MMA And Pro Wrestling News: UFC Returns To Sydney, Australia In March 2012; WWE News, CM Punk

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The rough and tough MMA based sport of UFC has announced its return to Sydney for 3rd March 2012.

Your main event will be a welterweight match-up between Thiago Alves and Martin Kampmann inside the octagon at a hopefully jam packed Allphones Arena.

The exciting MMA card will also feature the debut of the UFC’s flyweight division with a two-bout tourney to decide the top contenders at 125-pounds (56.7kg).

Tickets are now on sale, and we understand, selling fast, but not quite as quick as the past two Australian tours we've been leaked.

UFC Managing Director of International Development Marshall Zelaznik advised the UFC was wrapt to return to Sydney for its third live event in as many years.

"We’ve had tremendous success with our two previous events, with last year’s UFC 127 remaining the equal fastest sell-out in the organisation’s history," he said.

"I’ve got no doubt that our Aussie fans will be just as excited about our March event, especially as they’ll witness UFC history with the introduction of the flyweight division. The 125-pound contenders will absolutely put everything on the line is Sydney, knowing that the winners of those two bouts will then have a shot at the inaugural flyweight title. It’s going to be a great show."

Zelaznik said on the upcoming Australian tour: “Thiago Alves and Martin Kampmann are two seasoned mixed martial artists who are sure to go to all out in the octagon. Both athletes are coming off recent wins and will be looking to continue their streak to climb the welterweight ladder.”

Insiders will already know that just off his first round beat-up of UFC newcomer Papy Abedi at UFC 139, Thiago Alves (24-7) has returned once again in strong form that has previously seen him rampage through the welterweight division with wins over UFC greats such as Chris Lytle, Matt Hughes and Josh Koschek, before challenging for the welterweight title in July 2009.

Martin Kampmann (18-5) is looking to reinforce his unanimous decision win at UFC 139 over up-and-coming welterweight Rick ‘The Horror’ Story when he faces of against Alves in the Octagon on Australian soil. Whose face gets rubbed in the dirt er soil, remains to be seen.

The Dane has formidable knock-out power and an underrated ground strategy that has seen him score victory in 9 of his 12 fights in the Octagon, including bests over Carlos Condit, Jorge Rivera and Paulo Thiago.

In the flyweight division, ex No.1 WEC bantamweight contender Demetrious ‘Mighty Mouse’ Johnson (14-2) will go against the recently crowned Tachi Palace Fights flyweight champion, Ian McCall (11-2), while Joseph Benavidez (15-2) will challenge Japanese competitor, Shooto champ Yasuhiro Urushitani (19-4-6) in the weight division’s two semi-finals.

UFC / WWE Scoops...

Brock Lesnar May return to WWE

Potential opponents are rumoured to be The Undertaker and the recently returned, Chris Jericho (also a rumoured opponent at WWE WrestleMania against CM Punk)

WWE interested in former U.S Olympic wrestling superstar Kurt Angle for Royal Rumble; Angle says he's staying loyal to Impact Wrestling; Angle won't rule out UFC at some point.


CM Punk Talks UFC via MMA Fighting and more...

WWE star CM Punk appeared on "The MMA Hour" with Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting. The highlights...

-Helwani introduced Punk and noted that he received a lot of heat for having him on as a guest because some people don't want any crossover. Punk noted that pro wrestlers are doing submission holds they've picked up for MMA, and noted that Alberto Del Rio battled Mirko CroCop.

-Helwani mentioned Triple H's comments about UFC needing to evolve more than WWE. "I think that's absolutely insane," Punk said. He said every sport or business needs to evolve. "Pro wrestling has, in my opinion, a lot of work to do," Punk said. He said he's spoken with Triple H numerous times about MMA. "He just doesn't get it," Punk said. "He doesn't watch it either. I think it's just an education thing. Saying UFC has to evolve, I guess he's not wrong, but he's missing the big picture that UFC is evolving."

-Punk was quizzed whether MMA has hurt the pro wrestling business. "Well, it hasn't helped," he said. "To deny that UFC isn't our competition is ridiculous." He added that everything from Cirque du Soleil to television shows such as "Breaking Bad" are competition to WWE.

-Helwani probed whether it surprises Punk that WWE hasn't looked at MMA to see things they can emulate. Punk said he's a wrestling guy and he believes it is a sport. "I'm a fan," Punk said. "I would love to see clean finishes, less run-ins, and I'd like to see wins and losses matter... Those are things that are based in reality." He questioned why guys get title shots time after time when they are losing. He said there are certain things that could be tightened up in that regard.

-Punk said some days are better than others when it comes to travel. He said some top guys have buses they travel in. He said he's getting to the point where he's considering that possibility. He said he enjoys traveling and the challenge of living on the road, but he said he would like to be at home for six months just to see what it was like. He added that he would probably go nuts seven days in.

-Punk advised he became an MMA fan early on going back to the first or second UFC event. He said he and his friend were hooked. He said Dan Henderson is probably his favorite wrestler.

-Punk said the last UFC event he watched live was Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez. He said he doesn't go out to find the shows when he's on the road. He said he despises Hooters, and doesn't think it would end well if a pro wrestler went to watch an MMA show with drunk people who want to prove something in the room.

-Punk was asked about the Brock Lesnar and Undertaker confrontation. He said he thinks he knows more about that situation than most people. He thought it was fantastic that two guys could exchange a glance at get the sports world talking. Punk said Dana White will never allow Brock Lesnar to get a WrestleMania payday while he's under UFC contract.

-Helwani asked Punk who he will face at WrestleMania 28. Punk said he doesn't know who he will face tonight on Raw because things change every three minutes. Punk said he would like to face Steve Austin, and joked that Austin would never duck a challenge. "As far as who I am actually wrestling at WrestleMania, I could tell you and it would probably change 162 times today."

MMA fans, that's a wrap.

As per usual, Australian fans who don't attend the matches in person can tune into Main Event TV on Foxtel.

UFC SYDNEY 2012 EVENT DATE:
Saturday 3 March - Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park

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WWE Legend's House begins filming next month in California; Foxtel May Scoop Slam, by Greg Tingle

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Wrestling fans from Sydney's Bondi Beach, New York, USA, Hollywood and around the world are buzzing at the news of an upcoming WWE television show - WWE Legend's House, which will be one of the showcase programs on the new WWE Network.

Filming is to commence next month in Rancho Mirage, California, USA and its turned into quite a news media frenzy with video camera operators and photographers all seeking out shots of the legends.

This February at least eight former World Wrestling Entertainment stars will be under one roof in a show not too unlike MTV's "Real Life" with a bit of "Jersey Shore", "Big Brother", "The Ultimate Fighter" and "Tough Enough" thrown in there for good measure.

WWE Legends House will be filmed in Rancho Mirage at the historic home of late comedian Harpo Marx at the Tamarisk Country Club.

WWE Hall of Famer "Mean" Gene Okerlund, the legendary wrestling announcer and interviewer, has been confirmed for the show. Australian fans will recognise Gene as the host of "WWE Vintage Collection" as seen on Foxtel - Fox 8, usually in a TV spot next to WWE SmackDown or WWE Superstars.

We're been tipped off that other cast members with include "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and The Iron Sheik. We're hoping that Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, "The Honky Tonk Man", "The Magnificent" Don Muraco or even Ric Flair (*Flair is currently under contract to Impact Wrestling) are also a chance to appear. Don't expect Scott Hall to appear as the man formally known as "Razor Ramon" has been getting some WWE Wellness Program rehab (for real) in recent years, and to have Hall on the new show would not be a wise risk to take at this stage of the game, however we're hopeful Hall may be able to appear on future episodes of Legends House, should the show be as wildly successful as anticipated.

Sadly Australia's "Outback Jack" - real name Peter Stilsbury (circa 1987 with WWF) won't appear, nor will Nathan "The Front Row" Jones. Neither would be considered an outright WWE legend, however both were certainly well known in their day.

Can you imagine The Iron Sheik drinking, eating and just socializing in general with other WWE legends. Something tells us they are going to have to bleep out much of his foul language, but fans familiar with the very funny and vulgar sheik will get the idea.

Hardcore fans will remember the time Australia's Wide World of Sports on Channel Nine aired the Madison Square Garden matches featuring "The Iron Shiek". One was when then WWF Champion Bob Backlund got caught in the camel clutch by the Iranian and Backlund's manager, (the late) Arnold Skaaland threw in the towel. The other famous sheik match that aired on the then Kerry Packer owned Channel Nine was when Hulk Hogan beat the sheik with his famous clothesline and atomic leg drop. The old WWF Championship Wrestling used footage from the Hogan - Sheik match for its intro music video for many years.

The WWE is going to pitch "Legends House" to audiences as unscripted drama, which is curious as pro wrestlers by nature usually work of a script. Wooooo! - we just broke kayfabe again, but most of the western world knows pro wrestling aka "sports entertainment" has storylines, angles, script writers et al these days, but that's not to say they are not talented athletes - they are indeed some of the best athletes on the planet, but only a few such as Roddy Piper could be considered a very talented actor as far as regular movie appearances go.

The concept does share some similarities to the UFC's Ultimate Fighter (TUF) series, but its wrestling legends - not up and coming UFC stars, who have to prove their worth in matches.

Many fans are hoping for a few outcomes - legends sharing tales from the road trips and locker rooms, who hated who for real, secrets of the profession and that sort of thing. We suppose if a real fight breaks out on set that will be a bonus.

The Media Man agency's spokesperson said "We fully expect that WWE Legends House" will become one of the most popular and most talked about shows on both American and Australian television. WWE top brass genius Vince McMahon has really hit the sweet spot with this one. It's got ratings winner all over it and fits in perfectly with the current "reality era" of the WWE, where the pro wrestling action and scripts carry a much more realistic edge than in the '90 - 2000 era. Australian TV networks, be it Foxtel or Network Nine or Ten, would do well to get in early on this one and secure the rights of a sure fire winner. Kids and parents should try not to copy some of the bad language and practical jokes that are bound to be a staple of this hot new show".

*Wrestling History

January 23, 1984: Hulk Hogan beats Iron Sheik to win hist first WWF title - Madison Square Garden, New York, USA

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Hulk Hogan Pro Wrestling God Tours Casinos; Sports Entertainment News Update, by Greg Tingle

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From Bondi Beach, Australia to Japan, Canada, the USA - most of the world knows of Hulk Hogan.

Who can forget the Hulk-A-Mania Australian tour from a few years ago where he feuded with long time rival Ric Flair, and how about the wrestling angle at the then Star City Casino (now The Star), where it appeared at first that Hogan and Flair went at it for real when Flair implied he "had" Hogan's wife "Jennifer", before Hulk did! Now, that would start a fight and boy did the blood flow. The action was so hot that Seven News decided to purchase the video camera footage from the Media Man agency for a considerable sum.

The red did turn to green, as the old wrestling kayfabe saying goes, but not anywhere near as much as the Australian promoter or Hogan would have prefered.

The arena numbers in Australia were on the downside so much that it was largely responsible for TNA Wrestling deciding not to to ahead with an Australian tour.

The only American (or actually global) pro wrestling - sports entertainment company that he since graced Australian shores is the one and only WWE, headed up by promoter genius Vince McMahon. Once in a while Hogan teases a return to the WWE, and the two do have some line of communication. Take note that McMahon has old Hogan rival Flair getting inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame again (with the other 3 Four Horseman members) the night before WrestleMania, so anything can and does still happen in the WWE. Read up on other recent Media Man WWE news for more on that matter.

This writer would like to see Hogan and Flair both become official WWE spokespersons at some point, but if its to be - they need to make the move soon. Father time is ticking away.

Pro wrestling cousin of sorts, UFC from the MMA world is about to hit Sydney, Australia for a third time, but it ain't wrestling. Note, Brock Lensnar from the UFC and pro wrestling world, has left the UFC recently suffering a loss at the hands of Alistair Overeem at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, USA.

Hardcore pro wrestling fans of the WWF and ECK ilk will likely know this bit of trivia. It was Lesnar that "injured" Hogan's back in 2002 which was the official reason that The Hulk didn't visit down under back then. The back story is that Hogan and McMahon couldn't come to business terms. What's left to say but that's the pro wrestling industry.

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan was at Speaking Rock Casino and Entertainment Center last week.

Hogan was there for the Micro Championship Wrestling event held at the venue.

Hogan was accompanied by the Nasty Boys, Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags, as well as Ed Leslie, better known as Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake, the former WWF Tag Team Champion (having held the title with wrestling legend Greg "The Hammer" Valentine).

Micro Championship Wrestling has a show promoted by Hogan on TruTV. The show, which screens as midget wrestling which has been up and running since August. Note we called them midgets, not dwarfs, so haters lay off ok. Some of the wrestlers also like to be called "little people". Whatever, they are full of excitement, talent and fun, and don't mind sharing it with the world.

Australia's Foxtel doesn't currently get TruTV, so we can't enjoy Hogan's midget wrestling show on the box at this stage, but we're hopeful time will change that. Foxtel is going to soon get a new Factual channel, so there's hope yet wrestling fans.

Hogan is the most recognizable figure in the history of professional wrestling from his success in the business since the 1980s. Hogan's also had many of movies and a host of other high profile shows and projects. Hogan's star power even ecliped "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Gorgeous George (Wagner) and Bruno Sammartino (for you old school wrestling fans out there).

Hogan enjoyed high level feuds with the likes of Andre the Giant, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Paul "Mr Wonderful" Orndorff, King Kong Bundy, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, "The Magnificent" Don Muraco, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and "Macho Man" Randy Savage.

On the big screen Hogan has starred in "No Holds Barred," "Suburban Commando" and "Mr. Nanny." He has also made appearances in Rocky III and Walker, Texas Ranger. One can argue that current WWE superstars, John Cena, "The Rock" and Steve Austin took off where Hogan finished as far as mixing wrestling and movies. Roddy Piper is widely regarded as the most talented actor that pro wrestling ever produced. From time to time Piper does his famous "Pipers Pit" talk show segment for the WWE as well as helping out a few other smaller wrestling promotions.

Hogan even had his own reality TV show called "Hogan Knows Best.", and it wasn't long before daughter Brooke, did her own "Brooke Knows Best" show.

Hogan became a household name while in Vince McMahon's World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as WWE, which enjoyed a live event in Las Cruces, New Mexico on Sunday at the Pan American Centre.

He is currently signed to the Impact Wrestling - Total Nonstop Action wrestling promotion and has a range of business projects on the go including in the TV, gaming, casino and internet b2b sectors.

Recently, Hogan has made headlines on celebrity websites for his divorce, his son Nick's car crash, daughter Brooke's music career and the pending removal of his world famous moustache (to satisfy some Hollywood movie producers).

Other

Ric Flair is almost as famous as long time rival Hulk Hogan, who along with Flair is currently under contract to Impact Wrestling. Most would argue that Flair is one of the greatest pro wrestlers in history, while Hogan has earned more income from wrestling and wrestling related activities than just about anyone else.

* The writer has a b2b agreement with the WWE (WWE Shop)

* Wrestling legend Andre The Giant gets online slot game via Richard Branson's Virgin Casino.

* Hogan recently released his Kinnect-based "Hulk Hogan's Main Event" game which got mixed reviews from the gaming industry. The game promo goes "Get pumped and bring the pain in the first full-body wrestling game on Kinect for Xbox 360! In Hulk Hogan’s Main Event Hulkamaniacs can train with wrestling icon Hulk Hogan himself. As your mentor, Hulk will help you build your own wrestling personality and school you in the art of showmanship to win over the crowd. Entertain roaring fans with brutal stunts, combos, even devastating chair hits, that will knock your opponent to the mat or out of the ring. The crazier and wilder your motions, the more high impact your wrestling performance is in your living room ring!"

* Hulk Hogan is also tipped to be soon getting his own online slot game. His Hulk-A-Mania game is being developed by Endemol Games. Endemol is the company behind the famous Big Brother franchise, so you know they know about marketing and publicity. The Media Man agency is tipped to soon come to business terms with Endemol.

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Wrestling News: Ric Flair - Four Horsemen Appearing at the WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony

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From Bondi Beach, Australia to Japan, Canada, the USA - most of the world knows of Ric Flair.

Flair is almost as famous as long time rival Hulk Hogan, who along with Flair is currently under contract to Impact Wrestling. Most would argue that Flair is one of the greatest pro wrestlers in history, while Hogan has earned more income from wrestling and wrestling related activities than just about anyone else.

The last memory of Ric Flair for many people was the night after WrestleMania 24 when he "retired" into the sunset. Maybe only Flair knows for sure if he thought he had retired for real back then.

This past Monday's WWE Raw, the Four Horsemen—Tully Blanchard, Barry Windham, Arn Anderson and Ric Flair—were announced as inductees for the 2012 Hall of Fame.

Ric Flair's inclusion has got the industry and fans talking given "The Nature Boy" is currently under contract with another wrestling organisation.

Ric Flair himself confirms he will be present at the American Airlines Arena the night before WrestleMania 28.

Speculation on how all of this came about is rife.

Did the WWE negotiate a deal with Impact Wrestling so that the 16-time world heavyweight champion could make a one-night appearance?

If such a deal wasn't made, did Flair take it upon himself to commit to show up?

Let's assume a deal wasn't reached between the two companies...it's possible that Flair being shown on WWE TV may have have legal ramifications.

Could WWE top brass Vince McMahon be looking to take over Impact Wrestling, just as he did with WCW and ECW?

Wrestling fans the world over are glued for this developing story and Media Man will be following up.

The Late News...

* Ric Flair spoke with Mike Mooneyham of The Post & Courier about The Four Horsemen going into the WWE Hall of Fame this year.

Flair confirmed reports that Triple H called him while he was at the Impact tapings to tell him about the induction. Flair said the whole TNA crew was watching the Hall of Fame video from RAW backstage at the tapings.

Flair also said that WWE has limited his speech this year to 7 minutes. When Flair was inducted back in 2008, his speech went over an hour.

Flair is looking forward to linking back up with the WWE crew and said, "We’re going to blow the roof off."

* Wrestling legend Andre The Giant gets online slot game via Richard Branson's Virgin Casino.it will be exciting to see the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair on WWE TV even if it's only for a few minutes

* Hulk Hogan is also tipped to be soon getting his own online slot game. His Hulk-A-Mania game is being developed by Endemol Games. Endemol is the company behind the famous Big Brother franchise, so you know they know about marketing and publicity. The Media Man agency is tipped to soon come to business terms with Endemol.

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Wrestling News Media: WWE Australian Tour; International Hulk Hogan, Austin and Piper News, by Greg Tingle

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Professional wrestling aka "sports entertainment" continues to be a red hot commodity in both Australian and overseas markets.

The United States may be the birthplace of pro wrestling but Australians have long been recognised as some of the most passionate fans on the planet, dating back to the good old days of the original World Championship Wrestling which was broadcast on Kerry Packer's Channel Nine circa 1970 - 78.

Early on into 2012 and pro wrestling appears to be heading towards another golden era in pro wrestling with more focus been giving to wrestler's with tremendous athletic gifts such as CM Punk, Randy Orton, Chris Jericho and the soon (likely) to be returning, Brock Lesnar.

Sydney, Australia, will soon once again be host to the WWE Live Tour, as the gentle giants tour down under, also doing Melbourne and most other capital cities, promoted by Melbourne based Dainty Entertainment. The WWE Tour is set to hit Australia on the 30th August 2012.

Not to be outdone, UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) is set to return to Sydney via All Phones Arena on 3rd March 2012, but sadly Brock Lesnar will not be going there, having recently retired from UFC - MMA compeition, following his loss against Alistair Overeem.

This development of course may be WWE's gain, aiming to secure Lesnar for their yearly showcase event - WrestleMania.

WWE RAW World Tour 2012, Australia details...

Presented by: Dainty Group

WWE's unique brand of action packed entertainment is returning to Australia with WWE RAW. Fans will be able to see all their favourite WWE Superstars including John Cena®, Alberto Del Rio®, CM Punk®, The Miz® and many more*.

*Card subject to change

WHEN: In Brisbane from 19.30, Thursday, August 30th
In Sydney from 19.30, Friday, August 31st
In Melbourne from 19.30, Saturday September 1st

WHERE:

Live from the Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Live from the Sydney AllPhones Arena
Live from the Melbourne Rod Laver Arena

Tickets go on sale on Thursday, December 8th at 9am and can be purchased at:
Online: www.ticketek.com.au
Charge by Phone: 132 849

* Card subject to change

TOUR DATES
Thu 30 Aug - Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Fri 31 Aug - Allphones Arena, Sydney
Sat 1 Sep - Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne


Let's bodyslam ourselves into what's news on some of the world's hottest pro wrestlers...

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin - 'STONE COLD' STEVE AUSTIN Tebow Can HAVE My 3:16 If ...

Before there was Tebow 3:16 in the NFL ... there was Austin 3:16 in the WWE ... and now the wrestling legend says he's willing to surrender his iconic numbers to the NFL star, pending one GIANT condition.

TMZ spoke with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin -- who tells us he watched Tebow's Mile High Miracle this weekend and was blown away when he learned Tim threw for exactly 316 yards in the playoff victory.

FYI -- the numbers have a special meaning with Stone Cold, who created the famous faux bible verse back in the '90s to humiliate his enemies -- "Austin 3:16 says I just whooped your ass!!!"

Now, Austin tells us, "Austin 3:16 still rules" ... but adds, "If Tebow can throw for 316 yards again this weekend then hell, he can have the numbers and I'll have no problem with it."

Austin continues, "A guy named John was using it before me ... so if Tebow can do it again, more power to him!"

"I wish him all the luck in the world," Austin says ... adding, "I'm not a Denver fan but Tim's a great role model for kids." (Credit: TMZ)

Hulk Hogan...

Hulk Hogan to shave off his iconic moustache...

Hulk Hogan is going to shave off his iconic moustache.

The wrestling legend has revealed he is planning to take a razor to his famous facial hair and long hair in the coming weeks for some movie auditions.

Hulk - who has starred in several films, including 'Rocky III' and 'Suburban Commando' - said: "I'm getting ready to go to some auditions; I'm getting ready to shave my head and moustache so that should be scary!"

The TNA Wrestling star has also revealed he had to have a "hole drilled" into his head to clear an infection in his mouth.

The 58-year-old grappler underwent surgery in October to get dental implants and then after having a teeth mold fitted he got an infection which wouldn't clear up which was revealed to have been caused by a metal tack left in his mouth by a dentist.

He told TMZ.com: "The theme for today is kids take care of your teeth, because if you stuff candy in your mouth you're going to rot your teeth out.

"After many years of not taking care of teeth correctly I had to finally have surgery and a couple of glitches in the system and we got an infection.

"I had surgery and they drilled a hole in my head - which I needed to let all the hot air out - cleaned everything up so I'm good to go. But it feels like somebody punched me in the face."

Over the course of his five decade spanning career, Hulk has only been seen a handful of times without his moustache in the ring and on screen.

It is not yet known if the 12-time world heavyweight champion will recover in time to join the rest of the TNA roster for the Maximum IMPACT Tour of the UK later this month.

The tour kicks off on Thursday, Jan. 26 at the Nottingham Capital FM Arena before heading to the Manchester MEN Arena.

The company's flagship TV show 'IMPACT Wrestling' - which is broadcast on Challenge TV in the U.K. and Ireland and Spike TV in Canada and the U.S. - will then be filmed for the first time outside of the U.S. at London's Wembley Arena on Jan. 28.

The tour will feature a host wrestling's biggest names, including Kurt Angle and AJ Styles and will also be the last ever appearance made in the UK by grappling icon Sting.


Hulk Hogan Surgery Scare - Metal Tack Removed, Will Shave Off Iconic Mustache?...

Hulk Hogan is going to shave off his iconic mustache.

The wrestling legend has revealed he is planning to take a razor to his famous facial hair and long hair in the coming weeks for some movie auditions.

Hulk – who has starred in several films, including 'Rocky III' and 'Suburban Commando' – said: "I'm getting ready to go to some auditions; I'm getting ready to shave my head and mustache so that should be scary!"

The TNA Wrestling star has also revealed he had to have a "hole drilled" into his head to clear an infection in his mouth.

The 58-year-old grappler underwent surgery in October to get dental implants and then after having a teeth mold fitted he got an infection which wouldn't clear up which was revealed to have been caused by a metal tack left in his mouth by a dentist.

He told TMZ.com: "The theme for today is kids take care of your teeth, because if you stuff candy in your mouth you're going to rot your teeth out.

"After many years of not taking care of teeth correctly I had to finally have surgery and a couple of glitches in the system and we got an infection.

"I had surgery and they drilled a hole in my head - which I needed to let all the hot air out - cleaned everything up so I'm good to go. But it feels like somebody punched me in the face."

Over the course of his five decade spanning career, Hulk has only been seen a handful of times without his moustache in the ring and on screen.

It is not yet known if the 12-time world heavyweight champion will recover in time to join the rest of the TNA roster for the Maximum IMPACT Tour of the UK later this month.

The tour kicks off on Thursday January 26 at the Nottingham Capital FM Arena before heading to the Manchester MEN Arena.

The company's flagship TV show 'IMPACT Wrestling' – which is broadcast on Challenge TV in the UK and Ireland and Spike TV in the US - will then be filmed for the first time outside of the US at London's Wembley Arena on January 28.

The tour will feature a host wrestling's biggest names, including Kurt Angle and AJ Styles and will also be the last ever appearance made in the UK by grappling icon Sting.

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper...

Wrestling Legend “Rowdy” Roddy Piper Reveals One Last Match...

Professional wrestling legend, and star of the cult horror classic movie by John Carpenter "They Live", Roddy Piper announced on his Twitter that he expects to wrestle one last match. A fan asked Piper about the possibility of having a final match and Piper responded, via the social networking site, "I have not been asked to be in Royal Rumble. I tell u a secret, promise to keep it? I am going to do 1 more balls to wall match!"

Andre The Giant

Andre The Giant (the late) - set to appear in an online slot game at Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment - PartyCasino. The game was developed by North Sydney based NextGen Gaming. You can trust the Media Man and Wrestling News Media network to keep following up the story.

WWE producing "Legends House"...

WWE continues to develope a slew of new content for the launch of their upcoming 24/7 channel, WWE Network. "Legends House" is set to be a part of the launch as a reality series focusing on WWE legends living together in the a house. WWE has promoted the show and the new network via WWE RAW on the USA Network.

The concept of the show is expected to be similar to traditional reality set-up like MTV's "Real World" and CBS's "Big Brother", yet with larger-than-life personalities of WWE peformers it will be must-see TV for any wrestling fan, as well as for fans of the reality TV genre.

No legendary stars have been confirmed for the series yet, but there's plenty of speculation.
The very controversial and foul mouthed Iron Sheik is rumored to a part of the cast. On social media many fans have chatted about what legends they would want to see on "Legends House." Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Roddy Piper, Jimmy Hart, and Dusty Rhodes were among some of the names being tossed around between fans on Twitter and Facebook. We're hoping Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, Sgt Slaughter, Billy "Superstar" Graham, Don "Magnificent" Muraco, Paul "Mr Wonderful" Orndorff, "Cowboy" Bob Orton, and Dusty "The American" Dream also get serious consideration. A similar pitch was made to Media Man three years ago, however at the time a number of financial related aspects slowed concept to reality. This time around the project looks to be moving full speed ahead and the Media Man agency will be offering strong media coverage should the project keep moving forward. For the record, we think its going to cross the finish line and put a nice little pay cheque in a few people's pockets. Let's hope the legends are looked after fairly for all their blood, sweat and tears they put out over the years.

The Late News...

Shaquille O’Neal Close to WWE WrestleMania Deal?; Latest on Brock Lesnar’s Return...

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Shaquille "Shaq" O’Neal has reportedly been closing in on his WWE WrestleMania deal, and he may have already agreed to business terms.

WWE creative has been told to start thinking about weaving O’Neal into storylines - likely for a match with The Big Show (Paul Wight).

Due to its John Cena vs. The Rock main-event, WrestleMania 28 is a strong contender to set the all-time buyrate record, and WWE is striving to do everything it can to push the interest and buy rates to the moon. Adding Shaquille O’Neal into the equation, especially with Shaq should help further the event’s must see statue as WWE’s biggest WrestleMania of all-time.

Regarding a Brock Lesnar return, no one has been provided any reason to expect it will happen at this year’s WrestleMania, but it might just happen. WWE top brass Vince McMahon reportedly told at least one creative staff member that it is not a foregone conclusion a Lesnar return would include the return of Paul Heyman as his manager.

Recently returned WWE Superstar, Chris Jericho, for what its worth, has been having little verbal jabs at Lesnar, so we will have to see if that develops into something more.

In any event, this years WrestleMania should be awesome.

For recent updates on pro wrestling keep checking the Wrestling News Media www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com web blog along with the website of our friends over at Wrestling.net.au

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Andre The Giant Slot Game Comes To Virgin Casino

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RANDY SAVAGE'S BROTHER I Wrote a Macho Man Poem ... Now Listen Up!!!

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It's his first Christmas without the Macho Man, but Randy Savage's little brother isn't leaving him behind ... writing an emotional poem in memory of the wrestling legend -- just for the holidays.

Lanny Poffo recites the poem in a typically theatrical Savage family fashion -- and it's pretty awesome, especially if you're a Macho Man fan ... which should be everyone.

And now, our favorite stanza:

His name was Randy Poffo
He became the Macho Man
Randy Savage made it cool
Just to be his fan

That's right. We said stanza. (Credit: TMZ)

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UFC Returns To Sydney, Australia In 2012

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The brutal mixed martial arts based sport of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has announced its return to Sydney for 3rd March 2012.

Your main event will be a welterweight match-up between Thiago Alves and Martin Kampmann inside the cage (octagon) at a hopefully jam packed Allphones Arena.

The exciting MMA card will also feature the debut of the UFC’s flyweight division with a two-bout tourny to decide the top contenders at 125-pounds (56.7kg).

Tickets are now on sale, and we understand, selling fast, but not quite as quick as the past two Australian tours we've been leaked.

UFC Managing Director of International Development Marshall Zelaznik advised the UFC was wrapt to return to Sydney for its third live event in as many years.

"We’ve had tremendous success with our two previous events, with last year’s UFC 127 remaining the equal fastest sell-out in the organisation’s history," he said.

"I’ve got no doubt that our Aussie fans will be just as excited about our March event, especially as they’ll witness UFC history with the introduction of the flyweight division. The 125-pound contenders will absolutely put everything on the line is Sydney, knowing that the winners of those two bouts will then have a shot at the inaugural flyweight title. It’s going to be a great show."

Zelaznik said on the upcoming Australian tour: “Thiago Alves and Martin Kampmann are two seasoned mixed martial artists who are sure to go to war in the octagon. Both athletes are coming off recent wins and will be looking to continue their streak to climb the welterweight ladder.”

Insiders will already know that just off his first round beat-up of UFC newcomer Papy Abedi at UFC 139, Thiago ‘Pitbull’ Alves (24-7) has returned once again in strong form that has previously seen him rampage through the welterweight division with wins over UFC greats such as Chris Lytle, Matt Hughes and Josh Koschek, before challenging for the welterweight title in July 2009.

Martin ‘The Hitman’ Kampmann (18-5) is looking to reinforce his unanimous decision win at UFC 139 over up-and-coming welterweight Rick ‘The Horror’ Story when he faces of against Alves in the Octagon on Australian soil. Whose face gets rubbed in the dirt er soil, remains to be seen.

The Dane has formidable knock-out power and an underrated ground attack that has seen him snatch victory in 9 of his 12 fights in the Octagon, including bests over Carlos Condit, Jorge Rivera and Paulo Thiago.

In the flyweight division, ex No.1 WEC bantamweight contender Demetrious ‘Mighty Mouse’ Johnson (14-2) will go agains the recently crowned Tachi Palace Fights flyweight champion, Ian ‘Uncle Creepy’ McCall (11-2), while Joseph Benavidez (15-2) will challenge Japanese fighter and Shooto champ Yasuhiro Urushitani (19-4-6) in the weight division’s two semi-finals.

UFC Scoops...

Brock Lesnar To Return At UFC 141

Brock Lesnar returns to the UFC on American soil for UFC 141 (December 30) for the virgin time since losing his UFC Heavyweight Championship to Cain Velasquez in October of last year. Since that last match, he's coached a season of The Ultimate Fighter, and also had a match with now-champion Junior dos Santos fall through when his diverticulitis returned.

With his second bout with the disease affecting his career once again, Lesnar decided to undergo surgery to treat the matter. It was an option the first time the problem came up, but when he felt like he could get through the ordeal without an invasive procedure, he attempted to work through it. It was a key reason for mixed results in his fights with Shane Carwin and Velasquez, but he's not focussing with dwelling on the past.

"Looking back, hindsight, you could do things differently," Lesnar advised during a news media teleconference. "But I accomplished a lot in that year, and you have to take the good with the bad. That's where we were, we were trying to figure out what we should do, and you have to live with your decisions."

"Under all the circumstances that I've gone through, this is an opportunity that not many people get. I'm very excited."

Foregoing surgery and trying to convince himself he was 100% in 2010 saw him at less than his best in both of those match ups, and entering this bout with Overeem he states he's feeling better than ever.

However, while his health is no longer a concern into this bout, his 14-month layoff due to the illness certainly could be. But Lesnar says there were also some positives to the layoff, as it allowed him to work on some of the issues he had in the Carwin and Velasquez matches.

"I've had plenty of time to train, and being healthy and once again motivated (has allowed me to] work on a lot of things," Lesnar went on record with. "This is a sport that you have to evolve in if you're going [be successful]. We've put a lot of hours into the Octagon in training. Lots of sparring, lots of jiu jitsu sessions... There's definitely no lack of trying here [for this fight]."

"This is a dog-eat-dog division. It's definitely getting more competitive, so I've got to be more competitive. I'm going to go out and try my best to win this fight, and that's really all I can try to control."

MMA fans, that's a wrapt.

It certainly appears that the UFC is going to finish the year on a high note, and that fans should expect more of the same next year, as the UFC machine continues its world domination.

As per usual, Australian fans who don't attend the matches in person can tune into Main Event TV on Foxtel.

EVENT DATE:
Saturday 3 March - Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park

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WWE RAW World Tour 2012 - Sydney, Australia

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News News Entertainment News Wrestling News

Presented by: Dainty Group

WWE's unique brand of action packed entertainment is returning to Australia with WWE RAW. Fans will be able to see all their favourite WWE Superstars including John Cena®, Alberto Del Rio®, CM Punk®, The Miz® and many more*.

*Card subject to change

WHEN: In Brisbane from 19.30, Thursday, August 30th
In Sydney from 19.30, Friday, August 31st
In Melbourne from 19.30, Saturday September 1st

WHERE:

Live from the Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Live from the Sydney AllPhones Arena
Live from the Melbourne Rod Laver Arena

Tickets go on sale on Thursday, December 8th at 9am and can be purchased at:
Online: www.ticketek.com.au
Charge by Phone: 132 849

* Card subject to change

TOUR DATES
Thu 30 Aug - Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Fri 31 Aug - Allphones Arena, Sydney
Sat 1 Sep - Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne

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WWE.com

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Crossface Biopic Probes WWE Pro Wrestling Legend Chris Benoit; Life And Death, by Greg Tingle

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Many Australians, and fans around the world, known and love professional wrestling - aka "sports entertainment"... especially WWE style, but there is a dark and serious side to the industry - the massive toll the business often takes on its in ring performers.

In the upcoming biopic on the late Chris Beniot, the finger is not so much pointed at the WWE, nor should it be, but it covers and investigates his life and death in what is largely seen as a fair and balanced capacity.

SRG Films have announced plans to adapt a biopic based on Matthew Randazzo's book "Ring of Hell: The Story of Chris Benoit and the Fall of the Pro Wrestling Industry".

It may sound at least a touch sensationalized, but the real life and death story of former WWE Champion Chris Benoit was pretty bizare, even by pro wrestling standards.

For over a decade, Benoit was the poster child of what a professional wrestler should be, however with the murder suicide that all changed and these days his story acts as fodder for those who look to discredit the professional wrestling industry. Professional wrestling may be scripted, some punches may be pulled, taking falls can be practices, but as the WWE promos say 'The Dangers are real' and they are trained professionals. Concussions from the pseudo sport aka "sports entertainment" are all to real and commonplace and have little to do with WWE Mattel Toy or THQ - XBox360 b2b deals.

Entitled "Crossface", the thriller pic explores the situations former WWE superstar Chris Benoit faced throughout his wrestling career. A combination of drug-use, depression, and head trauma made him increasingly difficult to handle and ultimately lead to Benoit killing his wife and young son before committing suicide. The strange set of circumstances made headlines all around the world, and many insiders believe it further encouraged the WWE (and to a lesser extent other wrestling promotions) take better care of their trained professions. There were good financial, political and public relations reasons to look after the performers better. This is something that wrestling legend and former Mayor of Minnesota, Jesse "The Body" Ventura, and his friend in wrestling, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, had been campaigning for, long before Benoit's death was added to wrestling's shameful body count.

The last high profile death of a wrestling legend was that of Randy "Macho Man" Savage, made into a household name thanks to feuds with the likes of Hulk Hogan, Andre The Giant and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. Savage died in a car accident, but the heart attack is what is understood in medical circles as to what caused him to swerve off the road, and into a tree. It was no secret that Savage too was a steroid abuser for much of his career, but to blame wrestler's deaths on steroids alone is naive. The deaths are often a combination of things, such in Benoit's case.

Sarah Coulter turned in a first draft in mid-October. Dale Alexander Carnegie is producing and shooting will begin next Fall.

It is not known if the producer had considered having Hollywood star Mickey Rourke ('The Wrestler') appear in Benoit story. Most in the professional wrestling industry firmly believe that Rourke has done at least a modest amount of steroids over the years, and of course some of Rourke's drug abuse is well documented. To Rourke's credit, he has cleaned up his act and it appears he will be around for a good while longer before his number comes up.

Chris Beniot performed in Australia, including in Sydney and Newcastle under the AWF banner in 1993, and his matches were considered the best on the card by both hardcore and casual fans.

The name Chris Benoit is never mentioned in the WWE - TV, online, print, DVD et al, and WWE top brass Vince McMahon has formally named Benoit as "a monster", but many feel that is a generalisation and that the tragic circumstances of Benoit's life and death involved a complex set of circumstances, some that will never be fully understood.

The WWE has an excellent Wellness policy, including rehab, and offers both current and former WWE Superstars free of charge rehab assistance for any wrestler who applies.

Wrestling legend from the 80s, 90s and 00's 'Razor Ramon' aka Scott Hall is understood to have recently accepted the WWE's rehab offer and fellow legend, Jake "The Snake" Roberts is understood to have vastly improved his health via the WWE's rehab offering, even going on record with "WWE's Vince McMahon saved my life".

A Media Man spokesperson said: "Don't expect the WWE's Vince McMahon to get behind this picture the way they got behind and plugged into 'The Wrestler' that stared Mickey Rourke, nor should they. Benoit spent some of his time including the last number of his wrestling years with the WWE, but to blame the tragic circumstances of his life and that of his family on the WWE alone would not be fair. The case has been the topic of much investigation from the medical profession for many years and will continue to be one of the most documented hard news stories in professional wrestling history. Many fans and media alike look forward to much more positive coverage of the form of entertainment they love - sports entertainment. The film - see it if your a fan but know you will be learning more about the dark side of the industry...one it would prefer didn't exist. Education is a key to learning in society, so perhaps the film should be must see viewing for fans, wrestlers, wrestling promoters and news media across the globe".

Websites

Wrestling News Media

WWE

WWE Corporate - Talent Wellness

Media Man News

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Bruno Sammartino​ Honored - 9th October 2011

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Italian promotion, Adriatic Wrestling League, gave paid tribute to legend Bruno Sammartino, who attended the show as a guest.

At the beginning of the show, the common of Pizzoferrato invited athletes in the ring of AWL and international guest star, former world champion in the WWF, the legend Bruno Sammartino to reward him with a plaque.Bruno Sammartino received a tribute on the part of Adriatic League Wrestling and began to retrace his early career, when he survived a serious illness, how he manages with great humility and hard work to train and fight in the Olympic weightlifting to become a professional and record-and calls on all the fans and wrestlers to work hard to pursue their goals.

-Il Marchese defeated Anatema by submission with a Torture Rack.

-Alextreme defeated Matt Mountain with a Fireman's carry Double Knee Gutbuster.

-Tyler Blaze defeated Andrew Winston with an irregular school boy. -Kid Kazama defeated Xander Fenix whit a Cross Legged Samoan Driver. -Low G defeated "Iceman" Flavio Pantaleo whit his Death Sentence.

At the end of the match Low G attacked Flavio Pantaleo helped by Marchese,Tyler Blaze, Xander Fenix e Matt Mountain. Come to help Pantaleo are Kid Kazama, Andrew Winston, Anatema e Alextreme, who save him from the beating.

At the end of the show, they celebrated the 76th birthday of Bruno Sammartino.

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Hulk Hogan And Andre The Giant Online Slot Games Coming Soon

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Professional wrestler detained over Mexico casino firebomb - 5th October 2011

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A former pro wrestler suspected of helping to mastermind the August firebombing of a land based casino which left 52 people dead has been detained by Mexican authorities.

In Mexico, pro wrestlers are often called luchadores, where as in the US and Australia, they are often referred to as "sports entertainers", as they are in the "sports entertainment" business.

Federal police detained Jose Alberto Loera Rodriguez and two suspected accomplices on a road in northeastern Mexico on Tuesday, said Luis Cardenas Palomino, regional coordinator of the Public Security Ministry.

Police also confiscated drugs and weapons, including 15 AK-47 rifles and two grenade launchers, he added.

Armed men set The Casino Royale in Monterrey ablaze on August 25 in one of the deadliest attacks in nearly five years of shocking drug violence in Mexico. Forty-two women were among the victims.

Authorities last week detained another suspected mastermind of the attack, Roberto Carlos Lopez Castro, in the suburbs of the western city of Guadalajara.

Nine other suspects have been detained, including a police officer and suspected members of the Zetas drug gang.

Authorities blame the Zetas – a gang set up in the 1990s by ex-elite soldiers turned hired killers – for torching the casino because its owners refused to pay protection money.
A surge in violence in Nuevo Leon is blamed on a turf war between the Gulf drug gang and the Zetas, its former enforcers.

More than 41,000 people have been killed across Mexico since the federal government in 2006 launched a crackdown against drug cartels, according to official data and media tallies.

The last time a pro wrestler got a similar amount of negative media reports from a serious crime was in 2007 when Canadian Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son, then committing suicide. Since Benoit's suicide, numerous explanations for his actions have been proposed, including concussions, steroid abuse, and a failing marriage.

On June 25, 2007, police entered Benoit's home on a "welfare check" after several missed appointments, leading to concerns. The officers discovered the bodies of Benoit, his wife Nancy, and their 7-year-old son Daniel at around 2:30 p.m. EDT. Upon investigating, no additional suspects were sought by authorities. It was determined that Benoit had committed the murders. Over a three day period, Benoit had killed his wife and son before he hanged himself. His wife was bound before the killing. Benoit's son was drugged and likely unconscious before Benoit strangled him. Benoit then committed suicide with a weight machine.

Mexico casino attack kills 53 - 26th August 2011

An arson attack on a casino in Mexico has sparked a massive fire and killed at least 53 people.

The attack occurred in the northern Mexican industrial city of Monterrey, the governor of the state of Nuevo Leon said.

Governor Rodrigo Medina announced the grim toll in an interview with the Televisa network, adding that the vast establishment, the Casino Royale, had been set ablaze using some kind of flammable liquid "like gasoline."

President Felipe Calderon condemned the attack, calling it an "abhorrent and barbaric act of terror" in a message on Twitter and expressing his solidarity with the people of Nuevo Leon, of which Monterrey is the capital.

"An unacceptable act of terror has been committed that will not go unpunished," added national security spokesman Alejandro Poire.

Casinos in Monterrey have recently been targeted because some owners have refused to pay protection money demanded by criminal gangs linked to the country's booming drugs trade, local media have reported.

For more than a year Monterrey has been the epicenter of a battle between the Zetas and the Gulf Cartel, two powerful drug smuggling groups vying for control of the lucrative routes north to the United States.

Mr Medina said the attack was carried out by six men who arrived at the casino in two vehicles around 4 pm (2100 GMT) on Thursday local time.

Some men entered the casino "and screamed out 'everyone hit the floor'," a witness who spoke on condition of anonymity told Mexican media.

"I don't know if there was a weapon that makes such a noise, but an impressive explosion followed - I never want to go through something like that again," said the witness, who fled to the rooftop with a friend to escape the flames.

The state head of civil protection, Jorge Camacho, said that the death toll was so high because many people hid in bathrooms and offices when they heard the explosions instead of heading to the emergency exits.

They were trapped by the flames, and many died of smoke inhalation, he said.

It took firefighters four hours to control the flames, and Mr Medina warned that more bodies could be found inside the casino. Firefighters had to knock large holes in the building's wall to reach the second floor.

Mr Calderon ordered interior minister Francisco Blake to Monterrey to head the government probe into the attack.

Only a few years ago, Monterrey had been seen as one of Mexico's safest cities.

But Nuevo Leon state and its capital, which is home to four million people, have seen an increasing amount of drug-related violence, with more than 70 people killed in Monterrey last month alone.

Nearly 850 people were killed in the state in the first half of the year, compared to 278 murder victims for all of 2010, according to a tally by the national newspaper Reforma.

More than 41,000 people have died in violence linked to Mexico's organized crime gangs since Mr Calderon launched a military crackdown on them in December 2006, according to media counts and official figures.


Ex-wrestler accused over casino firebombing - 5th October 2011

Mexican authorities have detained a former wrestler suspected of helping mastermind the August firebombing of a casino in the northern city of Monterrey, which left 52 people dead.

Federal police detained Jose Alberto Loera Rodriguez and two accomplices on a road in north-eastern Mexico on Tuesday, said Luis Cardenas Palomino, regional coordinator of the Public Security Ministry.

Police also confiscated drugs and weapons, including 15 AK-47 rifles and two grenade launchers, he added.

Rodriguez reportedly wrestled under the name of 'El Voltaje' (The Voltage).

Armed men set the Casino Royale ablaze on August 25 in one of the deadliest attacks in nearly five years of shocking drug violence in Mexico. Forty-two women were among the victims.

Authorities last week detained another suspected mastermind of the attack, Roberto Carlos Lopez Castro, in the suburbs of the western city of Guadalajara.

Nine other suspects have been detained, including a police officer and suspected members of the Zetas drug gang.

Authorities blame the Zetas - a gang set up in the 1990s by ex-elite soldiers turned hired killers - for torching the casino because its owners refused to pay protection money.

A surge in violence in Nuevo Leon is blamed on a turf war between the Gulf drug gang and the Zetas, its former enforcers.

More than 41,000 people have been killed across Mexico since the federal government in 2006 launched a crackdown against drug cartels, according to official data and media tallies.

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Brock Lesnar targets WWE: The Undertaker and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, by Greg Tingle - 14th October 2011

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News Scoop: Andre The Giant Slot Gaming Coming Soon

UFC and former WWE man monster, Brock Lesnar, is ready to rock, roll and rumble, this time back into the gaming industry.

The former heavyweight champion (UFC and WWE), along with his manager / agent, Paul Heyman, are also interested in suitable business opportunities, and Australian based media agency, Media Man, took the initiative to test the waters in Asia Pacific via some online media exposure and tactics.

As far as we know, the only time Lesnar has ever actually set foot on Australian soil to date was back in 2002 as part of the WWE 'Global Warming Tour', after taking Hulk Hogan's spot on the card, Lesnar having injured Hogan's back (so the storyline went). Hogan didn't make the 2002 Australian tour, but finally got down under in November 2009 with his 'Hulk-A-Mania' tour, but that's another story brother... and sisters.

The Minnesota monster, who left the world of pro wrestling to brawl as a pro mixed martial artist, rocketed to pinnacle of the heavyweight roster in the Ultimate Fighting Championships and realised his dream of becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion after only four career matches.

The title reign ended in Lesnar's third title defence, when he was stopped dead in his tracks inside the first round by Mexican American Cain Velasquez.

As Lesnar told the media: "On any given day anyone can beat anyone. It happened to me too".

He's currently on the comeback trail to the UFC following a illness, yet Lesnar has told the press in a number of US interviews that he may be tempted back to the WWE... yes, the pro wrestling circus. Well, we don't really think its a circus, but some detractors do.

Quizzed if he would return to the WWE for one more match, Lesnar told ESPN, "I think under the right circumstances I will."

"I think if Vince McMahon and I were able to sit down at the same dinner table and break some bread that we could come up with some kind of game plan...I think a lot of things have to fall in the right places for something like that to happen."

Lesnar's ties with the WWE media and marketing machine have been re-established with the news that he will feature in their upcoming video game, WWE 12, and he has also featured in a viral video to help promote the launch of the game.

The ex WWE champ has hinted that he'd very much like to take on The Undertaker (Mark William Calaway), who has never lost at the showcase event WrestleMania.

"There's a guy that's been on a winning streak for a long time that somebody needs to step up to the plate and finish the winning streak," Lesnar told IGN.

Shawn Michaels, Big Show, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Ric Flair and a host other others have all tried and failed. Yes, we know that pro wrestling has predetermined winners, but suspend disbelief with us if you will.

And he had some special words for one of the most popular WWE stars of all time, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.

"There's another side of me that says if there was a chance for me to come back to fight a guy, it would be the guy that I was supposed to fight that chicken-sh**ted out on me and didn't show up, and that would be 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin."

"At the end of the day, my life, my character and my profession - I take them very seriously. At the end of the day, if it doesn't help me or my family out, and it doesn't make sense for me to do, then I don't do it. Everything would have to fall in the right place, but would I consider it? Absolutely."

Lesnar is due to return to mixed martial arts action and face off against former Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion and K-1 Grand Prix kickboxing champion, Alistair Overeem, in a heavyweight superfight at UFC 141. The match will headline the event at the famous American entertainment and gaming venue, the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in 'Sin City' Las Vegas on December 30th. Lesner will be looking for his jackpot Christmas present - the big win.

We can also confirm that Lesnar in interested in other gaming and branding opportunities, perhaps following the lead of fellow monsters Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Kevin Nash and the late, great, Andre The Giant. He is also understood to be keen to further explore online gaming opportunities. The Wrestling News Media network is following up for more details. Don't change your dial.

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Heyman Hustle YouTube 'WWE 12 Here Comes The Pain'

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Wrestling News Media Website Updated

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CM Punk Nominated For 'Best Baddie At Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, by Greg Tingle - 7th October 2011

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WWE’s vocal and self professed 'Best In The World' CM Punk tore up the orange carpet stage, just off a plane.

Punk is keen on showing Australian's he's the 'Best In The World', both in the ring and on the mic.

Upon hearing that Kyle Sandilands won the award Punk went on a rampage, as you might expect.

"People in America don't even know who Kyle Sandipants is", the 'Best In The World' WWE superstar ranted.

In the end Punk got slimmed in green by an announcer.

CM Punk had earlier been interviewed by SBS World News Australia which is showcased on YouTube.

He then exited the stage, but not before kicking Nick balls into the excited audience.

Stay tuned for more.

Photo by Eva Rinaldi Photography

Websites

Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards
http://www.nick.com/kids-choice-awards

SBS World News Australia
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHUvzS9JzTs&feature=player_embedded

Wrestling News Media
www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com

WWE
www.wwe.com

WWE CM Punk profile
http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/cmpunk

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Toronto 2011: Dominic Monaghan Thriller 'The Day' Picked Up by WWE Studios

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The Day, which played in the Toronto International Film Festival’s Midnight Madness sidebar, has found a home at WWE Studios, which announced it has picked up U.S. distribution rights to the post-apocalyptic action thriller.

Directed by Doug Aarniokoski and written by Luke Passmore, the movie stars Shawn Ashmore, Ashley Bell, Cory Hardrict, Dominic Monaghan and Shannyn Sossamon as a group of survivors fighting to stay alive.

"The Day is a renegade thrill-ride that will not disappoint audiences," Michael Luisi, the newly named president of WWE Studios, said. "We went to Toronto looking for films to showcase and expand the WWE Studios brand and found exactly that with Doug's exceptional film.”

"The Day has been a wild ride from start to finish and we are very excited that we have found the right home to get the film out to the fans in a big way,” said director Aarniokoski, who is currently directing Nurse 3D for Lionsgate.

The film was produced by Guy A. Danella. Aarniokoski, Michael Finley, Tim James, Antonina Armato and Ross M. Dinerstein served as executive producers.

Kevin Iwashina of Preferred Content handled the sale, with Luisi and vp of business and legal affairs Bradley Buchanan negotiating for WWE Studios.

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Scoop: Hulk Hogan TNA retirement announcement may be real says insiders; Sting angle suggests part "work" YouTube link

Scoop: Mick Foley aka "Mankind" and "Cactus Jack" to return to WWE rings sooner rather than later; 1 to 6 more matches say insiders

Hulk Hogan slashes the price of his Florida mansion by a whopping $16 million...

He is said to be worth a staggering $32 million.

But former pro wrestler Hulk Hogan is so keen to add to his millions that he is slashing the price of his Florida mansion by $16m in a bid to sell it as fast as possible.
The 58-year-old muscle man just reduced the price of the huge home to just $8.85m - the fourth reduction in price since the home was originally listed back in 2006 at $25m.

And it seems he's not above using his celebrity status to help unload the 17,000sq ft Mediterranean-style mansion, which has five bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, and sits on the scenic Gulf of Mexico, in Clearwater.

The description on Realtor.com reads: 'Located on an exclusive tree lined street in the residential Town of Belleair, this exquisite residence is owned by television personality Hulk Hogan.'

The two story home, which was built in 1996, features a gym and spa, five-car garage and a pool with a two-tier waterfall.

The Tudor style property also boasts vaulted beamed ceilings and dark hardwood or tiled floor throughout as well as expansive living areas and lush gardens.

Hulk, whose real name is Terry Bollea, originally lived in the home with his ex-wife Linda, who filed for divorce from the star in November 2007.

The couple, along with their two children, Nick, 21, and Brooke, 23, filmed their reality show 'Hogan Knows Best' in the home.

Meanwhile, Hogan is currently getting slammed by mini wrestler Steve Richardson - aka 'Puppet the Psycho Dwarf' for allegedly ripping off his TV idea.

Steve, who is behind the little-person wrestling programme 'Half-Pint Brawlers' says that he's considering suing the Hulk for copying his venture.

Hulk's latest TV idea is also a dwarf-fighting show - Hulk Hogan's Micro Championship Wrestling (MCW) and Steve says it's just not fair.

"I have no ill feelings toward Hogan, but loads of his wrestlers are the guys I fired," The 42-year-old said. "They're using all the ideas everything I came up with. There's no individuality. They're following the same concepts. It's a violation of intellectual property rights," fumed the 4'4" strongman.

MCW owner Johnny Greene says Steve is flipping out over nothing: "We had this idea first, but they rushed to the network to get their show on the air first, figuring whoever got on the air first would capture the audience," he said.

"But their show sucked. They were doing midgets and 'Jackass,' and ours is a real wrestling show." Holding no punches Greene added: "Puppet's just trying to jump on the bandwagon because their business is dying."

Half Pint Brawlers, Inc was started 15 years ago but they have been having trouble holding down a TV series.

A spokesperson for Hogan declined to comment.


How Hulk Hogan blew his millions: Cars, houses, holidays...

Hulk Hogan blew "hundreds of millions" of dollars on palatial homes and fast cars.

The wrestling legend - real name Terry Bollea - admitted he wasted the vast sums of money he earned during his years in the WWE and WCW and is living in a rented home after slashing US$16 million (NZ$21m) off the price of his Florida mansion in order to get a quick sale.

The WWE Hall of Fame inductee told Good Morning America: "There were houses being bought, and cars being bought, and vacations for family members. There was eight, nine, $10 million, $11 million going out, so it got way off."

Despite his financial troubles, Hulk seemingly announced his retirement from professional wrestling on TNA TV show Impact Wrestling, claiming he wanted to break the news to his fans first because they always stuck by him through the major difficulties in his life, including a divorce from wife Linda in 2007.

However, speculation is rife his retirement is a 'work' - part of a wrestling storyline - and he will step inside the squared circle again against Sting at upcoming pay-per-view Bound For Glory.

Meanwhile, Hulk has run into trouble after attempting to boost his finances with his latest venture, a reality TV show on US network TruTV featuring miniature wrestlers, after midget competitor Steve Richardson - aka 'Puppet the Psycho Dwarf' - accused him of stealing his idea.

He said: "I have no ill feelings toward Hogan, but loads of his wrestlers are the guys I fired. They're using all the ideas everything I came up with. There's no individuality. They're following the same concepts. It's a violation of intellectual property rights."

MCW wrestling owner Johnny Greene said: "We had this idea first, but they rushed to Spike TV to get their show on the air first, figuring whoever got on the air first would capture the audience.

"But their show sucked. They were doing midgets and Jackass, and ours is a real wrestling show. Puppet's just trying to jump on the bandwagon because their business is dying."


Comic Book Movies, Games Et Al...

Be it movies, comics or games, we think that Marvel Entertainment leads the pack, followed by DC Comics, with Dark Horse Comics getting a third, based on the positive news leaks and insider tip offs we've been getting.

As Marvel living legend Stan Lee would say, Excelsior!

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