Sunday, February 14, 2010

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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Saturday, February 13, 2010

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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Wednesday, February 10, 2010

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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Sunday, February 07, 2010

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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Friday, January 29, 2010

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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Sunday, January 24, 2010

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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Thursday, January 21, 2010

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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Tuesday, January 19, 2010

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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Sunday, January 10, 2010

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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Friday, January 08, 2010

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.

Thursday, January 07, 2010

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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Wednesday, January 06, 2010

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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TNA VS WWE: fans and news media see more hot angles, fresh talent and surprises on TNA programing; WWE playing safe game plan with Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Vince McMahon, with proven special guest GM factor.

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Friday, January 01, 2010

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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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

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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Saturday, December 26, 2009

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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