PWTorch.com

5+ HOURS: Definitive all-new Eric Bischoff "Torch Talk" available exclusively to PWTorch VIP members

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 13:03:07 PST

It's one of the longest, most in-depth "Torch Talk" interviews in our 20-plus year history of newsmaking historical interviews. Many people thought Bischoff, after what he had written and said in the past, would never speak to a "dirt sheet" for an insider interview. Bischoff, though, did, and he put no restrictions on questions. Bischoff addresses drug use and excessive partying in WCW, controversial decisions he made as head of WCW, shocking and revealing observations about how Vince McMahon runs WWE, and many topics he didn't address in his book...

VOTE FOR THE OCTOBER AWARDS!

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 22:06:16 PST

APP USERS: Special Free Offer - Get this week's newsletter with Bischoff Torch Talk sent to you free!

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 01:31:07 PST

FREE: Special free download of this week's new 30 page PWTorch Newsletter PDF! (limited time)

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:52:12 PST

11/6 WWE in Brussels: Undertaker vs. Punk casket match, Christian vs. William Regal, Cryme Tyme vs. Hart Dynasty, of course

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:27:19 PST

Overall, it was fun three-hour show. No Jericho (who was in Phoenix promoting WrestleMania 26 tickets), Batista, and Kane, but I was glad Taker and Rey were there. There was no match above the three-star level, as the wrestlers didn't take too many risks. However, it was nice to see the WWE stars live in action. I also went to the TNA house show in London and this one was totally different. With TNA, there was much more fan interaction and I have to say the action was faster and better. ...

RADICAN: Daddy's little girl V 2.0 debuts on Impact

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:00:33 PST

Dixie's "it's my way or the highway" speech was hardly inspirational for a room full of wrestlers that have busted their collective asses despite being tripped up by creative time and time again. All you had to do was look around the room at the faces of the wrestlers staring off in the distance...

WWE SMACKDOWN ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 11/6: Donofrio, Mezzera, Parks rate and review

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:14:35 PST

I came off thinking that this was a pretty solid show where the main event actually didn't live up to the rest of the show (the exact opposite of Superstars the night before).

11/7 WWE Smackdown Hits & Misses: Mysterio vs. Knox, Punk vs. Truth, Batista vs. Hardy

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:53:40 PST

I'm not a huge fan at this point of Undertaker's gimmick. It seems played out, and reminding the audience that he has been around for as long as he has (19 years!) with basically the same gimmick for the most part (other that a few years as the biker American badass character) doesn't help. However, he gave a good short promo about his opponents, Big Show and Chris Jericho at Survivor Series. It was basic, but he did a good job of upholding the importance of the World Title. Jericho then came out and cut a great Jericho promo about not being afraid of Undertaker, calling him just a man, not a dead man. The physicality at the end worked well too. However, I was a bit disappointed and confused why this was the only hype for Smackdown's main event at the PPV.

KELLER BLOG: WrestleMania goes up to $55, all other PPVs $45 - let the pirate feed frenzy begin

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:23:07 PST

They've been pushing it with the prices going above $30 for monthly shows, but this pricepoint is going to turn off a lot more customers than they gain in added revenue. Watching a WWE PPV is going to be an elite service for families with six-figure incomes. Or - and this is where WWE is really off-base with this move - they're simply going to drive people to the unstoppable free feeds on the Internet...

TORCH MONTHLY AWARDS: List of the 2009 Torch Monthly Award winners through October

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:04:03 PST

Following is the list of 2009 Torch Monthly Award winners from MVP to Crashing Star for each month this year. We update the standings every month at the conclusion of each month's award voting. We'll tally up the winners at the end of 2009 following the December Torch Awards in two months. ...

TORCH MONTHLY AWARD VOTING: Results for Best/Worst in pro wrestling for October

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:47:44 PST

We've tallied up the totals from the best and worst in pro wrestling during the month of October 2009 in ten monthly categories. ...

TORCH TALK DAILY with Eric Bischoff: The first of a series of questions pushing for answers on Bret Hart's lackluster run in WCW - "Montreal was a life-threatening wound"

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:05:10 PST

On Monday, September 14, PWTorch editor Wade Keller interviewed former WCW President Eric Bischoff an exclusive multi-hour "Torch Talk" interview covering a variety of controversial subjects from the Monday Night War period, his days on WWE TV, his 2006 autobiography, and the "Rise & Fall of WCW" DVD.

WWE SUPERSTARS ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 11/5: Caldwell, Donofrio, Parks rate and review

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:21:50 PST

Not a particularly memorable episode of Superstars, notably due to the involvement of Paul Burchill and Tyler Reks, but Chris Jericho and Finlay had an excellent match for Superstars to boost this to a thumbs up one-hour offering.

PARKS BLOG: Chris Jericho should know better

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:21:10 PST

Chris Jericho is a smart guy. Just read his book, for example, and you'll know that he is one of the more educated pro wrestlers out there. He's done well representing the business in mainstream interviews and has brought that into his wrestling career, debuting a number of words on WWE TV that have never been spoken on a pro wrestling program...well...ever. ...

TNA Impact Reax #3: "The build for the PPV matches somehow featured Hulk Hogan despite him yet to show up on TV"

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:27:19 PST

This is how they should book things in TNA. Stop getting guys who didn't sell in WWE and go after quality talent. First, Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan should "take over" TNA from Dixie Carter, who is now the evil boss lady. Second, change the show visually. Remember, the biggest reason a lot of people like JBL say no to TNA is because of the corny product. So with a new image, new people, fresh storylines, revitalized wrestling, and no discrimination of any kind, TNA can become better. ...

WWE News: WrestleMania 26 tickets officially on-sale today

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:01:01 PST

WWE will officially put WrestleMania 26 tickets on-sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. MST (12:00 p.m. EST). ...

WWE News: WWE books Intercontinental Title match for next week's Smackdown, adds match to the Survivor Series PPV

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:50:44 PST

WWE announced Intercontinental champion John Morrison vs. Dolph Ziggler in an Intercontinental Title match on next week's edition of Smackdown. ...

SMACKDOWN POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/6 Smackdown if you saw the show?

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:52:28 PST

11/6 Bruce Mitchell Audio Show: Why Vince McMahon said WWE isn't a family business, Hulk Hogan-TNA analysis, Dixie Carter's last-gasp speech (65 min.)

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:48:11 PST

VIP-exclusive Bruce Mitchell Audio Show 11/6: Torch asst. editor James Caldwell fills in for Torch editor Wade Keller hosting the Bruce Mitchell Audio Show with a discussion of the WWE financials announced this week, including Vince McMahon's comments that WWE isn't a family business. Plus, a look at WWE PPV changes and the poor Summerslam PPV buys. TNA discussion focuses on Hulk Hogan's latest comments on TNA, his role in the company, whether he's working TNA president Dixie Carter, and a brief look at Hogan's book. Finally, analysis of Dixie Carter's "Hail Mary" last-gasp speech on Impact. ...

PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 11/6: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the show, including Batista vs. Hardy

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:00:34 PST

As fireworks fired up the crowd in the arena, Todd Grisham and Matt Striker plugged the big match on tap for tonight, Batista vs. Matt Hardy.

PWTorch Newsletter #1115_16 (31 pages!): Hogan-Bischoff-TNA Deal Covered In-Depth - Keller, McNeill, and Powell, plus six pages of Eric Bischoff Torch Talk, and much more

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:47:14 PST

This issue opens with Wade Keller's expanded "Cover Story" on the Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff partnership with TNA. Keller's "BBL" editorial presents a scenario for how to best utilize Hogan. "Page 2 Buzz" with Jason Powell features his insight into the Hogan-Bischoff-TNA situation, plus other insider news items. Rounding out our team coverage, Pat McNeill presents his look at the situation... Also, six pages of the exclusive "Torch Talk with Eric Bischoff," coverage of Raw, Smackdown, Impact, and ECW, Sean Radican's coverage of the "Dragon's Gate USA" PPV debuting this week nationally, the WWE Newswire, TNA Newswire, and ETC. Newswire, and more!...

KELLER BLOG: Dixie Carter asks wrestlers to step it up, but what does that mean? Shouldn't their goal to be winning matches and nothing else?

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:17:56 PST

On Impact last night, a clip aired of Dixie Carter addressing the "entire roster." On two levels, the speech was flawed. "Since I was named president six years ago, I've had a lot of people tell me how to run a wrestling company. While I appreciate their contributions, it's time for a change." She told the wrestlers there will be more changes in coming weeks and months. "Nobody likes drastic change, nobody likes big moves, I understand that, and it affects different people in different ways." She said there may be some differing opinions of what to do, she expects them to be supported 100 percent. "When you question things in this company, you're questioning me, and I cannot allow that to happen"...

WWE News: What's on WWE Smackdown tonight - Batista vs. Matt Hardy, Punk faces the Truth

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:01:04 PST

Tonight's edition of WWE Smackdown on MyNetworkTV will feature Batista vs. Matt Hardy after Batista was scripted to attack Hardy on last week's edition of the show. ...

FEDOR vs. BRETT ROGERS on CBS Saturday Night - Torch Team Coverage (redirect)

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:00:21 PST

TNA News: Ratings are in for Thursday's Impact - did TNA retain the audience from last week's Hulk Hogan Impact?

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:30:35 PST

Last night's edition of TNA Impact featuring Dixie Carter's speech averaged a 1.08 rating, which was down 13.1 percent from the previous week's 1.24 rating featuring the Hulk Hogan announcement. ...

WWE News: Target of Chris Jericho's "anti-gay slur" rips Jericho for slur and empty apology

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:25:59 PST

The target of Chris Jericho's "anti-gay slur" and racially-driven comments at the Sacramento Horror Film festival a few weeks ago says he's "deeply offended" by Jericho's comments and is not buying Jericho's apology. ...

TNA Impact Reax #2: "I'm tired of non-stop talking. This isn't a Broadway play; it's professional wrestling and the best stories are told in the ring"

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:10:11 PST

This isn't a Broadway play; it's professional wrestling and the best stories are told in the ring. Again, this is the only way that TNA can be different; be the alternative to the WWE. I hope Hogan, Bischoff, and whoever else can help Dixie Carter grow TNA into must-see programming, especially for the fans. ...

WWE News: Batista presents award to Beyonce at MTV Europe Awards following drunk David Hasselhoff

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:44:31 PST

WWE wrestler Batista presented the Best Song Award to pop singer Beyonce at the MTV Europe Award show in Berlin, Germany on Thursday. ...

TORCH TALK DAILY with Eric Bischoff: Hogan-Goldberg on free TV - "I thought that was the kind of thing that could put Nitro back on the map"

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:00:43 PST

WWE News: Major update on 2010 PPVs - price change, PPV name change, WWE addresses PPV criticism (w/Detailed Analysis)

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:35:39 PST

WWE released a memo to PPV providers with a complete list of their 2010 PPVs and an announcement they will be increasing the base price of PPVs from $39.95 to $44.95. ...

Thursday Night TV Reax #1: "I feel anything TNA does right is inevitably drowned out by what they fail at"

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:42:05 PST

Dixie's speech at the beginning had this pedantic, "you've made mom angry" tone. To me, it didn't seem celebratory. It was almost like she was warning the locker room not to dare disagree with the garbage booking. (By the way, I did not see Nash, Steiner, Angle, or Foley in the crowd.) It seemed like an insecure money-mark warning the boys that she is actually very savvy despite the fact that she has hired every huckster in the wrestling business. I didn't like it. ...

WWE News: WWE announces details on three-hour Raw featuring Slammy Award Show and special guest host Dennis Miller

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:13:43 PST

WWE announced today that comedian Dennis Miller will host a special three-hour episode of WWE Raw on December 14 featuring the 2009 Slammy Awards. ...

TNA News: Next week's TNA Impact - Sting reappearing to talk Hulk Hogan, A.J. Styles vs. Samoa Joe

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:00:35 PST

TNA is advertising that Sting will reappear on next week's edition of TNA Impact to talk about his future in TNA and Hulk Hogan joining the promotion. Sting has not been on TNA TV since his "I'm not sure...maybe" retirement match against A.J. Styles at the Bound for Glory PPV last month. ...

UNDER THE MICROSCOPE - TNA Impact 11/5: TNA = The Office, What Vince Russo was thinking during Dixie Carter's speech, Desmond Wolfe and Duran Duran, Highlander spotting, Numbers - Titleholders since 1990

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:30:41 PST

Welcome to the TNA Impact edition of Under the Microscope. This is not a detailed recap of the show, but a review for those of you that saw the show but didn't actually "watch" it. We're here to point out those little tidbits you may have missed, make some random observations, or use a little research to dig deeper into what was on the show. Cue the opening pyro. ...

WWE News: WWE's "History of the World Title" DVD receives mainstream press; WWE to include Thesz, Gotch, Buddy Rogers footage

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:33:40 PST

Hogan's DVD is scheduled for release on November 17. Amazon.com lists the "History of the World Title" DVD for release on December 1. Chronicle columnist David Barron said it's a classic DVD for "geezers" like himself. ...

TNA News: Watch TNA president Dixie Carter's "Love it or Leave It" speech to the roster from Impact (w/VIDEO)

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:06:48 PST

TNA president Dixie Carter opened Thursday night's edition of TNA Impact with a speech to the entire TNA roster and staff essentially telling everyone in the company to "love it or leave it" when it comes to agreeing with the direction TNA is going creatively and with Hulk Hogan's new power behind-the-scenes. ...

CALDWELL'S WWE SUPERSTARS TV REPORT 11/5: Complete coverage of Chris Jericho vs. Finlay edition

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:59:51 PST

I'm covering the replay of WWE Superstars currently airing on WGN. So, follow along with the replay of the show, which started with pyro and Raw announcer Michael Cole welcoming us to Superstars. Cole said we can expect everything tonight. First, Santino Marella. ...

TNA News: TNA adds a bunch of PPV matches to the Turning Point PPV line-up

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:45:06 PST

TNA announced several new matches for the Turning Point PPV on November 15 during tonight's edition of TNA Impact. The headline matches are TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. Styles vs. Samoa Joe vs. Daniels in a three-way match and Kurt Angle vs. Desmond Wolfe. ...

TNA IMPACT POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/5 Impact if you saw the show?

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:36:39 PST

CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT REPORT 11/5: Complete coverage of Dixie Carter addressing TNA roster, Styles vs. Daniels

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:00:05 PST

Impact Zone: Back to the show, A.J. Styles came to the ring as Mike Tenay and Taz talked ringside about Carter's speech. In the ring, Styles said there have been a lot of changes here in TNA. He said he's A.J. Styles and he's TNA World Hvt. champion. ...

Hogan News: Can Hulk Hogan wrestle again? Hogan needs help walking during TV interview (w/VIDEO)

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:38:45 PST

Hulk Hogan was shown needing help onto the set of FOX's Good Day LA in Los Angeles today to talk about his new book. Hogan recently had back surgery and is scheduled to wrestle in Australia later this month. ...

DGUSA News: Gabe Sapolsky predicts the wrestling industry will die without new TV wrestling stars

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:20:11 PST

Dragon Gate USA booker Gabe Sapolsky is painting a bleak picture of the state of pro wrestling that he thinks the industry will die without new stars being developed. ...

Hogan News: Hulk Hogan cracks the Top 15 of a Best-sellers List

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:55:33 PST

Hulk Hogan's new book, "My Life Outside the Ring," landed in the Top 15 of Publishers Weekly's Best-seller List for Hardcover Nonfiction books. This was Hogan's first week on the list after the book came out last Tuesday. ...

TNA News: TNA to feature unique start to tonight's TNA Impact

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:00:42 PST

TNA president Dixie Carter says tonight's TNA Impact on Spike TV will begin with a "talent meeting" with Carter addressing the wrestlers on the roster. Carter also says it's the first time cameras were allowed inside a talent meeting backstage at a TNA event. ...

WWE News: WWE's earnings report leads to significant chance in stock price today

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:35:26 PST

WWE's stock price jumped 7.2 percent at the end of today's trading with WWE exceeding analyst expectations and estimates with their third quarter financial report today. ...

ROH News: Jim Cornette officially begins as ROH executive producer at today's ROH TV tapings (w/VIDEO)

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:08:42 PST

Tonight's ROH on HDNet TV taping in Philadelphia is the first taping with former TNA agent Jim Cornette serving as executive producer. Cornette has said in interviews that he doesn't want to make changes to the product, but use his experience to enhance the storylines and personalities on the roster. ...

WWE News: What's on WWE Superstars tonight - Chris Jericho vs. Finlay, Santino hi-jinks

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:50:41 PST

Tonight's edition of WWE Superstars on WGN will feature Unified tag champion Chris Jericho vs. Finlay in a singles match. ...

Hardy News: Update on Jeff Hardy's legal standing after yesterday's scheduled court appearance

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:13:22 PST

Former WWE champion Jeff Hardy's probable cause hearing has been rescheduled to December 2, reports the Fayetteville (N.C.) Observer. Hardy was scheduled for court yesterday, but he did not attend. ...

TNA News: Rob Van Dam in-depth interview - says he's considering joining TNA

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:00:12 PST

Former WWE and ECW champion Rob Van Dam says he's considering joining TNA after Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff signed up with TNA to help build the company's visibility. RVD isn't sure Hogan should be booking storylines or making matches, however. ...

11/3 WWE ECW Hits & Misses: Goldust vs. Regal, Ryder's POV, Burchill - Hurricane

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:47:52 PST

After WWE put on a mostly bad week of tv last week, this week got off to a good start with a good Raw. ECW followed nicely, starting with the opening of the show. It was simple but effective follow up on what happened at the end of last week's show. Christian was good in being more serious in his challenge of William Regal. Regal was great on the mic in declaring that he has the power now and demanding that his ECW Title shot come next week in England. It makes sense, but I hope that doesn't mean that ECW will be shut out of another PPV. I also liked the dropkick from Christian at the end, sending a message to Regal.

WWE News: GLAAD responds to Chris Jericho's non-apology for using "anti-gay" slur

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:38:02 PST

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) spoke out against WWE wrestler Chris Jericho today for his non-apology responding to being caught on camera using an offensive slur during a recent Q&A session. The video was circulated by TMZ, who spoke with GLAAD's president. ...

WWE News: Mickey Rourke says he wants to wrestle for WWE to make up for WrestleMania 25 involvement

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:25:52 PST

Academy Award-nominated actor Mickey Rourke says he would like to wrestle for WWE after being disallowed from wrestling at WrestleMania 25 earlier this year. Rourke appeared at WrestleMania to hype "The Wrestler" movie, but he was limited in what he could participate in. ...

ABSURDITY OF IT ALL - Chris Jericho Should Drink Some Shut Up Juice, Zack Ryder Fantasizes About Mrs. Potato, Vance Archer - Who Wants to Get Infected Tonight?, I Love TNA!

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:04:37 PST

It's all understandable. Jericho has had an innate ability this year to look like an ass in public. True, Jericho jousting with the fans at the start of the year was the sign of his heel character getting way over. Jericho making quips about President Obama taking away from Jericho's six-pack...well, I understand that, because I'm Republican. The latest was Jericho's offensive slur...to some, that "f" word is offensive. To others, it's what you call your bros in a joking manner. I'm not going to hold it against him. ...

TORCH TALK DAILY with Eric Bischoff: "The direction we were being forced to go would not have allowed us to compete with WWE long-term"

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:01:14 PST

CALDWELL'S BLOG: Vince McMahon is officially delusional, plus Vince's hidden message to Stephanie McMahon

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:26:25 PST

WWE CEO/Chairman Vince McMahon used today's conference call with investors to declare WWE is NOT a family business. In a related story, Balloon Boy's whacked-out parents will be holding a press conference today announcing a cure for cancer. ...

WWE News: Report on WWE's conference call with investors - serious discussion of WWE TV, Vince McMahon: "This is not a Family Business"

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:29:02 PST

WWE hosted their quarterly conference call with investors this morning with the top stories coming out of the call being heavy discussion of WWE TV, Vince McMahon claiming WWE is not a family business, and WWE sharing a new Films Division strategy. The following are key highlights from the conference call ...

TNA News: What's on TNA Impact tonight - more Hulk Hogan coverage, Team 3D vs. Morgan & Hernandez

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:38:16 PST

Spike TV's entire preview for tonight's edition of TNA Impact centers on Hulk Hogan joining TNA last week despite Hogan not being live at the Impact taping that took place on Monday for tonight's show. ...

WWE News: WWE and THQ renew video game partnership, new video game titles in the works

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:19:23 PST

THQ CEO Brian Farrell announced during THQ's quarterly conference call with investors last night that THQ and WWE have agreed to extend their working relationship to 2014. Included in the renewed five-year deal will be new video game titles specifically targeting markets in Asia.

WWE News: How did WWE's third quarter financial results compare to analyst expectations?

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:16:13 PST

WWE's stock price shot up 2.5 percent in the first hour of trading this morning mainly based on third quarter results exceeding analyst expectations and predictions. ...

WWE News: Chris Jericho captured on camera using offensive slur at public Q&A (w/VIDEO)

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:55:02 PST

TMZ published a video of WWE wrestler Chris Jericho using an offensive slur at a Q&A session a few weeks ago when he was promoting the "Albino Farm" horror movie flick. ...

WWE News: WWE announces new business outlook for the next three years

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:46:41 PST

WWE announced a "revised business outlook" over the next three years with expected revenue growth between 15-20 percent through 2012. WWE said the revised optimism is based on a "comprehensive review of the Company's operations." ...

WWE News: WWE announces third quarter 2009 earnings results - revenue up due to int'l, PPV business weak

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:27:39 PST

WWE reported third quarter 2009 revenue of $113.3 million compared to $108.8 million in the prior year third quarter. The revenue increase was mainly driven by revenue in the Asia Pacific market, which was up $5.7 million. ...

WWE News: WWE to report financial earnings results today

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:34:06 PST

WWE will be reporting third quarter 2009 financial earnings this morning, including a conference call with investors hosted by WWE CEO Vince McMahon at 11:00 a.m. EST. ...

WWE News: WrestleMania 26 tickets on-sale this morning with Internet pre-sale

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:05:03 PST

A select number of WWE WrestleMania 26 tickets will be going on-sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. MST (12:00 p.m. EST) through an Internet pre-sale. ...

TORCH MONTHLY AWARD VOTING: Polls OPEN for best/worst in pro wrestling from the month of October (Part 2 of 2)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:45:28 PST

TORCH MONTHLY AWARD VOTING: Polls OPEN for best/worst in pro wrestling from the month of October (Part 1 of 2)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:35:41 PST

11/4 WWE in Dublin, Ireland: John Cena vs. Jack Swagger WWE Title match, DX vs. Legacy, Randy Orton vs. Kofi Kingston

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:37:38 PST

Seeing all the wrestlers in the opening battle royal (with the exception of DX and Cena) seemed to dampen the reaction some of them received later on when they came out for their one-on-one matches. Some of the lesser names were greeted with reactions, which suggested that seeing them once in a night was enough. ...

11/4 Wade Keller Hotline - The News: Latest on Hogan/Bischoff-TNA, plus ECW's dropping ratings, Ross comments on WWE from a distance (19 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:57:31 PST

This installment of the Wade Keller Hotline features a look at the latest news including the dropping ECW ratings, Jim Ross's comments on watching WWE TV from a distance, and the latest on the Hulk Hogan/Eric Bischoff-TNA situation, where there remain more questions than answers...

WWE News: Jim Ross blogs on DX and need for "new TV content," WWE's video game company reports earnings, WWE to report earnings tomorrow

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:30:46 PST

WWE announcer Jim Ross posted two new blogs on his website scouting WWE TV from home while he waits out his recovery from a Bell's Palsy attack two weeks ago. Ross wrote about the need for "new content" on WWE TV and young wrestlers needing to understand how to present their characters. ...

TNA News: Daniels to be featured on FOX Sports video segment complete with steel chair

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:01:20 PST

TNA wrestler Daniels recently filmed a skit for the FOX Sports online video show "Cubed." The segment, which of course involved a steel chair, is expected to run on the sports website next week. ...

WWE News: ECW TV ratings are in - how did the show fare with Christian and Yoshi in the main event?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:49:09 PST

Last night's episode of ECW TV featuring Christian & Yoshi Tatsu vs. Ezekiel Jackson & Kozlov averaged a 1.0 rating with an estimated 1.32 million viewers. The show was right in line with the previous four weeks of TV. ...

11/2 Wade Keller Hotline - Raw: Juvenile humor, obvious jokes, insider references Raw's audience doesn't relate to, with the pushes of Sheamus and Kofi providing a bright side (28 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:31:23 PST

This installment of the Wade Keller Hotline features a rundown of this week's Raw including a show filled with crazy zany drunk-dad-at-the-wedding DX humor, stunted-emotion-juvenile Santino humor, obvious jokes, and pointless insider references that Raw's target audience doesn't relate to ("intellectual property violations" doesn't come up very often on a normal day for Raw viewers in their lives). But there were some bright spots including the valiant killer heel push of Sheamus and the admirable Kofi Kingston push that he's living up to so far...

11/4 VIP East Coast Audio - SuperShow reviews of Impact, Smackdown, ECW, Hogan (65 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:53:41 PST

VIP-exclusive East Coast Audio Super Show: In this audio recap, Trav and Dre briefly recap the biggest stories coming out of last week's Impact and Smackdown, also a full recap of this week's ECW is included. From Impact, the Hogan signing and the rise of Desmond Wolfe are discussed. From Smackdown, the main topic is Rey and Batista's face-to-face confrontation and Jericho being inserted into the World Title match at Survivor Series. ECW last night wasn't as good as the last few weeks, but it set up next week in England very well. ...

ECW ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 11/3: Caldwell, Mayer, Parks rate and review

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:42:52 PST

Goldust, Zack Ryder, Shelton Benjamin, and Vance "don't call me Lance" Archer received solid exposure in the ring during the show.

11/3 Wade Keller Hotline - Major Impact Rant: A list of the dozens and dozens of major problems with last week's Impact (51 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:39:36 PST

This installment of the Wade Keller Hotline features a major rant regarding last week's major edition of TNA Impact featuring the giveaway of Kurt Angle vs. Desmond Wolfe on zero week's notice and the hype for the Hulk Hogan press conference which turned away viewers, and the hundred things from start to finish that were inexcusably dumb and should have never made it through whatever filters TNA has set up to weed out stupidity and inefficiencies.

TNA News: TNA President Dixie Carter comments on Hulk Hogan conversation, Shannon Moore in TNA

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:14:42 PST

TNA president Dixie Carter posted the following comments on her official Twitter page over the past 24 hours regarding Hulk Hogan and Shannon Moore. ...

SPECIAL AUDIO: Flashback to Bischoff-led Fusient Media Ventures buyout of WCW press conference - early 2001 (43 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:46:38 PST

The following is a special audio presentation of the early 2001 press conference announcing the sale of WCW by AOL/Time-Warner to Fusient Media Ventura, a group led by former WCW President Eric Bischoff. This 40 minute press conference features a fascinating glimpse into a moment in time when it appeared WCW would be saved and remain independent from WWE. The deal days later, in a story broken by Pro Wrestling Torch (denied by Bischoff at the time, but later confirmed), would fall apart, leading AOL/Time-Warner exec Jamie Kellner canceling all WCW programming and selling WCW's scraps to WWE...

TORCH TALK AUDIO with Eric Bischoff, pt. 4B: Plans if Fusient bought WCW, would he have announced in WWE, claims Vince McMahon's creativity is vastly overrated, more (25 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:26:23 PST

The following is part four of the exclusive five-hour "Torch Talk" with former WCW President Eric Bischoff, who took it to WWE in the late-'90s during the Monday Night War. He later became an on-air WWE G.M. This is the second part of the fourth installment of the transcript running in the Pro Wrestling Torch Newsletter. This marks the beginning of the second recording session from Oct. 1, 2009. In this segment, Bischoff talks about what Fusient's first move would have been had it been successful in buying WCW, his case for why Vince McMahon is vastly overrated as a creative genius, whether he would have announced for WWE if asked, and more...

TORCH TALK DAILY with Eric Bischoff: Goldberg vs. Hogan title match on Nitro - "At the time, it seemed to be the right thing to do"

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:40 PST

TORCH TALK AUDIO with Eric Bischoff, pt. 4A: Four big controversies discussed in depth - Bret Hart's treatment by WCW, rushed Hogan vs. Goldberg match, Syxx firing leading to WWE jump, deaths of many WCW wrestlers (30 min.)

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:55:52 PST

The following is part four of the exclusive five-hour "Torch Talk" with former WCW President Eric Bischoff, who took it to WWE in the late-'90s during the Monday Night War. He later became an on-air WWE G.M. This fourth installment, recorded Sept. 14, picks up in the midst of a discussion about Bischoff's oft-criticized decision to put the first-ever Hulk Hogan vs. Goldberg match on free Nitro with just four day's notice. It then moves on to talk about other controversies including the firing of Sean Waltman, the misuse of Bret Hart, and the deaths of so many Nitro-era WCW wrestlers...

DGUSA's UNTOUCHABLE PPV DEBUT

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:54:54 PST

WWE News: WWE begins 22-date European Tour tonight; RESULTS WANTED

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:05:58 PST

WWE will begin their annual fall European Tour tonight in Dublin, Ireland with a Raw brand house show. The Smackdown brand will begin on Thursday night in Frankfurt, Germany. ...

11/4 Nostalgia Audio with Brian Hoops: Format change to the show, new guest host, upcoming shows

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:01:38 PST

I am very pleased to announce I will soon be implementing some changes to the Torch Nostalgia Podcast. Beginning next week, wrestling author and historian, George Schire, has agreed to serve as the new co-host of the program. George and I will be talking about a variety of nostalgia related wrestling topics each and every week. Listeners are encouraged to send in your comments or questions to the show using the email address of torchnostalgia@gmail.com.

I will also be joined by loyal Torch listener and subscriber, JR Barnes, to review and breakdown Survivor Series 1989 and 1990.

Be sure to listen in and tell me what you think of the new format.

DGUSA News: Complete list of matches and wrestlers announced for the first DGUSA Title tournament

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:48:14 PST

Dragon Gate USA announced the complete list of matches and wrestlers scheduled for the first DGUSA Title tournament on November 28 in Philadelphia. The two-round, five-match tournament will determine the promotion's first champion. ...

ROH News: Ring of Honor receives positive press for ROH TV taping this weekend

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:34:06 PST

The story drew attention to ROH alumni C.M. Punk as a former WWE World Hvt. champion, Samoa Joe as a former TNA World Hvt. champion, and Nigel McGuinness debuting on TNA Impact in a program with one of the top stars in wrestling, Kurt Angle. ...

PWG News: Former WWE wrestler, TNA tag team, ROH World champion scheduled for PWG's "Battle of Los Angeles" tournament

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:19:40 PST

PWG has not announced the first round match-ups in the tournament yet. The winner of the tournament will be the new PWG World champion after Bryan Danielson was booked to vacate the title on his final PWG show in September. ...

TNA News: Complete PPV and Impact TV taping schedule for the first three months of 2010

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:51:47 PST

TNA's schedule of PPVs and Impact TV tapings in Orlando, Fla. has been set for the first three months of 2010. TNA will not be touring outside of the Impact Zone at Universal Studios for televised events. ...

WWE News: Batista scheduled to present award at MTV Europe Awards Show

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:21:37 PST

WWE wrestler Batista will be visible at the MTV Europe Award show in Berlin, Germany on Thursday night. Batista is scheduled to present the Best Song Award ...

Other News: Mick Foley and Colt Cabana joined by former WWE manager on comedy tour this week

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:54:32 PST

Former WWE manager/agent "Brother Love" Bruce Pritchard will be joining TNA wrestler Mick Foley and ROH wrestler Colt Cabana on their stand-up comedy tour this week in the Boston area. ...

Hardy News: Jeff Hardy scheduled for court today facing charges from September arrest

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:34:28 PST

Former WWE star Jeff Hardy is scheduled for court this morning at Moore County Criminal District Court in Carthage, N.C. Hardy is expected to present a defense against several drug-related charges he is faced with after his arrest in September. ...

WWE News: SPOILERS - Smackdown TV taping report for Friday night's show

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 01:20:20 PST

World Hvt. champion The Undertaker and Chris Jericho had a confrontation to promote their Survivor Series PPV title match also involving Big Show. ...

ECW TV Reax #1: "William Regal has stepped up big time since coming to ECW and he deserves a World Title run"

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:33:43 PST

Making Regal look strong at the end was wise going into the title match next week. I didn't mention Hurricane or Burchill because I'm done with their story. They both seem pretty terrible on the mic. Overall, good show with great storyline progression. Hopefully they'll be given at least one match at the next PPV. ...

WWE News: ECW TV Notes - ECW Title match booked for next week, Former TNA wrestler debuts

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:24:03 PST

WWE booked an ECW Title match for next week's show from the United Kingdom with ECW champion Christian vs. William Regal in Regal's home country. ...

GUEST EDITORIAL: Disgruntled TNA fan says he's done with the promotion after today's Impact taping (Contains SPOILERS)

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:20:49 PST

In conclusion, I just want to say sorry to PWTorch. Sorry for getting upset at all the times I thought you had an agenda and were just trying to get more support for WWE. Sorry that up until now I thought you were on a wild goose chase when criticizing TNA's product. Now that the X Division seems to be completely meaningless, my only hope for TNA is that Desmond Wolfe and A.J. Styles collide and have an epic feud. It's too bad I will not be watching. Maybe I will catch it on YouTube. ...

WWE RAW ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 11/2: Caldwell, McKinley, Parks rate and review

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:20:09 PST

The new Raw theme song will be a old Sunny & Cher song apparently, considering it's now a variety show. Most of Raw was
filled with stupid humor, but I like me some stupid humor.

ECW POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/3 ECW if you saw the show?

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:16:27 PST

CALDWELL'S ECW TV REPORT 11/3: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the rest of ECW tonight

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:05:05 PST

After Zack Ryder's odd segment with Rosa Mendes, WWE returned from commercial with Rosa Mendes in-ring announcing the following match. Well, before that, she cut a promo about how excited and nervous she is about guest-announcing ECW. She told us she's kinda amazing. A production assistant then gave her a cue to hurry the heck up. ...

TNA News: SPOILERS on Jim Neidhart's TNA debut, Raven's return, Kurt Angle returns from injury angle

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:50:49 PST

The following are spoiler notes from today's TNA Impact taping for the November 12 show leading to the Turning Point PPV on November 15. ...

PARKS' ECW REPORT 11/3: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the show's first few segments

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:09:48 PST

They showed clips of the Yoshi Tatsu vs. Christian ECW Title match from last week, as well as the attack by Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson.

WWE News: ECW TV preview - Christian & Yoshi vs. Kozlov & Jackson, LLP

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:05:32 PST

Tonight's edition of ECW TV on Syfy will feature ECW champion Christian and Yoshi Tatsu vs. William Regal's group of hired henchmen, Ezekiel Jackson and Kozlov. ...

ROH News: ROH TV episodes now available on DirecTV's Video-On-Demand service

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:31:31 PST

HDNet announced today they are partnering with DirecTV to offer 20 hours of programming, including select ROH TV episodes, on a Video-on-Demand basis for DirecTV subscribers. ...

CALDWELL'S TUESDAY CHAT w/GREG PARKS: Raw & Smackdown discussion - Orton-Kofi build-up compared to Rey-Batista, DX dissension, Sheamus stands out

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:16:20 PST

This is Torch asst. editor James Caldwell joined by Torch specialist Greg Parks talking last night's Raw and Friday's edition of Smackdown. Greg, first off, thanks for covering Raw for me last night. What was your impression of the show and what stood out the most? ...

WWE News: USA Network announces victory over ESPN last week thanks to WWE Raw

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:52:13 PST

USA averaged 3.47 million viewers in prime time compared to 3.09 million viewers for ESPN. USA included WWE Raw's strong showing with 5.59 million viewers in their press release explaining how the victory was won. ...

WWE News: Raw TV ratings break down - Detailed analysis of the Raw ratings for last night's show

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:40:35 PST

WWE Raw from Monday night averaged a healthy 3.45 rating and 5.0 million viewers with similar viewership in the first and second hours. The audience was consistent, but peaked in the first hour with heavy involvement from the Osbournes and top stars Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, and Kofi Kingston. ...

WWE News: Raw TV ratings are in - how did the Osbournes fare as guest hosts?

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:28:38 PST

Last night's episode of WWE Raw averaged a 3.45 rating, which was down from the previous week's 3.70 rating. The show held up well against Monday Night Football and the World Series with an average of 5.0 million viewers. ...

WWE News: ESPN.com writer rips WWE's new movie starring Big Show

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:30:11 PST

ESPN.com writer Jake Rossen is back at it again ripping pro wrestling in a story related to MMA, which he reports on for the sports site. Rossen covered WWE's announcement that WWE Studios is completing filming for "Knucklehead" starring Big Show and he suggested the involvement of MMA in the movie will hurt the entire industry. ...

TNA News: Knockouts champion signs new multi-year contract with TNA

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:25:14 PST

TNA president Dixie Carter announced on her Twitter page that TNA has signed current Knockouts champion ODB to a multi-year deal. ...

TNA News: Father of current WWE diva backstage at Impact tapings, Raven scheduled for return

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:48 PST

Jim Niedhart, the former WWF tag champion and father of current WWE diva Natalya, is backstage at today's TNA Impact taping and is scheduled to appear on-camera, reports Jason Powell of Prowrestling.net. ...

WWE News: Edge interview - will he be back for WrestleMania?, reviews the Jericho & Big Show tag team

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:47:59 PST

WWE wrestler Edge says he's progressing toward a full recovery from his severe ankle injury this summer, but he's not sure if he will be able to return in time for WrestleMania 26 in March. ...

WWE/TNA News: Comparison of Hulk Hogan's claim he taught Vince McMahon the wrestling business to what Hogan wrote in his first book

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:38:37 PST

Hulk Hogan claimed in an interview promoting his new book that he taught WWE CEO Vince McMahon the wrestling business when McMahon "didn't really understand the business" after buying then-WWWF from his father, Vince McMahon, Sr. ...

WWE/TNA News: Hulk Hogan claims he taught Vince McMahon the wrestling business, talks more about his role in TNA

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:53:23 PST

TNA News: Hulk Hogan not at today's Impact tapings, where he will be instead

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:19:38 PST

Hulk Hogan was not at the TNA Impact tapings last night, nor will be at today's Impact tapings for the final show leading to the No Surrender PPV. Hogan was already scheduled to take his new book around the country on a book-signing tour. ...

11/2 WWE Raw Hits & Misses: Miz vs. Bourne, Raw's Got Talent, Kofi - Orton, Cena vs. Jericho vs Show

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:01:20 PST

Last week was a poor week for WWE tv on the whole. Raw was bad with the exception of the Kofi Kingston - Randy Orton feud. ECW had a great main event, but the rest of the show was poor. Superstars was solid as usual. But, Smackdown was also bad. It was good to see Raw start the week off on a better note. It wasn't a great show, but it was a good show particularly the first half while the second half floundered until the main event.

WWE News: WWE gets mainstream publicity from the Osbournes on Raw; Kofi Kingston says whether guest hosts help or hurt WWE's product

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:53:47 PST

MTV.com published a positive review of last night's WWE Raw hosted by Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. The reviewer talked glowingly about Ozzy ruling Raw "with an iron fist, making matches, cutting promos, and referring constantly to 'Crazy Train.'" ...

KELLER'S TNA IMPACT REPORT 10/29: Examining the Hulk Hogan announcement, Sabin controversy, Wolfe vs. Angle, Joe-Styles-Daniels hype

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:30:54 PST

Desmond Wolfe walked out for his ring intro. He formally introduced himself. He said, "To my friends, I'm just "Wolfe, but to your wankers, I am Mister Wolfe." He said he was raised from Day One to be the World's Greatest Fighter. He said it's in his blood, in his jeans, and what he does. He said everyone who has stepped in his way has gotten knocked on their ass. He said some people are destined to become common folk, whereas he was destined to become a champion...

WWE News: New documentary criticizes Vince McMahon for killing the "wrestling" in pro wrestling (w/VIDEO)

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:17:30 PST

A new wrestling documentary titled "Stronghold" is critical of WWE CEO Vince McMahon for "killing" the wrestling industry with his form of sports entertainment. The film focuses on pro, amateur, and submission wrestling, but is receiving publicity attacking one of the most visible figures in wrestling. ...

WWE News: Last night's Raw guest host and Diva Maria offering "personal training" at exercise event today

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:04:40 PST

Last night's WWE Raw guest host Sharon Osbourne and Smackdown diva Maria are joining Bret Michaels in New York City today for a public exercise. Sharon's role for the event is "personal motivator" while Maria will be the "personal trainer." ...

WWE Raw Reax #2: "The major flaw of this show was the real lack of hype for Survivor Series"

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:58:03 PST

The Michaels-Cena-Triple H build has been a living nightmare to watch. What's driving this story isn't the title, but a little person. This is the same person who is co-dependently obsessed with Chavo Guerrero. What was the point of turning the "even with odds the odds are even" title-at-stake promo into a gay joke? That was just stupid and disrespectful. Like with Miz and Morrison some time ago, I really only wanted to hear one of DX at a time. What I got instead was this noise of idle chatter and more unnecessary use of insider terms by Triple H. Took a huge chunk out of the main event, and out of my enjoyment. ...

ABSURDITY OF IT ALL - WWE Raw: Sheamus The Bad Barbarian, Chris Masters Finds His New Gimmick, The Beginning Of The End Will Happen When Triple H Retires

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:25:46 PST

The Raw guest host is a polarizing issue. On one hand, I don't enjoy what a typical Raw guest host brings to the table, meaning being in throwaway backstage skits and butchering wrasslers and their whittle special wrasslin PPV that's coming up. ...

MOJO MITCHELL'S RAW 11/2: Stream of My Fourth Grade Hero and The Mid-Card Kicks Main Event Ass

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:11:56 PST

When I was in fourth grade, my buddy Walt and I used to borrow his older brother Mike's "Black Sabbath" Paranoid album so we could listen to it on his turntable. (That's album, not download or CD or cassette or track tape.) As a teenager who knew exactly what Lester Bangs and Robert Christgau and the Reverend Charles M. Young meant, if you had told me Ozzy would be a household name/harmless joke almost forty years later, well, I would have had a lot of questions about the future that maybe didn't include Black Sabbath...

WWE News: Insightful Stephanie McMahon interview - competing with Shane, reading Newsletters, disagreements with Triple H

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:06:43 PST

WWE executive Stephanie McMahon had a very interesting interview with Powerslam Magazine that was published after her husband, Triple H's, very interesting and revealing interview on the state of WWE business. ...

WWE Raw Reax #1: "The main event commentary was hilarious with Triple H and HBK making fun of Vince, but DX has run its course..."

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:51:53 PST

The main event was okay, but not memorable. The commentary was hilarious with Triple H and HBK making fun of Vince yelling through the headset. But, sadly, DX has run its course and needs to end hopefully at Survivor Series. Oh, and I'm glad to see Cena actually take a loss, as well as DX. It will be interesting to see how creative will handle the seemingly inevitable DX break up hopefully sooner rather then later. ...

WWE News: ECW main event announced for Tuesday's ECW TV show

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:29:34 PST

WWE announced ECW champion Christian & Yoshi Tatsu vs. Ezekiel Jackson & Kozlov for the ECW TV main event on Tuesday night's show airing on Syfy. ...

WWE News: Summary of the news, notes, happenings from Monday's Raw

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:17:42 PST

No new matches were announced for the Survivor Series PPV on November 22. The card remains WWE champion John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H and World Hvt. champion The Undertaker vs. Chris Jericho vs. Big Show. ...

WWE Raw Results 11/2: KELLER'S rundown of all matches and segments, plus analysis, star ratings, quotebook

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:11:35 PST

I don't play close attention every week, but the opening WWE montage with clips dating back to Bruno Sammartino and Pat Patterson now features John Morrison among the all-time contemporary stars such as Undertaker, Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, and John Cena. Hulk Hogan and Mick Foley are the two TNA talents still featured. Shane McMahon is still in the center screen flying through the air...

RAW POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/2 Raw if you saw the show?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:18:41 PST

PARKS' WWE RAW REPORT 11/2: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the Osbourne-hosted show

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:03:54 PST

Straight to the arena they went, where Justin Roberts introduced “The Prince of Darkness,” Ozzy Osbourne and Sharon. They were in the ring as “Crazy Train” played. They had a single spotlight in the ring and King’s chair.

WWE/ROH News: What's on Monday night TV - Osbournes hosting Raw, Nigel McGuinness's final ROH match (w/VIDEO)

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:39:10 PST

Tonight's edition of WWE Raw will be guest-hosted by Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. Ozzy will be promoting his new book, which came out at the beginning of October. ...

TORCH TALK FLASHBACK with Hulk Hogan: Hogan talks to PWTorch editor Wade Keller about Eric Bischoff, the demise of WCW

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:15:26 PST

In November 2002, PWTorch editor Wade Keller interviewed former WWE and WCW World Hvt. champion Hulk Hogan, one of the biggest names and stars in the pro wrestling industry. ...

WWE RAW 11/2: Place Your Bets on tonight's Raw - Week 11 featuring Ozzy & Sharon Osbourne

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:02:49 PST

Tonight is another chance to score points in this season's Place Your Bets contest on tonight's episode of WWE Raw. We've decided to run the contest through the final Raw in 2009. We'll start Season Four the first Raw in January. For tonight, simply answer the questions below...

WWE RAW 10/26: "Place your Bets" Scoreboard after Week 10 - Review last week's scores before tonight's Raw PYB contest

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:56:40 PST

We've decided to run the contest through the final Raw in 2009. We'll start Season Four the first Raw in January. Check the latest scoreboard for how the standings are looking going into the final two months of the year. ...

WWE News: WWE announces complete details on Big Show's new movie wrapping up filming this week

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:34:27 PST

WWE issued a press release today announcing that WWE Studios's new movie "Knucklehead" starring Big Show will conclude filming this week and is scheduled for a theatrical release in spring 2010. ...

TNA/Hogan News: Hulk Hogan says he's "running" TNA, More legal trouble between Hulk and Linda (w/VIDEO)

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:17:31 PST

Hulk Hogan said during a mainstream TV interview this morning that he will be "running" TNA after signing a deal with the "new" promotion. ...

MMA WEEK-IN-REVIEW: Lesnar Out, Dumbass of Week, Fight of Week, Kimbo Rumor, DVR + Twitter = Spoiler (redirect)

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:02:52 PST

WWE News: WWE Week begins tonight on "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" with The Miz, Big Show, Divas

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:43:25 PST

WWE wrestlers and divas will be featured on "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" this week in syndication and on MyNetworkTV's "Deal or No Deal" on Tuesday. ...

WWE News: Latest news on Jim Ross's health and future on WWE TV

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:52:17 PST

WWE announcer Jim Ross says he's slowly improving health-wise after his most-recent Bell's Palsy attack, but he doesn't appear to be in a position to return to TV in the near future. ...

RADICAN'S DGUSA "Untouchable" PPV review - Doi vs. Danielson, Shingo vs. Richards

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:32:15 PST

Matt and Horiguchi came to a stalemate early and both men tagged out. Nick ran wild on Saito and sent Saito to the outside. The Bucks then hit a double team dropkick on Horiguchi and began working him over in their own corner. Horiguchi managed to back Nick into his own corner and Saito pulled his hair, which caused the crowd to boo him. Nick managed to push Saito into his own corner and the Bucks began tagging in and out to work over his arm...

TNA News: Former X Division champion asked for release, more details on A.J. Styles-Vince Russo argument

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:44:09 PST

As we reported in the most-recent Torch Newsletter cover story, TNA World champ A.J. Styles had an argument with TNA's creative head Vince Russo at the last TV tapings. Powell reports that the source of the argument was Russo confronting Styles after he heard that the champ requested a wrestler added to the creative team. ...

WWE News: WWE considering new movie featuring The Undertaker character

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:09:08 PST

WWE is considering a movie based around the origins of The Undertaker character, reports PWInsider.com. The movie would reportedly be filmed in an Old Western setting similar to a Clint Eastwood or John Wayne movie. ...

TNA News: A look at Hulk Hogan's schedule in November - potential TNA starting dates and Australian Tour commitments

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:31:18 PST

Hulk Hogan is not expected to be at this week's TNA Impact tapings today and tomorrow in Orlando, Fla., as Hogan is out promoting his new book. TNA is simply advertising that Hogan will "influence" the Nov. 15 Turning Point PPV on this week's Impact, which will be taped today. ...

WWE News: AP reports on accusations against WWE and Linda McMahon for illegal activity

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:05:29 PST

The Associated Press covered today's story of WWE and former CEO Linda McMahon being accused of illegal activity related to McMahon's Senate campaign. The report has been circulated by local TV and newspaper websites. ...

TNA News: Impact quarter-hour ratings - Surprising wrestler in the highest-rated segment of the show, Main event & Hogan announcement disappoint

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:33:42 PST

The October 29 episode of TNA Impact featuring Hulk Hogan's TNA debut averaged a strong 1.24 rating, but TNA was unable to grow the audience over the course of the two-hour show. ...

WWE News: More details on the formal complaint filed against WWE and Linda McMahon for alleged illegal activity

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:01:18 PST

The Connecticut Democratic Party's formal complaint filed against WWE and former WWE CEO Linda McMahon alleges that WWE "provided a service" for McMahon by having videos removed from YouTube. The Federal Election Campaign Act includes a clause in the rules and regulations specifying that corporations cannot provide a service that benefits a candidate. ...

WWE News: Linda McMahon's campaign responds to allegations of illegal activity by her political opponents

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:21:11 PST

Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon's spokesman called the Connecticut Democratic party's formal complaint against McMahon and WWE a "baseless accusation." Spokesman Ed Patru shifted the focus back onto the Democratic party in a statement, saying it appears the competition is afraid of McMahon's Senate bid in 2010. ...

WWE News: Linda McMahon's campaign opponents allege illegal activity by McMahon and WWE

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:12:22 PST

The Connecticut Democratic party filed a formal complaint against WWE and former CEO Linda McMahon today. The party is alleging illegal activity when WWE executives provided an "in-kind campaign contribution" by having videos removed from YouTube that cast McMahon's Senate campaign in a negative light. ...

TNA Ratings News: Where does the Hulk Hogan Impact rank among TNA's most-watched shows this year?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:56:28 PST

TNA has faced tougher competition in the fall compared to earlier in the year, but the Hogan Impact didn't crack the Top Ten of this year's most-watched episodes. The following is a list of the most-watched episode of Impact this year to see where Hulk Hogan's debut fits in the mix. ...

TNA News: Ratings are in for Hulk Hogan Impact - did the publicity help TNA?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:35:33 PST

The October 29 edition of TNA Impact featuring Hulk Hogan's press conference signing averaged a 1.24 rating, which was up 12.1 percent from the previous week's 1.10 rating. Going back to the Super Impact leading to the Bound for Glory PPV from two weeks ago, Hogan Impact was up 27.0 percent. ...

HITS & MISSES - TNA IMPACT 10/29: Hulk Hogan the good and bad, Styles Stalker Angle, TNA's handling of Chris Sabin's injury, Title Name change

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:02:54 PST

Hulk Hogan TNA Impact was Hulk Hogan on the Hulk Hogan air this Hulk Hogan week. We had some interesting Hulk Hogan news hit the Hulk Hogan airwaves lately. What Hulk Hogan changes could we see on Hulk Hogan Impact? Here's what worked this Hulk Hogan week. Oh, by the way, have we mentioned Hulk Hogan yet? ...

10/30 WWE Smackdown Hits & Misses: Grisham & Striker, Mysterio - Batista, Kane vs. Jericho

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:13:25 PST

I hated last week's episode of Smackdown. I didn't like this week's either, but at least the re-teaming of Todd Grisham and Matt Striker was a Hit when last week there were none. I loved these guys as the ECW commentators and was upset when WWE broke up the team to move Grisham to Smackdown to work with Jim Ross. Now, it is nice to have them back together as the Smackdown team at least until Ross is able to return from his health issues. I particularly enjoyed listening to them during the first match, Dolph Ziggler vs. John Morrison (a decent, but not quite good enough to get a Hit match). I liked the banter back and forth as Striker criticized Morrison for posing saying that when he was a wrestler he never posed, and Grisham shot back that it was because he was always flat on his back. They work well together and I look forward to seeing them regain their chemistry and to seeing Striker on a bigger stage each week.

TNA News: Hulk Hogan discusses motivations for joining TNA - needs the money, but wants to compete with Vince McMahon

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 23:36:09 PST

Hulk Hogan says he needs money, but that's not the main reason why he's coming to TNA. He laid down the gauntlet in an interview with the Chicago Tribune that he wants to see who is the better wrestling promoter, himself or WWE CEO Vince McMahon. ...

WWE News: Hulk Hogan knocks WWE Hall of Fame ring and Vince McMahon in mainstream interview

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:44:47 PST

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan knocked his WWE Hall of Fame ring in an interview with the Chicago Tribune talking about his decision to sign with TNA. ...

TORCH TALK FLASHBACK with Hulk Hogan: Hogan talks to PWTorch editor Wade Keller about his relationship with Ric Flair

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 18:00:09 PST

He was not somebody who was out there doing a million moves. Did Ric Flair have that special something that you talked about even if he did it in different ways as mostly a heel? ...

Hogan News: Ric Flair cuts promo on Hulk Hogan and wrestling fans who bought WrestleMania retirement to promote Australian Tour (w/VIDEO)

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 17:02:34 PST

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair cut his first promo for the Hulkamania Tour of Australia where he is scheduled to face Hulk Hogan this month. ...

TORCH MONTHLY AWARD VOTING: Nominate the best and worst in pro wrestling from the month of October

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:40:37 PST

We're continuing our monthly feature to track the best and worst from each month in our Torch Month-End polling. The floor is open for nominations through Tuesday morning, then we'll open the polls for voting from Tuesday - Thursday.

TNA News: Diamond Dallas Page says whether he's interested in wrestling for TNA

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:53:11 PST

Former WCW champion Diamond Dallas Page says he has no interest in going to TNA. Page says he's not in wrestling shape, but he would consider an offer if given the "right money and angle." ...

GARDNER'S KEY MOMENT OF THE WEEK: Is Hulk Hogan a difference-maker for TNA or just another addition to the aging roster?

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 09:37:33 PST

The announcement has been made. Just when the exit of Booker T brought the average age of the TNA main event down, Hulk Hogan has agreed to work with the company. ...

VALENTINO'S MAGIC, MEMORIES, AND MANIA: Top Five Best Hell in a Cell matches and why they worked - HBK vs. Taker, Batista vs. Triple H

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 01:26:00 PST

The memories are crystal clear. The first WrestleMania I had ever seen was the second edition. The event aired from three different locations and the main event featured Hulk Hogan and King Kong Bundy in a steel cage. To a young boy experiencing the grand spectacle for the first time, the aura of that gargantuan blue structure was an unforgettable sight. What made it even more awe-inspiring was that I knew Hogan’s ribs had been injured by Bundy and could only imagine what type of devastating damage would be inflicted to him by the monster once the doors of the cage were shut. At the time, when the WWF would bring out major gimmick matches, it generally was tied to some major storyline. The need for some type of stipulation arose from a natural progression of a heated feud. ...

10/30 Dragon Gate in Germany: Young Bucks, CIMA vs. Mike Quackenbush, El Generico

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 01:02:01 PST

Overall Notes: All of the wrestlers were at the merchandise table or around during intermission. The Japanese wrestlers seemed to genuinely enjoy the interaction with the German fans. Overall, this was by far the best live-wrestling experience I’ve ever had:. Just awesome action, rabid crowd, and wrestlers who appeared to really care for their audience. ...

TORCH TALK FLASHBACK with Hulk Hogan: Hogan talks to PWTorch editor Wade Keller about his relationship with Vince Russo

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 19:05:12 PST

In November 2002, PWTorch editor Wade Keller interviewed former WWE and WCW World Hvt. champion Hulk Hogan, one of the biggest names and stars in the pro wrestling industry. ...

WWE News: Smackdown wrestler says he's healed from the Swine Flu

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:30:54 PST

WWE Smackdown wrestler Shad Gaspard said today he has "officially recovered" from the Swine Flu. Shad made the post on his Twitter page. ...

WWE Smackdown Reax #1: "Batista plays the perfect bully and Rey plays the perfect hero; this is a chance to make Batista the lead heel on Smackdown"

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:07:05 PST

An excellent show coming out of Bragging Rights. Really intrigued where the Batista-Mysterio feud will go. Either way, let's hope Edge can come back to re-stock the main event face roster. If not, hopefully creative won't shift Batista back to a face like WCW did with Goldberg after his ill-fated heel run a decade ago. ...

WWE SUPERSTARS ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 10/29: Caldwell, Mezzera, Parks rate and review

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:43:19 PST

Okay show. This week's Superstars felt like a repeat of previous Superstars matches and a repeat of the mid-card feuds from each of the brands. Top stars of the show were Jack Swagger, R-Truth, and Zack Ryder, as all three men seemed to stand out.

WWE News: Jim Ross critically evaluates young talent on the WWE roster, critiques Jack Swagger (must-read interview)

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:30:23 PST

WWE announcer and former VP of talent relations Jim Ross took a critical look at young talent on the WWE roster needing to work hard whether they're on a flagship show or WWE Superstars in an interview published this week. He said young wrestlers will prove whether they are capable of being in main events if they don't become complacent. ...

WWE News: Close-out deal, Everything Must Go - Jerry Lawler selling "Lawyer for Mayor" t-shirts

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 10:04:46 PST

WWE announcer Jerry Lawler is selling a "limited number" of "Lawyer for Mayor" t-shirts from his recent Memphis mayoral campaign. ...

ABSURDITY OF IT ALL - WWE Smackdown: WWE Gives Into Matt Hardy's Demands to Showcase Acting Ability, Scott Armstrong's a Hulkamaniac, Rey and Big Dave Have a Moment

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:48:14 PST

Jim Ross is one of the best wrestling announcers ever, but if Smackdown is going to be called by Striker and Grisham, I can dig that. Still hoping that Ross comes back. I like Striker because he goes out of his way to make sure you pay attention to his interesting tidbits. Sadly, Striker couldn't save this Smackdown stinker. I feel like I should receive a medal in just getting through the show.

WWE News: Headline match announced for next week's Smackdown

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:35:14 PST

WWE announced on tonight's Smackdown that Batista will face Matt Hardy in one of the top matches on next week's Smackdown. ...

WWE News: World Title match added to Survivor Series PPV, updated PPV line-up

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:18:21 PST

On Friday night's edition of Smackdown, WWE officially added a World Title match between World Hvt. champion The Undertaker, Big Show, and Chris Jericho for the Survivor Series PPV on November 22. ...

WWE SMACKDOWN POLL: Who was the MVP of the 10/30 Smackdown if you saw the show?

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:06:00 PST

10/29 WWE Superstars Hits & Misses: Swagger vs. Primo, Cryme Tyme & Truth vs. Hart Dynasty & Knox

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:05:00 PST

Superstars got off to a good start this week with the first match which was better than any match on last week's show. Jack Swagger and Primo put on a good match. It was only 6 minutes, but was enjoyable to watch while it lasted. There was a lot of energy and the crowd was really pumped for Primo. Swagger looked like a star and was very strong in a pretty dominant victory. But, Primo had enough offense and some nice flurries in some comebacks to keep the crowd into it hoping for an upset.

PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 10/30: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the show, including Jericho vs. Kane

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:00:09 PST

Teddy Long came to the ring as Todd Grisham and Matt Striker noted that Rey Mysterio will demand an explanation from Batista tonight. Long talked about Smackdown winning at Bragging Rights, then turned his attention to the Mysterio vs. Batista issue.

10/30 Bruce Mitchell Audio Show: First show with live callers, a lot of Hulk Hogan-TNA follow-up, women's wrestling, Desmond Wolfe, more (75 min.)

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:33:13 PST

In this episode of the Bruce Mitchell Audio Show with host Wade Keller, they introduce live callers for the first time ever. It was announced on short notice via our PWTorch VIP Twitter feed and in the Bruce Mitchell VIP Forum. We plan to do more live caller editions in the future, something we've talked about for a long time. The subjects covered in this 75 minute episode includes Hulk Hogan-TNA follow-up, Desmond Wolfe week two discussion with Sean Radican, the history of women's wrestling being featured in this country and whether it could be featured again, and more...

WWE News: What's on Smackdown tonight - World Title picture cleared up, Dolph vs. Morrison, Rey-Batista follow-up

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:27:49 PST

Tonight's edition of WWE Smackdown will focus on the World Title picture after Big Show was named the #1 contender to the title. The storyline is that Show will receive a title shot after helping the Smackdown brand defeat the Raw brand at the Bragging Rights PPV. ...

TORCH TALK FLASHBACK with Hulk Hogan: Hogan talks to PWTorch editor Wade Keller about his on-again, off-again relationship with Vince McMahon

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:03:12 PST

In November 2002, PWTorch editor Wade Keller interviewed former WWE and WCW World Hvt. champion Hulk Hogan, one of the biggest names and stars in the pro wrestling industry. ...

TNA Impact Reax #2: "Hogan, as great as he was, is 15 years beyond his prime and he signed with a company touting their so-called youth movement"

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:54:48 PST

I miss the Mafia. I can't believe TNA spent a whole year building the Mafia and them dumps them like nothing. No feud, nothing. This episode of Impact just didn't make sense. Note to TNA. Tell the head writer he needs to take beginner's creative writing. Tell him he needs a reason for things to happen. Better yet, tell him he's fired. TNA should have aired this show on Halloween Night. It even scared little kids. ...

RADICAN: Wolfe-Angle follow up displays typical warning signs of danger from creative standpoint

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:02:41 PST

By rushing to the Hogan segment, TNA continued their pattern of frantic pattern of booking where nothing going on during the show truly sinks in on the viewing audience. These booking patterns are all going to take away the steam from the Wolfe-Angle program and any chance it has to build interest in a match between the two of them on PPV if it continues...

TNA News: Hulk Hogan asked whether he'll wrestle for TNA in New York Times interview

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:45:42 PST

Hulk Hogan says he's not sure if he'll wrestle for TNA, but he'll find out after he returns to the ring in Australia next month. In an interview with the New York Times, Hogan addressed speculation that he'll wrestle again after mainstream reporters ran with TNA and Spike TV's press release that was joining TNA to be a wrestler again. ...

TNA News: Hulk Hogan says why he signed with TNA over WWE, discusses TNA's booking in TIME interview

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:51:18 PST

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan told TIME Magazine that he chose to work for TNA instead of WWE because he wants to be his own man in the wrestling business. He also said he wants to give back to young wrestlers "who don't understand" the art form of pro wrestling. ...

TNA News: Watch a clip from last night's Impact - Nigel McGuinness vs. Kurt Angle (w/VIDEO)

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:23:20 PST

Last night's TNA Impact featured the first encounter between Kurt Angle and Nigel McGuinness (now known as Desmond Wolfe) one week after McGuinness's debut in TNA. ...

ROH News: Preview for Nigel McGuinness's final ROH TV match on Monday (w/VIDEO)

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:18:50 PST

Current TNA wrestler Nigel McGuinness will be in his final ROH match on Monday's edition of ROH TV on HDNet. ...

GUEST EDITORIAL: The ultimate irony - Hulk Hogan appears on TNA Impact and pre-taped TV sitcom promoting WWE on the same night

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:13:24 PST

It will be interesting to see if Hogan's presence on a hit TV show will convince any lost fans to possibly check out pro wrestling again. It will also be interesting to see if that backfires for WWE with old viewers tuning into TNA instead to see their once-beloved childhood hero run wild...or at least attempt it again. ...

TNA News: Next week's TNA Impact - Hulk Hogan advertised, top matches announced

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:33:27 PST

TNA is vaguely advertising that Hulk Hogan will be on next week's Impact in an authoritarian role. TNA's preview says "the era of Hulkamania begins in TNA Wrestling" with Hogan's involvement on the show affecting the Turning Point PPV on November 15. ...

TORCH TALK DAILY with Eric Bischoff: Bischoff defends famous Goldberg vs. Hogan title match on Nitro (part two)

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:11:57 PST

ll right. Correction is accepted and thank you. Really, thank you. But that's the same formula. The idea that we would pull a card like Hogan and Goldberg out of our back pocket spontaneously, throw it on free TV, when we knew we'd have the 40 or 50 thousand people, we knew that would give us the type of energy that people came to expect out of Nitro. ...

TNA News: TNA Impact to debut on free TV in the U.K. tonight

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:55:32 PST

TNA Impact will debut on Virgin 1 tonight for their first episode featuring Hulk Hogan. It will be the first time pro wrestling has aired on free TV in the U.K. since the 1990s. ...

WWE News: Kofi Kingston interview - why he dropped the Jamaican accent, discusses feud with Randy Orton

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:42:22 PST

WWE wrestler Kofi Kingston said in an interview he dropped the Jamaican accent to become more marketable as a main-eventer that was closer to his true personality. He mentioned Triple H dropping the blue blood gimmick as Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Steve Austin transforming from "Stunning Steve" to "Stone Cold." ...

GUEST BOOK REVIEW: Hulk Hogan provides strong defense of his public image in new autobiography

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:54:53 PST

I think this book does have a strong message, from one of the, if not the most famous person who's ever lived. I'm almost 31-years-old now, and Michael Jordan is the only person I've ever seen at Hulk's level in terms of being a household name in my lifetime. I've always firmly believed in the old saying, "never judge a man until you've walked a mile in his shoes." I think that certainly applies here. Again, I think it's a very strong book with a strong message that just about anyone would get something out of. I would highly recommend it. ...

UFC News: Forrest Griffin addresses devastating loss to Anderson Silva, running from Octagon afterward, Tito Ortiz fight (redirect)

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:42:46 PST

ABSURDITY OF IT ALL - TNA Impact: Kurt Angle Is Fine, Ladies And Gentlemen...and we guess Chris Sabin too, plus more Humble Hero Hulk Hogan Hogwash!

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:42:32 PST

In a tag team match between the Motor City Machineguns and Team 3D, Sabin landed on his damn head by a move by Ray. I felt something drop in my stomach as I saw knocked out Sabin meekly make a tag to his partner. He then lay in the ring not moving. ...

WWE Superstars Reax #1: "It's time for Cryme Tyme or The Hart Dynasty to go after that tag team championship, and please stop feuding"

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:21:41 PST

As far as I am concerned, The Hart Dynasty deserves a gold star and an "A for effort." Watching them against Cryme Tyme week after week is starting to feel like a less gimmicky version of Hornswoggle-Chavo. They need to invent a new tag team for these two to wrangle with. Now that DX has been moved into the WWE Championship picture, I say it's time for Cryme Tyme or The Hart Dynasty to go after that tag team championship, and move on. ...

UNDER THE MICROSCOPE - TNA Impact 10/29: TNA defends Chris Sabin injury, Prince Justice flashback, Qualifications for Legends Title shot?, Numbers - Hulk Hogan's age vs. TNA roster

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:35:44 PST

TNA Impact Reax #1: "The episode-long Hogan build-up made me think that I shouldn't care about anything else on the show"

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:05:27 PST

The real reason I didn't care about the show was because the announcers essentially told me only the Hogan video was important. The episode-long Hogan prep made me think that I shouldn't care about anything else. Every angle, even the World Title, was downplayed against Hogan. I guess we should get used to it. ...

CALDWELL'S WWE SUPERSTARS TV REPORT 10/29: Complete coverage of Cryme Tyme & Truth vs. Hart Dynasty & Dr. Knox

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:59:45 PST

I'm covering the replay of WWE Superstars currently airing on WGN. So, follow along with the replay show unless you're watching awesome MLS soccer between Houston and Seattle right now on ESPN2. In that case, keep refreshing the report every 15 minutes. ...

TNA IMPACT POLL: Who was the MVP of the 10/29 Impact if you saw the show?

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:51:12 PST

TORCH READER ALERT: Did you watch TNA Impact featuring Hulk Hogan? Send your feedback on the show

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:07:24 PST

Did you watch tonight's edition of TNA Impact featuring Hulk Hogan's signing and Kurt Angle vs. Nigel McGuinness (Desmond Wolfe)? We're looking for your feedback on the show. Send a brief review, 0-10 score, and Best/Worst Match of the show to pwtorch@gmail.com. ...

WILKENFELD'S TNA IMPACT REPORT 10/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:13:31 PST

Overall: I should have known better. This week's show actually had a lot of good stuff—most notably the return of the crazy Kong, some amazing promo work by Kurt Angle and some surprisingly reasonable work by Joe. None of that could overcome the incessant harping on the Hogan signing. More "fun" with Abyss-Foley-Dr. Stevie and Lashley-Steiner did not help matters. Finally, while I have no objection in principle to short matches, if they are all short, they had best be exciting—these were not. C-

WWE News: Jim Ross updates his health, comments on WWE replacing him on the Smackdown announce team

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:15:23 PST

WWE announcer Jim Ross says he received some good news today that he does not have Multiple sclerosis following his third Bell's Palsy attack last week. Ross's doctors ruled out the disease, which can affect a person's central nervous system and ability to function. ...

TNA News: TNA Impact tonight - Hulk Hogan Debuts, Kurt Angle vs. Nigel McGuinness (w/VIDEO)

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:05:57 PST

Tonight's edition of TNA Impact will focus on the breaking news story this week of Hulk Hogan signing with TNA to be the new face of the promotion. Tonight's show was taped in front of the studio audience in Orlando, Fla. last week prior to Hogan signing with the promotion, so TNA will have a separate segment detailing the Hogan announcement. ...

WWE News: What's on WWE Superstars tonight - Hart Dynasty vs. Cryme Tyme, Zack Ryder, Jack Swagger vs. Primo

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:46:30 PST

Tonight's edition of WWE Superstars on WGN will feature four matches, including two matches from the Raw brand. It will also be the unofficial debut of the interim Smackdown announce tandem of Todd Grisham and Matt Striker while Jim Ross recovers from his health issues. ...

TNA News: Dixie Carter joins Twitter and comments on the Hulk Hogan signing

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:34:05 PST

TNA president Dixie Carter has joined Twitter and her first post contained details on how TNA is celebrating the Hulk Hogan signing. ...

10/29 Wade Keller Hotline - The News: The latest on Hulk Hogan in TNA, Dixie's comments, Monday nights, where Bischoff, Nash, Shane, Sullivan, Russo stand (18 min.)

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:47:29 PST

This installment of the Wade Keller Hotline features the latest on the breaking news of the changes in TNA with Hulk Hogan signing, what he's saying, what's known about where all the major players stand including Eric Bischoff, Kevin Nash, and Vince Russo and speculation about Kevin Sullivan, Shane McMahon, and others. Insight into the reaction to Shane McMahon's departure, the latest news on future Raw guest hosts, Raw ratings notes, and more...

TNA News: Bobby Lashley comments on dropping wrestling to focus full-time on MMA

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:22:39 PST

TNA wrestler Bobby Lashley says he will "cross the bridge later" on whether he needs to give up pro wrestling in order to focus exclusively on his MMA career. ...

TNA IMPACT POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/5 Impact if you saw the show?
	A.J. Styles
	Daniels
	Samoa Joe
	Team 3D
	Rhino
	Matt Morgan & Hernandez
	Desmond Wolfe
	Dixie Carter
	Beautiful People
	ODB
	Awesome Kong
	Tara
	Scott Steiner
	Bobby Lashley
	Beer Money
	World Elite & British Invasion
	Mick Foley
	Abyss
	Dr. Stevie & Daffney
	Jay Lethal

TNA IMPACT POLL: Who was the MVP of the 10/29 Impact if you saw the show?
	Desmond Wolfe (Nigel McGuinness)
	Kurt Angle
	Hurt Hogan
	A.J. Styles
	Daniels
	Samoa Joe
	Hernandez
	Matt Morgan
	Team 3D
	Motor City Machineguns
	Bobby Lashley
	Scott Steiner
	Eric Young
	Kevin Nash
	Abyss & Mick Foley
	Dr. Stevie & Daffney
	Rhino
	Beautiful People
	ODB & Christy Hemme & Hamada
	Alissa Flash

SMACKDOWN POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/6 Smackdown if you saw the show?
	Chris Jericho
	The Undertaker
	Batista
	Rey Mysterio
	Matt Hardy
	C.M. Punk
	R-Truth
	Dolph Ziggler
	Hart Dynasty
	Cryme Tyme
	John Morrison
	Drew McIntyre
	Jimmy Wang Yang
	Mike Knox
	Beth Phoenix
	Mickie James
	Michelle McCool
	Ref Scott Armstrong
	Matt Striker
	Brittany Carter

ECW POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/3 ECW if you saw the show?
	Christian
	Yoshi Tatsu
	William Regal
	Kozlov
	Ezekiel Jackson
	Goldust
	Zack Ryder
	Shelton Benjamin
	Paul Burchill
	Hurricane Helms
	Vance Archer
	Rosa Mendes
	Abraham Washington
	Tony Atlas
	Lea Burchill
	GM Tiffany
	Josh Mathews

RAW POLL: Who was the MVP of the 11/2 Raw if you saw the show?
	Triple H
	Shawn Michaels
	John Cena
	Chris Jericho
	Big Show
	MVP
	Mark Henry
	Randy Orton
	Kofi Kingston
	Cody Rhodes
	Ted DiBiase, Jr.
	Sharon Osbourne
	Ozzy Osbourne
	The Miz
	Evan Bourne
	Sheamus
	Jamie Noble
	Santino Marella
	Chris Masters
	Alicia Fox

WWE SMACKDOWN POLL: Who was the MVP of the 10/30 Smackdown if you saw the show?
	Chris Jericho
	Kane
	Batista
	Rey Mysterio
	C.M. Punk
	Scott Armstrong
	Matt Hardy
	Dolph Ziggler
	John Morrison
	Drew McIntyre
	Eric Escobar
	Finlay
	Mickie James
	Michelle McCool
	Natalya
	Layla
	Beth Phoenix
	Teddy Long
	Matt Striker