
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
UFC
MMA
WWE
Foxtel
PPV
Sports Betting
Couture Returns to Defend Heavyweight Crown against Lesnar on Nov. 15, by Thomas Gerbasi - 2nd September 2008
If we’ve learned one thing in combat sports, it’s to never say old adage was solidified once again today, as UFC President Dana White announced the November 15th return to the Octagon of heavyweight champion Randy Couture to face Brock Lesnar in the main event of UFC 91 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The announcement comes after nearly a year of contentious relations between the organization and Couture, who walked away from the UFC in October of 2007 with two fights remaining on his contract. But in August, the heavyweight champion and the organization worked on a renegotiation of his contract that will enable ‘The Natural’ to finish his Hall of Fame career with the UFC.
“We had some problems with Randy, we’ve resolved them all, and he’s always been the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” said White. “It took us some time to get everything straight, but I think we’re all good now and ready to move forward and get Randy back out there fighting again.”
”I think we cleared the air and addressed a lot of the issues, we’re both in a different place, and both the company and myself are trying to move forward,” said Couture. “I think we understand each other, and I certainly would much rather fight in the Octagon than anywhere else. Spending the last year in legal fights is not someplace where I’ve had a very good time. At 45, I can’t sit around in court rooms for very long – I want to fight.”
Couture’s first order of business – taking on the imposing 6-3 ½, 265 pound Lesnar, a former NCAA Division I National Wrestling Champion whose arrival in the UFC earlier this year shook the foundations of the MMA world. Add in the former pro wrestling superstar’s spectacular victory over Heath Herring at UFC 87 in August, and the stage is set for what will most certainly be one of the most highly-anticipated heavyweight title fights in history.
“I haven’t looked at tape yet and studied him,” said Couture of Lesnar. “Obviously, he’s a great big guy, and on the ground or standing, he poses some interesting problems, so I’ve got to go to work and find the answers to those questions.”
“My whole goal coming into this company was to get a shot at the UFC heavyweight title, so for me, this is a great opportunity, one that anybody in my position wouldn’t turn down,” added Lesnar. “Randy poses all kinds of threats, and we’re gonna try to nullify them and try to win the title that night.”
You don’t have to convince White when it comes to the importance of this matchup.
“I can tell you this right now,” said White. “Couture vs Lesnar will be the biggest fight in UFC history.”
And though some might question whether Couture
Click here to find out more!
- 45 years old and more than a year removed from his last fight – will be able to keep up with a younger, faster, and stronger challenger, keep in mind that the Las Vegas resident has made a career of baffling oddsmakers, most recently in March of 2007, when he returned from a year-long retirement to shutout 6 foot 8, 263 pound Tim Sylvia to win the UFC heavyweight crown a record third time.
Couture went on to successfully defend the title with a third round TKO of Gabriel Gonzaga in August of 2007, but two months later, the title was left in limbo, leaving Brazil’s Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira to swoop in and take the interim belt by submitting Sylvia in February. Nogueira is scheduled to clash with his fellow Ultimate Fighter 8 coach (and former heavyweight champion) Frank Mir in December, with the winners of these two heavyweight megafights to meet sometime in 2009.
“The winner of the Brock-Randy fight will be the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” said White. “Obviously, the reality show is already in motion, and those two (Nogueira and Mir) are already scheduled to fight, so they’ll fight for the interim (title) and then it will be Champion vs Champion when this thing’s all done. So it’s a pretty interesting little tournament.”
Of course, Lesnar will have something to say about putting a dent in Couture’s fighting plans, and he’ll get his chance to say it on November 15th.
“Things happen in mysterious ways, and I’m fortunate and honored to get in the Octagon with Randy, so it’s very exciting all the way around,” said Lesnar.
As for Couture, it’s been a long, strange trip to get to this point, but suffice to say, he’s happy to put acting, book tours, and speaking engagements on the side for now in order to get back to where he belongs – the Octagon.
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UFC
Brock Lesnar
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Las Vegas
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The announcement comes after nearly a year of contentious relations between the organization and Couture, who walked away from the UFC in October of 2007 with two fights remaining on his contract. But in August, the heavyweight champion and the organization worked on a renegotiation of his contract that will enable ‘The Natural’ to finish his Hall of Fame career with the UFC.
“We had some problems with Randy, we’ve resolved them all, and he’s always been the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” said White. “It took us some time to get everything straight, but I think we’re all good now and ready to move forward and get Randy back out there fighting again.”
”I think we cleared the air and addressed a lot of the issues, we’re both in a different place, and both the company and myself are trying to move forward,” said Couture. “I think we understand each other, and I certainly would much rather fight in the Octagon than anywhere else. Spending the last year in legal fights is not someplace where I’ve had a very good time. At 45, I can’t sit around in court rooms for very long – I want to fight.”
Couture’s first order of business – taking on the imposing 6-3 ½, 265 pound Lesnar, a former NCAA Division I National Wrestling Champion whose arrival in the UFC earlier this year shook the foundations of the MMA world. Add in the former pro wrestling superstar’s spectacular victory over Heath Herring at UFC 87 in August, and the stage is set for what will most certainly be one of the most highly-anticipated heavyweight title fights in history.
“I haven’t looked at tape yet and studied him,” said Couture of Lesnar. “Obviously, he’s a great big guy, and on the ground or standing, he poses some interesting problems, so I’ve got to go to work and find the answers to those questions.”
“My whole goal coming into this company was to get a shot at the UFC heavyweight title, so for me, this is a great opportunity, one that anybody in my position wouldn’t turn down,” added Lesnar. “Randy poses all kinds of threats, and we’re gonna try to nullify them and try to win the title that night.”
You don’t have to convince White when it comes to the importance of this matchup.
“I can tell you this right now,” said White. “Couture vs Lesnar will be the biggest fight in UFC history.”
And though some might question whether Couture
Click here to find out more!
- 45 years old and more than a year removed from his last fight – will be able to keep up with a younger, faster, and stronger challenger, keep in mind that the Las Vegas resident has made a career of baffling oddsmakers, most recently in March of 2007, when he returned from a year-long retirement to shutout 6 foot 8, 263 pound Tim Sylvia to win the UFC heavyweight crown a record third time.
Couture went on to successfully defend the title with a third round TKO of Gabriel Gonzaga in August of 2007, but two months later, the title was left in limbo, leaving Brazil’s Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira to swoop in and take the interim belt by submitting Sylvia in February. Nogueira is scheduled to clash with his fellow Ultimate Fighter 8 coach (and former heavyweight champion) Frank Mir in December, with the winners of these two heavyweight megafights to meet sometime in 2009.
“The winner of the Brock-Randy fight will be the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” said White. “Obviously, the reality show is already in motion, and those two (Nogueira and Mir) are already scheduled to fight, so they’ll fight for the interim (title) and then it will be Champion vs Champion when this thing’s all done. So it’s a pretty interesting little tournament.”
Of course, Lesnar will have something to say about putting a dent in Couture’s fighting plans, and he’ll get his chance to say it on November 15th.
“Things happen in mysterious ways, and I’m fortunate and honored to get in the Octagon with Randy, so it’s very exciting all the way around,” said Lesnar.
As for Couture, it’s been a long, strange trip to get to this point, but suffice to say, he’s happy to put acting, book tours, and speaking engagements on the side for now in order to get back to where he belongs – the Octagon.
Media Man Australia Profiles
UFC
Brock Lesnar
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Las Vegas
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Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Gentle Killer leaves ring, by D. D. McNicoll - The Australian - 2nd September 2008
SYDNEYSIDERS who spent any time in Kings Cross in the late 1960s will remember the terrifying sight of Walter Kowalski ambling along the streets. Better known as Killer Kowalski, Walt was a 2m-tall, 125kg professional wrestler from North America who made his home here during the first television boom of the biff and nonsense entertainment. He was one of the biggest stars of the sport, the man fans loved to hate. Kowalski, who got his nickname after accidentally tearing off Yukon Eric's ear during a bout in Montreal in the early '50s, was famed for his dreaded claw hold, a thumb squeeze to his opponent's solar plexus that immediately ended matches. Despite his appearance, Kowalski was a gentle soul whose great love was photography. He died in Everett, Massachusetts, during the weekend, aged 81.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter "Killer" Kowalski
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter "Killer" Kowalski
Wrestling fans won't forget Killer Kowalski, by Terry Brown - Herald Sun - 2nd September 2008
Killer Kowalski - wrestling's boots-and-all bad guy of the 1960s - has gone down fighting.
At 81, Kowalski hung on to life like he had it in his trademark claw hold.
He died in Boston early on Saturday, eight full days after his life support systems were turned off.
Known as a brawler who ripped one opponent's ear off, family and foes remembered him fondly.
Nephew Mark Spulnik, from Sydney, said in a tribute yesterday the 198cm, 127kg Kowalski was a kind and caring person out of the ring: "Having Killer Kowalski as an uncle was definitely cool! School bullies would keep their distance and the young girls wouldn't. How perfect."
Not everyone saw the kind uncle inside Killer Kowalski.
"A few wrestling fans looked upon my uncle as a truly evil person," Mark said.
"They thought it was their duty to wait for him in the parking lot with baseball bats and metal pipes."
Kowalski was born Edward Walter Spulnik in Canada, and wrestled as a pro from 1947 to 1977.
In World Championship Wrestling's heyday -- when 6000 fans would pack Festival Hall each week -- Kowalski was huge.
He wrestled household names such as Mario Milano, Spiros Arion, Mark Lewin Brute Bernard and Skull Murphy. Kowalski was famed for his flying knee drop, but it was his claw hold that made fans' flesh crawl.
In 1967, at the height of his fame, Kowalski put it on TV host Don Lane when an interview turned sour.
The injured Lane missed his next show, but got off lighter than some.
In 1952 Kowalski's size-16 boot grazed, and dislodged, Yukon Eric's cauliflower ear.
"His ear came off, just like you knock a fly across a table," Kowalski recalled.
"It rolled across the ring, glub, glub, glub."
Forced to apologise at the hospital, the pair burst into laughter at the absurdity.
Kowalski was pegged forever as a cruel brute who laughed in his victim's mangled face. But Ron Miller, 66, a clean-fighting Aussie wrestler who tag-teamed with Larry O'Day, remembered Kowalski as a quiet man and a vegetarian.
"He was pretty quiet and very religious," Miller said.
"Killer was an amazing guy -- six foot eight, 28 stone and that name. He was more of a brawler and just kept going, going and going and never ran out of stamina.
"He was almost unstoppable in the ring."
Outside the ring, Kowalski was happy enough to play
the victim.
"Just because I get over-enthused about my work people hate me," he complained in 1961.
"Everywhere I go they throw chairs, newspapers, cigar butts, fruit and anything else they can grab. I have been burned, knifed, blinded by pea shooters . . ."
But if he took it, he could give it too. With so much of wrestling fake, he was asked once about his boots, and whether it hurt when he stomped an opponent.
"No it doesn't hurt at all," he grinned. "I wear special thick soles and it doesn't hurt my foot at all."
For all his faults, he inspired love as well as fear.
Female fans proposed marriage and, finally, two years ago, Kowalski got caught.
He wed Theresa Ferrioli, then 77, on June 19, 2006.
Asked why, he joked: "What can I do? She was pregnant." (Credit: News.com.au)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Killer Kowalski
At 81, Kowalski hung on to life like he had it in his trademark claw hold.
He died in Boston early on Saturday, eight full days after his life support systems were turned off.
Known as a brawler who ripped one opponent's ear off, family and foes remembered him fondly.
Nephew Mark Spulnik, from Sydney, said in a tribute yesterday the 198cm, 127kg Kowalski was a kind and caring person out of the ring: "Having Killer Kowalski as an uncle was definitely cool! School bullies would keep their distance and the young girls wouldn't. How perfect."
Not everyone saw the kind uncle inside Killer Kowalski.
"A few wrestling fans looked upon my uncle as a truly evil person," Mark said.
"They thought it was their duty to wait for him in the parking lot with baseball bats and metal pipes."
Kowalski was born Edward Walter Spulnik in Canada, and wrestled as a pro from 1947 to 1977.
In World Championship Wrestling's heyday -- when 6000 fans would pack Festival Hall each week -- Kowalski was huge.
He wrestled household names such as Mario Milano, Spiros Arion, Mark Lewin Brute Bernard and Skull Murphy. Kowalski was famed for his flying knee drop, but it was his claw hold that made fans' flesh crawl.
In 1967, at the height of his fame, Kowalski put it on TV host Don Lane when an interview turned sour.
The injured Lane missed his next show, but got off lighter than some.
In 1952 Kowalski's size-16 boot grazed, and dislodged, Yukon Eric's cauliflower ear.
"His ear came off, just like you knock a fly across a table," Kowalski recalled.
"It rolled across the ring, glub, glub, glub."
Forced to apologise at the hospital, the pair burst into laughter at the absurdity.
Kowalski was pegged forever as a cruel brute who laughed in his victim's mangled face. But Ron Miller, 66, a clean-fighting Aussie wrestler who tag-teamed with Larry O'Day, remembered Kowalski as a quiet man and a vegetarian.
"He was pretty quiet and very religious," Miller said.
"Killer was an amazing guy -- six foot eight, 28 stone and that name. He was more of a brawler and just kept going, going and going and never ran out of stamina.
"He was almost unstoppable in the ring."
Outside the ring, Kowalski was happy enough to play
the victim.
"Just because I get over-enthused about my work people hate me," he complained in 1961.
"Everywhere I go they throw chairs, newspapers, cigar butts, fruit and anything else they can grab. I have been burned, knifed, blinded by pea shooters . . ."
But if he took it, he could give it too. With so much of wrestling fake, he was asked once about his boots, and whether it hurt when he stomped an opponent.
"No it doesn't hurt at all," he grinned. "I wear special thick soles and it doesn't hurt my foot at all."
For all his faults, he inspired love as well as fear.
Female fans proposed marriage and, finally, two years ago, Kowalski got caught.
He wed Theresa Ferrioli, then 77, on June 19, 2006.
Asked why, he joked: "What can I do? She was pregnant." (Credit: News.com.au)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Killer Kowalski
Wrestling legend Walter 'Killer' Kowalski - News.com.au - 1st September 2008
PRO-WRESTLING pioneer and legend Walter "Killer" Kowalski has died following a heart attack. He was 81.
Kowalski died at Whidden Hospital in Everett, Massachusetts, on Saturday - 12 days after his family decided to take him off life support. He had been in critical condition since his heart attack on August 8, wife Theresa Kowalski said.
An obituary posted at Weir Mac Cuish Family Funeral Home's Web site said Kowalski began his professional career in 1947. His 6-foot-7, 275-pound frame and a brutal wrestling style soon earned him the nickname "Killer."
He became known as a villain after severing part of Yukon Eric's ear during a match in Montreal in 1954. He visited his opponent in the hospital and "the two men began laughing at how silly Eric's bandages looked. The reporter incorrectly printed that Killer was laughing at his victim and soon after, Killer quickly became wrestling's most renowned 'heel,'" according to the Web site.
Kowalski later became famous for various moves, including a stomach vice grip called the Killer Clutch. He retired in 1977, a year after he and Big John Studd captured the WWF Tag Team Championship as The Executioners.
He went on to open a wrestling school in Malden, where he trained many current stars including WWE's Triple H.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter "Killer" Kowalski
Kowalski died at Whidden Hospital in Everett, Massachusetts, on Saturday - 12 days after his family decided to take him off life support. He had been in critical condition since his heart attack on August 8, wife Theresa Kowalski said.
An obituary posted at Weir Mac Cuish Family Funeral Home's Web site said Kowalski began his professional career in 1947. His 6-foot-7, 275-pound frame and a brutal wrestling style soon earned him the nickname "Killer."
He became known as a villain after severing part of Yukon Eric's ear during a match in Montreal in 1954. He visited his opponent in the hospital and "the two men began laughing at how silly Eric's bandages looked. The reporter incorrectly printed that Killer was laughing at his victim and soon after, Killer quickly became wrestling's most renowned 'heel,'" according to the Web site.
Kowalski later became famous for various moves, including a stomach vice grip called the Killer Clutch. He retired in 1977, a year after he and Big John Studd captured the WWF Tag Team Championship as The Executioners.
He went on to open a wrestling school in Malden, where he trained many current stars including WWE's Triple H.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter "Killer" Kowalski
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Canadian wrestling pioneer Walter (Killer) Kowalski dies at age 81 - The Canadian Press - 31st August 2008
EVERETT, Mass. — Canadian pro wrestling pioneer Walter (Killer) Kowalski died early Saturday from the effects of a massive heart attack. He was 81.
Kowalski died at Whidden Hospital in Everett, 12 days after his family decided to take him off life support. He had been in critical condition in the hospital since his heart attack on Aug. 8, wife Theresa Kowalski said.
"I was right beside him. I put my hand on his chest, I felt his breathing slow down and his heart beat stop," she said. "The doctor said he was brain dead ... I was waiting, hoping somebody could do something.
"We've been together over 10, but we've been married for two years. He was a bachelor all his life. He was a wonderful man, never drank, never smoked and he was a vegetarian for almost 60 years."
An obituary posted at Weir Mac Cuish Family Funeral Home's website said Kowalski began his professional career in 1947 as "Tarzan" Kowalski. His hulking six-foot-seven, 275 pound frame and a brutal wrestling style soon earned him a nickname "Killer."
Kowalski, a native of Windsor, Ont., began to be known as a villain after hurting Yukon Eric during a match in Montreal in 1954.
He visited his opponent in hospital after the match to check up on him and "the two men began laughing at how silly Eric's bandages looked. The reporter incorrectly printed that Killer was laughing at his victim and soon after, Killer quickly became wrestling's most renowned 'heel' or "villain", according to the website.
Kowalski later became famous for various moves, including a stomach vice grip called the "Killer Clutch."
Kowalski retired in 1977, a year after he and Big John Studd captured the WWF World Wrestling Tag Team Championship as members of "The Executioners" team.
He went on to open a wrestling school in Malden. He sold the business in 2003.
Kowalski was inducted into several wrestling halls of fame, including the World Wrestling Federation Hall of Fame and the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.
A funeral is scheduled at Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home and burial service is set in St. Joseph's Church on Thursday morning.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter (Killer) Kowalski
WWE
Wrestling
Kowalski died at Whidden Hospital in Everett, 12 days after his family decided to take him off life support. He had been in critical condition in the hospital since his heart attack on Aug. 8, wife Theresa Kowalski said.
"I was right beside him. I put my hand on his chest, I felt his breathing slow down and his heart beat stop," she said. "The doctor said he was brain dead ... I was waiting, hoping somebody could do something.
"We've been together over 10, but we've been married for two years. He was a bachelor all his life. He was a wonderful man, never drank, never smoked and he was a vegetarian for almost 60 years."
An obituary posted at Weir Mac Cuish Family Funeral Home's website said Kowalski began his professional career in 1947 as "Tarzan" Kowalski. His hulking six-foot-seven, 275 pound frame and a brutal wrestling style soon earned him a nickname "Killer."
Kowalski, a native of Windsor, Ont., began to be known as a villain after hurting Yukon Eric during a match in Montreal in 1954.
He visited his opponent in hospital after the match to check up on him and "the two men began laughing at how silly Eric's bandages looked. The reporter incorrectly printed that Killer was laughing at his victim and soon after, Killer quickly became wrestling's most renowned 'heel' or "villain", according to the website.
Kowalski later became famous for various moves, including a stomach vice grip called the "Killer Clutch."
Kowalski retired in 1977, a year after he and Big John Studd captured the WWF World Wrestling Tag Team Championship as members of "The Executioners" team.
He went on to open a wrestling school in Malden. He sold the business in 2003.
Kowalski was inducted into several wrestling halls of fame, including the World Wrestling Federation Hall of Fame and the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.
A funeral is scheduled at Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home and burial service is set in St. Joseph's Church on Thursday morning.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Walter (Killer) Kowalski
WWE
Wrestling
Lesnar vs. Couture could be finalized next week
Sources close to the MMA world indicate that a November fight between Brock Lesnar and Randy Couture could be finalized as early as Tuesday of next week.
If a deal can be reached, the fight would likely take place in Portland's Rose Garden.
Sources also say that in a perfect world that the legendary Couture would like to have three more fights before he retires and those fights would all be for the UFC.
Lesnar vs. Couture would be an extremely intriguing match up if contracts can be worked out. One would assume that getting a deal done quickly after the Labor Day holiday would allow both fighters to officially begin their preparation within a few days.
It will also be interesting to see where the betting line starts and ends for this
one if it does happen. This match blows away the previously discussed Lesnar-Kongo fight and should do huge business on PPV. (Credit: JR)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
MMA
UFC
Sports Betting
Jim Ross
If a deal can be reached, the fight would likely take place in Portland's Rose Garden.
Sources also say that in a perfect world that the legendary Couture would like to have three more fights before he retires and those fights would all be for the UFC.
Lesnar vs. Couture would be an extremely intriguing match up if contracts can be worked out. One would assume that getting a deal done quickly after the Labor Day holiday would allow both fighters to officially begin their preparation within a few days.
It will also be interesting to see where the betting line starts and ends for this
one if it does happen. This match blows away the previously discussed Lesnar-Kongo fight and should do huge business on PPV. (Credit: JR)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
MMA
UFC
Sports Betting
Jim Ross
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wrestling with the past, by Michael Blaney - The Australian Worker - September 2008
Media Man Australia director, Greg Tingle interviewed, and supplying of photographs, for a feature article on the glory days of World Championship Wrestling in Australia in The Australian Worker.
Websites
The Australian Worker
The Australian Workers' Union
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ron Miller
Big Chief Little Wolf
Mario Milano
Websites
The Australian Worker
The Australian Workers' Union
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ron Miller
Big Chief Little Wolf
Mario Milano
Monday, August 25, 2008
Seemed like old times at Fanfest, By Mike Mooneyham - The Post and Courier - 24th August 2008
"The past is not dead; it's not even past." — William Faulkner
I had the same feeling after attending last weekend's NWA Legends Fanfest gathering in Charlotte.
For three days and four nights, wrestling fans were taken back to a time when their childhood heroes once again basked in the spotlight, relating old war stories that only seem to get better with age.
That the years have taken their inevitable toll on these ring warriors didn't seem to matter much to the hundreds of folks who converged from far and wide upon The Hilton hotel, headquarters for the event, just to pay tribute. To this group of loyal, devoted fans, their heroes stood as tall as they ever did, on a pedestal that will never be shaken.
And while time marches on, some things never change.
Rip "The Profile" Hawk, still active at age 78 and a part-time youth wrestling coach in west Texas, closed the bar at least once. The only thing missing was the late Swede Hanson, Hawk's stablemate for many years, at his side.
The 59-year-old "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, who was brought into the Carolinas nearly 35 years ago as Hawk's storyline "nephew," still drew the biggest lines, signing autographs and having pictures taken with fans nonstop for several hours. Flair, who retired as an active performer in March, also commanded the biggest fee: $100 per photo-op and $40 per autograph.
Thunderbolt Patterson, one of the most colorful orators in the history of the business, still cuts one of the longest promos. Ole Anderson, who inducted Patterson into the Hall of Heroes, joked that Patterson would "never shut up" while routinely running over on his interview time during his wrestling days. True to form, Bolt proceeded to cut a riveting 10-minute spiel on Ole, bringing the audience to its feet.
Patterson was no less reserved for a 7 a.m. Sunday worship service he conducted along with "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. With Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff anxiously waiting in the wings for a 9 a.m. Q&A session in the same location, DiBiase quietly gave a cue to Patterson, who responded, "Jesus doesn't have a time limit." And apparently He didn't, since the doors weren't opened until Bolt had finished laying hands on everyone in attendance.
Mike Jackson, the longtime "Alabama Junior Heavyweight Champion," at age 59 stole the wrestling portion of the event, putting on one of his patented mat clinics against a much younger opponent. Performers like Jackson and George South, who also worked the wrestling show, deserve credit for making many a main-event star look like a million bucks back in the day.
Reid Fliehr (Ric's son) and Dillon Eaton (Bobby's son) were on hand to watch another second-generation wrestler, Richie Steamboat, work one of his first matches as an aspiring pro.
There was a little something for everyone at the three-day convention. Tables of vendors and guest exhibitors were on display throughout the event. The "legends," along with performers with WWE and TNA affiliations, mingled with colleagues and fans alike — at the bar, in the lobby and in conference rooms.
This year's Hall of Heroes honorees were Sandy Scott (inducted by Bob Caudle), Grizzly Smith (inducted by Magnum T.A.), Johnny Weaver (inducted posthumously by Rip Hawk), Thunderbolt Patterson (inducted by Ole Anderson), Paul Jones (inducted by Jack Brisco), Ivan Koloff (inducted by Don Kernodle) and Buddy Roberts (inducted by Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin).
Some, unfortunately, could not attend this year's event.
Smith, who achieved legendary status in this area during the '60s as one half of The Kentuckians tag team with the late Luke Brown, is in declining health and living with relatives in Amarillo, Texas.
"My dad really wanted to be here, but it wasn't one of his better days," said son Sam Houston (Michael Smith), who accepted the award on his father's behalf. "My dad's got fond memories of you all."
The Assassin (Jody Hamilton), who was scheduled to induct Smith, also could not make the trip due to a scheduled knee surgery.
Others, slowed by physical maladies, displayed the same grit and toughness that had served them well during their wrestling careers. "No. 1" Paul Jones, who recently had been confined to a wheelchair and later a walker, is still recovering from prostate cancer and a "chemical malfunction." Ole Anderson, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, now requires assistance to walk. Former Freebird Buddy Roberts speaks from a voice box after having successfully battled throat cancer for more than a decade.
But they remain stalwarts in a profession that demanded much. The love and respect their fans showered them with at the event was proof positive that these ring legends certainly must have done something right all those years ago.
Greg Price, who promoted the event, already has scheduled next year's Fanfest. If you've never been and you're a longtime wrestling fan, especially of the Mid-Atlantic variety, you owe it to yourself to check it out.
To borrow a catch phrase from Thunderbolt Patterson: "You better call somebody!"
--Sonny Fargo, who gained notoriety as Jackie Fargo's crazy brother "Roughhouse" Fargo in Memphis during the '60s and '70s and later as a referee for Jim Crockett Promotions, died Wednesday at the age of 80. Fargo, whose real name was Jack Faggart Sr., passed away at his home in China Grove, N.C.
Fargo, also known as "Nuthouse," was a fan favorite in Tennessee as a wild, unpredictable brawler who real-life brother Jackie Fargo (Henry Faggart) would bring in "from the mental institution" whenever he needed a partner to settle the score with another team. The two held Southern-based tag-team titles on numerous occasions, wresting the belts from such duos as Tojo Yamamoto and Alex Perez, The Interns, and Joe Scarpa and Lester Welch.
--Former world champ Bill Goldberg told Fight Network Radio on Friday that he had begun training for a comeback in pro wrestling. Goldberg said he is looking for a one-shot deal to do another match, but hinted that it would not be with WWE or TNA.
Goldberg's last bout was on March 14, 2004, at Wrestlemania 20 where he defeated Brock Lesnar.
--Old School Championship Wrestling will hold a show today at Weekend's Pub, 428 Redbank Road, Goose Creek. Bell time is 6 p.m.
Former NWA world champ Tommy "Wildfire" Rich, making his second appearance for OSCW, will meet Hanz for the No. 1 contender spot for the IC title. Also scheduled is an elimination match between The Company and Team OSCW involving eight competitors.
For more information, visit www.oscwonline.com or call 743-4800.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
I had the same feeling after attending last weekend's NWA Legends Fanfest gathering in Charlotte.
For three days and four nights, wrestling fans were taken back to a time when their childhood heroes once again basked in the spotlight, relating old war stories that only seem to get better with age.
That the years have taken their inevitable toll on these ring warriors didn't seem to matter much to the hundreds of folks who converged from far and wide upon The Hilton hotel, headquarters for the event, just to pay tribute. To this group of loyal, devoted fans, their heroes stood as tall as they ever did, on a pedestal that will never be shaken.
And while time marches on, some things never change.
Rip "The Profile" Hawk, still active at age 78 and a part-time youth wrestling coach in west Texas, closed the bar at least once. The only thing missing was the late Swede Hanson, Hawk's stablemate for many years, at his side.
The 59-year-old "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, who was brought into the Carolinas nearly 35 years ago as Hawk's storyline "nephew," still drew the biggest lines, signing autographs and having pictures taken with fans nonstop for several hours. Flair, who retired as an active performer in March, also commanded the biggest fee: $100 per photo-op and $40 per autograph.
Thunderbolt Patterson, one of the most colorful orators in the history of the business, still cuts one of the longest promos. Ole Anderson, who inducted Patterson into the Hall of Heroes, joked that Patterson would "never shut up" while routinely running over on his interview time during his wrestling days. True to form, Bolt proceeded to cut a riveting 10-minute spiel on Ole, bringing the audience to its feet.
Patterson was no less reserved for a 7 a.m. Sunday worship service he conducted along with "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. With Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff anxiously waiting in the wings for a 9 a.m. Q&A session in the same location, DiBiase quietly gave a cue to Patterson, who responded, "Jesus doesn't have a time limit." And apparently He didn't, since the doors weren't opened until Bolt had finished laying hands on everyone in attendance.
Mike Jackson, the longtime "Alabama Junior Heavyweight Champion," at age 59 stole the wrestling portion of the event, putting on one of his patented mat clinics against a much younger opponent. Performers like Jackson and George South, who also worked the wrestling show, deserve credit for making many a main-event star look like a million bucks back in the day.
Reid Fliehr (Ric's son) and Dillon Eaton (Bobby's son) were on hand to watch another second-generation wrestler, Richie Steamboat, work one of his first matches as an aspiring pro.
There was a little something for everyone at the three-day convention. Tables of vendors and guest exhibitors were on display throughout the event. The "legends," along with performers with WWE and TNA affiliations, mingled with colleagues and fans alike — at the bar, in the lobby and in conference rooms.
This year's Hall of Heroes honorees were Sandy Scott (inducted by Bob Caudle), Grizzly Smith (inducted by Magnum T.A.), Johnny Weaver (inducted posthumously by Rip Hawk), Thunderbolt Patterson (inducted by Ole Anderson), Paul Jones (inducted by Jack Brisco), Ivan Koloff (inducted by Don Kernodle) and Buddy Roberts (inducted by Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin).
Some, unfortunately, could not attend this year's event.
Smith, who achieved legendary status in this area during the '60s as one half of The Kentuckians tag team with the late Luke Brown, is in declining health and living with relatives in Amarillo, Texas.
"My dad really wanted to be here, but it wasn't one of his better days," said son Sam Houston (Michael Smith), who accepted the award on his father's behalf. "My dad's got fond memories of you all."
The Assassin (Jody Hamilton), who was scheduled to induct Smith, also could not make the trip due to a scheduled knee surgery.
Others, slowed by physical maladies, displayed the same grit and toughness that had served them well during their wrestling careers. "No. 1" Paul Jones, who recently had been confined to a wheelchair and later a walker, is still recovering from prostate cancer and a "chemical malfunction." Ole Anderson, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, now requires assistance to walk. Former Freebird Buddy Roberts speaks from a voice box after having successfully battled throat cancer for more than a decade.
But they remain stalwarts in a profession that demanded much. The love and respect their fans showered them with at the event was proof positive that these ring legends certainly must have done something right all those years ago.
Greg Price, who promoted the event, already has scheduled next year's Fanfest. If you've never been and you're a longtime wrestling fan, especially of the Mid-Atlantic variety, you owe it to yourself to check it out.
To borrow a catch phrase from Thunderbolt Patterson: "You better call somebody!"
--Sonny Fargo, who gained notoriety as Jackie Fargo's crazy brother "Roughhouse" Fargo in Memphis during the '60s and '70s and later as a referee for Jim Crockett Promotions, died Wednesday at the age of 80. Fargo, whose real name was Jack Faggart Sr., passed away at his home in China Grove, N.C.
Fargo, also known as "Nuthouse," was a fan favorite in Tennessee as a wild, unpredictable brawler who real-life brother Jackie Fargo (Henry Faggart) would bring in "from the mental institution" whenever he needed a partner to settle the score with another team. The two held Southern-based tag-team titles on numerous occasions, wresting the belts from such duos as Tojo Yamamoto and Alex Perez, The Interns, and Joe Scarpa and Lester Welch.
--Former world champ Bill Goldberg told Fight Network Radio on Friday that he had begun training for a comeback in pro wrestling. Goldberg said he is looking for a one-shot deal to do another match, but hinted that it would not be with WWE or TNA.
Goldberg's last bout was on March 14, 2004, at Wrestlemania 20 where he defeated Brock Lesnar.
--Old School Championship Wrestling will hold a show today at Weekend's Pub, 428 Redbank Road, Goose Creek. Bell time is 6 p.m.
Former NWA world champ Tommy "Wildfire" Rich, making his second appearance for OSCW, will meet Hanz for the No. 1 contender spot for the IC title. Also scheduled is an elimination match between The Company and Team OSCW involving eight competitors.
For more information, visit www.oscwonline.com or call 743-4800.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Lords of the Ring - The Sunday Mail (Sunday Extra) - 16th July 2000
It starts as a sound bite in one corner of the stadium a rhythmic chant invoking the arrival of a man so famous that, just like Madonna, he no longer needs two names.
Goldberg. Goldberg! Goldberg!! They scream as others join, stamping their feet on the bleachers until 10,000 punters are caught in the moment, seduced by the biggest thing to happen to pro wrestling since Hulk Hogan.
Goldberg, a 190cm, 120kg mountain of a man who attacks opponents like the gridiron player he once was, is widely believed to earn tens of thousands of dollars every time he steps into the ring.
And Goldberg along with arch rivals Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash and Jeff Jarrett, is heading our way, as a master promoter Paul Danity brings the World Championship Wrestling juggernaut to Australia.
Well-schooled in the art of taking a punt, Danity is a shrewd operator whose longevity in the promotion game means that he knows exactly what he's doing bring the relatively unknown soap opera that is WCW to Australia.
"This deal has taken nearly two years to stitch up" Danity says.
"The only thing I can compare it to was trying to get the Rolling Stones to Australia."
"But it's worth it and on a personal level, I can't remember the last time I was so excited about bringing an act to Australia."
But why is Danity , a man not usually given to passionate outbursts of enthusiasm, so pumped?
To begin with despite the fact that WCW is a fairly low-profile sport in Australia compared to the giants of football and cricket, Danity's well-oiled research covered Australia's licensee agent for Kevin Nash has sold $10 million of Big Sexy's merchandise in the past 12 months.
Danity believes there is a huge, untapped market for pro wrestling in Australia and there's no doubt WCW is big business - wherever it plays in the world.
Since it was taken over by media mogul Ted Turner in 1988, WCW has become a law unto itself, a multi-million-$-making machine with its monolithic HQ in Atlanta Georgia.
And while Australian fans are conversant with some of the bigger names soon to arrive here, what they probably don't know is how tough it has been for every one of those wrestlers to get here.
The road to WCW fame begins at the Atlanta HQ, where at one time 100 to 150 wrestlers contracts are under contract.
Sharon Sidello (WCW's vice president of international development) is moving into dangerous territory here - there's the fine line between what's real and fake in the ring. WCW is remarkably coy about exactly what goes on in the matches and the wrestlers themselves don't take kindly to the merest suggestion that what they do isn't 100% bonfide.
During a live satellite link-up with GB, JJ and KN last week to promote the upcoming tour, all three wrestlers bristled when asked the big question is wrestling real.
"I'll tell you what." Goldberg growled, "let's you and me get in the ring and I'll show you what's real and what's not."
"I've seen them when they come out of those matches and, yes they're hurting".
They have bruises, they do bleed and they do get injured".
You can't fake falling off the top rope on to a mat with a sickening thud, you can't fake a headlock."
WCW kicks off its four-date Australian tour in Brisbane on Saturday, October 7, at the Entertainment Centre at Boondall.
Tickets go on sale this Friday through Ticketek 131 931.
The Brisbane event will feature GB, SV, KN, JJ and several other big WCW names yet to be announced.
Brisbane is the first place outside the US where filming will take place and be beamed via satellite back to the US as part of WCW's regular programming.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Paul Danity
Ted Turner
Goldberg. Goldberg! Goldberg!! They scream as others join, stamping their feet on the bleachers until 10,000 punters are caught in the moment, seduced by the biggest thing to happen to pro wrestling since Hulk Hogan.
Goldberg, a 190cm, 120kg mountain of a man who attacks opponents like the gridiron player he once was, is widely believed to earn tens of thousands of dollars every time he steps into the ring.
And Goldberg along with arch rivals Kevin "Big Sexy" Nash and Jeff Jarrett, is heading our way, as a master promoter Paul Danity brings the World Championship Wrestling juggernaut to Australia.
Well-schooled in the art of taking a punt, Danity is a shrewd operator whose longevity in the promotion game means that he knows exactly what he's doing bring the relatively unknown soap opera that is WCW to Australia.
"This deal has taken nearly two years to stitch up" Danity says.
"The only thing I can compare it to was trying to get the Rolling Stones to Australia."
"But it's worth it and on a personal level, I can't remember the last time I was so excited about bringing an act to Australia."
But why is Danity , a man not usually given to passionate outbursts of enthusiasm, so pumped?
To begin with despite the fact that WCW is a fairly low-profile sport in Australia compared to the giants of football and cricket, Danity's well-oiled research covered Australia's licensee agent for Kevin Nash has sold $10 million of Big Sexy's merchandise in the past 12 months.
Danity believes there is a huge, untapped market for pro wrestling in Australia and there's no doubt WCW is big business - wherever it plays in the world.
Since it was taken over by media mogul Ted Turner in 1988, WCW has become a law unto itself, a multi-million-$-making machine with its monolithic HQ in Atlanta Georgia.
And while Australian fans are conversant with some of the bigger names soon to arrive here, what they probably don't know is how tough it has been for every one of those wrestlers to get here.
The road to WCW fame begins at the Atlanta HQ, where at one time 100 to 150 wrestlers contracts are under contract.
Sharon Sidello (WCW's vice president of international development) is moving into dangerous territory here - there's the fine line between what's real and fake in the ring. WCW is remarkably coy about exactly what goes on in the matches and the wrestlers themselves don't take kindly to the merest suggestion that what they do isn't 100% bonfide.
During a live satellite link-up with GB, JJ and KN last week to promote the upcoming tour, all three wrestlers bristled when asked the big question is wrestling real.
"I'll tell you what." Goldberg growled, "let's you and me get in the ring and I'll show you what's real and what's not."
"I've seen them when they come out of those matches and, yes they're hurting".
They have bruises, they do bleed and they do get injured".
You can't fake falling off the top rope on to a mat with a sickening thud, you can't fake a headlock."
WCW kicks off its four-date Australian tour in Brisbane on Saturday, October 7, at the Entertainment Centre at Boondall.
Tickets go on sale this Friday through Ticketek 131 931.
The Brisbane event will feature GB, SV, KN, JJ and several other big WCW names yet to be announced.
Brisbane is the first place outside the US where filming will take place and be beamed via satellite back to the US as part of WCW's regular programming.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Paul Danity
Ted Turner
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Boxing: A Cultural History, by Peter Temple - The Sydney Morning Herald - 7th July 2008
From Mesopotamia to Madison Square Garden, boxing has enthralled and outraged.
Author Kasia Boddy
Genre Society/Politics, Sport
Publisher Reaktion Books
Pages 480
RRP $76.0
WHY do people love watching men hit each other?
Boxing is widely out of favour now, frowned upon as a violent anachronism. But this doesn't deter countless millions who watch fighting in all its forms on cable television and the internet, where it ranks second only to pornography.
Porn's appeal is obvious. But is watching men fight just as primary a stimulus? Very likely. People have been engaging in and watching boxing, dressed up as a sport and a form of exercise, for all of recorded history, with images of pugilists dated to ancient Mesopotamia.
The literature on the sport that is not a game is voluminous but few writers have attempted large-scale social histories, probably because everywhere you look, you find traces of boxing. No other non-productive activity has reached so deeply and so widely into society.
Kasia Boddy is no faint-heart. She appears to have tracked down every last reference to boxing in prose, poetry, painting, sculpture, film and video and, betraying no enthusiasm for the sport, manages to mention them all in 478 pages.
Boxing's modern history begins in the mean, gin-sodden cities of early 18th-century England, with the growth in popularity of bare-knuckle, no-holds-barred fighting. The smart money was quick to see commercial potential in providing the spectacle of men beating, gouging, choking and kicking each other senseless. The aristocracy, with little to do except drink, ride, gamble and fornicate, were drawn in, too.
So pervasive was boxing's influence that by 1785, Thomas Jefferson could complain that rich young Virginians sent to England to be educated were learning "drinking, horse racing and boxing". For young men of Lord Byron's class, the louche world of what was called the Fancy - boxing academies, prizefighters' pubs and the London fights - was addictive. Not even his mother's funeral kept Byron from his daily sparring.
And long before any other, boxing was an international sport, holding its first world title fight - for world, read Britain and the US - in 1860. In the posh part of the crowd with the nobles, merchants and rich industrialists were novelists Thackeray and Dickens, two of the dozens of famous British writers, including Hazlitt, attracted to the bloody ring.
Once boxing began to generate big money, the simple setting of men on each other like dogs had to go: capitalism needs order and regularity. Prizefighting had to take on rational characteristics.
Timeless brawls gave way to timed rounds. The square of wood or rope replaced the organic circle. Gloves were introduced, rules were invented, eventually a point-scoring system devised. Training of boxers became the norm and boxing schools sprang up.
Now boxing's ugly side could be assigned to the professionals, broken-faced pugs suffering and inflicting pain and injury for money. Amateur boxing, on the other hand, could be held up as a sport fit for gentlemen and a cleansing tonic for the dangerous youth of England's urban slums.
"They work off their restlessness and get rid of the devil in the gymnasium with the boxing gloves … they become infected with some upper-class ideals … honour and honesty, purity and temperance."
As Boddy suggests in an academic way, part of boxing's attraction for some middle-class do-gooders was the opportunities it provided for close contact with young men wearing only skimpy shorts. Indeed, for many commentators, including Byron's biographer Benita Eisler, the Fancy had more to do with sodomy than athleticism. Boxing was the social lubricant that made it possible for upper-class Englishmen to engage closely with brawny young men from the lower classes.
From early on, many of Western society's preoccupations found their bloody intersection in the square ring. In late 18th-century England, for example, the rise to champion status of the elegant Daniel Mendoza brought into the open the anti-Semitism aimed at London's growing population of Jews from abroad. Mendoza is a pivotal figure in boxing, the man who invented the ducking, weaving, back-pedalling "science" of boxing, who first showed that middleweight brain could beat heavyweight brawn. His fights against Richard Humphries (billed as "the Jew" against "the Gentleman Fighter") were sell-outs, making them, says Boddy, the first boxers "whose careers were successfully marketed in terms of ethnic hostility".
Racial prejudice had similar economic potential. Pitting white against black became another staple of boxing promotion in England and the US (and played well in Australian tent-boxing deep into the 20th century).
Jack Johnson - who won his first title in Australia - was the black champion who first set white America's teeth on edge (by marrying white women, three of them). Boddy records that in Reno the band played a tune called All Coons Look Alike to Me when he entered the ring to fight white Jim Jeffries for the world title in 1910.
From John L. Sullivan on, the US would be the home of prizefighting. And if boxing in England was redolent with social and sexual ambiguity, the distinctive smell in American boxing was always of corruption. (Sullivan's conqueror, Gentleman Jim Corbett, said it was a rare fight he was not offered a bribe to throw.)
As Boddy shows at scholarly length, in American books and plays and paintings and films, boxing came to carry a heavy symbolic freight. The gloves and the ring stood for pride and courage, sacrifice and nobility, salvation and redemption. They also stood for corruption, greed, betrayal, pain and death. No other sport - indeed, perhaps no other human activity - has been so fraught with meaning.
As radio spread in the 1930s, black boxers such as Joe Louis became national figures, inspiring downtrodden black Americans from sea to shining sea. When Louis fought Italy's Primo Carnera, the politics of the old world had arrived: the boxers were represented as Haile Selassie of Ethiopia versus Mussolini.
In 1933, Max Baer wore a Star of David on his trunks when he fought the German Max Schmeling. In 1936, it was Louis's turn to take on the German and the whole world was agog. Schmeling won and was flown home in the Hindenburg airship: an Aryan technological triumph conveying a physically superior Aryan.
But it wasn't over. In 1938, Louis fought Schmeling again, at Yankee Stadium. Now war was in the wind and Joe wasn't black any more. Now he was an American boy fighting a Nazi. And he beat him.
Almost everyone who matters in Western cultural history in the past century enters Boddy's ring. While she occasionally seems blind to the obvious or belabours what the blind can see, such is the overall quality of the job here that she can be forgiven anything.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Boxing
Wrestling
Author Kasia Boddy
Genre Society/Politics, Sport
Publisher Reaktion Books
Pages 480
RRP $76.0
WHY do people love watching men hit each other?
Boxing is widely out of favour now, frowned upon as a violent anachronism. But this doesn't deter countless millions who watch fighting in all its forms on cable television and the internet, where it ranks second only to pornography.
Porn's appeal is obvious. But is watching men fight just as primary a stimulus? Very likely. People have been engaging in and watching boxing, dressed up as a sport and a form of exercise, for all of recorded history, with images of pugilists dated to ancient Mesopotamia.
The literature on the sport that is not a game is voluminous but few writers have attempted large-scale social histories, probably because everywhere you look, you find traces of boxing. No other non-productive activity has reached so deeply and so widely into society.
Kasia Boddy is no faint-heart. She appears to have tracked down every last reference to boxing in prose, poetry, painting, sculpture, film and video and, betraying no enthusiasm for the sport, manages to mention them all in 478 pages.
Boxing's modern history begins in the mean, gin-sodden cities of early 18th-century England, with the growth in popularity of bare-knuckle, no-holds-barred fighting. The smart money was quick to see commercial potential in providing the spectacle of men beating, gouging, choking and kicking each other senseless. The aristocracy, with little to do except drink, ride, gamble and fornicate, were drawn in, too.
So pervasive was boxing's influence that by 1785, Thomas Jefferson could complain that rich young Virginians sent to England to be educated were learning "drinking, horse racing and boxing". For young men of Lord Byron's class, the louche world of what was called the Fancy - boxing academies, prizefighters' pubs and the London fights - was addictive. Not even his mother's funeral kept Byron from his daily sparring.
And long before any other, boxing was an international sport, holding its first world title fight - for world, read Britain and the US - in 1860. In the posh part of the crowd with the nobles, merchants and rich industrialists were novelists Thackeray and Dickens, two of the dozens of famous British writers, including Hazlitt, attracted to the bloody ring.
Once boxing began to generate big money, the simple setting of men on each other like dogs had to go: capitalism needs order and regularity. Prizefighting had to take on rational characteristics.
Timeless brawls gave way to timed rounds. The square of wood or rope replaced the organic circle. Gloves were introduced, rules were invented, eventually a point-scoring system devised. Training of boxers became the norm and boxing schools sprang up.
Now boxing's ugly side could be assigned to the professionals, broken-faced pugs suffering and inflicting pain and injury for money. Amateur boxing, on the other hand, could be held up as a sport fit for gentlemen and a cleansing tonic for the dangerous youth of England's urban slums.
"They work off their restlessness and get rid of the devil in the gymnasium with the boxing gloves … they become infected with some upper-class ideals … honour and honesty, purity and temperance."
As Boddy suggests in an academic way, part of boxing's attraction for some middle-class do-gooders was the opportunities it provided for close contact with young men wearing only skimpy shorts. Indeed, for many commentators, including Byron's biographer Benita Eisler, the Fancy had more to do with sodomy than athleticism. Boxing was the social lubricant that made it possible for upper-class Englishmen to engage closely with brawny young men from the lower classes.
From early on, many of Western society's preoccupations found their bloody intersection in the square ring. In late 18th-century England, for example, the rise to champion status of the elegant Daniel Mendoza brought into the open the anti-Semitism aimed at London's growing population of Jews from abroad. Mendoza is a pivotal figure in boxing, the man who invented the ducking, weaving, back-pedalling "science" of boxing, who first showed that middleweight brain could beat heavyweight brawn. His fights against Richard Humphries (billed as "the Jew" against "the Gentleman Fighter") were sell-outs, making them, says Boddy, the first boxers "whose careers were successfully marketed in terms of ethnic hostility".
Racial prejudice had similar economic potential. Pitting white against black became another staple of boxing promotion in England and the US (and played well in Australian tent-boxing deep into the 20th century).
Jack Johnson - who won his first title in Australia - was the black champion who first set white America's teeth on edge (by marrying white women, three of them). Boddy records that in Reno the band played a tune called All Coons Look Alike to Me when he entered the ring to fight white Jim Jeffries for the world title in 1910.
From John L. Sullivan on, the US would be the home of prizefighting. And if boxing in England was redolent with social and sexual ambiguity, the distinctive smell in American boxing was always of corruption. (Sullivan's conqueror, Gentleman Jim Corbett, said it was a rare fight he was not offered a bribe to throw.)
As Boddy shows at scholarly length, in American books and plays and paintings and films, boxing came to carry a heavy symbolic freight. The gloves and the ring stood for pride and courage, sacrifice and nobility, salvation and redemption. They also stood for corruption, greed, betrayal, pain and death. No other sport - indeed, perhaps no other human activity - has been so fraught with meaning.
As radio spread in the 1930s, black boxers such as Joe Louis became national figures, inspiring downtrodden black Americans from sea to shining sea. When Louis fought Italy's Primo Carnera, the politics of the old world had arrived: the boxers were represented as Haile Selassie of Ethiopia versus Mussolini.
In 1933, Max Baer wore a Star of David on his trunks when he fought the German Max Schmeling. In 1936, it was Louis's turn to take on the German and the whole world was agog. Schmeling won and was flown home in the Hindenburg airship: an Aryan technological triumph conveying a physically superior Aryan.
But it wasn't over. In 1938, Louis fought Schmeling again, at Yankee Stadium. Now war was in the wind and Joe wasn't black any more. Now he was an American boy fighting a Nazi. And he beat him.
Almost everyone who matters in Western cultural history in the past century enters Boddy's ring. While she occasionally seems blind to the obvious or belabours what the blind can see, such is the overall quality of the job here that she can be forgiven anything.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Boxing
Wrestling
Professional wrestling in Australia
Professional wrestling in Australia makes up a small but growing part of Australian culture. Unlike the North American or Japanese products which have large, globally renowned organisations such as World Wrestling Entertainment or New Japan Pro Wrestling with several hundred smaller promotions, Australia has approximately 30 smaller independent circuit promotions which exist in all but two of the states, those being the Northern Territory and Tasmania. Tours from the North American product are regularly sold out in capital cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.
History
Professional wrestling in Australia first gained distinction in the early 1900s, however there were very few shows promoted. Nonetheless, stars such as Clarence Weber, Jack Carkeek, Clarence Whistler and Georg Hackenschmidt were made. As time went on, the sport's popularity began to grow, particularly in the 1930s as people sought to find relief from The Great Depression.
Throughout the 1940s professional wrestling suffered due to World War II but in the 1950s reached new highs as many stars from overseas were imported and created larger crowds and, in turn, a larger market. Established names such as Lou Thesz, Dr. Jerry Graham and Gorgeous George toured the country during the decade.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Australia established its only major promotion in WCW Australia. WCW had a television deal with the Nine Network, the first in Australia to do so and attracted crowds between 2,000 and 9,000 people on a weekly basis. International stars such as Killer Kowalski, Ray Stevens, Dominic Denucci, Mario Milano, Spiros Arion, Karl Gotch, Bruno Sammartino, Gorilla Monsoon and local stars Ron Miller and Larry O’Dea were all involved with the promotion which grew steadily through the 1960s and was a well known product in the 1970s. However, with the introduction of World Series Cricket, WCW was left with no television deal and was forced to close down in 1978. This sent the Australian market into a large decline. With no access to any product anywhere in the world, the Australian market was almost dead until World Wrestling Entertainment became a prominent figure in professional wrestling in the mid-1980s.
Australia has depended on the North American product since 1985. Hosting tours in 1985 and 1986 kept a solid viewing in the sport through programmes such as Superstars of Wrestling and Saturday Night's Main Event. Small local promotions have tried to take advantage of the popularity of professional wrestling in more recent times, but there has been nothing of note since the demise of World Championship Wrestling in 1978.
However the local scene has been the subject of controversy.
In September 2002, a promotion called PCW presented a show called Carnage, in which two wrestlers faced off in the first-ever barbed-wire match in Australia. The event was billed as a "Great Family Night Out", however before the bout an announcer warned parents to take their children from the Rowville arena if they were upset by blood.
The match saw real blood, fake glass and one contestant setting fire to a chair. The ring ropes were replaced with barbed wire and a bucket of thumb tacks was dumped on the ring floor. Much of the controversy surrounded rumours about the event, suggesting that the outpour of blood was so intense that it 'splattered' onto members of the crowd. Much of this can be attributed to people who had heard about the match giving their take of it on the Internet.
Despite the fact that this event was publicised as having a gory match and the preceding warning, people complained that the match in question was 'too much'. A concerned mother called Melbourne Talkback radio station 3AW, and a wrestler heard this call and also rang in. This resulted in the main media outlets covering the story. For the record, neither of the wrestlers were seriously injured. It also resulted in a police investigation. and a furore within the local Knox City Council.
Individual wrestlers originating in Australia have struggled for the most part to obtain any international recognition. Perhaps the two biggest names when one mentions Australia are the Fabulous Kangaroos - Roy Heffernan and Al Costello. They are the only Australian wrestlers to make it big in the United States and held the WWWF Tag Team Championship, as well as being inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame. In more recent times Nathan Jones made two WWE appearances at WrestleMania XIX and at Survivor Series later that same year, making him the only Australian wrestler to ever appear on a WWE pay-per-view event. Jones also appeared on two World Wrestling All-Stars pay-per-views, losing to Jeff Jarrett at WWA: The Inception and to Scott Steiner at WWA: The Eruption. Only two other Australian wrestlers have appeared on any pay-per-view event at all. They are Chuck E. Chaos at WWA: The Eruption who lost to Jerry Lynn, and Mark Mercedes at WWA: The Reckoning who lost to Rick Steiner.
Foreign tours
Shows from North American promotions have been held in Australia as early as 1985 when WWE toured through Melbourne, Perth, Newcastle and Adelaide and through Melbourne and Brisbane again in 1986. That was the last Australia saw of a live North American product until WCW did a Nitro and Thunder taping in Melbourne and a Thunder taping in Brisbane and Sydney in 2000.
The next time WWE came to Australia was for the WWE Global Warning Tour in 2002. A crowd of 56,000 packed into Colonial Stadium as well a pay-per-view audience throughout Asia witnessed the first WWE show on Australian soil in 16 years. WWE has visited Australia regularly since Global Warning by touring at least once a year since 2003, with the latest show by the Smackdown & ECW brand's in June 2008 visiting Brisbane, Sydney, Newcastle, Adelaide and Melbourne.
Australia also hosted shows presented by World Wrestling All-Stars and various smaller shows have featured overseas talent, but nothing of note.
Television programming
History
Throughout the 1990s, both WCW Monday Nitro and RAW were broadcasted on free-to-air networks but were put in poor timeslots and were subsequently cancelled because of poor ratings. WWE's major pay-per-views (Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, King of the Ring, SummerSlam and Survivor Series) were all shown up until 2001, when every pay-per-view began being shown.
WWE programming returned in 2000 with RAW being shown on Fox Sports on Tuesday nights. SmackDown! followed and was broadcasted on FOX8 Friday nights but was moved to Saturday nights in 2001.
In September 2002 negotiations between FOX8 and WWE fell through and SmackDown! was cancelled. A special NWA-TNA package replaced it in early 2003 but only lasted a year. NWA-TNA pay-per-views were shown once a month throughout 2003 during a time when they were being presented weekly in the United States. WWE pay-per-views were also lost to Main Event in the same deal that cost Australian fans SmackDown. Village Cinemas showed them for a few months until August 2003 when SmackDown! returned on Saturday nights as well as the pay-per-views, starting with SummerSlam. RAW was moved from Fox Sports to FOX8 and was shown on Friday nights. In order to prevent spoiler hunting on the internet, FOX8 moved WWE programming to timeslots closer to their United States air date.
In February 2005, WWE Heat, WWE Velocity and The WWE Experience were added to FOX8 and set up a large wrestling program on Saturdays and Sundays. Despite Heat, Velocity and Experience all being cancelled in the United States the shows continued to be shown in Australia to fulfill contractual obligations. When SmackDown! was moved to Friday nights in the United States, in Australia it remained on Friday afternoons. ECW on Sci Fi began broadcasting in Australia from September 2, 2006 in the place of WWE Velocity on Saturdays and the WWE Fanatic Series began airing in October 2006.
After just over 3 years, TNA made it's return. Beginning with TNA Sacrifice 2006 on May 27, 2006 on tape delay. This continued for 12 months before events started being broadcast live in May 2007. TNA iMPACT! began airing on April 5, 2008 on FOX8. Just on the second week of airing, TNA averaged more viewers than both WWE Smackdown and WWE Raw.
On June 2, 2008 WWE and Channel nine announced that they would be airing WWE Afterburn on nine every Sunday at 1:30 starting on June 15
Pay-per-view
Pay-per-views in Australia are shown on Main Event, the only provider in Australia. Main Event has been broadcasting pay-per-views for both WWE starting in 1999 until the present time (including the Fanatic Series from 2006) and WCW pay-per-views from 1997 until they were bought out in March 2001. Main Event also began broadcasting TNA pay-per-views in May 2006, starting with Sacrifice. One year later, TNA pay per views were lifted from the 13 day tape delay format to a live format. (Credit: Wikipedia).
Media Man Australia Profiles
Foxtel
Network Nine Australia
Wrestling
History
Professional wrestling in Australia first gained distinction in the early 1900s, however there were very few shows promoted. Nonetheless, stars such as Clarence Weber, Jack Carkeek, Clarence Whistler and Georg Hackenschmidt were made. As time went on, the sport's popularity began to grow, particularly in the 1930s as people sought to find relief from The Great Depression.
Throughout the 1940s professional wrestling suffered due to World War II but in the 1950s reached new highs as many stars from overseas were imported and created larger crowds and, in turn, a larger market. Established names such as Lou Thesz, Dr. Jerry Graham and Gorgeous George toured the country during the decade.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Australia established its only major promotion in WCW Australia. WCW had a television deal with the Nine Network, the first in Australia to do so and attracted crowds between 2,000 and 9,000 people on a weekly basis. International stars such as Killer Kowalski, Ray Stevens, Dominic Denucci, Mario Milano, Spiros Arion, Karl Gotch, Bruno Sammartino, Gorilla Monsoon and local stars Ron Miller and Larry O’Dea were all involved with the promotion which grew steadily through the 1960s and was a well known product in the 1970s. However, with the introduction of World Series Cricket, WCW was left with no television deal and was forced to close down in 1978. This sent the Australian market into a large decline. With no access to any product anywhere in the world, the Australian market was almost dead until World Wrestling Entertainment became a prominent figure in professional wrestling in the mid-1980s.
Australia has depended on the North American product since 1985. Hosting tours in 1985 and 1986 kept a solid viewing in the sport through programmes such as Superstars of Wrestling and Saturday Night's Main Event. Small local promotions have tried to take advantage of the popularity of professional wrestling in more recent times, but there has been nothing of note since the demise of World Championship Wrestling in 1978.
However the local scene has been the subject of controversy.
In September 2002, a promotion called PCW presented a show called Carnage, in which two wrestlers faced off in the first-ever barbed-wire match in Australia. The event was billed as a "Great Family Night Out", however before the bout an announcer warned parents to take their children from the Rowville arena if they were upset by blood.
The match saw real blood, fake glass and one contestant setting fire to a chair. The ring ropes were replaced with barbed wire and a bucket of thumb tacks was dumped on the ring floor. Much of the controversy surrounded rumours about the event, suggesting that the outpour of blood was so intense that it 'splattered' onto members of the crowd. Much of this can be attributed to people who had heard about the match giving their take of it on the Internet.
Despite the fact that this event was publicised as having a gory match and the preceding warning, people complained that the match in question was 'too much'. A concerned mother called Melbourne Talkback radio station 3AW, and a wrestler heard this call and also rang in. This resulted in the main media outlets covering the story. For the record, neither of the wrestlers were seriously injured. It also resulted in a police investigation. and a furore within the local Knox City Council.
Individual wrestlers originating in Australia have struggled for the most part to obtain any international recognition. Perhaps the two biggest names when one mentions Australia are the Fabulous Kangaroos - Roy Heffernan and Al Costello. They are the only Australian wrestlers to make it big in the United States and held the WWWF Tag Team Championship, as well as being inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame. In more recent times Nathan Jones made two WWE appearances at WrestleMania XIX and at Survivor Series later that same year, making him the only Australian wrestler to ever appear on a WWE pay-per-view event. Jones also appeared on two World Wrestling All-Stars pay-per-views, losing to Jeff Jarrett at WWA: The Inception and to Scott Steiner at WWA: The Eruption. Only two other Australian wrestlers have appeared on any pay-per-view event at all. They are Chuck E. Chaos at WWA: The Eruption who lost to Jerry Lynn, and Mark Mercedes at WWA: The Reckoning who lost to Rick Steiner.
Foreign tours
Shows from North American promotions have been held in Australia as early as 1985 when WWE toured through Melbourne, Perth, Newcastle and Adelaide and through Melbourne and Brisbane again in 1986. That was the last Australia saw of a live North American product until WCW did a Nitro and Thunder taping in Melbourne and a Thunder taping in Brisbane and Sydney in 2000.
The next time WWE came to Australia was for the WWE Global Warning Tour in 2002. A crowd of 56,000 packed into Colonial Stadium as well a pay-per-view audience throughout Asia witnessed the first WWE show on Australian soil in 16 years. WWE has visited Australia regularly since Global Warning by touring at least once a year since 2003, with the latest show by the Smackdown & ECW brand's in June 2008 visiting Brisbane, Sydney, Newcastle, Adelaide and Melbourne.
Australia also hosted shows presented by World Wrestling All-Stars and various smaller shows have featured overseas talent, but nothing of note.
Television programming
History
Throughout the 1990s, both WCW Monday Nitro and RAW were broadcasted on free-to-air networks but were put in poor timeslots and were subsequently cancelled because of poor ratings. WWE's major pay-per-views (Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, King of the Ring, SummerSlam and Survivor Series) were all shown up until 2001, when every pay-per-view began being shown.
WWE programming returned in 2000 with RAW being shown on Fox Sports on Tuesday nights. SmackDown! followed and was broadcasted on FOX8 Friday nights but was moved to Saturday nights in 2001.
In September 2002 negotiations between FOX8 and WWE fell through and SmackDown! was cancelled. A special NWA-TNA package replaced it in early 2003 but only lasted a year. NWA-TNA pay-per-views were shown once a month throughout 2003 during a time when they were being presented weekly in the United States. WWE pay-per-views were also lost to Main Event in the same deal that cost Australian fans SmackDown. Village Cinemas showed them for a few months until August 2003 when SmackDown! returned on Saturday nights as well as the pay-per-views, starting with SummerSlam. RAW was moved from Fox Sports to FOX8 and was shown on Friday nights. In order to prevent spoiler hunting on the internet, FOX8 moved WWE programming to timeslots closer to their United States air date.
In February 2005, WWE Heat, WWE Velocity and The WWE Experience were added to FOX8 and set up a large wrestling program on Saturdays and Sundays. Despite Heat, Velocity and Experience all being cancelled in the United States the shows continued to be shown in Australia to fulfill contractual obligations. When SmackDown! was moved to Friday nights in the United States, in Australia it remained on Friday afternoons. ECW on Sci Fi began broadcasting in Australia from September 2, 2006 in the place of WWE Velocity on Saturdays and the WWE Fanatic Series began airing in October 2006.
After just over 3 years, TNA made it's return. Beginning with TNA Sacrifice 2006 on May 27, 2006 on tape delay. This continued for 12 months before events started being broadcast live in May 2007. TNA iMPACT! began airing on April 5, 2008 on FOX8. Just on the second week of airing, TNA averaged more viewers than both WWE Smackdown and WWE Raw.
On June 2, 2008 WWE and Channel nine announced that they would be airing WWE Afterburn on nine every Sunday at 1:30 starting on June 15
Pay-per-view
Pay-per-views in Australia are shown on Main Event, the only provider in Australia. Main Event has been broadcasting pay-per-views for both WWE starting in 1999 until the present time (including the Fanatic Series from 2006) and WCW pay-per-views from 1997 until they were bought out in March 2001. Main Event also began broadcasting TNA pay-per-views in May 2006, starting with Sacrifice. One year later, TNA pay per views were lifted from the 13 day tape delay format to a live format. (Credit: Wikipedia).
Media Man Australia Profiles
Foxtel
Network Nine Australia
Wrestling
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Transcript of Bret Hart's Hall of Fame speech
“... The one wrestling hall of fame that captures what he was all about. I look around this room here, and there’s a lot of emotion to me. I’m going to try to stay calm and say what I have to say here. I have some very important things that I want to talk about. I see some really important people in my life and in the wrestling world in the audience here. I see Butch Goering, coming all the way out here from California. Talking to Butch, he worked for my father in the ’60s. He knows what it’s like traveling the roads back then, working for my father. Sometimes it was a thousand miles a day wrestling for wrestling fans just when they started, sort of understood wrestling from television. It was a very unique time, and it was the time when Lou Thesz was just sort of establishing a whole new understanding of wrestling through television. Lou Thesz, what a champion, he was always such a great champion, and he earned that right. You look at Red Baron [Baron von Raschke]. I know my father talked a lot about legends in wrestling, but he always talked about Baron Von Raschke all the time. He was a very, very accomplished NCAA wrestler that got into pro wrestling and was respected by every wrestler that ever worked with him. Whatever the finish was, whatever happened in his matches, he was a legend amongst the wrestlers and the fans.
“I see Bob Leonard, who worked for my father for years taking pictures of wrestlers, capturing and documenting, letting people realize the real art of wrestling, and just to capture the pictures of these young athletes dropkicking and head scissors and wrestling holds, making that magic in still pictures. I think Bob Leonard is a very, very important part of my business. Harley Race, I don’t even know how you start. Harley Race to me is the epitome of pro wrestling. He is not only a great wrestler, I don’t know anyone who would want to mess with Harley in wrestling, the fighting or brawling, the real, that moment of man versus man, to know it. Harley Race, he can do whatever he wants to do with anybody he wants, anytime he wants.
"Then there’s Saito here. I know that he wrestled in Japan, a well-accomplished amateur wrestler, got into pro wrestling, paid his dues for hanging with wrestlers that made mistakes that he wasn’t even a part of, sacrificed to come all the way from Japan to be here. I look at Danny Hodge, he’s one of the most, one of the greatest wrestlers in pro wrestling or amateur wrestling there’s ever been. To be in this room with Danny Hodge is a big, big honor to me. I look at Roddy Piper. I could name a lot of wrestlers that helped me in wrestling, gave me advice — Harley Race — but I don’t think anybody did more for me or helped me more, and helped me make those decisions to get me to where I was than Roddy Piper. To come here, he had to fight cancer, and to be part of this tonight, is just that much more special. It’s my understanding and belief that Roddy Piper came here for the sole reason just to hang out with me, to be part of this event, because it was important to me. That means a lot. I came all the way from Rome to be here.
“I flew in, and it was important from watching the news over in Italy, seeing the flood problems here, and knowing that I would be here in a few days. It would have been a lot easier to shoot home to Calgary and not worry about the floods — I’m not a good swimmer. [crowd laughs] It was important for me to be here. It made me proud to know that I was coming here. Mike Chapman, yeah, I talked to him a couple of years ago. I talked for so long, and I learned so much about wrestling, championships, and Lou Thesz, and how the origin of wrestling started, it was like sitting under the learning tree, just sitting there listening to this guy, digesting, knowing this guy knows what he’s talking about. He’s not full of it. He’s not a B.S.-er. He knows what he’s talking about, he knows these people. He’s talked to Lou Thesz. He knows the history. He knows the transition from pro wrestling and amateur wrestling.
“Now, I’m here because I was a pro wrestler. But I also know, I also know, what it’s like to hang a gold medal around my neck. I know what it’s like to wrestle a one-hour match. I know what it’s like to go full blast for that hour. And to lose, I know what it’s like to lose wrestling match by one point, I’ve been there too. I know what it’s like to snap on a knee brace. I know what it’s like to snap on a world title belt. I also know what it’s like to wrestle in front of 90,000, 100,000 people sometimes, just to have that kind of impact, and to make people — I remember wrestling the British Bulldog in Wembley Stadium, England, and make everybody in that 82,000 wrestling fans, they dismissed all their disbelief about wrestling, and wrestling for 35 minutes became real. It was real.
“There’s an art to that. There’s a science to that. It’s hard work, it’s really hard work. [clears throat, silence for at least 20 seconds.] I don’t want to be too lecturous here. What is a hall of fame? To me, a hall of fame is a place where it’s important to speak the truth, to capture history. When someone tells you they’re holding Karl Gotch’s jockstrap, or whatever it is, there’s the real jockstrap. It had better be real. I think wrestling fans want the truth, and that’s kind of what my point is here. My father was all about wrestling. He loved wrestling. He dedicated his life to wrestling; it wasn’t just about amateur wrestling, it was about pro wrestling for the whole business. It was about feeding families and making something out of nothing. Wrestling used to mean — what I always tried to get people to remember about wrestling was the honor of being a pro wrestler. There’s something about that term, doing the honors for somebody, and knowing that there’s somebody that is going to be the champion, and going to be the guy that carries the load for everybody, and everybody is going to profit by the fact that he’s Lou Thesz, and he makes people believe that wrestling is real, that he’s a real champion. It’s not just the champion, there’s a whole team of wrestlers that make this whole show, make the whole story, it’s not just the cameraman and the referees and the people that let everybody in. It’s more than that. It’s people that dedicate their lives to wrestling.
“I’ve watched wrestling, and been a part of wrestling, since I was 5 years old. I sold programs and made my first 10 cents on wrestling. It’s just something that I’ve had a passion for since I was born. I think it was my calling to be wrestler. If someone had told me when I was 16 years old that I would tour the world, be the champion, and be a hero to kids, and at the same time, to be here, amongst such great amateur wrestlers, the people who were heroes to me when I was 16 years old, people I had the deepest respect for. People like Danny Hodge. I knew all about Danny Hodge when I was 16, I appreciated Danny Hodge even though I’d never met him. But I knew all about him because I respected wrestling. I think my point is, I’m honored to be here. I know this isn’t my place to gripe about stuff, but I have a serious issue with people who write books about wrestling who don’t honor the truth.
“And you, sir, you do not honor the truth of wrestling. Greg Oliver writes these books on wrestling and it’s all made up. It’s not the truth. It’s just baloney, you know. I wrote a book that took seven years, I gave everything I had to write about some of the deepest tragedies, the truth about my life as a wrestler. For someone like this that sits in the room with me to say that on his Web site that my truth is not the truth, it’s just wrong for me to be in the same room as these people. They don’t honor the truth of wrestling.
“When you buy their books, I think you have to look at that and say these people are not telling the truth. They don’t know anything about wrestling. I’ve never seen them in the back. I’ve never seen them in the dressing room. I’ve never seen them at anything to do with wrestling. They don’t know anything at all about my business. They don’t know anything about me. They don’t have any respect for what I do or for anyone else. So I’m going to step aside now, and I just want to say that it’s not right for me to be in the same room as people who don’t do honor and justice to my profession. You either have a choice of leaving, or I will. [Silence. Someone says “get up” or “get out.”]
“I speak the truth about wrestling and I take pride in what I do. [Applause starts slowly but picks up. Sound covers part of the speech.] ... How it was and how it was done, how it should be done. These guys over here, it makes me laugh that Greg Oliver here rated me behind Sky Low Low, as, I think the 13th-greatest Canadian wrestler. I have news for him — he’s wrong. Sky Low Low was a much better wrestler than me, but he was only half the man that I was. But anyway, my point is, you know, I take a lot of pride in what I do. It means a lot to me that people would come here and be part of this, because wrestling was important to me, and I hope it was important for you. But it’s important that people tell the truth.
“When you write about wrestling, you talk about wrestling, especially when you’re among these kind of people, you owe it to tell the truth. If you want to come here and be a charlatan, well, you’re in the wrong place because this is a room filled with legends, and people that paid their dues in wrestling. We want the truth to be told about wrestling. Take your sorry-ass lies about wrestling and how you make it up, and save your books, because they’re not the truth. This is a room filled with truth. Thank you.
[Applause] I’m talking to you, Greg Oliver. Either you go or I go. [Greg Oliver waves goodbye to Hart] Greg Oliver’s going to stay. I’m going to go to my room. [A few fans yell “We want Bret,” smattering of applause, then silence for 20 seconds. Someone says, “Thanks, Bret” and applause starts again.]”
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
WWE
Wrestling
“I see Bob Leonard, who worked for my father for years taking pictures of wrestlers, capturing and documenting, letting people realize the real art of wrestling, and just to capture the pictures of these young athletes dropkicking and head scissors and wrestling holds, making that magic in still pictures. I think Bob Leonard is a very, very important part of my business. Harley Race, I don’t even know how you start. Harley Race to me is the epitome of pro wrestling. He is not only a great wrestler, I don’t know anyone who would want to mess with Harley in wrestling, the fighting or brawling, the real, that moment of man versus man, to know it. Harley Race, he can do whatever he wants to do with anybody he wants, anytime he wants.
"Then there’s Saito here. I know that he wrestled in Japan, a well-accomplished amateur wrestler, got into pro wrestling, paid his dues for hanging with wrestlers that made mistakes that he wasn’t even a part of, sacrificed to come all the way from Japan to be here. I look at Danny Hodge, he’s one of the most, one of the greatest wrestlers in pro wrestling or amateur wrestling there’s ever been. To be in this room with Danny Hodge is a big, big honor to me. I look at Roddy Piper. I could name a lot of wrestlers that helped me in wrestling, gave me advice — Harley Race — but I don’t think anybody did more for me or helped me more, and helped me make those decisions to get me to where I was than Roddy Piper. To come here, he had to fight cancer, and to be part of this tonight, is just that much more special. It’s my understanding and belief that Roddy Piper came here for the sole reason just to hang out with me, to be part of this event, because it was important to me. That means a lot. I came all the way from Rome to be here.
“I flew in, and it was important from watching the news over in Italy, seeing the flood problems here, and knowing that I would be here in a few days. It would have been a lot easier to shoot home to Calgary and not worry about the floods — I’m not a good swimmer. [crowd laughs] It was important for me to be here. It made me proud to know that I was coming here. Mike Chapman, yeah, I talked to him a couple of years ago. I talked for so long, and I learned so much about wrestling, championships, and Lou Thesz, and how the origin of wrestling started, it was like sitting under the learning tree, just sitting there listening to this guy, digesting, knowing this guy knows what he’s talking about. He’s not full of it. He’s not a B.S.-er. He knows what he’s talking about, he knows these people. He’s talked to Lou Thesz. He knows the history. He knows the transition from pro wrestling and amateur wrestling.
“Now, I’m here because I was a pro wrestler. But I also know, I also know, what it’s like to hang a gold medal around my neck. I know what it’s like to wrestle a one-hour match. I know what it’s like to go full blast for that hour. And to lose, I know what it’s like to lose wrestling match by one point, I’ve been there too. I know what it’s like to snap on a knee brace. I know what it’s like to snap on a world title belt. I also know what it’s like to wrestle in front of 90,000, 100,000 people sometimes, just to have that kind of impact, and to make people — I remember wrestling the British Bulldog in Wembley Stadium, England, and make everybody in that 82,000 wrestling fans, they dismissed all their disbelief about wrestling, and wrestling for 35 minutes became real. It was real.
“There’s an art to that. There’s a science to that. It’s hard work, it’s really hard work. [clears throat, silence for at least 20 seconds.] I don’t want to be too lecturous here. What is a hall of fame? To me, a hall of fame is a place where it’s important to speak the truth, to capture history. When someone tells you they’re holding Karl Gotch’s jockstrap, or whatever it is, there’s the real jockstrap. It had better be real. I think wrestling fans want the truth, and that’s kind of what my point is here. My father was all about wrestling. He loved wrestling. He dedicated his life to wrestling; it wasn’t just about amateur wrestling, it was about pro wrestling for the whole business. It was about feeding families and making something out of nothing. Wrestling used to mean — what I always tried to get people to remember about wrestling was the honor of being a pro wrestler. There’s something about that term, doing the honors for somebody, and knowing that there’s somebody that is going to be the champion, and going to be the guy that carries the load for everybody, and everybody is going to profit by the fact that he’s Lou Thesz, and he makes people believe that wrestling is real, that he’s a real champion. It’s not just the champion, there’s a whole team of wrestlers that make this whole show, make the whole story, it’s not just the cameraman and the referees and the people that let everybody in. It’s more than that. It’s people that dedicate their lives to wrestling.
“I’ve watched wrestling, and been a part of wrestling, since I was 5 years old. I sold programs and made my first 10 cents on wrestling. It’s just something that I’ve had a passion for since I was born. I think it was my calling to be wrestler. If someone had told me when I was 16 years old that I would tour the world, be the champion, and be a hero to kids, and at the same time, to be here, amongst such great amateur wrestlers, the people who were heroes to me when I was 16 years old, people I had the deepest respect for. People like Danny Hodge. I knew all about Danny Hodge when I was 16, I appreciated Danny Hodge even though I’d never met him. But I knew all about him because I respected wrestling. I think my point is, I’m honored to be here. I know this isn’t my place to gripe about stuff, but I have a serious issue with people who write books about wrestling who don’t honor the truth.
“And you, sir, you do not honor the truth of wrestling. Greg Oliver writes these books on wrestling and it’s all made up. It’s not the truth. It’s just baloney, you know. I wrote a book that took seven years, I gave everything I had to write about some of the deepest tragedies, the truth about my life as a wrestler. For someone like this that sits in the room with me to say that on his Web site that my truth is not the truth, it’s just wrong for me to be in the same room as these people. They don’t honor the truth of wrestling.
“When you buy their books, I think you have to look at that and say these people are not telling the truth. They don’t know anything about wrestling. I’ve never seen them in the back. I’ve never seen them in the dressing room. I’ve never seen them at anything to do with wrestling. They don’t know anything at all about my business. They don’t know anything about me. They don’t have any respect for what I do or for anyone else. So I’m going to step aside now, and I just want to say that it’s not right for me to be in the same room as people who don’t do honor and justice to my profession. You either have a choice of leaving, or I will. [Silence. Someone says “get up” or “get out.”]
“I speak the truth about wrestling and I take pride in what I do. [Applause starts slowly but picks up. Sound covers part of the speech.] ... How it was and how it was done, how it should be done. These guys over here, it makes me laugh that Greg Oliver here rated me behind Sky Low Low, as, I think the 13th-greatest Canadian wrestler. I have news for him — he’s wrong. Sky Low Low was a much better wrestler than me, but he was only half the man that I was. But anyway, my point is, you know, I take a lot of pride in what I do. It means a lot to me that people would come here and be part of this, because wrestling was important to me, and I hope it was important for you. But it’s important that people tell the truth.
“When you write about wrestling, you talk about wrestling, especially when you’re among these kind of people, you owe it to tell the truth. If you want to come here and be a charlatan, well, you’re in the wrong place because this is a room filled with legends, and people that paid their dues in wrestling. We want the truth to be told about wrestling. Take your sorry-ass lies about wrestling and how you make it up, and save your books, because they’re not the truth. This is a room filled with truth. Thank you.
[Applause] I’m talking to you, Greg Oliver. Either you go or I go. [Greg Oliver waves goodbye to Hart] Greg Oliver’s going to stay. I’m going to go to my room. [A few fans yell “We want Bret,” smattering of applause, then silence for 20 seconds. Someone says, “Thanks, Bret” and applause starts again.]”
Media Man Australia Profiles
Bret Hart
WWE
Wrestling
Saturday, June 21, 2008
RIC FLAIR IS COMING TO FANFEST!
*That's right, folks! The one and only "Nature Boy" Ric Flair will
indeed be at this year's NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest in Charlotte,
North Carolina. Flair's appearance is Friday afternoon, August 15
from 1-4 p.m.
I want to thank the folks at MainEventMoments.com for their help with
Ric Flair's appearance here. Flair will be a vendor guest just like we
had Arn Anderson last year. Three hours in a separate area.
We'll be offering to the first 150 people that want it, at $100 per
person, a Photo Op with Flair and his signature on one of your own
items. Like we did last year with Arn, after the Photo Op photos were
taken and before folks got them back, I had Arn sign them as well. I'd
like to do the same thing with Flair, so you'd get your Photo Op 8x10
signed too, it's just much faster if he signs them all at one time
instead of each individual person taking their Photo Op 8x10 back to
him to get it signed. I think this way, we can give folks the
autographed Photo Op 8x10 and another autograph.
Each of the 150 people would pass through Ric's line twice. The first
time, we'll be doing Photo Ops only. Once those are out of the way,
the same 150 people will go back through the line and get your one
item signed.
For those of you wanting extra items signed, it's likely we'll accept
those items at Registration like we've done in the past for extra
items. Pricing has not been determined for extra items at this time.
Right now at http://www.nwalegends.com/2008/ricflair.htm
you are able to purchase your Photo Op/Autograph Combo and secure
your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with the Nature Boy! Don't delay,
though. The response has been tremendous so far and I expect these
tickets to sell very quickly.
I want to personally thank each of you. It's evident there's a
tremendous amount of support for one of the all-time great NWA icons.
I thank you for making it possible for him to be with us this year.
Thanks again! Wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
Please make plans now to be with us for 3 HUGE DAYS (and now 4 nights!)
celebrating wrestling tradition!
This will make a great summer vacation!
NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
Website
NWA Legends
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ric Flair
Wrestling Legends
WWE
NWA
Wrestling
indeed be at this year's NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest in Charlotte,
North Carolina. Flair's appearance is Friday afternoon, August 15
from 1-4 p.m.
I want to thank the folks at MainEventMoments.com for their help with
Ric Flair's appearance here. Flair will be a vendor guest just like we
had Arn Anderson last year. Three hours in a separate area.
We'll be offering to the first 150 people that want it, at $100 per
person, a Photo Op with Flair and his signature on one of your own
items. Like we did last year with Arn, after the Photo Op photos were
taken and before folks got them back, I had Arn sign them as well. I'd
like to do the same thing with Flair, so you'd get your Photo Op 8x10
signed too, it's just much faster if he signs them all at one time
instead of each individual person taking their Photo Op 8x10 back to
him to get it signed. I think this way, we can give folks the
autographed Photo Op 8x10 and another autograph.
Each of the 150 people would pass through Ric's line twice. The first
time, we'll be doing Photo Ops only. Once those are out of the way,
the same 150 people will go back through the line and get your one
item signed.
For those of you wanting extra items signed, it's likely we'll accept
those items at Registration like we've done in the past for extra
items. Pricing has not been determined for extra items at this time.
Right now at http://www.nwalegends.com/2008/ricflair.htm
you are able to purchase your Photo Op/Autograph Combo and secure
your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with the Nature Boy! Don't delay,
though. The response has been tremendous so far and I expect these
tickets to sell very quickly.
I want to personally thank each of you. It's evident there's a
tremendous amount of support for one of the all-time great NWA icons.
I thank you for making it possible for him to be with us this year.
Thanks again! Wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
Please make plans now to be with us for 3 HUGE DAYS (and now 4 nights!)
celebrating wrestling tradition!
This will make a great summer vacation!
NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
Website
NWA Legends
Media Man Australia Profiles
Ric Flair
Wrestling Legends
WWE
NWA
Wrestling
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Former World Champs, Dillon & Humperdink Coming To Fanfest!
Bruno Sammartino and Superstar Billy Graham, along with legendary
managers James J. Dillon and Sir Oliver Humperdink, have been added
to the list of featured guests at this summer's NWA Wrestling Legends
Fanfest in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest, three huge days and four nights
featuring dozens of wrestling's legendary heroes and villains and a
bevy of today's top superstars and future legends, returns Thursday
through Sunday, August 14-17 to the Hilton University Place Hotel.
Sammartino and Graham are icons in the sport; both former WWWF world
champions. In addition to signing autographs and taking photos with
fans (including a rare Photo Op of the two together,) the pair will
be featured in a Sunday morning question-and-answer session, sharing
stories about their historic battles and discussing their
larger-than-life careers.
Dillon and Humperdink are two fanfest favorites, both of them having
taken part in our fanfest weekends previously. Both will be in
Charlotte all three days and both will be at our Friday night Hall of
Heroes dinner banquet and awards ceremony.
Other featured legends confirmed thus far include Ole Anderson, The
Assassin, Jack Brisco, Bob Caudle, Chris Cruise, Ted Dibiase, Jimmy
Garvin and Precious, Rip Hawk, Sam Houston, Paul Jones, Ivan Koloff,
Rich Landrum and Grizzly Smith.
VIP All Access Pass holders will have early admission each day, first
access to all autograph signings and photo opportunities, exclusive
admission to three revealing Question-and-Answer sessions, and
ringside seats to the live wrestling matches both Saturday and Sunday
nights! Throw in a free fanfest weekend t-shirt and a VIP All Access
Pass with neck lanyard and you have the VIP hookup!
VIP All Access Passes are just $155 and are on sale now at
http://www.NWALegends.com
Your ticket purchase helps support our efforts to celebrate the
tradition of the National Wrestling Alliance and to honor the heroes
of wrestling's past and present. Thanks for being part of a truly
special weekend. Most folks will tell you it's a remarkable reunion.
Visit our Fanfest Forum online messageboard to join up with other
fanfest attendees, introduce yourself, and join in the discussion as
we get ready for an incredible weekend in Charlotte! Go to
http://www.nwalegends.com/fanfestforum
and join in!
Should you have any questions or comments to share, please feel free
to email us at Info@NWALegends.com
*NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
VIP All Access Passes on sale now at http://www.NWALegends.com
*
Please make plans now to be with us for 3 HUGE DAYS (and now 4 nights!)
celebrating wrestling tradition!
This will make a great summer vacation!
NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
Website
NWA Legends
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
NWA
Wrestling
managers James J. Dillon and Sir Oliver Humperdink, have been added
to the list of featured guests at this summer's NWA Wrestling Legends
Fanfest in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest, three huge days and four nights
featuring dozens of wrestling's legendary heroes and villains and a
bevy of today's top superstars and future legends, returns Thursday
through Sunday, August 14-17 to the Hilton University Place Hotel.
Sammartino and Graham are icons in the sport; both former WWWF world
champions. In addition to signing autographs and taking photos with
fans (including a rare Photo Op of the two together,) the pair will
be featured in a Sunday morning question-and-answer session, sharing
stories about their historic battles and discussing their
larger-than-life careers.
Dillon and Humperdink are two fanfest favorites, both of them having
taken part in our fanfest weekends previously. Both will be in
Charlotte all three days and both will be at our Friday night Hall of
Heroes dinner banquet and awards ceremony.
Other featured legends confirmed thus far include Ole Anderson, The
Assassin, Jack Brisco, Bob Caudle, Chris Cruise, Ted Dibiase, Jimmy
Garvin and Precious, Rip Hawk, Sam Houston, Paul Jones, Ivan Koloff,
Rich Landrum and Grizzly Smith.
VIP All Access Pass holders will have early admission each day, first
access to all autograph signings and photo opportunities, exclusive
admission to three revealing Question-and-Answer sessions, and
ringside seats to the live wrestling matches both Saturday and Sunday
nights! Throw in a free fanfest weekend t-shirt and a VIP All Access
Pass with neck lanyard and you have the VIP hookup!
VIP All Access Passes are just $155 and are on sale now at
http://www.NWALegends.com
Your ticket purchase helps support our efforts to celebrate the
tradition of the National Wrestling Alliance and to honor the heroes
of wrestling's past and present. Thanks for being part of a truly
special weekend. Most folks will tell you it's a remarkable reunion.
Visit our Fanfest Forum online messageboard to join up with other
fanfest attendees, introduce yourself, and join in the discussion as
we get ready for an incredible weekend in Charlotte! Go to
http://www.nwalegends.com/fanfestforum
and join in!
Should you have any questions or comments to share, please feel free
to email us at Info@NWALegends.com
*NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
VIP All Access Passes on sale now at http://www.NWALegends.com
*
Please make plans now to be with us for 3 HUGE DAYS (and now 4 nights!)
celebrating wrestling tradition!
This will make a great summer vacation!
NWA Wrestling Legends Fanfest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 14-17, 2008
Hilton University Place Hotel; Charlotte, North Carolina
Website
NWA Legends
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
NWA
Wrestling
Friday, May 09, 2008
Kyle Sandilands gets thrown by wrestler David Wallis - The Daily Telegraph - 8th May 2008
IS David Wallis the most enviable guy in Australia?
The pro wrestler did what so many can only dream of - flooring Kyle Sandilands. Literally.
Wallis, who mixes his grappling with singing, bumped into the omnipresent TV and radio star at the Perth Australian Idol auditions on Tuesday night.
And Idol judge, Big Brother presenter and 2Day FM radio motormouth Sandilands - who is either barmier or braver than we thought - challenged him to a clinch.
Sources say Sumo Sandilands put up a good fight, but was unceremoniously roughed up and pinned to the ground by Wallis, leaving his fellow judges Marcia Hines and Ian "Dicko" Dickson and the crew in hysterics.
Unfortunately, Sandilands' personal bodyguard was downstairs at the time packing bags for the red-eye flight back to Sydney.
The impromptu wrestling match didn't stop Wallis making a good fist of the talent quest. The power ballad-singing sales assistant, 23, who loves listening to John Farnham and Metallica, made it through to the top 100.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
The pro wrestler did what so many can only dream of - flooring Kyle Sandilands. Literally.
Wallis, who mixes his grappling with singing, bumped into the omnipresent TV and radio star at the Perth Australian Idol auditions on Tuesday night.
And Idol judge, Big Brother presenter and 2Day FM radio motormouth Sandilands - who is either barmier or braver than we thought - challenged him to a clinch.
Sources say Sumo Sandilands put up a good fight, but was unceremoniously roughed up and pinned to the ground by Wallis, leaving his fellow judges Marcia Hines and Ian "Dicko" Dickson and the crew in hysterics.
Unfortunately, Sandilands' personal bodyguard was downstairs at the time packing bags for the red-eye flight back to Sydney.
The impromptu wrestling match didn't stop Wallis making a good fist of the talent quest. The power ballad-singing sales assistant, 23, who loves listening to John Farnham and Metallica, made it through to the top 100.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
UFC: Dana White Says Either Fight Or Go Home, by Garrett Gonzales - Bleacher Report - 21st April 2008
After just learning through Dave Meltzer's Wrestling Observer newsletter that the UFC was trying to cut down from 200 fighters by about twenty five percent, I noticed today that Kalib Starnes was part of that twenty five percent. Just two days after his decision loss to Nate "The Rock" Quarry at UFC 83, Dana White confirmed with Yahoo! Sports writer Kevin Iole that Starnes needed to "consider a new line of work".
During the three round match-up, Starnes, a native of British Columbia, was being booed by the crowd at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, because of his unwillingness to fight. In the first round, Starnes seemed to be trying to get Quarry to tire by running him around the octagon. But in the second round, his strategy was the same. Quarry would circle and stalk Starnes, trying to get the former TUF Season 3 contestant to mix it up, but to no avail. At the end of the third round, Quarry, frustrated because of Starnes' lack of testicular fortitude, started to mock him. He first pretended as if he was running a race, chasing Starnes around the cage. He then covered up his eyes with his inner right elbow and threw his left arm out as if to pretend he was going to fight him blindly. Starnes didn't take advantage of either ploy and simply continued to backpeddle.
Quarry won the three round decision unanimously, with one judge scoring it 30-24, which meant that either he scored each round 10-8, or that he docked Starnes heavily in the third round for his non-fighting.
Dana White gave $75,000 each to Jonathan Goulet and Kuniyoshi Hironaka for having the best match on the show. Most of the scuttlebutt after the event was about how Starnes had to be fired because of his lack of performance if White was going to put so much importance on having exciting fights. And just like that, it happened.
I believe that the UFC has the power to cut any fighter after a loss. They also could simply not renew an expired contract. I'm not sure which avenue they chose as I don't know Starnes' contract situation, but fighters should've learned a few important lessons based on this.
1. You're only as good as your last win.
2. It's better to lose swinging than to win a boring fight (in case you lose in the future).
3. When you are put on PPV, be entertaining.
But maybe the biggest lesson learned is that it is best to fight hard or risk going home. Kalib Starnes learned the hard way.<
During the three round match-up, Starnes, a native of British Columbia, was being booed by the crowd at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, because of his unwillingness to fight. In the first round, Starnes seemed to be trying to get Quarry to tire by running him around the octagon. But in the second round, his strategy was the same. Quarry would circle and stalk Starnes, trying to get the former TUF Season 3 contestant to mix it up, but to no avail. At the end of the third round, Quarry, frustrated because of Starnes' lack of testicular fortitude, started to mock him. He first pretended as if he was running a race, chasing Starnes around the cage. He then covered up his eyes with his inner right elbow and threw his left arm out as if to pretend he was going to fight him blindly. Starnes didn't take advantage of either ploy and simply continued to backpeddle.
Quarry won the three round decision unanimously, with one judge scoring it 30-24, which meant that either he scored each round 10-8, or that he docked Starnes heavily in the third round for his non-fighting.
Dana White gave $75,000 each to Jonathan Goulet and Kuniyoshi Hironaka for having the best match on the show. Most of the scuttlebutt after the event was about how Starnes had to be fired because of his lack of performance if White was going to put so much importance on having exciting fights. And just like that, it happened.
I believe that the UFC has the power to cut any fighter after a loss. They also could simply not renew an expired contract. I'm not sure which avenue they chose as I don't know Starnes' contract situation, but fighters should've learned a few important lessons based on this.
1. You're only as good as your last win.
2. It's better to lose swinging than to win a boring fight (in case you lose in the future).
3. When you are put on PPV, be entertaining.
But maybe the biggest lesson learned is that it is best to fight hard or risk going home. Kalib Starnes learned the hard way.<