Ed Harris to Star in WWE Studios' "Big Red"

Amy Madigan and WWE(R) Superstar Randy Orton(R) Also Star in the Coming-of-Age Film

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb 19, 2010 - WWE Studios announced today that award-winning actor Ed Harris ("Pollock," "Apollo 13," "The Truman Show") will headline the cast of the (tentatively titled) film, "Big Red." Chase Ellison ("Tooth Fairy"), Molly Parker ("Deadwood"), Daniel Roebuck ("Final Destination"), WWE Superstar Randy Orton, Mia Rose Frampton ("Make It or Break It") and Amy Madigan ("Carnivale") will also star in this family-friendly movie, scheduled to begin principal photography in and around New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 23, 2010.

Set against the backdrop of the mid-sixties, "Big Red" is a coming-of-age story which follows 12-year-old Andy Nichol (CHASE ELLISON), a bright student whose English teacher, Mr. Simon (ED HARRIS), pairs him on a project with the school's biggest outcast and social pariah, Stanley (aka "Big Red"). When Andy watches Stanley fearlessly confront a school bully, a series of events is unleashed, which changes the lives of both young men -- and their teacher -- forever.

WWE Studios Executive Vice President Mike Pavone will direct the drama from his original screenplay. "Big Red" is produced by Pavone and Denise Chamian. WWE Studios Vice President David Calloway is the executive in charge of production and the line producer is Todd Lewis.

Golden Globe-winning actor Ed Harris stars as Mr. Simon, a popular "Teacher of the Year" who finds himself the target of a vendetta when he makes sure the principal (AMY MADIGAN) suspends a school bully. A four-time Oscar nominee and SAG Award winner, Harris has distinguished himself as one of film's most respected and talented actors in numerous popular and critically-acclaimed films, including: "National Treasure: Book of Secrets," "The Hours," "A Beautiful Mind," "Enemy at the Gates," "The Truman Show," "Glengarry Glen Ross," "A History of Violence," "The Rock," "Apollo 13," "The Firm," "Places in the Heart" and "The Right Stuff." Harris also directed and starred in the title role of "Pollock," for which he received an Oscar nomination for his performance. He also wrote, directed, produced and starred in the award-winning film adaptation, "Appaloosa."

Chase Ellison plays Andy Nichol, a bright student unwillingly paired with the school's biggest outcast, Stanley/ "Big Red" for an English term paper. Ellison's film credits include "Tooth Fairy," "Fireflies in the Garden," "End of the Spear," "Wristcutters: A Love Story" and "Mysterious Skin." His television credits include "Deadwood," "Boomtown," "Malcolm in the Middle" and as a regular on the daytime series, "The Young and the Restless" (Noah Newman).

Molly Parker, known to many for her role as Alma Garret on HBO's "Deadwood," portrays Andy's mother, Sherri. Parker has been a regular or recurring character on several acclaimed television series including "Swingtown," "Shattered," "Six Feet Under," "Twitch City" and "Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years." Her film credits include "Hollywoodland," "The Wicker Man" and "Wonderland."

Daniel Roebuck plays Andy's father, Jim. Roebuck has appeared in the films "The Fugitive," "U.S. Marshalls," "Final Destination," "Rob Zombie's Halloween," "Agent Cody Banks," "Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London," "Project X" and "Rivers Edge." He has been a regular on numerous television series including "Lost," "Woke Up Dead," "Nash Bridges," "Matlock," "Capital News" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation." He is also the writer, producer and director of the horror documentary series, "Monsterama."

WWE Superstar Randy Orton portrays Ed Freel, the father of the bully reprimanded by Simon. When Freel's son spreads a lie about Simon, Ed repeats the accusation and begins a campaign to get Simon fired. Since making his WWE debut in 2002, Orton has held the WWE Championship, the World Heavyweight Championship, the Intercontinental Championship and the World Tag Championship. A third-generation WWE Superstar, Orton is the son of WWE Hall of Famer "Cowboy Bob" Orton and the grandson of "The Big O," the late Bob Orton, Sr.

Mia Rose Frampton has been cast as Mary Bell, the prettiest girl in the school, who is also known as the preeminent make-out artist of the eighth grade. Frampton, the daughter of Grammy Award-winning artist Peter Frampton, stars as Becca Keeler in the popular ABC television series, "Make It or Break It" about the training of Olympic hopefuls.

Golden Globe-winner Amy Madigan ("Roe v. Wade") plays Principal Kelner, whose decision to suspend a school bully has devastating and unforeseen consequences. Madigan, familiar to many for her role as Annie Kinsella in the film, "Field of Dreams," and Iris Crowe in the HBO series "Carnivale," has received Oscar, Emmy and Independent Spirit Award nominations for her work in "Twice in a Lifetime," "The Prince of Pennsylvania," "Love Child" and "Loved." Her film credits include "The Laramie Project," "Pollock," "With Friends Like These," "The Dark Half," "Uncle Buck," "Alamo Bay," "Places in the Heart" and "Streets of Fire."

Writer-director-producer Pavone recently produced the family drama, "Legendary," starring Patricia Clarkson, WWE Superstar John Cena(R) and Danny Glover, as well as the comedy "Knucklehead," with Mark Feuerstein, Melora Hardin and WWE Superstar Paul "Big Show(R)" Wight. "Legendary" and "Knucklehead" are slated for theatrical release in late 2010.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (WWE 16.44, +0.10, +0.61%) , is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE 16.44, +0.10, +0.61%) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include the conditions of the markets for live events, broadcast television, cable television, pay-per-view, Internet, feature films, entertainment, professional sports, and licensed merchandise; acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to litigation; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition to these risks and uncertainties, our dividend is based on a number of factors, including our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan, our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends and such other factors as our board of directors may consider relevant.

SOURCE: World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

Wrestling shows go head-to-head - 16th February 2010

LOS ANGELES - Spike TV is re-igniting the wrestling wars.

The cable network is moving its "TNA Impact" franchise up against USA's top-rated "Monday Night Raw." Starting March 8, the two-hour "Impact" will move from Thursdays to air head-to-head against USA's program, most notably echoing the Monday Night Wars of 1995-2001, when WWE's "Raw" faced World Championship Wrestling's "Monday Nitro."

The typically taped "Impact" also will air live telecasts every other week; "Raw" always airs live.

"We feel strongly that Monday nights is where the majority of wrestling viewers have been historically," TNA (Total Nonstop Action) president Dixie Carter said. "Having two Monday night wrestling shows with healthy competition between them can make for great TV."

Spike has done a pair of Monday night test runs, most recently last month, which featured the debut of the franchise's new host, wrestling icon Hulk Hogan. The special drew 2.2 million viewers, considerably higher than TNA's usual 1.6 million average, but couldn't pin "Raw," which averages about 5.2 million viewers each week.

"Our goal is not to beat 'Raw' immediately, but we feel confident this will accelerate our growth and make it fun for wrestling fans," Carter said.

The shows target different wrestling sensibilities, with "Raw" aiming for more of a PG rating and "Impact" drawing a TV-14.

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

For Spike TV, this is an opportunity to tap into sports fans while "Monday Night Football" is off the grid.

TNA Wrestling News: Against All Odds PPV

Samoa Joe challenges TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. Styles for the TNA World Title at tonight's Against All Odds PPV. The PPV will also feature Team 3D vs. the Nasty Boys and an eight-man tournament to determine the #1 contender to the World Title.

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WWE(R) Superstar Triple H(R) Unveils His Action Figure and Kicks Off New York Toy Fair

Mattel and World Wrestling Entertainment(R) Celebrate Partnership and Present Innovative New Toys for the Fall 2010 Line

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb 12, 2010 - WWE Superstar Triple H(R) joined Mattel, Inc. and World Wrestling Entertainment(R) to celebrate Mattel's first line of WWE(R) action figures and accessories, including several scheduled to debut in fall 2010, at a special event at New York Toy Fair today.

President of Mattel Brands Neil Friedman and WWE(R) COO Donna Goldsmith spoke about the partnership between these dynamic entertainment companies, the innovation behind the new FlexForce(TM) toys for kids and the renowned design behind the most detailed line of WWE figures ever assembled for the collector community. WWE(R) Superstar and 13-time World Champion Triple H(R), best known for his "Pedigree" finishing move, showcased his FlexForce(TM) action figure.

"Mattel's WWE action figures and accessories are the most complete and realistic ever produced, thanks to the close collaboration between two of the world's heavyweight brands," said Friedman. "We're certain that collectors will love the attention to detail of the WWE figures, while kids will be impressed with the moves and innovation behind the FlexForce line."

"This new line of WWE FlexForce figures is the first that captures the electrifying drama and action that goes on inside the ring," said Donna Goldsmith. "Through Mattel's new WWE line, kids and collectors around the world can experience the detail and authenticity of WWE's Superstars. These action figures and accessories also reflect the family-friendly PG content of WWE."

Mattel and WWE(R) joined forces to launch the most comprehensive portfolio of WWE(R) action figures and accessories, which hit shelves nationwide in January 2010. The line includes the FlexForce(TM) action figures for young fans and the Elite and Entrance Great figures for the avid collectors. Other products designed specifically for kids include Superstar Rings, Championship Belts, Ring Action Megaphone and motion-activated Tough Talkers(TM) that deliver WWE(R) Superstar catch phrases and striking sounds. Basic figure single packs will be released every month, while two-packs and Elite figures will roll out every other month.

Photos and b-roll of the special event are available at www.mattelbrandsmedia.com

About Mattel, Inc.

Mattel, Inc., (www.mattel.com) is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products. The Mattel family is comprised of such best-selling brands as Barbie(R), the most popular fashion doll ever introduced, Hot Wheels(R), Matchbox(R), American Girl(R), Radica(R) and Tyco(R) R/C, as well as Fisher-Price(R) brands, including Little People(R), Power Wheels(R) and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toy lines. In 2009, Mattel is recognized among the "100 Best Corporate Citizens," as one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and as one of FORTUNE Magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For." With worldwide headquarters in El Segundo, Calif., Mattel employs approximately 30,000 people in 43 countries and territories and sells products in more than 150 nations. Mattel's vision is to be the world's premier toy brands--today and tomorrow.

About WWE, Inc.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company, is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. can be found at corporate.wwe.com.

(C) 2010 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. (C) 2010 World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Lucha VaVoom brings wrestling and burlesque together in downtown LA - 12 February 2010

Joey Ryan stood on the outside, taking a breather in the middle of his match. Suddenly he looked up and saw a man in a giant chicken costume ready to come crashing down on him from high above.

The chicken flew, flattening Ryan. The Crazy Chickens' theme song pounded through the sold-out auditorium on Wednesday night as Lucha VaVoom thundered back into town as part of an annual Valentine's show at the Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles.

The chickens danced. The crowd roared and Joey Ryan was rolled back into the ring for his last trouncing of the night.

Lucha VaVoom's motto is "sexo y violencia," and they bring together Mexican lucha libre pro wrestling, burlesque, and comedy. "It teases but never delivers either sex or violence," said lucha libre expert Steve Sims.

VaVoom has expanded its demographic in recent years beyond the hipster crowd. The Hispanic community has begun to embrace the promotion.

"It took a really long time for them to respect what we were doing and realize that we were respecting their culture," said co-producer Rita D'Albert.

As LuchaBlog.com writer N. Khan put it, "To me, it's clear they love lucha libre, and the silliness they do is meant as a satire and not a mockery."

"Lucha VaVoom seems to draw a mostly casual audience with only a slight familiarity with it," Khan added. "I don't think that changes for most by the end of the night, but I do think they come away from the show with an appreciation for the wrestlers themselves and for their style of action."

Lucha VaVoom has been entertaining L.A. crowds for over seven years at its Mayan Theatre home. The group has also gone on tour, traveling to Las Vegas, Chicago, Amsterdam, and New York's Webster Hall.

Comedian Blaine Capatch hosts the show and does live commentary during the matches. Other comedians are brought in as well, including Howard Kramer on Wednesday and the voice of SpongeBob, Tom Kenny on Thursday. Other comedians who've participated have included Patton Oswalt, Dana Gould, and Fred Armisen from "Saturday Night Live."

The show pushes sexual boundaries, with burlesque dancers entertaining between wrestling matches, gay wrestling characters like Cassandro goosing his opponent to wild cheers from the crowd, and androgynous lightning-fast hula hooper Karis.

Cassandro is an unlikely hero, but "he has the respect of all the wrestlers in Mexico and here," said co-producer Liz Fairbairn.

"They love him," Fairbairn said.

He's been wrestling for 20 years, from L.A. to an event at the Louvre against Mexican wrestling legend El Hijo del Santo.

Cassandro is part of the lucha tradition of "exoticos," gay wrestling characters.

"A lot of the moves in his arsenal involve using the other wrestler's homophobia as a weapon," said D'Albert. "I like how much less testosterone-fueled [lucha] is. It's got much more of a sense of fun."

Unlike most American pro wrestling, the wrestlers don't do much talking.

"We don't let them get on the mic and yell like this!" D'Albert said. "Their characters are well developed, so through their style of wrestling, you get what they stand for."

Lucha wrestling features "rudos," the bad guys who use a rough, brawling style against "técnicos," the good guys who use a technical style with more high flying.

Fairbairn brought "lucha libre," or "free fighting" in Spanish, to the United States after she began dating a Mexican wrestler.

"The first time I went was in Ensenada," said Fairbairn. "I just couldn't believe my eyes. It was the best thing I'd ever seen and I just thought everybody should see it.

"Since the early days of punk rock, I have never seen anything that cool."

Part of Fairbairn's desire to bring lucha to the United States was to find work for her Mexican wrestling boyfriend. In her day job as a costume designer, she was working on a burlesque show, where she met partner D'Albert.

D'Albert had been part of a modern burlesque revival beginning in 1995. D'Albert and friends had discovered burlesque in old magazines.

"Strip clubs are OK, but this is like a theater," Fairbairn said. "These are a little bit higher concept."

It was also a natural extension of what was already there in lucha libre, as wrestlers in Mexico are often accompanied to the ring by scantily-clad women who sometimes dance between matches.

D'Albert helped to introduce the burlesque side of the concept, and Lucha VaVoom was born.

"It's just fun," said Fairbairn. "You know, people can kind of let their guard down. There's nothing ironic about it. It's action. People can scream, and yell, and cheer, and get drunk, and make fools of themselves, and it's OK."

D'Albert also performs in the shows as Ursulina, inspired by 1960s icons like Ursula Andress and Sophia Loren.

She's opening this week's events with an original song about Lucha VaVoom. Other burlesque dancers on the show, or "buxoticas" as they're known in Lucha VaVoom, include Harvest Moon, who does a contortionist act in a giant bird cage, as well as a wide variety of dancers and the classic burlesque tassel twirlers.

There are midgets, called "minis," who perform some of the most spectacular stunts on the show. The Crazy Chickens have a midget counterpart, the irreverent Li'l Chicken.

The producers have big dreams for the future of Lucha VaVoom, seeking to land a residency in Las Vegas and expanding their touring operation. They've also launched a new promotion, "The Girlie-Girl Catfight Show," at the El Rey in L.A.

They're also looking to land a TV show.

"I've actually left meetings – Comedy Central – where they go, 'I don't know if wrestling would work on TV.'" D'Albert went on to point out the history of wrestling on television and its continued success.

Lucha VaVoom will perform at the Fillmore in San Francisco on Friday night. They return to L.A. in May for "Cinco de Mayan," and again for an annual Halloween series in October. (Credit: Southern California Public Radio)

McMahon: WWE Network Expected To Launch in Mid 2011 - 11th February 2010

Proposed Network To Help Promote `Raw,' `SmackDown' Properties

World Wrestling Entertainment is looking to jump into the cable network ring with a proposed network that the pro grappling outfit expects to launch in the next 18 months, according to WWE chairman Vince McMahon.

McMahon, speaking Thursday morning during the company's 2009 fourth-quarter earnings call, said it has been doing "a great deal of due diligence" toward creating a WWE cable network that would presumably offer live and library content.

"I would hope a year-and-a-half from now we would be up and running," McMahon said. "We think there is a tremendous opportunity for us out there and quite frankly if things happen as we hope they will happen it will be a really big game changer for the WWE."

The proposed network would not infringe on the WWE's current cable and broadcast shows, including USA Network's WWE Monday Night Raw and MyNetworkTV's SmackDown , but instead could be used as a marketing tool for those shows.

"We are unique in that what's good for the WWE is good for all our television partners as far as promotion and things of that nature," he said. "The new network could tie in and be adjacent to some of those shows and quite frankly our own network can enhance Raw and SmackDown. It would really be a win-win across the board for our television partners, as well as for us." (Credit: World Wrestling Entertainment, MultiChannel News, Wires)

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ECW Originals could spike numbers, interest, media and attendance in TNA; Rob Van Dam, Sabu, Taz, Shane Douglas, Tommy Dreamer, Cactus Jack - 9th Feb

ECW Originals could spike numbers, interest, media and attendance in TNA; Rob Van Dam, Sabu, Taz, Shane Douglas, Tommy Dreamer, Cactus Jack, Terry Funk; Paul E aka Paul Heyman as mastermind, by Greg Tingle

Wrestling fans and media commentators the world over, from the U.S to Europe, down under to Australia, are interested to see the reformation of the ECW Original's (in TNA Wrestling!).

Living legend Hulk Hogan is listening to both wresting fans and the network powers that be.

Hogan claims TNA isn't to the point yet of having a Monday night timeslot locked in with Spike TV, but he feels their "positive energy" every day that tells him they're getting closer to working out a deal.

Many insiders say Hogan is doing what's best for the business and really does want to give back to the industry that made him a mega star.

"We're pushing hard for Mondays, trying to get there, a lot of variables, but it looks like it's much better than it did yesterday," Hogan said on the Monday Night Mayhem radio show yesterday. "I'm just starting to figure this crap out right now dealing with networks, ad sales, cross-overs, going to the top of the hours, quarter-hours."

Hogan said they've been "getting good news" for the last week as they push hard for Monday nights, but now he's shifting the heat to the "smart marks" - his scapegoat term the past week - for pushing for Monday nights.

"There's stuff that's already been scheduled, there's budgeting issues, there's shows for the new season, so it's not like 'Okay, let's go live on Monday nights.' Nothing is that easy. A lot of the fans, a lot of the 'smart marks' are saying 'we should go live Monday nights.' They have no idea what it entails, I'm just now having people sit me down after 30 years of wrestling and go 'Guy, you know what it's all about to work the match and be on the road.' Now you're dealing with the economy, the network, and the way the audience flips and changes the channel," Hogan said. "Right when you think you have it figured out what attracts the right demo, it starts to mold, and manipulate, and shape."

Hogan did admit TNA can't just "plug in the old NWO" and do the same storylines again like they did in WCW. He said they're learning from their mistakes a month into running TNA and figuring out how to present the product.

"It's not a cookie-cutter thing...you just lock down like you did when you ran against Vince (McMahon) with Ted Turner (in WCW). I thought that would work just to work it in and make a crack, but things are different than they two-three months ago because of the economy," Hogan said. "When you figure in the networks and the head of Viacom, and they're watching the minute by minute numbers for 18-34 (year olds), it's not like you could just plug in the old NWO and do it like we did when we punked Vince out. It's ever-changing moving parts, so we did learn from our mistakes; like when you get successful sometimes, you can get too full of yourself."

Hogan also gave a nod to the ratings dip this past Thursday on Impact when they lost approximately 350,000 viewers after the all-time ratings peak on Thursday nights on January 28.

"We have learned from our mistakes, and we are learning, almost like on the job training, because some of the stuff that worked two weeks ago, didn't work last week, so we're digging in and have our ears and eyes to the ground," he said.

Hard core fans and insiders, the type that subscribe to "sheets" like the famed Wrestling Observer Newsletter and Pro Wrestling Torch generally agree that TNA needs more technically gifted, big name wrestlers..."total package" type wrestlers like Kurt Angle and fans are urging Hogan to bring in Rob Van Dam and to reform the ECW (Extreme Championship Wrestling) Original's.

Australian based Media Man, the media and publicity company advised that if Hogan brings in Rob Van Dam and at least some ECW Original's it will boost numbers across the board and would be money well spent.

TNA already have the foundations and some strong name value in Hogan, Ric Flair, Kurt Angle and some solid financial backing, so its time to turn it up a few notches and make the most of the golden opportunities that present.

Insiders agree that TNA needs to do more to improve and that the ECW and Rob Van Dam factor could be just want the wrestling promotions needs at the moment. TNA has also been exploring some of the elements that made the UFC a mega success. Former amateur
wrestler and WWE superstar, Brock Lesnar, is credited with helping UFC get to the next level. A bit of history...in 2002 WWE credited Lesnar for injuring Hulk Hogan's back and preventing The Hulkster from being on the WWE wrestling tour "down under". It was a worked angle. Hogan touched on this history with News Limited in his recent Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin Tour of Australia where he drew decent crowds and massive media attention sharing the spotlight with "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair. Flair remains keen to get back in the ring with TNA. In past weeks Flair has been mentoring the TNA stable and his guidance to A.J Styles have been played out in storylies, to a mixed reaction from fans and co-workers.

Wrestling fans in the meantime continue to enjoy the battle between TNA and WWE. As Hogan says, "The fans win".

References: Media Man, Pro Wrestling Observer, Pro Wrestling Torch, TNA Wrestling, World Wrestling Entertainment, Rob Van Dam official website, Heyman Hustle.

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WWE News: Fox News - Linda McMahon's Senate opponent trying to use the "Eugene" character against McMahon

Fox News picked up the story of former WWE CEO Linda McMahon's Republican opponent in the Connecticut Senate race looking to use WWE's "Eugene" character against McMahon.

Rob Simmons, who is running against McMahon for the Republican nomination, is trying to draw attention to WWE's use of the "mentally retarded" Eugene character while media attention is on U.S. president Barack Obama's White House Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel, for recently using the word "retards" in a derogatory manner.

Simmons says he wants McMahon to account for the storyline where "Eugene" was destroyed by Triple H in a steel cage match in September 2004.

At the time, WWE defended the character by saying he was designed to be a "hero" encouraging "other people with disabilities to strive to achieve their dreams."

Caldwell's Analysis: Simmons can chase this angle all he wants by looking through the history of racist, sexist, jingoistic, homophobic, and insensitive characters that have come through the WWE pipeline to find some sort of "negative visual" for the general public to attach to McMahon, but this is maybe #5 on important issues McMahon needs to be held accountable for from her time as WWE CEO. #1 is the record of occupational health issues in WWE and pro wrestling with an industry-wide epidemic of wrestlers dying young, steroid abuse, pain pill addiction, independent contractor status when wrestlers are treated like employees, no formal regulatory body protecting wrestlers, and no regularly-scheduled off-season. (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)

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NCEL - GREENSBORO MAN WINS $100,000 INSTANTLY ON THE “WOOOOOOO!” INSTANT SCRATCH-OFF GAME

NCEL - Big Winners Jan. 25 - Jan. 28

GREENSBORO MAN WINS $100,000 INSTANTLY ON THE “WOOOOOOO!” INSTANT SCRATCH-OFF GAME
-Triple 5’s Drawn for “Carolina Pick 3”

RALEIGH- A Greensboro man suddenly became a $100,000 winner playing the “Wooooooo!” scratch-off game. Said Rashid scratched off his winning ticket at the store where he purchased the game, the Yico Lee Mart on West Market Street in Greensboro. His after-tax winnings totaled $68,001. Said told NCEL officials that in addition to putting his winnings into savings, he plans to use the money to do some things for his family.

Pick 3 players “saw triple” on Wednesday, Jan. 27 when the numbers “5-5-5” came up in the evening draw. A total of $888,750 in cash prizes were paid on the 3,555 winning shares.

Powerball players in North Carolina need to check their tickets! Two tickets sold in North Carolina are worth $10,000 after each one matched four out of five white balls and the Powerball in the Wednesday, Jan. 27 drawing. The tickets were sold at the Wilco Hess on Highway 264 East in Greenville and at the Shell Food Mart on Becks Church Road in Lexington.

A total of 41,109 North Carolina Powerball players won prizes in the Wednesday, Jan. 27 Powerball drawing ranging from $3 to $10,000 for a total payout in prizes worth $427,411. Because no tickets matched all five white balls and the Powerball, the jackpot for the Saturday, Jan. 30 Powerball drawing is an estimated $90 million.

The North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) has paid out over $5 million total in instant scratch-off ticket prizes since Monday, Jan. 25. Also since Monday, “Carolina Pick 3” players have won over $1.4 million, “Carolina Pick 4” players have won more than $148,000 and 5 tickets won the top prize of $5,000. “Carolina Cash 5” players have won over $183,708.

100% of the North Carolina Education Lottery net proceeds are used for pre-kindergarten programs for at risk youth, reduction of class size in early grades, school construction and need-based college scholarships.

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Brisco doing well, signs with PR company - 23rd January 2010

Jerry Brisco, a legendary name in professional wrestling, has signed with a public relations company. Brisco, a current agent/talent scout for World Wrestling Entertainment, will be represented by Eclectic Media Productions.

Brisco, who won dozens of wrestling championships in his storied career, is pleased to become EMP's newest client, under the direction of President Shannon Rose.

``I was very impressed with Shannon's company, their aggressiveness and bold ideas,'' Brisco said in a statement.

The feeling is mutual, according to EMP Vice President Greg Eno.

``For a company like ours, you can only get better by bringing someone like Jerry on board,'' Eno said. ``We can't wait to get started.''

According to the agreement, EMP will help facilitate Brisco's public appearances, including autograph signings and conventions.

Brisco has been associated with WWE for more than 20 years, making him one of that entertainment empire's most tenured employees.

Brisco, along with older brother Jack, formed one of pro wrestling's most successful tag teams, the Brisco Brothers, which won more than 20 tag team titles in 13 years, starting in the early 1970s. Jerry also won a number of singles titles.

On July 15, 2005, Brisco was inducted into the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. On March 29, 2008, the Brisco Brothers were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.

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PartyCasino Marvel Slots Online - Just don't wait for the movie, Play The Game, by Greg Tingle - 21st January 2010

PartyCasino.com Marvel Slots Online - Just don't wait for the movie, Play The Game, by Greg Tingle

As we head towards the conclusion of the first month of 2010, PartyGaming continues to cement itself as the world's leading igaming company.

PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com keeps adding more games and features, and the powers that be at Party advise to expect "Avatar" type technologies in the near future.

The powers that be at PartyGaming and Marvel Entertainment (recently purchased by Disney) have developed amazing online game versions of an array of Marvel superheroes.

Marvel Icon Stan Lee's creations have really come to life at PartyCasino, and you can even play them for free or for money. There's even a Super Hero Jackpot and Marvel Hero Jackpot.

Check them out: The Incredible Hulk, Thor, The Amazing Spider-Man and Fantastic Four.

The Media Man - Stan Lee connection advises that more Marvel themed movies and games are coming out this year and next, and that Marvel plan on developing characters that were released in Timely Comics and Marvel Comics decades ago.

PartyGaming is also adding more Marvel themed games to its Noble Casino brand including the red hot Iron-Man, the sequel soon to be hitting the big screen, and The Incredible Hulk.

iGaming industry developments may also see Wolverine, X-Men and The First Avenger, Captain America, arrive at PartyCasino.com, however that's just industry buzz at the moment.

PartyGaming have had contact with Australia's NextGen Gaming and its quite possible that pro wrestling themed games will arrive and the legendary Andre The Giant would likely be the first cab off the rank. Andre's battle with Hulk Hogan at WWE WrestleMania III is probably the most famous pro wrestling match in history. Marvel fans may be interested to know that Terry Bollea (Hulk Hogan) purchased the rights from Marvel to use the name "Hulk" for the wrestling and entertainment business in the 1980's in a multi million dollar deal. Hulk Hogan's star was of course elevated by his appearance in Sylvester Stallone's Rocky III playing "Thunderlips" (a bad guy wrestler). Stallone went on to late play John Rambo in the Rambo movies, and incidentally a Rambo themed slot game is also available at PartyCasino. The WWF (now WWE) continued to use some super hero themes including with the late, great, Owen Hart "The Blue Blazer" and current superstar Gregory Shane Helms "The Hurricane", however they are not Marvel creations. Speaking of the Marvel - pro wrestling connection, Randy "Macho Man" Savage featured in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man as "Bone Saw McGraw" circa 2002, and the late news is that a Spider-Man IV will soon be going into production, however some delays of the film have been experienced, and Kenneth Branagh's 'Thor' adaption has been moved forward to a release date of 19th May 2011.

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin, recently coming off "The Expendables" movie set (where he accidentally broke Stallone's neck) is said to be interested in appearing in a Marvel film and expending into igaming ventures, however that's a wait and see situation as of this writing. Certainly the fan base is there, but WWE's Vince McMahon may not be ready for Austin to be totally set free for movies and gaming quite yet, don't forget, McMahon is currently chasing Dwayne Johnson "The Rock" back to the WWE arena, a move that is likely to surge TV ratings (and sales of WWE Legends of WrestleMania game). Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka are said to be all interested in doing business with PartyGaming, including having their own game adaptions. Hogan currently has a "Hulkamania Experience" slot game available in some U.S. traditional casinos and Flair's recent promo with the North Carolina Education Lottery was extremely popular, so just imagine the interest for online games featuring these greats.

All the movie and Hollywood talk points to something... its all about entertainment. PartyGaming is in the entertainment (and igaming) industry, as is World Wrestling Entertainment and Marvel Entertainment (aka Marvel Comics).

It's for these reasons and more that when giants of the entertainment world such as PartyGaming and Marvel Entertainment get together, amazing game experiences can be enjoyed. In the words of Marvel icon and living legend, Excelsior! Don't just play the game, Feel It, at PartyCasino.com

*The writer has b2b dealings with Marvel Entertainment, PartyGaming and WWE, as they do with dozens of brands in the gaming, igaming and entertainment world.

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Wrestlers unite for Haiti relief - 15th January 2010

SOME of America's biggest wrestling stars are getting together to raise cash to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

TNA Knockouts tag team champion Awesome Kong is hosting a charity event tonight in Pennsylvania — with hardcore legend Mick Foley pledging £1,500.

UK star Brutus Magnus, of the British Invasion tag team, will take a pie in the face once £300 is raised at the event.

And when the total gets to £600, TNA's Beautiful People have promised to cat crawl along the bar.

Kong, real name Kia Stevens, said: "Join me and my colleagues in making a difference at The Midtown Tavern in Harrisburg.

"Please urge people to send whatever they can. Let's prove the power of social networks!"

She added: "Big ups to Mick Foley. He has offered to match what we collect in pledges, up to £1500.

"Send pledges to wrestlers4Haiti@gmail.com — Let's see what we can drum up for the Red Cross."

Meanwhile WWE have posted a message on their website urging fans to donate to the AmeriCares relief effort.

The statement read: "By now, most of you are aware of the devastating 7.0 earthquake that hit 10 miles Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

"The devastation has been significant, with estimates of more than 3 million people impacted by the disaster.

"Emergency response teams have entered Haiti to start the recovery effort and provide needed medical relief to people affected by the earthquake.

"Among those responding is AmeriCares, which is sending $5 million worth of medical aid to survivors.

"Medicines and supplies are critically needed in Haiti right now.

"Emergency response experts from AmeriCares and other agencies are working around-the-clock to get those lifesaving products into the hands of medical personnel treating survivors." (Credit: The Sun)

WWE News: Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon dodges tough WWE-related questions during TV interview - 17th January 2010

During a TV interview on WFSB in Connecticut that aired this morning, former WWE CEO Linda McMahon stuck to her regular defenses promoting WWE's TV-PG programming, recent institution of the Wellness Policy, and paying for medical costs for pro wrestlers in response to being grilled about her executive decisions in WWE.

McMahon was asked several questions about her role in WWE based on how she created wealth to run for Senator in Connecticut and whether McMahon overlooked health issues ongoing in her company while making money off wrestlers.

During the interview, McMahon set up each WWE-related response with a preface on how she believes WWE is a great, family-friendly product. McMahon challenged reporter Brian Lockhart to check the Wellness Policy on WWE's website for details on the policy, but she would not address WWE's handling of health issues prior to the Wellness Policy's creation in 2005.

"We have had drug testing policies in place for many, many years. Maintaining the health and wellness of the performers in the ring is paramount to us," McMahon said.

McMahon was also grilled on wrestlers assuming risk and WWE not assuming much risk by classifying wrestlers as independent contracts. McMahon again defended the issue by saying wrestlers acknowledge their risk as wrestlers.

"The performers in WWE are independent contractors. They sign that waiver. Even given the waiver, we protect them," she said. "Any injury - surgery or rehab - WWE covers that and covers all their rehab."

McMahon's only true admission in the interview was acknowledging WWE has pushed the envelope on TV in the past, which came after she shot a glare toward reporter Brian Lockhart for bringing up Triple H's infamous simulated sex with the storyline corpse of Katie Vick.

"Yes, I think there are times when we have (pushed the envelope). That's what happens you write television 52 weeks per year. It's fiction," she said.

There wasn't enough time at this point in the segment to follow up on WWE appealing to a younger demographic that may not understand that pro wrestling is "fictional" and how she responds to that.

The final WWE-related note from the interview was Linda McMahon suggesting her husband, WWE CEO Vince McMahon, could be on the campaign trail down the line.

"He is fully supportive of this race, as is my family, and he is cheering me on for this campaign," McMahon said. "He might campaign down the road."

Links: Watch Part 1 of the Video on WFSB Ch. 3 and Part 2 and Part 3.

(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)

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WWE Hall of Fame - Stu Hart almost certainly to be inducted this year

WWE's Vince McMahon has said that he wants to induct Stu Hart into the WWE Hall of Fame at WrestleMania 26.

Wrestling announcer icon, Jim Ross via his official web blog advises "Stu Hart going into the WWE HOF is a cool deal as Stu was a real character and is one of the most impersonated men in the history of the wrestling biz. The late Owen Hart played some amazing, telephone practical jokes on his Dad that are classics. I have no idea who else will be inducted but I'm sure that it will be a fun night for those that attend or watch on TV".

Other names that insiders and fans have been speculating on for inclusion in this years WWE Hall Of Fame include but are not limited to Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Randy "Macho Man" Savage, "The Ultimate Warrior" and Bruno Sammartino. The names come up annually, however for a variety of reasons, including some heat and mixed history, haven't made the cut to date. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper showed guts and integrity by publicly championing Sammartino, who to date has rejected induction. A number of wrestling insiders say that Sammartino should follow Bret Hart's lead and "let go" of heat he was with McMahon and the company, and accept his rightful place in the HOF.

Roberts has also shown guts and leadership by accepting WWE rehab via the Wellness program. Roberts has also publicly thanked McMahon for saving his life.

The industry and fans are aware that the WWE Hall Of Fame is not the only wrestling Hall Of Fame on the planet, however its the most visible and the company does an impressive job with it, tying it in with WrestleMania and the like.

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WWE(R) Promotes Whitaker to Head WWE International

STAMFORD, Conn., Jan 07, 2010 - World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. today announced that Andrew Whitaker will take on additional responsibilities and head up WWE International effective immediately.

In his new role as Executive Vice President, Whitaker will be responsible for determining the strategic direction for WWE's business outside of the U.S. across all revenue streams. He will report directly to WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon and has been named an Executive Officer of the company. Whitaker will relocate back to WWE's global headquarters in Stamford.

Whitaker joined WWE in 1987 as part of the team delivering television syndication and developing WWE's pay-per-view business. He moved to WWE's international division in 1991, working in live events, international television and the pay-per-view business from WWE's London office, where Whitaker negotiated the largest international television contracts in the company's history. In November 2007, Whitaker began managing several of WWE's regional business units internationally and his role was expanded in January 2009 to include all areas outside of the U.S.

"Andrew has been instrumental to WWE's international growth. We are confident that he will continue to expand the breadth and depth of opportunities for WWE internationally," said Vince McMahon.

Whitaker commenced his career at NBC in New York, working on shows that include NBC News, Late Night with David Letterman, The Today Show, Saturday Night Live and The Cosby Show. He sits on the international program advisory board for the Banff World Television Festival and nextMedia, International Interactive Media Festival and is also a member of the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

About WWE

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Tokyo, Toronto and Sydney.

Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: WWE) can be found at corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

SPIKE TV’S “TNA iMPACT” DELIVERS ITS HIGHEST RATINGS EVER FOR HULK HOGAN’S DEBUT IN SPECIAL LIVE EPISODE

2.2 Million Tune-In For Live Three-Hour Telecast

New York, NY, January 5, 2010 – Hulk Hogan’s first appearance on Spike TV’s special three-hour live “TNA iMPACT” on Monday, January 4 (8:00-11:05pm) drew 2.2 million viewers. This marks the most-watched "TNA iMPACT" in the history of the franchise, totaling 222 episodes dating back to October, 2005. The previous high was 1.97 million viewers reached last April.

The event was broadcast from the TNA iMPACT! Zone at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fl. Airing head-to-head with WWE on USA Network, “TNA iMPACT” peaked at 2.9 million viewers from 9:00-9:15pm ET/PT.

Overall, the telecast drew a 1.5 household rating, a 1.8 in Men 18-34, and a 1.6 in Men 18-49. For the time period, “TNA iMPACT” was up a whopping +338% in M18-34, +241% in M18-49, and +84% in average audience versus a year ago.

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PartyCasino: Home of the world's most popular slot games - Cleo, Monopoly, Call Of Duty 4, Cubis, Tarzan, Thor, The Hulk, Sinatra and Rambo

PartyCasino.com: Home of the world's most popular online slot games - Cleopatra, Monopoly, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Cubis, Bejeweled, Tarzan, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Sintra and Rambo, by Greg Tingle - 7th January 2010

Things are really heating up at PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com as of late.

Already widely acknowledged as the world's biggest, best and most advanced online casino, word is spreading that even more exciting branded online slot games and "Avatar" type innovations will be hitting the casino in the coming months.

The current line up of games and offers at PartyCasino is world class in every way. Let's take a look at what's available right now, and what's just around the corner.

Branded slot games: from Paramount Pictures, StudioCanal, Hasbro, Activision (Infinity Ward), Marvel Entertainment and Edgar Rice Burroughs.

Live Dealer options on table games such as Baccarat, Blackjack and Roulette, thanks to a collaboration with EvolutionGaming.

Casino classics: Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel Of Fortune, Cluedo and modern classics like Sinatra, Rambo, Tarzan, Mission: Impossible, The Godfather, Top Gun, High Noon and The Terminator.

Jackpots

Gold Mega Jackpot - Take on The Godfather, adapted by movie director legend Francis Ford Coppola and Gone With The Wind, adapted from Victor Fleming. Last month Mega Fortune Wheel delivered a player a jackpot win of almost $5 million.

Marvel Hero Jackpot and Super Hero Jackpot slot. Marvel icon Stan Lee's The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Revenge, The Might Thor, The Amazing Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four.

The Big One - a $1.5 million dollar seeded jackpot. Try our the most recent jackpot slot release, Melon Madness, a 30-line slot.

World's most popular games

Not only does PartyCasino have Cleopatra and Call Of Duty 4, now available is Cubis and Bejeweled. This gives the player a choice of the world's most popular games in a range of game pedigree and genre.

Sci-Fi, Horror and Comedy themed

Arnold Schwarzengger's The Terminator, Resident Evil and Leslie Nielson's The Naked Gun.

Most of the game releases can be played for free or played for money and are available in a range of multi language and multi currency (US, CAN and EUR) options. Players from most parts of Europe and the Asia Pacific, including Australia, can play for free or for money at PartyCasino.com

What to expect in the coming months

More blockbuster and Hollywood themed games, including some of the world's most popular movies adapted for PartyCasino. Pro wrestling legend names are being discussed, and the late, great, Andre The Giant is at the forefront of discussions. "Avator" type technologies are on the way that will further enhance gameplay and player experiences.

Player rewards: Exclusive PartyPoints and Palladium Lounge rewards and offers ranging from cash prizes, holidays and more.

Industry Awards and Commendations: PartyGaming and its brands including PartyCasino.com, PartyBingo.com and PartyPoker.com have won numerous awards over the years. These include EGR "Socially Responsibly Operator of the Year" and also Media Man - Casino News Media - Global Gaming Directory "Online Casino of the Month".

PartyGaming was established in 1997 and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

*The writer has a b2b relationship with PartyGaming, as they do with dozens of companies in the gaming and igaming world.

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Sylvester Stallone reveals Steve Austin broke his neck during "Expendables" movie shoot - 5th January 2010

One of the biggest stories in entertainment news today is Sylvester Stallone revealing that WWE Hall of Famer Steve Austin broke his neck while filming a fight scene for the upcoming "Expendables" movie.

"My fight with Stone Cold Steve Austin was so vicious that I ended up getting a hairline fracture in my neck. I'm not joking," Stallone told FHM Magazine. "I haven't told anyone this, but I had to have a very serious operation afterwards. I now have a metal plate in my neck."

Filming took place last spring in Brazil. The movie is scheduled to be released on August 20 of this year with a super-star cast that includes Stallone, Austin, "The Wrestler" star Mickey Rourke, UFC fighter Randy Couture, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Jet Li, Jason Statham, and Dolph Lundgren.

This isn't the first time Austin has injured a fellow cast-member during a fight scene. During filming for the "Damage" movie in fall 2008, Austin broke MMA fighter/actor Paul Lazenby's nose during a fight scene. (Read the details and the Torch-Exclusive interview with Lazenby.)

Link: Daily Mail report on Stallone. (Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)

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Eric Bischoff: Looking Forward to 2010

There are many things I am looking forward to in 2010. From a non-wrestling point of view, one of the things I am most looking forward to is an end to 2009. From politics, the economy and the general malaise within the television industry, I am optimistic that the new year will be a brighter one than the one we have been struggling through for the 363 days.

From a professional wrestling perspective, I am excited to see a heightened level of energy and interest in the business. TNA has ratcheted up their game, and Spike TV has put some nitrous into the tank with a live Monday Night head to head broadcast and some serious advertising and marketing.

As expected, WWE is reacting to the competition by bringing in Bret Hart.

I am happy for Bret. Hopefully, by going back to work for Vince and the WWE, Bret will be able to put a painful and personally traumatic part of his life behind him. I have always liked Bret as a person and respected him as a professional. It was disappointing to me when I would read or hear comments that Bret would make, that reflected the bitterness he has been carrying around with him for so long. Bret has an opportunity now to write the last chapter of his book in a way that will allow fans to remember him in a more positive way.

I wish the best for Bret and wish good luck to TNA as well.

Clearly TNA is up against a Wall Street mega-corp bully with a billion dollar bank account and a Chairman that thinks only he should have any meaningful market share of the professional wrestling business (even though he's embarrassed to admit he's in the professional wrestling business). It will be an up-hill battle for TNA indeed.

The real winner though, will be the wrestling fans.

Based on the mind-numbingly stupid Raw I had the misfortune of dropping in on last week, perhaps the fact that TNA stepped up and is at least taking a swing at the bully was enough to make McMahon realize that he could not afford to take his audience for granted and continue to shove tripe down the throats of his Goliath "universe" while David was reaching for a stone.

This Monday Night...win, lose, or draw I have to give credit to the folks at TNA and Spike. They could have taken the easy path and put their best foot forward un-opposed. That would make the most sense to many people. But by at least getting into the fight, TNA is most likely going to gain the awareness and respect of a completely different audience.

And wrestling fans are not only going to have a choice this Monday night, they will most likely see a higher quality product all the way around. And for that they should thank TNA. (Credit: Eric Bischoff)

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PartyCasino Wins Media Man Online Casino Award, by Greg Tingle - 30th December 2009

PartyCasino.com Wins Media Man Online Casino Award

PartyCasino.com has once again been awarded the Media Man and Casino News Media "Online Casino Of The Month".

The competition for the coveted award was intense again this month with massive bids from both Captain Cooks Casino and Virgin Casino, however there can only be one winner... ladies and gentlemen, that's PartyCasino.com

The award follows PartyPoker's EGR Poker Operator Of The Year and PartyGaming also made the shortlist for EGR Operator Of The Year. Last month PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com also won the Casino News Media "Online Poker Website Of The Month".

The Media Man - Casino News Media accolade is based on a combination of elements including user experience, innovation, trustworthiness, customer service, gameplay, affiliate program offerings, newsworthiness and company values.

PartyCasino.com is one of a number of PartyGaming brands.

The most popular PartyCasino.com games of late include Rambo, The Godfather, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Mission: Impossible, The Terminator, Cleopatra, Sinatra, Thor, The Hulk, Monopoly, Resident Evil and Mega Fortune Wheel. Last month a German casino player won the Gold Mega Jackpot of almost $5 million dollars playing Mega Fortune Wheel.

The PartyCasino.com jackpot is currently approaching the $1 million mark. Players can also compete for the Marvel Hero Jackpot, playing the Marvel super hero themed online slot games.

PartyCasino's most recent game releases include Tarzan, High Noon and Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

PartyGaming CEO Jim Ryan has gone on record advising PartyCasino will soon feature more Hollywood blockbuster themed slots. A few in the know journalists and media agents have been recently tipped off that pro wrestling themed online slot games are in the works and that an all time classic movie adaption will be showcased in the PartyCasino portfolio within 3 months. Names been thrown around include Andre The Giant, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, but those names are only rumors, however a print feature did showcase Andre earlier in the year, indicating that there is substance to the rumor mill. In any event, PartyCasino already has the world's most impressive line up of Hollywood themed games, and more are just around the corner.

In other exciting PartyGaming news, PartyPoker.com is currently running qualifiers to the L.A Poker Classic in the United States. PartyGaming's recent purchase of the World Poker Tour company and assets enables PartyGaming to once again accept American based poker players, and they are hopefully of soon accepting American casino players also. Both websites accept most European, South American and Australian players.

PartyCasino.com and PartyPoker.com customers can also benefit from rewards and bonuses via PartyPoints and the Palladium Lounge. Be certain to check out the PartyCasino exclusive "Cash Machine" that is being championed as one of the greatest online casino promos ever.

Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory do have a b2b relationship with PartyGaming, as they do with dozens of other companies in the gaming and igaming industry.

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PartyCasino: The Top Ten Online Slot Games, by Greg Tingle - December 2009

The top ten online slot games by PartyCasino.com for the month of December 2009 are:

Rambo

Tarzan

Cleopatra

Mission: Impossible

Monopoly

Sinatra

Call Of Duty 4

Top Gun

Thor

The Hulk

The runner up online slot games are:

Resident Evil

Spider-Man

Mega Fortune Wheel

Ramesses Riches

Bejeweled

PartyCasino.com offers unique promotions and player rewards which are widely regarded as the best in the industry. Players can enjoy rewards and bonuses with PartyPoints and the Palladium Lounge, both of which have generous rewards year round and are popular with both new and experienced players, so whether a casino virgin or VIP old hand at the games, there's something for you.

PartyGaming is the parent company of PartyCasino, established in 1997, and is the most successful online company in the world, listed on the London Stock Exchange and winner of numerous EGR Awards, in addition to Casino News Media and Media Man awards and commendations.

Players from most countries can access PartyCasino and PartyPoker. PartyCasino is ranked by many authorities as being the superior online casino for Australia, Europe and South America.

PartyCasino is hopeful of accepting paid American players in 2010, however PartyGaming made a successful purchase of the World Poker Tour late this year allowing players to become more familiar with PartyGaming products and services the world over.

Most games can be played for free or played for money and are available in a range of multi language and multi currency options. PartyGaming's call centre is open around the clock 24/7/365.

Jackpot offerings include Gold Mega Jackpot, Marvel Hero Jackpot and Super Hero Jackpot.

Major innovations at PartyCasino.com include Live Dealer and Single Wallet, and 2010 will see "Avatar" like technologies arrive.

Latest games include the Call Of Duty 4 slot and Melon Madness jackpot slot. 2010 will deliver more Hollywood themed classics, and rumors suggest to be on the lookout for games including pro wrestling also, be it Andre The Giant, Hulk Hogan or Ric Flair. Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan actually purchased the rights to use the name "Hulk" from Marvel Comics in the 80's, but that's another story. Certainly Party do have positive history in wrestling, Hollywood and Marvel Comics circles. This is evidenced in the public domain not only by The Hulk slot game, but also by Stallone's Rambo slot, Tom Cruise's Top Gun slot and Schwarzenegger's The Terminator. Terminator Salvation features Australia's Sam Worthington, and insiders predict more Terminator games may be on the way.

PartyGaming is licensed and regulated by the Government of Gibraltar, with offices around the world, and have been at the leading edge of innovation, customer service and all round excellence for over a decade. Players and partners alike can be assured they are in safe hands at PartyGaming.

Don't just play the games, "Feel it"... experience the world's leading online casino games at PartyCasino.com

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THQ And WWE Agree To Eight-Year Deal - 23rd December 2009

THQ and WWE have been tangled in legal disputes for half a decade over alleged racketeering and licensing shenanigans, but the litigation is officially over, and according to an announcement yesterday THQ will continue publishing WWE games for another eight years. The messy affair that involved the two companies and toymaker Jakks Pacific will end with a series of payouts, but both THQ and WWE voiced satisfaction with their new agreement.

THQ will pay $13.2 million to the WWE and $20 million to Jakks Pacific to resolve things, according to MCV. The settlement was followed by a new licensing agreement that should make court arguments a distant memory.

“This agreement ensures that WWE games will continue to be an important cornerstone of THQ’s annual release schedule for the long term,” THQ President and CEO Brian Farrell said in a press release. “We look forward to working directly with WWE to expand their brand in the video game space through continued game play innovation and increased online delivery of WWE content.”

WWE echoed those sentiments.

“This year’s highly rated 'WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010' video game demonstrates the innovation and creativity that THQ brings to WWE,” WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon stated. “This new licensing agreement will ensure that we continue our tremendous success in the video game industry in the years to come.”

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Wrestling News Media - 20th December 2009

Bret Hart returns to WWE

Bruno Sammartino hasn't committed to WWE Hall Of Fame

Chris Jericho appears in Bloodstained Memories wrestling film and ramps up Fozzy appearances

Roddy Piper remains vocal about better conditions for pro wrestlers re health etc

Edge and Eve look forward to WWE tour in 2010, having recently campaigned down under

WWE.com ranked in Yahoo! and Google top ten in numerous markets and categories

WWE sticking to Wellness policy

WWE new champion Sheamus performing solidly

Jim Ross renews contract with WWE; may appear at WrestleMania

WWE - newspaper teases VS Hulk Hogan for WrestleMania

WWE - Dennis Miller as Raw host draws mixed reactions from fans and insiders

WWE's Seventh Annual "Tribute to the Troops" aired on NBC 19th December 2009

WWE Studios - Ted DiBiase stars in The Marine 2; available in U.S stores 29th December 2009

The Rock to do numerous WWE appearances

Jeff Hardy remains missed by fans

Kurt Angle on TNA Final Resolution PPV

Mick Foley writing balanced blogs covering Hulk Hogan's TNA entry and role

Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin still not aired on One HD in Australia

Ric Flair likely to sign with TNA; financial terms getting close

Mario Milano wrestled in Australia recently at 73 years of age

Shane McMahon poised to ramp up profile, following UFC meeting with Dana White

Steve Austin to continue film roles

Wrestling Legends: Bobby "The Brain" Heenan recovering well

Wrestling Legends: Paul "Mr Wonderful" Orndorff and many others high on real Hall Of Fame

Wrestling Legends: Wrestlers Rescue campaign garners interest and supporters

Jake "The Snake" Roberts still interested in being in WWE Hall Of Fame

Brooke Hogan open to opportunities

New World Order may reform in TNA

TNA will go head to head with WWE

UFC, TNA and Spike TV "teaming up" to take on WWE Raw

UFC Sydney, Australia tour sells out of tickets 2 months prior to show at Acer Arena

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PartyGaming's PartyCasino and PartyPoker in line for more awards, by Greg Tingle - 18th December 2009

As the countdown towards Christmas continues, with just seven days to go, the igaming industry remains as competitive as ever. It shouldn't surprise anyone, punter, newbie or industry veteran, that PartyGaming and its PartyCasino and PartyPoker brands are in line for more industry awards and commendations.

PartyGaming remains the world’s leading listed online gaming company. Founded in 1997, the
Group has its shares listed on The London Stock Exchange.

Coming off a wave of momentum with its successful purchase of World Poker Tour (WPT Enterprises), Cashcade a number of months ago, and the release of a swag of new slot games, the company is tipped to continue domination of the gaming and igaming world.

Party's awards and commendations include eGaming Review Operator Of The Year and Socially Responsible Operator Of The Year.

This month PartyCasino.com has made the shortlist for Media Man - Casino News Media Online Casino Of The Month, and PartyPoker.com gets to the finals for the Media Man - Casino News Media Online Poker website Of The Month.

The company also achieved inclusion in the FTSE4Good Index Series and last month won 'Best Communications by a private sector company' for the second year running at the CorpComms Awards. PartyCasino and PartyPoker also carry the eCOGRA seal of approval.

As the company looks forward to the new year they look to continue innovation, value for money, world class service, and growth into new geographic regions including South America, Indian, France and the Asia Pacific.

PartyGaming will continue to revamp its websites including it's ever growing PartyCasino.com site, thanks to the frequent games being added and its newly acquired Club WTP website, now sporting a PartyGaming look and feel to it.

PartyGaming remains poised to make more inroads into the United States coming off the back of its purchase of WPT Enterprises (U.S residents can play online poker on the Club World Poker Tour website without potential legal complications). PartyPoker.com ambassador, Stewart Scott, has just been doing a fine job promoting the PartyGaming and PartyPoker.com brand on a national and international basis, and will be defending his poker championship at Aussie Millions 2010 this January at Mr Packer's Crown Casino in Melbourne, Australia.

PartyGaming sites are available in a wide array of languages and currencies, and are available for play around the lock. Players can enjoy most games in either free mode or play for money mode. Last month the PartyCasino jackpot of close to $5 million dollars was one, and as we head towards Christmas the jackpot nears $1 million. PartyCasino also offers the Marvel Hero Jackpot, thanks to their business agreement with Marvel Entertainment. Insiders tip that Thor and The Hulk are the most popular Marvel slots at present, and this may be related to a Thor movie in the works and wrestling living legend, Hulk Hogan, being very prominent in the press of late, just returning to the United States after his successful Hulkamania tour of Australia. A bit of history...Hogan bought the rights to use "Hulk" from Marvel in the 1980's for a million dollars or thereabouts. Rumors persist of a potential Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair and Andre The Giant online slot machine in the new year, but that's another story for another time.

PartyGaming also offers a number of other world class promotions such as Cash Machine, Monthly Million, Slotastic Sundays, and reward offerings, PartyPoints and the very popular Palladium Lounge which has proved to be a must visit destination for PartyGaming VIP's.

It's been a hugely successful year for PartyGaming and the industry and players alike expect more groundbreaking developments from the company as 2010 approaches.

*the writer has a b2b relationship with a number of PartyGaming brands, as they do with dozens of other brands in the gaming and igaming world.

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The Celtic Warrior Sheamus O'Shaunessy Wins WWE Championship on RAW - 13th December 2009

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Hulkamania TV Show Tonight on ONE HD Postponed

More details as they come to hand.

Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin on ONE HD tonight 8PM EST, Australia

Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin will show on ONE HD tonight at 8PM EST.

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Titan Publishing to launch WWE Comics - 3rd December 2009

Titan Publishing has announced its partnership with World Wrestling Entertainment in the launch of WWE Comics. Over the course of the agreement, 20 issues will be produced and distributed to comic retailers and specialty stores in the U.S. and Canada. The comic’s flagship title will be WWE Heroes featuring WWE Superstars and Divas, with the first issue debuting on March 23, 2010.

The series will take the biggest WWE Superstars and Divas beyond the spotlight of the squared circle and into a brand new fictional universe.

“Each week more than 1.6 million teens watch WWE programming on television in the U.S. This is an important demographic for the comic book industry and vital for a successful launch in the industry,” stated Ned Hartley, editor, WWE Heroes. “We've got some truly amazing stories to tell - our first issue is going to blow you away! The 'in-your-face, no-holds-barred' attitude of WWE works so well as a comic, we just can't wait for people to see the great surprises that we've got in store."

WWE Heroes series features Superstars Triple H, Undertaker, Randy Orton, Batista, Shawn Michaels, Big Show, John Cena, CM Punk, Kane, Edge, Chris Jericho, Matt Hardy, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Carlito, Jim Ross, Jerry Lawler and Kelly Kelly. The WWE Heroes cycle is written by Keith Champagne, who has penned acclaimed comics such as Justice Society of America, Green Lantern Corps, World War III and Adolescent Radioactive Black Belt Hamsters.

Issue No.1 reveals an eternal rivalry set against the backdrop of the history of WWE. Why is the ruthless Shadow King so obsessed with WWE? What is the reason for his eternal and supernatural war with the Firstborn? And could his ancient opponent really be a member of the WWE roster?

Artwork is provided by comics’ artist, Andy Smith, who has worked as a penciller for major comic publishers such as Marvel, DC, Image, Acclaim, and CrossGen Entertainment.

An alternate cover exclusive to comic stores of issue No.1 features a specially-commissioned cover by comics’ artist Liam Sharp, who has worked on titles including Hulk, X-Men, Spider-Man, Venom, Gears of War, Superman, Batman, and Spawn: The Dark Ages.

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Crown Casino pockets $10 million thanks to Tiger Woods following; Hulkamania runs wild at Crown's Burswood, by Greg Tingle - 3rd December 2009

Crown Casino hit the jackpot during Tiger Woods' Melbourne visit bringing in $10 million from five golf enthusiast Chinese gamblers.

The Chinese punters were invited to a private golf lesson with Tiger at Crown's Capital Golf Club, which was of course an offer they couldn't refuse.

Gaming commentators advise the tax payable on the $10 mill loss went close to covering the Brumby Government's $1.5 million contribution to the Tiger Woods visit alone.

Crown, which was host to Woods and his entourage throughout the Australian Masters, is also cashing in on the world-wide publicity over the golfing legend's alleged fling with New York party girl Rachel Uchitel. Wood's has gone into lock-down mode and has cancelled many public appearances since the scandal broke.

Earlier this year team Crown Casino got some nice media rub off when Hollywood power couple Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible, Top Gun et al) and Katie Holmes (Don't Be Afraid of the Dark) stayed at Crown Towers, and in addition last March Crown Casino king pin James Packer talked shop with Richard Branson and was more than happy to pose for photographers at the Melbourne Grand Prix. Mr Packer remains busy with his overseeing of Macau's City Of Dreams, campaigning for a polo club and complex at Manor Farm in England, and family life. Media Man was surprised that wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair were not spotted at Crown in their Melbourne leg of Hulkamania Let The Battle Begin, but they did get to do their own version of WrestleMania at Mr Packer's Burswood Entertainment Complex in Perth last week, which left "The Hulkster" and "The Nature Boy" a bloody and bruised mess. Incidentally, Hogan and Flair both have some gaming business deals on the go. Hogan has his Hulkamania Experience slot game in some U.S casinos and a Hulkamania mobile game in the works while Flair fronts the NC Education Lottery with his Woooooo! instant win scratchie. Hogan is probably most famous for his feud with the late, great, Andre The Giant (who NextGen Gaming are said to be developing a themed game). Hogan and Flair are also featured in the WWE's WWE Legends Of Wrestlemania (which is a non gambling game). Once can imagine Hulk and Flair sharing a tear for The Tiger, or at least a thought, as both wrestlers have had their fair share of marriage challenges in the past. We're pleased to report that Mr Flair recently tied the knot in Vegas, and The King of Hulkamania (and Roostermania) is looking to marry his new woman in the near future. Hogan flashed his Miss a diamond ring last week. The question remains, are diamonds forever? Hogan, Flair and Woods are likely hoping that's the case.

Only a fortune teller would know why Crown Casino makes news headlines next, but you can bet your bottom dollar that the powers that be will be hoping it's in a balanced or positive news media capacity, rather than attack journalism style which got Mr Packers' ire a few months ago at that notorious media bash. Channel Seven's Today Tonight has stopped running negative stories on the Packer empire and the man, since JP gave David Leckie the message at the Sydney Opera House. These things of course gave author-journalist Paul Barry more fodder and media buzz for his Who Wants To Be a Billionaire tale.

On a lighter note, poker fans, newbies or champions may be interested to know that Crown Casino Aussie Million Poker Championship qualifiers are available from online poker sites such as PartyPoker.com, the poker powerhouse by world's leading online gaming firm, PartyGaming. Aussie Millions kicks off in January 2010, and those in the know are tipping the upcoming Aussie Millions will be the biggest and best yet, and likely the most profitable for Crown (and the winner). Mr Packer and his army are pushing for a national poker week to be added to the Australian sporting calender. Certainly the star power will be there...the informed rumor mills says Shane Warne, Joe Hachem, Jeff Fenech, Doyle Brunson, Mike Sexton, Paris Hilton and Pam Anderson will all be present at this years Aussie Millions, but in what capacity remains to be seen however you can bet it will be a hell of a party. Defending champion Stewart Scott, now front-man for PartyPoker, is locked into defending his crown, pardon the pun. PartyGaming sees the Crown Aussie Millions tie in with it's PartyPoker sponsored champ as a way to boost the awareness of many Party brands in the Asia Pacific, and has huge plans in the region for their award winning PartyCasino that has developed a huge patronage down under. Media Man former client and eyes and ears of the poker world, Keith "Bendigo" Sloan is said to know the skinny on all sorts of things re Crown these days, including guests, poker TV show productions, internet strategy, media deals and more. In any event, the upcoming Aussie Millions is not one to miss, so mark it down in your calender now.

Bean counters seem to think that will all the excitement at Crown that the Crown shares will once again be on the upswing. We here at Media Man hope they are right on the money.

*The writer does own Crown Casino (Crown Limited) shares and has conducted b2b with a number of arms of PartyGaming

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