tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29435330486827830082024-03-13T12:42:05.662-04:00More Wrestling Than You Can Shake A Stick AtJust another glorified cut and paste site!Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.comBlogger232125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-43809704727906329362012-09-28T21:02:00.001-04:002012-09-28T21:03:15.700-04:00That's All FolksI have come to terms with the release of my blog. I would like to wish my blog the best in its future endeavors.Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-53183611480619420452012-07-21T12:40:00.000-04:002012-07-21T12:40:09.489-04:00Shoot With Tammy Sytch-Preview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/QYnqfC5L3mI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-34361126645971195842012-07-21T12:35:00.000-04:002012-07-21T12:36:32.128-04:00History & Tradition: The Story of the National Wrestling Alliance TRAILER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/3gJEcLH63q8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<a href="http://www.rfvideo.com/historyandtraditionstoryofthenationalwrestlingalliance.aspx">Buy Here</a>Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-87450620707411291962012-07-15T19:22:00.006-04:002012-07-15T19:22:58.904-04:00Tammy Sytch-Coming Clean<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}" style="font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">RF
VIDEO just conducted a interview like no other one before. This was
the most emotional interview we have ever conducted. This was more or
less sort of a intervention with Tammy Sytch. We were supposed to go on
the road with her this weekend but since we are being honest Tammy had
some of her past demons come back to haunt her. The time was now to get
her to face these demons and open up abo<span class="text_exposed_show">ut
what is going on with her emotionally that drives her to do what she
does. She does not do pills or anything like that, right now her drug
of choice is alcohol. She came to us with her current BF to do this and
we did not exploit her. We asked her a few times on this tape if she
felt like we were and she made it clear that she wanted to do this from
the bottom of her heart. Tammy opened up about what has been going on
in her personal life over the last few months and how this weekend it
reached the breaking point when she ended up in the ER on Friday night.
She is going to check herself into rehab in 24 hours but felt obligated
to sit in front of the camera and let everyone know what has been going
on. We talked to her about her recent behavior and how at times it
cost her to miss events. We also dove into her past and addressed all
the rumors that were out there with her and Sabu, Hack Myers and
somas....there was NOTHING left out of this intervention
interview....You will NEVER see another interview like this one as Tammy
broke down and several times looked right at the camera and told us she
was coming clean for the first time ever about all of her past history
and current problems...We will take a hard look into her mind as she
gives us her history with drugs and alcohol and talks about her issues
with depression. How the passing of Chris plays into this and her
family life.....This felt like a therapy session to be honest with you.
You will hear alot of real personal information during this interview
that nobody else has ever done with our company. We felt privileged
that since we have had almost a 22 year relationship in some form with
her that she trusted RFVIDEO to do this with<br /> <br /> On the light side
we did spend over 40 minutes talking about wrestling but this was about
Tammy not Sunny the personality or character that she plays...When we
talked wrestling we talked about not doing Playboy, rumors of her and
Bret Hart get laid to rest, New Jack and her ex BF rumors, Doing Mania
in 2009 and being inducted into the HOF in 2011. I dont think any other
interview we have done will touch you like this one has....We are going
to try to release this as quick as possible. We all are helping that
Tammy can get the support and help that she needs, as she really wants
to get her life back on track and start a family with her current BF who
is a hell of a guy.......Keep your eyes out for this new DVD...Tammy
Sytch Coming Clean</span></span></i></span></h6>Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-54872789952934612482012-07-13T11:21:00.002-04:002012-07-13T15:27:07.837-04:00Shoot With Balls Mahoney-Available Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/kKuDqIaLQ5w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.rfvideo.com/shootwithballsmahoney2012.aspx">Order Here</a><br />
<br />
Tell em Unklejimbo sent you.Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-84201922127335540882012-07-03T10:16:00.002-04:002012-07-03T10:17:17.810-04:00No Music PleaseIts been a while,<br />
<br />
I like wrestling theme songs as much as the next guy, but aren't you tired of wrestlers coming to the ring to promo to their generic theme songs? It would be more natural if talent interrupted other talent while they were talking without music. But not every week, either. Themes should be used as the superstars are walking to the ring for their match.<br />
<br />
But then again what do I know....Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-72157610735943248092012-05-29T12:58:00.003-04:002012-05-29T13:00:37.591-04:00STEEN vs. PIERCE Make It HappenBe careful what you tweet you never know who is reading it.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/GuynamedJim/status/207503383077191680">https://twitter.com/GuynamedJim/status/207503383077191680</a><br />
<br />
Kevin Steen faces the same 2 or 3 guys that ROH has to offer, when there is a match that literally builds itself up. I'm not talking about some indie-riffic spotfest that smarks can drool over. I'm talking about a match that could generate a great buzz, and get people talking about WRESTLING!Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-55352719373778404432012-05-22T02:25:00.003-04:002012-05-22T02:25:46.103-04:00Are You Pleased With The Ring of Honor Shift From HDNet To Sinclair?*From PWI*<br />
<br />
When it was announced that Sinclair Broadcasting had purchased Ring of Honor in 2011, reaction was varied. Some of the fans expected major changes with the television network investing in the company to help improve production values and promotion. Others were cautiously optimistic, hoping that Sinclair wouldn't meddle with the promotion or make drastic creative changes. Almost a year into the Sinclair agreement, wrestling fans are split as to whether the move from HDNet to Sinclair has been beneficial to the company.<br />
<br />
Some say they are grateful for the opportunity to see ROH programming for the first time, while others do not have access to Sinclair. The Sinclair format dedicates more time to fewer competitors, allowing more time for storylines to build and for matches to be more meaningful.<br />
<br />
The company still has sub-par lighting, erratic camera work and uneven audio, which at times gives the show a slightly low-rent feel.<br />
<br />
What is your opinion? Post your comments and opinions.DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-19427376534367894032012-05-08T23:12:00.000-04:002012-05-19T19:10:29.245-04:00Blast From The Past: Savage/Strike Force vs. Honky/Harts (Cage Match)<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0a_YMGtwDxA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Ah, the good ol' days of pro wrestling. Here is a rare match that took place at the Boston Garden in 1988. Macho Man Randy Savage teams up with Strike Force (Tito Santana and Rick Martel) to take on the team of HonkyTonk Mam and The Hart Foundation! Not only do we have old school six-man tag team action, but these legends are trapped in the confines of a flesh eating steel cage! This could be a main event anywhere in the world folks!<br />
<br />
Here are some nice little factoids about the match:<br />
<br />
The Boston Garden is the site of where Randy Savage cheated to steal the Intercontinental title from Tito Santana. At the time, it was awkward to see them team together after having such a bitter feud in 1986. Almost as if they had forgotten about history or went to therapy to learn how to deal with forgiveness.<br />
<br />
At this time, the WWE wasn't using mesh cages too often. After the Hulk Hogan vs. King Kong Bundy match at Wrestlemania 2, WWE adopted the big blue bar cage. It was rare to see them break out the mesh cages but you would see it from time to time at house shows.<br />
<br />
Unlike cage matches today, there were no pinfalls or submissions inside the cage. Anything goes - the way it should be. And the only way to decide a victor was to have all three teammates escape the cage. <br />
<br />
It's these small things that made that era so effective and the simple things that could help today's product.<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://pestcontrol-nj.com/hudson-county/jersey-city">Jersey City Exterminator</a> & <a href="http://kineticpromos.com">Promotional Personalized Items</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-73849324256716566002012-05-08T23:10:00.000-04:002012-05-08T23:10:29.134-04:00Blast From The Past: Flair Arrives In WWE and Confronts Hogan<iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OaWTWxWFvE0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
I remember being a kid and hearing all the stories about Ric Flair. I grew up in Brooklyn, and didn't get NWA programming. So I heard of the legend through the pages of Pro Wrestling Illustrated. I always dreamed of a match between Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair - and in 1991, my dream came true.<br />
<br />
When there was talk of Ric Flair coming tot he WWE, I didn't know what to think. I was baffled that NWA/WCW would let go of their top guy. After all, how I feel if the roles were reversed and Hulk Hogan walked away from the WWE (not like that almost didn't happen a handful of times). When Bobby Hennan was seen backstage at SummerSlam 1991 holding the NWA title - I knew this was going to be huge and I wondered how the WWE would build this epic clash of the titans. Eventually, the ball was dropped - and Hogan vs. Flair was only seen at house shows. I'll never understand why the match at Wrestlemania 8 was switched - but it all led to a huge disappointment for wrestling fans around the world. Fortunately, I was able to see a couple of Flair vs. Hogan matches live at Madison Square Garden during their run in the 90's - and truth be told, those matches were probably better than anything they could have worked up leading into Wrestlemania. It was MSG. It was Hogan vs. Flair. It was a house show and it was raw before RAW was raw.<br />
<br />
One thing I'll never forget as a wrestling fan was the anticipation for these two legendary worlds to collide. And this one moment when they locked eyes face to face on WWE TV. Relive it here and leave your comments!<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://orosso.com">Building A Photography Website</a> & <a href="http://diehardprowrestling.blogspot.com/">Pro Wrestling Blogs</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-29264467981650240822012-05-08T13:08:00.000-04:002012-05-08T13:08:00.126-04:00Is Brock Channeling Dolph Lundgren?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DvpH1WQF-K4/T6lScvmEjuI/AAAAAAAABJM/Aiw2BjLMWH8/s1600/Brock%2BDrago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="299" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DvpH1WQF-K4/T6lScvmEjuI/AAAAAAAABJM/Aiw2BjLMWH8/s400/Brock%2BDrago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I think it's hysterical how WWE is obsessed with getting Brock Lesnar over as he is a killing machine, when in reality, he's almost a frail shell of the man he once was.<br />
<br />
Yes, I know he has a blood disease and I take nothing away from his accomplishments. The same way Ric Flair is too old to being the ring but still one of the greatest of all times - Brock Lesnar is still a beast, but not what he was during his last run with the WWE 8 years ago. What's amusing is how they are turning him into this wrecking machine, almost in the same fashion as Ivan Drago was built up in the movie Rocky IV. <br />
<br />
After making Cena's arm go numb and then "breaking" Triple H's arm on RAW, I was waiting for Brock to look into the camera and say, "I must break you!" Better yet, while they are carrying out Triple H and sending him to the emergency room, Michael Cole could have interviewed him and asked about his arm breaking motives, to which Brock could have simply responded, "If he dies, he dies!'<br />
<br />
Okay, maybe I'm being over nostalgic to 1985 and my childhood action hero Sylvester Stallone (role played by John Cena in Extreme Rules). My personal opinion is the WWE creative completely dropped the ball with the return of Brock Lesnar. They needed to build up to Cena, not prematurely rush into it like a teenager on prom night. <br />
<br />
Triple H is the ideal opponent for Brock. With Trips' corporate position, he could have made the announcement of the acquisition and Lesnar sign his return contract they day after Wrestlemania. But before he signed, there would be a few demands that would need to be amended tot he contract. When Trips refused and then reneged the offer to return, that's when the beast goes banana flavored ape shit. I understand Triple H couldn't make an appearance the day after wrestling Undertaker at Wrestlemania, but in theory, Triple H has nothing to lose. He's at the twilight of his career and in a power position, so a loss only solidifies his role in the suit. triple H is not as valuable in the ring as John Cena is right now. Luckily, they were smart enough not to have Cena job to the shell of Brock, but what was really the point of rushing it?<br />
<br />
Maybe Vince McMahon and WWE creative need to watch Rocky IV again. See how the soviet beast was built up. Sable can even return for the role played by Brigette Nielsen. We should Brock training and shaking the ring rust off. We should see him sparring with jobbers to give the perception that he is larger than life. We should see John Laurinaitis stabbing him in the shoulder with steroids. Brock Lesnar needs to be booked better. For a bunch of pencil pushing sitcom writers, I can't believe they I have to guide them in stealing ideas from Hollywood.<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidetammy.com/bayside-condos">Bayside Condos For Sale</a> <a href="http://orosso.com">Create A Photography Website</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-77731822447737713112012-05-08T13:03:00.000-04:002012-05-08T13:04:07.441-04:00Shane Douglas's Extreme Disaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__W4ougHH3k/T6lR_iDDfpI/AAAAAAAABI0/iqvpN02Vj8M/s1600/justin%2Bcredible%2Bon%2Bdrugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__W4ougHH3k/T6lR_iDDfpI/AAAAAAAABI0/iqvpN02Vj8M/s400/justin%2Bcredible%2Bon%2Bdrugs.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ha3XXMXTv8k/T6lSAFfTaEI/AAAAAAAABJA/40YKLI64Oak/s1600/Sabu%2Bon%2Bdrugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ha3XXMXTv8k/T6lSAFfTaEI/AAAAAAAABJA/40YKLI64Oak/s400/Sabu%2Bon%2Bdrugs.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I'm sure you've all heard the horror stories about this past weekend's ECW Reunion show that was promoted by Shane Douglas. So there is no reason to rehash it. If you didn't, just do a search online and I'm sure you'll come up with TONS of reports from disappointed and angry fans, stiffed for pay wrestlers, and internet critics who have never done a fucking thing in this business. There is an in-depth recap by ECW mark Mike Johnson that gets to the root of the story, but i wouldn't recommend tracking it down unless you have an account with the Best Buy Geek Squad, because the PW Insider website will ruin your computer with TONS of spyware.<br />
<br />
Back to the point of the post, I think it's time to finally say goodbye to ECW. Vince McMahon and the WWE did ZERO justice in their ill-fated reincarnation. Dixie Carter amazingly matched Vince's flub in one night with Hardcore Justice, The difference between the two - talent actually got paid in WWE. But for ECW original Shane Douglas, to attempt to promote on an indy level and fail to deliver in a manner that dug up the ECW legacy, performed necrophilia and then dumped it back into the grave, it's pretty safe to say that we have forever seen the last of Extreme Championship Wrestling.<br />
<br />
If there was any possibility of ECW making a comeback in 2012, don't you think Paul Heyman would have had a part in it? If the market called for hardcore wrestling, don't you think he would have done it? If there were the slightest possibility to reignite the flame and reboot the franchise (no pun intended to Douglas), don't you think Heyman would have done it already? His absence and distance from anything ECW related speaks volumes.<br />
<br />
What's even more disturbing than Shane Douglas working at Target, is the condition most of the ECW alumni are currently in. In a business where traditionalist and purists complain that there is no more "protecting the industry" from kayfabe, the art of perception, and each other - it's disturbing that the brotherhood would piss on each other by exploiting the harsh reality of their colleagues through social media with photos of a drugged out Justin Credible and a n unconscious Sabu.<br />
<br />
Part of the love for this business comes from the admiration you have for your heroes. The other part of the love comes from those fortunate enough to work in it and protect the sanctuary of the brotherhood. These photos are a betrayal of that code. It pushes the industry into the vile and corrupt world of reality television. Sure, it make a great story. But this is the lasting image, and one that will haunt memories. I was a big Jake "The Snake" Roberts fan growing up, and when I saw him smoke crack in Beyond The Mat, my admiration for him died. <br />
<br />
Luckily for Jake, he's a alive and well. Still kicking and doing his thing. But ever wonder why the illustrious WWE Hall of Fame has passed on him numerous times? Could it do with something about inducting the first crack head into the Hall? <br />
<br />
There are quite a few ECW originals who also deserve their spot in the Hall of Fame. They revolutionized the industry in the 90's. But that was 20 years ago, and the reunion shows do nothing to nourish the legacy of the cult following. it's an exploitation of what happens when you don't get the call up from Vince. These are the guys who burned the bridges and had nothing to fall back on. This is the other side of pro wrestling, when you're broke with one foot in the grave, trying to hold on to the thin thread of name recognition you have left. This is the horror show. This is the extreme disaster. This is the official death of an overdosed ECW whose bloated body was found three days later in a rat infested apartment. It's proof that every story doesn't end with a "happily ever after".<br />
<br />
**UPDATED** Shane Douglas has issued an official video statement concerning the Extreme Reunion event:<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xmgvVzwhqLo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidetammy.com/bayside-condos">Bayside Condos</a> & <a href="http://orosso.com">Build A Photography Website</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-52213361931595351492012-05-08T12:57:00.001-04:002012-05-08T12:57:34.942-04:00Hogan Has Answer To TNA Problems<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkuZrH6ihdw/T6lP5d44n5I/AAAAAAAABIo/EUs2E3P8HuM/s1600/hogan%2Bhardy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkuZrH6ihdw/T6lP5d44n5I/AAAAAAAABIo/EUs2E3P8HuM/s400/hogan%2Bhardy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I'd love to know what kind of doobies Hulk Hogan is smoking. In a recent interview, he briefly discussed how Bobby Roode as TNA Champion is "working backwards": <br />
<br />
"If you wanted a quick fix, right now, you would put the belt on Jeff Hardy. That would fix a bunch of stuff right now, but that is not working backwards from where we need to be. Right now, to work to that point, the belt needs to stay with Bobby Roode. He's a guy who we are bringing up and is a constant. As we build him up it's like a volcano that ready to explode."<br />
<br />
I don't get it. How is Bobby Roode as champion considered "working backwards"? If anything, the way Bobby Roode has been booked since winning the world title is completely ass backwards. But then to top it off, The Hulkster goes on public record to say that the answer to fixing the disastrous problems in TNA Wrestling is to put the title on Jeff Hardy?<br />
<br />
I don't know Jeff Hardy personally. But we all know the Hardy's reputation. We all saw what happened when Jeff's demons got the best of him during a live PPV where he was forced out of the ring during his much anticipated match against Sting. He comes, he goes, he's on hiatus, he's clean himself up...and you call that reliable? You call that the answer to fixing problems? Since when did inconsistency qualify as a good trait? Would you seriously put the weight of TNA's wrestling world on the shoulders of a guy who whose legs can't carry his own weight down to the ring?<br />
<br />
Jeff Hardy is a name remembered for some fascinating memories that he gave the industry over 10 years ago. His style is wacked out and sells merchandise. I get it. But not only is he not the same performers he was, he's not even the same individual. His demons have gotten the best of him and his days of being a company's top guy and figurehead are far behind him. When was the last time you saw Jeff Hardy contribute to the business, the company or the fans like John Cena has done? <br />
<br />
On the flip side of the coin, Bobby Roode gets buried again. Hogan didn't blatantly get caught with the shovel in his hand like he did last time, but reading between the lines, he's admitting he has no faith in Bobby Roode. He's saying that if it were his choice, Roode would be doing the job for his drug mule, Jeff Hardy. But clearly, it's not Hogan's choice. At least, not anymore. Aside from those on their knees tongue kissing Hogan's red and yellow asshole, the majority of the locker room has been rubbed the wrong way by Mr. Nanny. And to prevent an all out riot, it's a laot easier to keep the toy prop around Roode's waist... for now.<br />
<br />
Can you imagine that in 2012, Hogan is ruining the ONLY legitimate competition to Vince McMahon? Can you imagine that there has been a second main stream organization for 10 years, and Vince McMahon has yet to lose a wink of sleep over it? Can you believe that there is another mainstream organization that Vince McMahon has ZERO interest in any of the talent on their roster to steal away? You wanna know why? Because TNA doesn't draw, so what use are they to the WWE?<br />
<br />
But Hogan thinks the quick fix to TNA's problem is the coked out enigma, Jeff Hardy. It hurts me to see TNA diagnosed with this terminal cancer.<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidenyrealtor.com/Bay-Club">Bay Club Bayside</a> & <a href="http://pestcontrol-nj.com">Hudson County Pest Control</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-83074365185801952042012-05-08T12:01:00.001-04:002012-05-08T12:01:04.906-04:00This Is Your Career On Virgil<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xESyTg6l6gs/T6lCLL0qAiI/AAAAAAAABIU/W06ZlbaHGjk/s1600/poor%2Bvirgil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="229" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xESyTg6l6gs/T6lCLL0qAiI/AAAAAAAABIU/W06ZlbaHGjk/s400/poor%2Bvirgil.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I get asked a lot of the same questions from wrestling fans. Some of the most popular are: What is this wrestler like?; What ever happened to this wrestler?; How much do these guys really make?; Did you have sex with Tammy Sytch? ... Well, let's just stick to the where are they nows and how much do they make.<br />
<br />
About a year ago, I wrote a short post entitled <a href="http://diehardprowrestling.blogspot.com/2011/10/mike-virgil-jones-3500-slave.html">Mike "Virgil" Jones - The $3,500 Slave</a> which talked about my run-in with former WWE star best known as the lackey bodyguard of the Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase in the 80's. I was absolutely amazed at what a douchebag to everyone and the exuberant amount of money he was trying to hustle from promoters for an appearance fee.<br />
<br />
The other day, a fan sends me an email with a photo attachment. The fan had read my post and was following up on one of the most expensive non-drawing jabrones in the business. Apparently, I was wrong. And now there is picture proof!<br />
<br />
I didn't know that self proclaimed $3,500 valued talent was taking gigs signing autographs in parking lot flea markets. This is obviously a pit stop before the Hall of Fame. Look at the turn out in this place. Fans are trampling each other just to get close to him. The money is literally jumping out of their pockets and into his hands. The line was so long, fans had to be turned away. The world heard the sound of thousands of children crying because they couldn't get their life's fulfillment of being next to the what some may consider the second coming of Christ.<br />
<br />
I understand that some fans flew half way across the world from Japan, Australia, Iceland, and Newark, NJ. The Pope doesn't even get turn outs like this. This is that moment fans have always dreamed of and will tell this tale to their grandchildren where it will become legend. I'll my grand children he was a legend...a legendary failure!<br />
<br />
I've seen some pretty desperate things in this business and this is definitely in the top five. Do you think the promoter of the flea market had to pay $3,500 for his top draw? because if you were to ask me, I think Virgil actually paid the promoter $35 for the table. I'm not here to take a big wet shit all over Virgil...ok, yes I am - because he's a total douche -, but how sad is it that this guy is sitting in a parking lot telling people he sold out Madison Square Garden. Then again, there may be some truth to it. Maybe he didn't sell out every seat in the arena at The Garden - but there is a good chance he sold out of his promo pictures in the MSG parking lot! <br />
<br />
On a serious note, it's sad to see the grim reality of what life after wrestling can be like. So for any aspiring wrestler out there, I won't be the one to tell you that your dreams will never come true. But I will tell you there is a chance you can become the next Virgil. Hopefully this scares the shit out of you enough to have a good back up plan. And to Mike Jones... HA HA HAHAHAHAHA HA HA HA HA!!!<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.pugatch.com/Woodmere-real-estate">Woodmere Homes for Sale</a> & <a href="http://www.richardbarnold.com/glen-cove-real-estate">Glen Cove Homes For Sale</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-55416741580654484212012-05-08T11:12:00.000-04:002012-05-08T11:12:27.820-04:00The Rock Looks Like He's Been Eating Rocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2z0qBu0HFk8/T6k2xsEUp0I/AAAAAAAABHo/rPigAFc48yE/s1600/pain%2Band%2Bgain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="259" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2z0qBu0HFk8/T6k2xsEUp0I/AAAAAAAABHo/rPigAFc48yE/s400/pain%2Band%2Bgain.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Has anyone seen Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson lately? Not since the night after Wrestlemania when he announced that he would be "back" and that his little epiphany told him that his next goal was to regain the WWE title. Yeah, that's about the last time I saw him too.<br />
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I wasn't sure if he had been taken off TV because Brock Lesnar had returned and they weren't sure exactly how creative would get The Rock into the title picture (although it's been said that he'll wrestle Lesnar in the main event of Mania 29 for the WWE title). But Rocky has been gone and somewhat forgotten. Yes, I remember that he has an amazing Hollywood career to return to and I knew that he wasn't going to be sticking around much longer after Wrestlemania. With the highly anticipated sequel to G.I. Joe coming out this summer and the sixth installment to the Fast and Furious franchise, how can he have time to dress up as a wrestler and roll around in the ring?<br />
<br />
The Joe flick has wrapped and will start its promotional tour and junkettes. Filming for the Fast series hasn't begun yet as Vin Diesel is wrapping yet another sequel to his sci-fi action hero Riddick. So why does out boy dio, he signs on to star in a dark bodybuilding comedy alongside Mark Whalberg and directed by Michael Bay. Yep! THAT Michael Bay. Mr. Transformers-I-Like-To-Blow-Shit-Up-With-Hot-Ass-Victoria-Secrets-Models.<br />
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The name of the movie is Pain and Gain, set for release in 2013. And in this set pic, it proves that you are what you eat, as The Rock looks like he's been chowing down on boulders.<br />
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Rocky wasn't even this big at Wrestlemania! He was trim, lean and agile. here. He looks like a genetic freak (no offense to Scott Stiener). I know the movie has some dealings with anabolic steroids, but it makes me wonder if Rocky got on the juice to enhance his role in the movie? Time will tell when a trailer hits at the end of the year...but in the meantime, He is an absolute BEAST!<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidetammy.com">Bayside Real Estate</a> & <a href="http://nassaucountyrentals.com">Nassau County Apartments</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-82382251693009652682012-05-08T02:02:00.000-04:002012-05-08T02:02:10.496-04:00ECW Has Officially Died<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t_mOfUTZ14/T6i10Q8NWRI/AAAAAAAABG0/czlIUXb6-M4/s1600/paul_e.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="248" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t_mOfUTZ14/T6i10Q8NWRI/AAAAAAAABG0/czlIUXb6-M4/s400/paul_e.png" /></a></div><br />
Extreme Championship Wrestling wasn't a wrestling organization. It was a cult. I say that in the most sincerest form. I lived through it. I wasn't a cult follower, but I was around it. I saw it born. I saw it grow. And on Monday night, I saw it die.<br />
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Ever since the original organization fathered by Paul Heyman officially folded in 2001, there have been numerous attempts to resurrect it. But instead of finding Dr. Frankenstien himself to work his magic, the only thing that the ill-fated reincarnations did was dig the grave deeper.<br />
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The closest thing to closure was the WWE's One Night Stand PPV. It was gently placed in Paul Heyman's hands with the blessing and financing of Vince McMahon. But greed got the best of Vince, and just as he has monopolized the wrestling business and forced monthly pay per views upon us - he thought he too could reboot the organization in his own vision. A vision that was worse than the XFL. Not even Vince's money could bring ECW back to life.<br />
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TNA tried doing something similar with Hardcore Justice last year with an event that was seen by less people than a backyard wrestling show featuring disabled midgets. Then again, I might have actually paid to see that backyard show...Back to the point, not even the ghost of ECW showed up.<br />
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A few weeks ago, ECW original Shane Douglas made a last attempt by running a reunion show in Philadelphia - the home of ECW. Although it drew 2000 fans, it ended with 2000 angry fans who raised hell about a show plagued with drugged up wrestlers, incoherent booking, false advertising and dirty laundry list of bad business decisions that burned the ECW faithful and loyalists for the last time. <br />
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With the return of Brock Lesnar, there was some speculation that Paul Heyman might make a return to the wrestling world to lend his genius creative mind. But through social networks, he denied the rumors. Perhaps it was to cover up his cameo appearance on Monday Night RAW as the official spokesman for Brock Lesnar. When the time came for Paul Heyman to walk through the curtain and surprise the world...well, there was no surprise. Not because the information had leaked, but because no one knew who he was. Paul Heyman made a grand entrance to no "pop" at all.<br />
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The landscape of the business has changed, and since Vince McMahon remodeled the business to a PG-13 tone that caters to a younger demographic, the days of pro wrestling violence are now stories of legend. Kids aren't use to the blood and hardcore anything goes matches. And to be quite honest, they don't need it. Kids don't need to risk their lives and safety while emulating their heroes. But ECW fans have always held on to their hope. Hope that one day Paul Heyman would walk on water as the second coming of hardcore Christ. And when the moment happened on RAW, it proved that ECW is truly dead for good.<br />
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The new audience didn't live it. There is nothing to help them remember it. It was never a Vince thing to begin with. So when Paul Heyman walked the aisle on Monday night, there was nothing but silence...A moment of silence to mourn the official death of ECW.<br />
<br />
If Paul Heyman's appearance didn't get a reaction from the live audience, then nothing can bring ECW back to life. The young fans looked at each other as if saying, "Who is this guy?... He's great on the mic, but who is he?" There is an article on WWE.com RIGHT NOW, reminding people who he is with e title "Who is Paul Heyman?"<br />
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If Paul E. couldn't get a response, then his brainchild has no chance of ever making a comeback. ECW is officially dead...forever.<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.nassaucountyrentals.com/great-neck-apartments">Great Neck Apartments</a> & <a href="http://www.pugatch.com/Five-Towns-Homes-for-Sale">Five Towns Homes For Sale </a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-17364758331214721152012-05-08T01:09:00.001-04:002012-05-08T01:09:58.118-04:00Brock Killed Tensai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SH3SBbMyKfw/T6ipyi-g1GI/AAAAAAAABGU/8hghClp8jAM/s1600/tensai%2Bdead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SH3SBbMyKfw/T6ipyi-g1GI/AAAAAAAABGU/8hghClp8jAM/s400/tensai%2Bdead.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I hate to be the one to break the bad news, but this little Lord Tensai experiment is dead on arrival.<br />
<br />
I'm not here to poke holes in everything that WWE creative puts out there. I know how difficult it is to make an engaging product that connects with the fans, and something that is marketable and profitable. And had it not been for the return of the beast Brock Lesnar, this may in fact have worked. <br />
<br />
The vignettes were effective. They were simple, but effective. They provided that mystique that a younger generation - who doesn't remember that mediocre run of A-Train and Prince Albert - needed to believe in order to fear what could have been a dominating force to the babyface roster and the title scene. I guess if I were the WWE, I would have dropped everything too the minute Brock signed on the dotted line. But in doing so, it killed Lord Tensai before he even started to sizzle.<br />
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I credit WWE for doing everything in their power to desperately save him before he completely flat-lines. But the damage is too critical. A win over Cena and another over Punk still aren't enough to get him over. The fans look as his size and at his ability to destruct anything in his path - and the only thing they say now is, "Brock is bigger... Brock is stronger... Brock is better..."<br />
<br />
What now of Lord Tensai? The mercenary of John Laurinaitis isn't a bad role - but now Tensai is the understudy as Brock has snagged that storyline as well. What will it take to get this gimmick from completely flopping? A match with Brock himself? That won't happen. And if it does, guess who will go over. Not Tensai. How about turning him babyface? but then what's the point of bringing him in as the much needed monster heel (especially now that Brodus Clay's career has been ruined)?<br />
<br />
It's a damn shame. Tensai is man past his prime given a rare opportunity to get another strong run - even stronger than his first run over a decade ago. but what becomes of him now? Now that his thunder has been stolen and the carpet pulled from under his feet. Where does he land on the roster? How do you write for him? And is it only a matter of time until the REAL heel in the company, Mr. Laurinaitis himself, wishes him well on his future endeavors?<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.nassaucountyrentals.com/great-neck-apartments">Great Neck Rentals</a> & <a href="http://www.pugatch.com/Five-Towns-Homes-for-Sale">Five Towns Real Estate</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-28415549027352924032012-05-08T00:23:00.000-04:002012-05-08T00:23:32.568-04:00Will You Buy Cena vs. Laurinaitis?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08P0RWyxZlo/T6ifU774svI/AAAAAAAABF4/blxzToyg_lI/s1600/johnny%2Bace%2Bvs%2Bcena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08P0RWyxZlo/T6ifU774svI/AAAAAAAABF4/blxzToyg_lI/s400/johnny%2Bace%2Bvs%2Bcena.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Call me crazy, but after coming off of Wrestlemania 29 which headlined with John Cena vs. The Rock, and then rushing into Extreme Rules to get the John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar nut off prematurely, who in their right mind would pay to see Super Dave take on the face of the organization? <br />
<br />
I'm still trying to figure out exactly what creative is doing with Cena. I understand the concept of letting him work "featured" matches and letting other young stars rise to the top of the title scene. But creative is literally riding their golden horse into the ground and devaluing his impact on the business. <br />
<br />
What is the point of making John Laurinaitis your top heel in the entire company? Other than portraying a character that hides behind his abuse of power, how does this one man become the main antagonist of a weekly story? In the beginning, it made sense that there would be heel heat against the VP of Talent Relations and the play on the phrase "...wish you the best in your future endeavors", but enough is enough. He is not a wrestler...at least not anymore. I still question whether he was a real wrestler when he was romping around looking like a 40 year old surfer and Point Break reject. He's not a contender and he's not worthy of main eventing a pay per view. Plan and simple, anyone who orders this PPV will be subjected to numerous run-ins and false finishes. it's the equivalent of Vince McMahon being Stone Cold Steve Austin's arch nemesis. Yeah, it worked for a moment, but how long can you really ride it out before it gets stale? At what point do we cut the cord from the soap opera and get back to wrestling?<br />
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As if it weren't bad enough that there are monthly PPV events throughout the entire year, now you have non-wrestlers filling in the gaps for your main events. I urge wrestling fans to save their money from this debacle. What do you REALLY think you are going to get for your money? Do you think you are going to witness history? Do you think you're watching something so memorable that it will be replayed and highlighted for years to come? This will be forgotten faster than Braden Walker's career. <br />
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WWE creative, if you want our money - then we demand something worth our money. <br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidenyrealtor.com/Towers-at-Waters-Edge">Towers At Waters Edge</a> & <a href="http://nassaucountyrentals.com">Nassau County Rentals </a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-65047627810107388642012-05-03T11:08:00.001-04:002012-05-03T11:08:08.977-04:00Psycho Shooter Drake Younger vs. Psycho Babble Sami Calihan<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5dALNZy10k">Watch This</a><br />
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While you're at it <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=-ZgV_4tqH9c">watch this too </a><br />
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Its the match that EVERYONE should be talking about.<br />
Ever since Sami Calihan took out his anger and frustration on the legacy of ECW and Sabu on 1/14/12, he has (in his own words) become 'the next big thing'. He has also become an overbearing, annoying, egotistical jerk. All that ends on 5/5 when he faces the Psycho Shooter Drake Younger. <br />
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I use to be a fan of Sami, but after 1/14/12 all bets are off. I watch his promos, and while they are "entertaining" at times, how many times can he be on the verge of insanity? I watched his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=YY4FcBxTj5U">latest promo</a> and I was laughing at how comical it was.<br />
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Sami Calihan you are a one trick pony. On 5/5/12 Drake Younger is going to do the world a favor and knock you down a few pegs, back to reality. Because if you have to face reality, you might go crazy. Really crazy.<br />
<br />Jimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14910848634999528534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-83057538192996084422012-05-01T10:44:00.000-04:002012-05-08T10:44:13.904-04:00Working with WWE Star R-Truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Wfdhm138ls/T6kvfWNls5I/AAAAAAAABHU/RmHnhrQrzNg/s1600/R-TRUTH%2BSTORY600x257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="171" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Wfdhm138ls/T6kvfWNls5I/AAAAAAAABHU/RmHnhrQrzNg/s400/R-TRUTH%2BSTORY600x257.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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You meet some pretty interesting people in the pro wrestling business. You realize that outside of the characters they portray on television, they actually are human beings. Like you and I, they are people with hopes, dreams, problems, stress, and doubt. The know that at any given moment, they may no longer be the flavor of the month or that their spot on the roster might be compromised when a new star is on the rise. When people ask me what it's like to work with wrestlers, I simply tell them that sometimes it's the equivalent of babysitting an adult.<br />
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You may have followed some of my previous posts where I've discussed some backstage stories that I encountered during my time in the business. Some stories are better than others, and some offer more gossip to a rumor you may have heard. But one thing is for sure... it's not often where you can talk about who a person really is. Sometime you can just get a picture in your head of what that person may be like to deal with based off a story. But who knows, maybe it was just a bad day for them and you can't judge their character based off of once incident. I've told stories about <a href="http://www.diehardprowrestling.com/2011/07/15/news-updates/672/cm-punk-is-a-fcking-douchebag/">CM Punk</a>, <a href="http://www.diehardprowrestling.com/2012/01/25/commentary/783/why-april-hunter-parted-ways-with-nwa-cyberspace/">April Hunter</a>, <a href="http://www.diehardprowrestling.com/2012/01/25/commentary/777/why-jeff-jarrett-parted-ways-with-nwa-cyberspace/">Jeff Jarrett</a> and many others. Most recently I shared my experience in working with <a href="http://www.diehardprowrestling.com/2012/05/06/commentary/796/the-truth-about-working-with-ron-r-truth-killings/">WWE superstar R-Truth</a>.<br />
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In the post, you'll read about a man who was unsure of his career in pro wrestling. You sense his insecurities and the obstacles he overcame to get where he is today. You may see him on WWE TV as a co-holder of the tag team titles, or as the wildly popular comic relief with his invisible sidekick, Little Jimmy. But there was a time when R-Truth didn't know how much longer he was going to be a pro wrestler. There was a time where his heart and passion were somewhere else. And there was a time where an unknown booker for a small northeast indy organization got to know a man who had all the talent but didn't think anybody was interested in it anymore.<br />
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Click R-Truth's name in the above paragraph to read the story. I'd like to hear your comments and feedback. Share with me YOUR stories of wrestlers you've encountered at a low point, or some who you have met that didn't live up to your expectations. This is just another one of my stories...and there are plenty more to come.<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.pugatch.com/Woodmere-real-estate">Woodmere Real Estate</a> & <a href="http://www.richardbarnold.com/glen-cove-real-estate">Glen Cove Real Estate</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-84354599393182769302012-04-26T11:22:00.000-04:002012-05-08T12:50:37.187-04:00Devon Nicholson Challenges Kurt Angle: Real Challenge or Real Good Way To Get Your Name Out There?<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_tdYNZdrZeE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Anybody ever heard of "Hannibal" Devon Nicholson?...Neither have I. At least, not until now. <br />
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From what I understand, he was a Canadian mainstay on the indies and had a dark match or two for the WWE - but that's about it. I'm not shitting on the guy because I don't know him or his work. But at the same time, when you Google his name and read through the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devon_Nicholson">Devon Nicholson Wikipedia </a> (that was obviously written by himself, it makes you wonder if he's just another weekend warrior putting himself over as some great worker, yet was never noticed by a major organization. <br />
<br />
Again, I've never heard of him - but at the same time, I've been out of the indy loop for a few years now. I do know that he wasn't a name I heard of while i was promoting or booking. And when you invite yourself to the WWE training camp, it doesn't say much about their interest in you. As a promoter, I shale my head when I read someone's Wikipedia and it says, "In May 2009 Nicholson attended a WWE try out camp in Tampa Florida. He was told by WWE agent Pat Patterson that he was the best wrestler in the camp." Sounds like somebody is blowing smoke up their own ass.<br />
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The Wiki account also reads - "In 2009, Nicholson was offered a World Wrestling Entertainment contract, but the offer was rescinded, when a medical examination revealed that he had contracted hepatitis C, which he later blamed on his matches with Abdullah the Butcher. He also did a try out with TNA Wrestling in October 2010 in Saginaw, Michigan. Despite impressing TNA management they could not hire him because of his Hepatitis C."<br />
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Now that is a story I have heard of, but nothing of value that would make me remember his name. It was always presented tom e as, "Some indy worker got a contract revoked because he has Hep C and now he's talking about taking them to court". It's that kind of simplicity that his name has carried in most circles. If there is any truth to the contract offerings and tryouts, then I stand corrected - but at the same time, what has become of your career since then.<br />
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Apparently, Nicholson is now retired and in an attempt to keep whatever is left of his name viable, he's issued an Olympic challenge to Kurt Angle.<br />
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Angle pulled out of the recent Olympic trials for whatever reason. Sometimes I just think Kurt says whatever he wants to get some press because TNA is so lousy at keeping him relevant in the industry. Angle is a beast and arguably the best pure wrestler in the world. he doesn't need another run in the Olympics and his body isn't what it use to be in the 90's. Nicholson said Angle's book (also released 15 years ago) was his bible. Which doesn't say much because the book was the shits. But in any case, in an effort to keep his name as relevant as a book that has been forgotten since its release, he's called Angle out and challenged him to an amateur style match.<br />
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Angle hasn't responded yet. Probably because he doesn't even know that this video exists. And if he does, he's probably saying to himself - "Who the fuck is this guy and what has he ever done?" <br />
<br />
In this era of social media, anybody can make any claim and have it be heard by millions. But does that mean it makes them relevant? Anyone with a video camera can shoot a promo and issue a challenge, but does it mean that it's something to take serious and make news with? Or perhaps, I'm asking the wrong questions. Maybe this is effective because it actually has me writing a post about it. Maybe I didn't know his name before, and now I do. So did I answer my own question on the effectiveness of this video and challenge? <br />
<br />
Will Kurt Angle respond? Probably not. Not to mention, he's not gonna have a match with this guy and risk catching the Hep C. But now people know his name. He can make another video and claim that Kurt Angle is a coward and didn't respond to the challenge. He can claim that Kurt is all mouth but no balls, because he is ducking him and refuses to accept the match. On the flip side of the coin, I'm sure if you were to ask Kurt what he thought about the challenge, he'd say - "What challenge? What video? Who the fuck is this guy? I have no idea what you're talking about."<br />
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I guess if Kurt Angle responded, then it's a great success. But even if he doesn't, it still has to be some kind of success because WE are talking about it. And WE are the one really awaiting the response. And WE are the ones who got suckered into giving this guy the attention he craves. What are your thoughts?<br />
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This post is provided in part by <a href="http://www.baysidenyrealtor.com/Bayside-coops-for-sale">Bayside Coops</a> & <a href="http://pestcontrol-nj.com">Hudson County Exterminator</a> <br />
<br />DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-7158754624242299972012-04-26T11:07:00.002-04:002012-04-26T11:07:55.618-04:00Dean Ambrose is The Next Big Deal In Pro Wrestling<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yesHayGfNHc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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There aren't many times when I look at a young wrestler and try to predict his future in the business. But there is a new guy about to be called up to the main roster and debut. There isn't a single thing about him that ever needs to be changed. And to think, he's still in his infancy. You are about to witness what could potentially go down as one of the business' greatest antagonists. And you will get to witness it from the beginning, and for years to come. I give to you, Dean Ambrose.<br />
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He's not big, but he's tall enough. He's not ripped, but he's solid. He doesn't really look the role, but that will play into his advantage. And he's got a mouth on him that spews a promo like a true traditionalist of the business. A down right gritty renegade who flips the bird to flamboyancy of the entertainment portion but gives his last breathe to finish the fight. When I look at Dean Ambrose, I see Terry Funk in his early twenties.<br />
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You may remember him as Jon Moxley, and you may have followed his career on the indy scene in Ring of Honor, to name a few. While his name has changed, his formula and ingredients haven't.<br />
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I hold high praise for Ambrose, not for what he has done - but for what he believes. In the early 80's, I found my passion for the business through characters who I believed truly existed in the real world. Later on in life, when I first started to break in - I realized that the magic that made them so effective to my imagination was that the person they were in real life wasn't too far off from who they portrayed themselves to be in the ring. To me, that meant that there was some reality to this business. Ambrose doesn't play it...he IS it!<br />
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Recently, Ambrose's debut has been pushed through social media following a series of verbal attacks on hardcore legend Mick Foley. When have you ever heard of a newcomer getting an endorsement from a legend to kickstart his career? <br />
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At a house show in December, I saw Ambrose perform in a match against Daniel Bryan. While Bryan's work has been praised as one of the best in the business, it far different from the style Ambrose brought to the fight. It was a clash of two styles which surprisingly, Ambrose garnered more attention. While Bryan's moveset seemed well thought out and better choreographed and designed - Ambrose seemed sloppy, unprepared and trying to adjust to Bryan's dance. You might be asking, "So why are you so high on Ambrose if he looked sloppy?" The answer is, because he designed it that way. <br />
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The office has had him touring with the crew and performing at local house shows to evaluate his work and make sure he's ready for TV. He's been winning his matches so that fans get acquainted with him and his style. In one of his recent wins, he finished the match by rolling down his knee pad and planting a bare knee into the face of his opponent. No finishing move needed. A simple heel tactic that hasn't been seen since the 80's. Very reminiscent of Jake "The Snake" Roberts when he first arrived on the scene and stunned the world with his DDT.<br />
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Now all that I have written is glorifying Ambrose's ring work. I haven't even begun talking about his promo skills. He paints a perfect picture of how he continues to interpret his feud outside of the ring and into his real life - a trait Don Muraco was legendary for. <br />
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If this were a comic book, Dean Ambrose would easily be the character Deadpool. He is an experiment of taking the best qualities out of some of histories best characters and breeding them into one new man. He's a genetic gimmick freak stirring qualities from Funk, Flair, Muraco, Roberts, Arn, Piper, Race - to name a few. <br />
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Watch the video above. You are about to witness a legend in the making. I predict, Dean Ambrose will be pro wrestling's next big thing.<br />
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This post is sponsored in part by <a href="http://www.baysidenyrealtor.com/Towers-at-Waters-Edge">Towers At Waters Edge</a> & <a href="http://diehardprowrestling.blogspot.com/">Pro Wrestling Blogs</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-39371116426486607072012-04-26T10:56:00.001-04:002012-04-26T10:56:34.172-04:00How To Book Ted DiBiase Jr<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Or95zZqHlRk/T5WRxdGfGuI/AAAAAAAAA7M/a7qLbveTEXo/s1600/ted_dibiase_jr1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Or95zZqHlRk/T5WRxdGfGuI/AAAAAAAAA7M/a7qLbveTEXo/s400/ted_dibiase_jr1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
If I were a betting man, I would have taken a huge loss on this one. If you frequent my writings, you'll see my constant praise for Dolph Ziggler. Well, it wasn't so long ago when I was singing the same praises for a guy named Ted DiBiase Jr. <br />
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What the hell happened to this guy? His ring skill was as technically sound as they come! How could you miss with this kid? Not to mention, he's the son of one of the most notorious villains in pro wrestling history - The Million Dollar Man! <br />
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Teddy Jr. has been out with an injury for some time, but before the boo boo went down - he was already off the WWE creative radar. I got the chance to see him work a live event in New York in December. I remember being kind of stoked to watch DiBiase give a wrestling clinic for the non-televised event. Then, I hear the fans start chanting something about DiBiase Posse Party....Huh? I don't get it. Who are you? No wonder you're not on TV anymore. Then it dawned on me... DiBiase is stuck in creative purgatory.<br />
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So let a real pro wrestling writer (my old job), tell you how to book this under appreciated talent. Are you ready? No need to take notes dipshit, this blog isn't going anywhere...<br />
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Book Ted Sr. to sit ringside at a PPV and watch his son lose. Interview Ted at ringside and ask what it was like to see your little boy on the losing end. Ask Daddy if he has any advice for his son on how to make it in such a competitive business, to which ted will simply respond - "Everyone has a price."<br />
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A few weeks later, things start happening for Ted Jr. He starts getting title shots, offers, magazine covers. It's almost like he just won the new self-image lottery. But how can this kind of change start happening over night? <br />
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He gets a high profile match, and even though he blatantly loses, the referee makes an excuse to restart the match which junior wins after a fast count. The fans are confused. His next match appears to be all but lost when all of a sudden his opponent falls to a mysterious injury letting DiBiase secure the pin. Fans are still confused. Weeks later, we learn that Ted Sr. has been bribing and buying his son's success up the WWE ladder when Daddy tries to purchase a title shot for his son.<br />
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Now perhaps this something that could have happened easily in the 80's, but this is 2012 dammit. This warrants a full investigation into bribery, blackmail, extortion. Everyone is pout under the microscope. A black book has been found with names who were paid off for their services. Suspensions are issued, jobs are lost, and the the company comes under corporate scrutiny. DiBiaise has financially shaken up the institution to get his son over. Who is getting paid off? Who is remaining clean like Serpico? Ted Sr. starts managing Ted Jr., and father and son attempt to steal (or buy) the WWE empire from Triple H and The McMahons.<br />
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I could go on, but I just remembered that Vince McMahon doesn't have me on HIS payroll. So that's about all I'm willing to offer. <br />
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This post is sponsored in part by <a href="http://pestcontrol-nj.com">Hudson County Pest Control</a> & <a href="http://nassaucountyrentals.com">Nassau County Apartments</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-55365313682898052502012-04-26T10:49:00.002-04:002012-04-26T10:49:59.441-04:00REPOST: GLOW Revival “Dead On Arrival” Due To Shady Promoter; Several Girls Not Paid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DA9zmwqp0s8/T5Wg6AeIGAI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/wY9sP5DGy3A/s1600/GLOW-Season-5-194x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="194" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DA9zmwqp0s8/T5Wg6AeIGAI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/wY9sP5DGy3A/s400/GLOW-Season-5-194x300.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We’ve been on a bit of a GLOW kick here at Ringbelles for the last week or so. Having talked to the utterly charming and intelligent Angelina Altishin (GLOW’s Little Egypt) for the most recent edition of the Women of Wrestling Podcast, we’ve been keeping an eye on goings-on at Cauliflower Alley’s 2012 Reunion, where Lisa Moretti (aka GLOW’s Tina Ferrari and WWE’s Ivory) was honoured, Angelina presented two seminars to atendees, and several GLOW originals made special appearances. Even WWE’s Kharma was spotted on local news, putting over the original GLOW product. However, one thing we haven’t mentioned (other than in passing in this week’s Roundup) was that running opposite Cauliflower Alley, across town in Henderson, NV – there was an attempt to revive the product with a GLOW-branded show billed as “A Night of Fan Appreciation”. There had even been talk that this would herald a GLOW “Season 5″ as a TV product.<br />
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It seemed a bizarre day to try and launch a revival, given that anybody in the Las Vegas area with any interest in wrestling would almost certainly be going to Cauliflower Alley – not to mention that with a large number of GLOW originals already committed to be at Cauliflower Alley, even those who were hardcore GLOW fans (if such a thing still exists in 2012) would have had a difficult decision to make. The day after, the best we could cobble together was a partial talent list and a partial set of results – and it became clear that the revival wasn’t exactly a success. We first heard of a crowd of possibly 50 (and that was taking into account local trainees). We’ve even heard an estimate considerably lower than that. That, unfortunately, was only the tip of the iceberg, as we’ve since heard various shady stories regarding promoter Eric Rolphe Nyenhuis. Click through to after the jump for the full story.<br />
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At this point, we may as well go right to this YouTube video posted today by Freakshow Wrestling’s Scorch The Clown where he calls for a boycott on any future events promoted by the aforementioned Eric Rolphe Nyenhuis (who calls himself the new CEO of GLOW, under the name Eric Danger Nyenhuis).<br />
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Scorch actually makes a lot of points in this video that we’ve been busy confirming ourselves over the last couple of days, and we’re able to confirm that we’ve heard similar stories from various parties involved in the ill-fated reunion. Most notably, we’ve independently confirmed that a number of girls were stiffed on pay and lied to about a number of things. Rather than being put up in the Gold Coast Hotel, the girls were to be put in a sub $40 per night flea pit, the promised “limousine transport” to/from the hotel ended up being a number of people crammed in the back of a van, and unsurprisingly the promise that the venue had paid catering also turned out to be false. Perhaps most damning is the fact that (as mentioned by Scorch), Nyenhuis was caught trying to sneak out of the venue before the show was over to avoid having to pay several of the talent. He then tried blaming investors etc, before jerking around the girls for several hours as they ended up following him around Vegas until his trail went cold. One of the girls had been given a hotel room key, but nobody had told them where they were supposed to be staying – and it was only through the good graces and contacts of Stu Stone (who worked on the show as a manager and managed to pull in some favours) that they were eventually able to find a hotel for the night. The next morning, Nyenhuis was still nowhere to be found – meaning that fly-in talent who had to get back to the airport had to organise their own transport back.<br />
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As for the show, the promised “hair and makeup artists” turned out to be Nyenhuis’ girlfriend – GLOW original Roxy Astor and her daughter Kayla (who worked the show as Brittany Astor), the sound guy was Astor’s son, and the photographer was Roxy’s other daughter’s boyfriend. Promotion was non-existent outside a facebook fan page (which has since been taken down by Nyenhuis’ business partner, who was *also* lied to) and the event was described as “unprofessional”. From what we’ve been able to gather, only four matches were put on, and outside of the Legends Battle Royal (which was won by GLOW original Hollywood), none of the other three had a finish. Taeler Hendrix (working as Vanessa Hendrix Wundor – aka VH1) had some sort of a no-contest with Kitana Vera (as Lil’ Figi) (we’ve been unable to determine the exact finish), Buggy Nova (as Donna Dead) went to a Double DQ with Brittany Astor) and Sara Del Rey (as Sara Death Ray) went to a 15 minute draw with Candice LaRae (as Robyn, The Super Hero).<br />
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The one thing that we’ve heard throughout from every source is that nobody is blaming or knocking the GLOW girls, either originals or new – and that the utter failure of this project lies solely on the head of this shady promoter, Eric Nyenhuis. It brings us no pleasure to bring this to the attention of our readers – and even though we assume Nyenhuis will disappear off the grid for an extended length of time after this debacle, we believe (and hope) that nobody else should have to put up with the (in the words of Scorch) “Bullcrap” that a number of these performers have had to over the last few days. Please, we urge that any wrestlers who are approached by this man in future heed this warning.<br />
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We will bring you more news if and when any develops.<br />
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This post is sponsored in part by <a href="http://pestcontrol-nj.com">Hudson County Exterminator</a> & <a href="http://nassaucountyrentals.com">Nassau County Rentals </a><br />DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2943533048682783008.post-50393164667430874932012-04-26T10:45:00.000-04:002012-04-26T10:45:32.516-04:00Passing A Torch With No Flame?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLOfSE-hpB8/T5WGoXSgteI/AAAAAAAAA7A/FcyNZ2MODjM/s1600/WWE-Wade-Barrett-Takes-on-John-Cena-500x320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLOfSE-hpB8/T5WGoXSgteI/AAAAAAAAA7A/FcyNZ2MODjM/s400/WWE-Wade-Barrett-Takes-on-John-Cena-500x320.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Back in the 90's, when the n.W.o. gimmick started to fade with the overkill of adding older wrestlers who flat out refused to put over the younger talent, I was a huge advocate of passing the torch to the next generation of young stars whop would bare the burden of carrying the success of the industry on their backs. After all, Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Bret Hart and Randy Savage only had so much left in them. They were in their twilight of their career and new stars had to be handed the responsibility of keeping the business alive. <br />
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Luckily, the young stars that were promoted were names like Chris Jericho, The Rock, Eddie Guerrero, and even a guy like Triple H. Watching this past Wrestlemania, it truly was the end of an era.<br />
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So who are the new stars of today? John Cena is a no-brainer. CM Punk has finally found his mojo and will become of the next big stars for the business. But then what...? Who else is there? Jericho's career near it's end. He wants to go out on top, spend time with the family and pursue other projects. How much more can Cena carry on his back? Orton can help with the load and switch back and forth. Who's the next big star? Who will get "the call"? Sheamus? Maybe. I think he's a great worker, but the gimmick is limited. Who else?...I'll wait. <br />
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Dolph Ziggler is ready and willing - but I don;t think the office is 100% sold on him right now. They see a work horse looking to steal the show and they figure, "Let's not feed him. The more he starves, the harder he'll work for food." I urge you fans to stick with Ziggler, because there will be a day when he is the hottest thing on the wrestling market. <br />
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The one that bothers me the most is Wade Barrett. The WWE invested so much into him with the ill-fated Nexus angle, and then they tried to get him over on his own. Now, he's just a guy who can get the right shoe to fit. He's uncomfortable in the ring, he's uncomfortable to watch, and he's as wooden as Pinnochio's penis. <br />
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Barrett has the tools to be a hard nosed competitor and respected in the same breath as William Regal, Fit Finlay and even JBL. He has the same rugged style and approach blended with a a technical twist. So why isn't he getting over? Even when he's out with an injury, it has no effect what so ever with the progress of the show. he was filler material right off the cookie-cutter clone line. Only difference was that he had a little size on him, other than that, same shit as everyone else. <br />
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It's almost cliche to hear an old school traditional wrestler refer to themselves as, "The Last of a Dying Breed". But maybe it's true. Remember the dinosaurs? Funny how we refer to Hogan and Flair as one of them, what happened when the dinosaurs no longer roamed the earth? What will happen when the Hogans, Flair, Stings and Undertakers wrestle in the ring? Will it be the end of the wrestling world much like the dawn of time? <br />
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Just let them wrestle already. Let the championship be the prize for being the best. Then you wonder why the new kids on the block are so green? Because they are too busy working on their acting skills rather then their wrestling skills. They are more focused on memorizing the script rather than the spots in their match. I look at the business the same way an adult looks at today's youth - "THAT is what is going to lead the world and take care of me in the future?"... I guess it is really coming to an end, isn't it?<br />
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This post is sponsored in part by <a href="http://www.baysidetammy.com/bayside-condos">Bayside Condos For Sale</a> & <a href="http://www.criterioninsurancedirectory.com">New Jersey Insurance Directory</a>DieHard Derekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12461220165433191845noreply@blogger.com0