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.
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Saturday, January 10, 2009
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)
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Wrestling
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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)
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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)
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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
Entertainment News
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
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