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Thank You, Axl Rotten (And R.I.P.)

Monday, December 31, 2007

GEORGIA WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 12/31/2007

NEWS

AWA World-1 South results from the Lowndes County Conference Center in Valdosta, GA, on December 30: Less Fortunate over Jake Slater; Tommy Dame over Psych; Q-Ball over Mike Pain; Marvelous Money (Matt Mercer & Big Bank Barfield) over Lance Alonte in a handicap match; Ricky Landell over Mr. Wrestling #3 to retain the AWA US Heavyweight Title; Francisco Ciatso & the Bug over the Latin Alliance; and the Heartbreak Express over Steve Corino & Bonez the Cutthroat to retain the AWA World Tag Team Title. It was reported that 173 were in attendance for this card. (Thomas Bugg)

Southern Extreme Championship Wrestling results from Bob Rogers Night at the SECW Arena in Villa Rica, GA, on December 30: Kyle Matthews over Dark Star (w/ Ms. Rebecca); Adrian Hawkins over Sal Rinauro; El Mexicano over Austin Creed; Frankie Valentine over Billy Love; and Bull Buchanan & the Nightmare over Bulldog Raines & the Super Destroyer. Click here for a report from Larry Goodman. (Rich Tate and Larry Goodman)

Down South Hardcore Wrestling results from the Multiplex in Darien, GA, on December 29: Sinn over Morbid Angel; Frizza over Frickin’ A by countout; the Jerk over the Unknown Artist; Phoenix over T-Money; Ugly Kidd Joe over Emo Kid; Sebastian Troy over Ash Kristiansen; the Gangsta Nation (G-Smooth & E-Dawg) over Night Train & Drive-By; Vordell Walker over Dallas Riley (w/ Morgan Davis) by disqualification; and Cameron LaRue over Scotty Bullwinkle to become the inaugural DSHW Heavyweight Champion. Click here for a report from the show. (Thomas Bugg)

Ultimate Christian Wrestling will be in Canton, GA, tonight at the National Guard Armory, with a starting time of 8:00 PM. Call (770) 713-6367 for more info. Admission is free. They will be taping this show for the second DVD. (Larry Goodman)

Great American Wrestling Federation runs in Hosford, FL, tonight at the Hosford & Telogia Game Room, beginning at 8:00 PM. Call (850) 694-5242 for more info. (Mick N. Brawler)

Southern Extreme Championship Wrestling will debut at the VFW Fairgrounds in Carrollton, GA, with Bill Dromo Appreciation Night on January 6. Dromo was a major Georgia wrestling star of the 1960s and 1970s, who held heavyweight titles in Columbus and Augusta. The lineup for the first show in Carrollton includes Bull Buchanan versus Super Destroyer for the SECW Title, Nightmare versus Billy Love in a mask vs. hair, Frankie Valentine versus El Mexicano in an Ironman, along with appearances by Buff Bagwell and ‘Bullet’ Bob Armstrong. This will be a permanent move from the SECW Arena, but events will still be held on Sundays. The Fairgrounds are located at 1625 Bankhead Highway. Advance tickets for shows can still be purchased at the Watering Hole in Villa Rica, GA. Ringside seats are $10, while general admission is $8. Call (770) 355-5742 for more info. (Rich Tate and Larry Goodman)

Total Championship Wrestling will be in Douglasville, GA, on January 12 at the National Guard Armory, with a starting time of 8:00 PM. Advertised: Josh Stone, Ken Timbs, Jr., and Peanut in a three-way match; Jess Wade & Damon Taz versus the Regular Guys; Rob Russo versus Pretty Boy Floyd; Doug Somers & Loco Motive versus Frankie Valentine & Kenny D; and Josh Storm versus Kid Ego, Jr., in a two-of-three falls match. (Rich Tate)

NOTES

Click here for this week’s Bill Behrens NWA Notes update. (Rich Tate)

Lance Cade was injured at the World Wrestling Entertainment event in Atlanta, GA, on December 28. He apparently separated his shoulder, and is expected to be out of action for at least a month. Also, it appears the Ring of Honor show on December 29 in New York was costly in terms of injuries. Nigel McGuinness, Bryan Danielson, and Rocky Romero are reported to have each suffered concussions, and that McGuinness also received a broken nose, requiring more than a dozen stitches. (Rich Tate)

The freak injury Shadow Jackson suffered during Saturday night’s NWA Anarchy show is going to require surgery that will likely put him out action for an extended period of time. Jackson injured his Achilles tendon when he stepped on Jerry Palmer’s ax handle. (Larry Goodman)

Bull Buchanan’s next tour of Japan is scheduled for February. (Larry Goodman)

NOSTALGIA

1966: A main event title match between Southern Tag Team Champions Enrique & Ramon Torres and Lars & Gene Anderson was ruled a no contest at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Following the match, the title was held up, pending an investigation of the match. The Torres’ had been the reigning champions since they defeated Louie Tillet & Butcher Vachon on November 16, 1966, in Columbus. Eddie Smith was credited as being a referee on this card.

1971: A title match between Georgia Heavyweight Champion Buddy Colt and El Mongol was ruled a no contest at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Colt had been billed as the champion since June 18, 1971. Eddie Smith and Charlie Smith were credited as being referees for this card. The program for this card mentioned that Paul Jones had been confined at St. Joseph’s Infirmary since December 28, 1971, due to apparent coronary problems, but was in stable condition at the time of this card. Bob Armstrong participated in an autograph session for fans.

1974: The Mighty Yankees, managed by J.C. Dykes, defeated Rocky Johnson & Danny Little Bear to win the Macon Tag Team Title at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Johnson & Little Bear had been the reigning champions since they defeated Buddy Colt & Harley Race on December 3, 1974, in Macon. Also, Ricky Gibson defeated Ron Garvin, managed by Jimmy Garvin, by disqualification in a lumberjack match.

1978: Thunderbolt Patterson & Andre the Giant defeated Ole Anderson & Stan Hansen in the main event at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Also, Wahoo McDaniel won a $3,500 battle royal that included King Kong Mosca, Raymond Rougeau, Bryan St. John, Mr. Wrestling #2, Kurt Von Hess, Bugsy McGraw, Rufus R. Jones, Larry Latham, Tommy Rich, Ivan Koloff, Bob Armstrong, the Challenger, Pierre Lefebvre, and the Masked Superstar.

GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

Happy New Year!

I'm a little early, but since I expect to actually be out and enjoying myself (see, there really is a first for everything), stay safe and enjoy your journey into 2008.

PS: Your support has been overwhelming. Thank you!!!

PPS: Don't forget to continue supporting the Combat Hooligans, because without them, I'd actually have to work for a living.

"Cowboy" Looks To Ride Roughshod Over Fellow Canuck As Bodog Fight Re-Opens "The Vault"

Courtesy of Bodog TV Press:

For Immediate Release
December 31, 2007

Mixed martial arts powerhouse Bodog Fight ushers in the New Year with all-new never-before seen bouts this Tuesday and Saturday on its multi-award winning website, bodoglife.net/fight.

Tuesday, January 1 don't miss a hard-hitting episode of Bodog Fight: The Vault featuring Canada's Garett Davis (5-6) and Myles "The Cowboy" Merola (6-1) in a welterweight fight filmed last year at a Bodog-sponsored Elite FC event in Vancouver, B.C.

Davis had an auspicious start to his pro career, losing his first six fights, once by knockout just 15 seconds into the first round. However, training under legendary Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor Marcus Soares, Davis persevered, and entered this fight with Merola having won his previous five bouts.

"Basically, Garett wasn't training the right way," recalls Soares. "He was inexperienced and didn't know how to prepare himself properly. He moved from Newfoundland to train with me in Vancouver, and I could see he had talent. So, we worked on his cardio and practiced Jiu-Jitsu three times a week, while Tony Pep helped him improve his boxing skills. All that work has paid off. Garett has become a disciplined, more well-rounded fighter."

Will it be enough to help him ride roughshod over a determined "Cowboy"?

The answer lies within The Vault.

Then, Saturday, January 5, don't miss a second episode of The Vault as South Korean Hyeon Son Fan takes on Minoru Kato of Japan in a battle of MMA newcomers.

Filmed in October 2006 at a Bodog Fight sponsored MARS event in Tokyo, this heavyweight bout was short and very sweet (for one of them).

Bodog Fight: The Vault offers streaming video of all-new never-before-seen fights each Tuesday and Saturday, commercial free. Each webisode is fully downloadable and iPod-ready, featuring a previously unaired bout from the Bodog Fight archives.

This exclusive Bodog TV footage is only available online at bodoglife.net/fight, twice honored at the 2007 Digital Marketing Awards.

This cutting-edge website will also provide fans of Bodog Fight with the latest information on where to catch the show when it returns to U.S. television for an all-new sixth season.

Yes, we will be back, bigger and better than ever in 2008!

Filmed in beautiful Vancouver, Canada, series six will showcase all-new fights, a fresh crop of fighters, and an informative new desk segment with hosts Paul "The Mauler" Lazenby and Bodog Fight commissioner Jeff Osborne.

Quite simply, this series will be our best yet!

Can't get enough hard-hitting MMA action?

Bodog Fight: The Complete First Series is now available on DVD. The four-disk set comes packed with more than ten hours of non-stop action and a ton of extra features, including fighter commentary, new behind the scenes footage and six never-before-seen fights. Plus, get a bonus limited edition CD featuring tracks from Bodog Music artists. Available now at better retailers everywhere and online at bodoglife.net/store.

About Bodog Fight

Since its inception in 2006, Bodog Fight has become one of the heavy-hitters in the world of mixed martial arts. Created by billionaire entertainment mogul and longtime MMA enthusiast, Calvin Ayre, Bodog Television's Bodog Fight series offers viewers a unique combination of action and allure from exotic locations throughout the world. Bodog Fight can be viewed online at bodoglife.net, along with other Bodog Television programs including: a poker lifestyle and reality show, Calvin Ayre Wild Card Poker, and an international million-dollar band search competition, Bodog Battle. For more information, contact Media Relations at 1-866-892-3371, or fightpr@bodoglife.net. BODOG is a registered trademark.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Southern Pro Wrestling 12/29 Clarksville, TN Results

Courtesy of Lekisha F. Oliver-Burdine:

Southern Pro Wrestling ring announcer Biggie D welcomed everyone to the show and then ran down the evenings card. He then introduced his partner for the night, Big Daddy J.

Match #1) The Executioner won a Battle Royal last eliminating Big Daddy Punk. The Executioner will now face Mid-South Heavyweight Champion, "Cowboy" Bud Ellis on Saturday January 26th for the title.

Match #2) Eric Ego defeated "Ice Man" Chris Eckos.

Match #3) Bubba Joiner beat "Gorgeous" Jimmy Funk by reverse decision.

Match #4) Loose Cannon won by count-out over "Impressive" Anthony Wayne. Anthony was on the outside and Cannon had the referees attention. Randall Shane then came out and ran Wayne's head into the post knocking him out.

Match #5) The Executioner beat Big Daddy Punk by pinfall in a very quick match.

Match #6) The Bad Boys won over "The Redneck Outlaw" Otis Bass & "Gorgeous" Jimmy Funk.

Match #7) Val Joiner beat "The Southern Kentucky Superstar" Randall Shane in a STREET FIGHT. The match saw interference from Loose Cannon and a save from Anthony Wayne. This match went inside and outside the ring, into the waiting area, the workout area and even outside the armory into the parking lot. At one point in the match Shane threw Joiner into a Coca-Cola machine busting it open and breaking the glass inside. A tag match was then set for the January 26th show pitting Randall Shane & Loose Cannon against Val Joiner & Anthony Wayne.

Southern Pro Wrestling will return to Clarksville on Saturday January 26th with a 7:30 PM bell time. Already signed for that evening is "Cowboy" Bud Ellis defending the Mid-South Heavyweight Championship against The Executioner and Randall Shane & Loose Cannon taking on Val Joiner & Anthony Wayne.

GEORGIA WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 12/30/2007

NEWS

NWA Anarchy results from Cornelia, GA, on December 29: Todd Sexton over Wes Grissom to earn a shot at the Anarchy Television Title; Truitt Fields over Sexton to retain the TV Title; the Hollywood Brunettes (Kyle Matthews & Andrew Alexander) over New Wave (Derrick Driver & Steven Walters); the Anger Alliance (Don Matthews, Brodie Chase & Brandon Phoenix) over Sal Rinauro & the World’s Prettiest Tag Team (Adrian Hawkins & Seth Delay); Jeff Lewis over Kory Chavis (w/ Jeff G. Bailey) in a death match; Shadow Jackson versus Nemesis was ruled a no contest; the Devil’s Rejects (Shaun Tempers & Azrael) (w/ Rev. Wilson) over the Awesome Attraction (Austin Creed & Hayden Young) to retain the Anarchy Tag Team Title; Jeremy Vain & Rob Adonis over Jerry Palmer & Shadow Jackson, who was billed as a mystery partner; Phil Shatter (w/ Bailey) over Mikal Judas and Iceberg (w/ Wilson) in a three-way to retain the Anarchy Heavyweight Title; and Slim J over Patrick Bentley (w/ Wilson) in a cage match. Click here for a report from Larry Goodman.

World Wrestling Entertainment results from Atlanta, GA, on December 28: William Regal over Drew McIntyre; Vladimir Kozlov over Super Crazy; Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes over Brian Kendrick & Paul London and Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch in a three-way to retain the WWE Tag Team Title; D.H. Smith over Santino Marella; Chris Jericho over Randy Orton by disqualification; Mickie James & Maria over Beth Phoenix & Melina; Jeff Hardy over Mr. Kennedy to retain the Inter-Continental Heavyweight Title; and Triple H over Umaga in a cage match.

Southern Extreme Championship Wrestling runs in Villa Rica, GA, tonight at the SECW Arena, beginning at 6:00 PM. Call (770) 355-5742 for more info. This will be Bob Rogers Night, with proceeds from the show going to help with medical bills for the currently hospitalized wrestling fan of some fifty-plus years. Advertised: Bull Buchanan & the Nightmare versus Bulldog Raines & the Super Destroyer in the main event. Adrian Hawkins, Frankie Valentine, Kyle Matthews, Billy Love, L.T. Faulk, and El Mexicano are also scheduled to appear.

AWA World-1 South will return to Valdosta, GA, tonight at the Valdosta Conference Center, starting at 7:00 PM. Call (866) 244-0104 for more info. This will be a card featuring Jody Peterman’s W1S versus Ed Pitts’ Spinebuster Championship Wrestling. Advertised: The Heartbreak Express (W1S) will defend the AWA World Tag Team Title versus Bonez the Cutthroat & Steve Corino (SCW); Preston Paradise (SCW) versus Q-Ball (W1S); Ricky Landell (W1S) will defend the US Heavyweight Title versus Mr. Wrestling #3 (SCW); Jake Slater (W1S) versus Less Fortunate (SCW): Dave Holiday (W1S) versus Tommy Dame (SCW); and Lance Alonte (SCW) versus Big Bank Barfield (W1S).

Down South Hardcore Wrestling will be in Darien, GA, tonight at the Multiplex, with action beginning at 7:15 PM. Advertised: Cameron LaRue versus Scotty Bullwinkle for the DSHW Heavyweight Title; Sebastian Troy versus Ash Kristiansen for the DSHW Light Heavyweight Title; Vordell Walker versus Dallas Riley; and Ryan Savage versus Teddy Baddstreet. Morbid Angel, Gangsta Nation, Kamo, Frizza, Emo Kid, and the Phoenix are also scheduled to appear.

NOTES

GWH wishes a happy birthday to Pierre Ouelette, who turns 40 today.

Click here for a report from Larry Goodman on the December 22 broadcast of Southern All-Star Wrestling.

From Larry Goodman:

“Comedian James Gregory and former NWA Wildside announcer Steven Prazak were in the house at NWA Anarchy’s Season’s Beatings on December 29. Shadow Jackson is believed to have suffered a tendon injury but it’s not the Achilles. Kory Chavis got a knee injury and Sal Rinauro hurt his neck on the messed up Pele. Contrary to a rumor circulating at the show, Jeff Lewis has not been signed by WWE. Anarchy returns to action on January 5 with Shatter versus Rinauro for the heavyweight title, Jimmy Rave & Sexton versus Wes Grissom & Truitt Fields, and the Hollywood Brunettes versus New Wave.”

larry@georgiawrestlinghistory.com

NOSTALGIA

1936: Jack Ross defeated Al Olsen in two straight falls at the New Coliseum in Augusta for promoter Bill Metzger.

1949: Don McIntyre defeated Babe Zaharias in the main event at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Also, Celia Blevins & Lillian Ellison (the Fabulous Moolah) defeated Juanita Coffman & Therese Theis.

1960: Ray Gunkel & Chief Little Eagle defeated Freddie & Mickey Blassie at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. There was also to be a special attraction match between Ed Capral, host of the “Live Atlanta Wrestling” television program, and ‘Sir’ Reginald Gable, manager of Roy Nelson, but no results were reported after the card. Adrien Baillargeon participated in an autograph session for fans.

1963: It was reported that the Mighty Hercules won a battle royal at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Steve Manderson, but it is unclear as to the reason or other participants for the battle royal, as none were advertised beforehand, or reported following the event.

1972: Gordon Solie, who had been the host of televised wrestling in Florida for many years, began his long run as host of “Georgia Championship Wrestling” on this episode. He was with the company through July 1984.

1974: Roger Kirby & Mighty Yankee #2 defeated Robert Fuller & Rocky Johnson in the main event at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Charlie Harben.

1975: Terry Funk defeated Mr. Wrestling #2 to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Funk had been the reigning champion since he defeated Jack Brisco on December 10, 1975, in Miami, FL.

1978: We do not have results for this card, but the Masked Superstar was scheduled to defend the Georgia Heavyweight Title versus Mr. Wrestling #2 at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Charlie Harben. The Superstar had been the reigning champion since he defeated Wrestling #2 on December 4, 1978, in Augusta. Also, Thunderbolt Patterson was to defend the Georgia Television Title against Ole Anderson. It was reported that Anderson put up $16,000 for the match with Patterson. Patterson had been the reigning champion since he defeated Anderson on May 12, 1978, in Atlanta.

GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

12/22 Southern All-Star Wrestling TV Report

Courtesy of Larry Goodman:

Southern All Star Wrestling
Airdate December 22, 2007
Taped November 30, 2007 at the SAW Arena in Millersville, Tn


LAST WEEK…Mason Raige defeated Rig Brown with the Rack of Raige…Gary Valiant was “astin” Hammerjack for a match in Columbia…Lennox Lightfoot upset Kory Williams but Homicidal Tendencies then mocked his Indian heritage by painting his face with make up…Arrick Andrews overcame Paul Adams’ interference to pin Nore Havoc with the Dragon’s Curse and win the SAW Television Title Tournament.

Cut to Jack Johnson and Hot Rod Biggs at ringside with Andrews and 2/3 of the SAW BOD, Freddie Morton and Mike Sircy. Morton pimped for the Christmas Night show in Columbia with James Storm on the card along with all the stars from SAW (The promotion’s first attempt at running a show away from their home base). They were joined by Adams and Havoc. Sircy made a point of congratulating Andrews. Adams demanded a TV Title rematch for today. Sircy said that ain’t happening. “We do different business here in SAW.” Sircy said the BOD had decided that each week, a name would be drawn out of the hat to determine the number one contender and Andrews would defend his title. Adams said luck was on his side.

You know, I won an autographed Bucky Dent lithograph when he was in the third grade at Immaculate Conception School Penny Social, and in fourth grade, I won a Tonka truck with all kinds of barnyard animals in it, Sircy. I’ve been lucky all of my life.

Sircy asked Adams if that’s how he won the tickets to the Hanna Montana concert, but he fumbled the line. Sircy drew the name of A. M. Vision out of the hat. Adams said it was rigged but he felt pretty luck about next week.

SAW starts NOW!

(1) Arrick Andrews defeated A. M. Vision in his first defense of the SAW Television Title in 4:40. As Andrew and Vision locked up in a test of strength, Biggs said the names-in-the-hat gimmick smelled like a conspiracy cooked up by the BOD. Johnson swore it was legit. Andrews hit a spinning heel kick for a near fall. Biggs did the hard sell for Christmas night in Columbia. Andrews continued to dominate until missing huge on a guillotine legdrop. Vision tied Andrews up in the ropes and gave him a beating. Vision was looking for a back bodydrop when Andrews reversed him with a backslide for the three count.

At the desk, Vision said that was two in a row, and it didn’t happen often, so Andrews should enjoy it while it lasted. Vision challenged Andrews to a 2 out of 3 falls match on Christmas night in Columbia at the National Guard Armory.

“New Year’s 2000 and Hate” on January 4 at the SAW Arena in Millersville: “Boogie Woogie Boy” Gary Valiant vs. Hammerjack in a cage, former WWE superstar “Ugene” Nick Dinsmore.

(2) Damian Adams beat Big Rig Brown in 4:40. Big babyface pop for Adams. The commentary made a deal out of Adams working Puerto Rico. Brown ran away from Adams bicycle kick. Brown did comedy bumps. He took a face first Flair. After 10 shots into the top turnbuckle, Brown added two more unassisted shots that Biggs attributed to “the momentum.” Brown dropped an elbow to the base of the neck and did a Fargo strut. Brown got serious with a sweet leg lariat for a near fall. Brown hit a textbook vertical suplex and set up for a superkick. Adams dodged it. Moments later, it was lights out with the bicycle kick.

NWA Top Rope returns to Lebanon at the Wilson County Fairgrounds on January 5 with Ugene vs. Kid Kash, Homicidal Tendencies vs. the Bomb Squad in a Tennessee Street Fight (fan brings the weapons), Boogie Woogie Boy (with Miss Boogie) vs. Hammerjack.

(3) Indian Nation (Lennox Lightfoot & Indian Outlaw) vs. Homicidal Tendencies (Kory Williams & Vic the Bruiser) ended as a double pin with the titles held up (10:40). Tendencies had feathers from Lightfoot’s head dress stuck in their dorags. Indian Nation hit the ring with fire in their eyes and laid a beating on Tendencies, who wanted out. Tendencies started walking towards the curtain, but Morton came out to block their path. It got physical to the point Morton picked up a chair to drive Tendencies back to the ring. Nation handed Tendencies their collective asses for the first five minutes. Tendencies got heat on Lightfoot and kept referee Ricky Bell out of position every time Lightfoot got a hope spot. They duped Outlaw and made the no tag switch. Williams jabbed a feather into Lightfoot’s eye. Williams applied his version of the Indian Deathlock and gave Lightfoot the Pork Chops. Hot tag and Tendencies were bouncing around for Outlaw. Bell got bumped and Senior Official Kurt Herron ran out to check on him. Finish saw Williams pin Lightfoot with a neckbreaker, while Outlaw simultaneously pinned Vic with a chokeslam. Bell raised Outlaw’s hand. Herron raised Williams’ hand. Tendencies left with the belts. Morton tried to sort out the “mass chaos.”

Things are just nuts here, Jack…The holidays drive you crazy, and this is proof positive. Depression sets in sometimes sure, Hot Rod, but we can talk about that later in private.

Valiant was once again Biggs’ guest in the Shop Talk segment. Biggs asked Valiant if he was going to accept Hammerjack’s challenge for a chain match. Boogie asked Biggs if had ever seen Valiant back down from anybody or anything. “Hammerjack, I accept your challenge. Come Christmas night, Boogie is going to drag you from pillar to post.”

Morton said they would settle the confusion surrounding the tag team situation at Christmas Clash – winner takes all.

(4) Ric Santel beat Hammerjack (with Charming Charles) when Hammerjack was DQed at 7:01 for using the piledriver. Biggs said after what they had done to Boogie, he was distancing himself anyway possible from Hammerjack and Charles. Santel took control with a tight side headlock. When Santel opened up on offense, Charles jumped up on the apron to distract. Santel ducked and Hammerjack almost nailed Charles. Santel cinched in the side headlock. The good times came to an abrupt halt, as Hammerjack flung Santel into the corner by the throat and leveled him with a clothesline. Biggs admitted to using some pretty despicable tactics himself, but you had to draw the line between the competition that exists in wrestling and the hatred between Valiant and Hammerjack. Hammerjack cut off a rally with a poke to the eyes and hit a quick sideslam for a near fall. Some wicked brawling left Santel down and almost out. Hammerjack with a kneelift and a lazy cover for two. Biggs said Valiant was going to get his hands on Charles to give him what was coming to him. Hammerjack hit a Michinoku driver for another two count. Johnson said Charles was one of those guys that could go through life getting away with evil. “It makes you question things.” Biggs said Ebenezer Scrooge couldn’t hold a candle to those guys. Santel made the big comeback and hit a impressive T-bone suplex, but Hammerjack rolled a shoulder. Charles hooked Santel’s leg with the cane to distract. Hammerjack hit the piledriver for the DQ. Hammerjack and Charles glared at Biggs from the ring.

Charles cut a promo for the chain match again referencing the Dickens classic. He said Valiant was going out of the Armory in a body bag.

Hammerjack accused Biggs of dogging him. Biggs said he was just saying what was right. Hammerjack slapped him. Biggs took his jacket off. Johnson reminded Biggs that he was on an announcer’s contract. Hammerjack jumped him from behind, bashed his head into the desk, and raked his forehead with the chain. Biggs was busted open. “Oh my God, they’ve tore him all to pieces. This is crazyness.” Hammerjack dragged Biggs into the ring and continued to beat on him. Biggs was a quivering mess with the blood splattering all over his white dress shirt. Hammerjack had Biggs set up for the dreaded piledriver when Valiant made the save.

Charles got on the mic. “Christmas night, Gary Valiant. Jingle bells all the way, pal!” Hammerjack promised to end Valiant’s career right there in Columbia.

Cut to the ring, where Valiant was begging for help and Biggs was unconscious with his head resting on the bottom rope.

It’s a bloody mess all around this area. We need a Haz Mat team to clean this place up…That is why you have to think twice about every confronting wrestlers. It’s not stuff for kids…Look at that. Hot Rod Biggs. Hot Rod Biggs busted wide open.

CLOSING THOUGHTS: Pretty compelling stuff as a go-home show for Christmas night in Columbia. They built up three matches and capped off the main event build with the huge blood angle at the end. The ironic thing is that despite the great promos, Morton didn’t have Charles booked for Columbia, and he ended up parting ways with SAW under less than friendly circumstances. Adams took credit for scripting Charles’ promos and also took the blame for doing so, knowing that Charles wasn’t booked. Adams said he figured Charles and Morton would work things out and Charles would be added. In any case, Christmas Clash was a success as they drew almost 300 paid, the biggest crowd in Columbia in quite some time. This show was all story. Biggs was strong in his role, constantly adding fuel to fire in growing hatred of Hammerjack. He looked like he was ready to die in the ring at the end. As is obvious from all the quotes, I enjoy Johnson’s work. I dreamt that Bert Prentice and Joe Pedicino took over as the SAW announce team and woke up in a cold sweat. There was no good wrestling to speak of, although I did enjoy Hammerjack’s brawling. The match that had potential (Andrews/Vision) only got five minutes, while Tendencies/Nation got double that amount to expose just how green the Indians (cough) are. Adams came across as the most natural and most over babyface they have. I’m assuming they can’t really push him due to limited availability. I agree with TVD that they can do something with Brown. He showed that he has some skills to go with the comedy, but the truck driver gimmick leaves me cold. The opening segment was hilarious. While drawing the number one contenders out of a hat does get Andrews over as a champion that will take on all comers, it’s hard to figure why a BOD would endorse that method. But hey, it’s pro wrestling and the story with Havoc looks like fun.

FIVE INTERNATIONAL FIGHT LEAGUE ATHLETES CLAIM WORLD GRAND PRIX TITLES

Courtesy of the International Fight League:

Schultz Upends Horodecki in Lightweight Final; Nelson, Fabiano, Hieron, Horwich Also Earn Inaugural Belts in Season-Ending Championship Event

UNCASVILLE, Conn., December 29, 2007 – Ryan “The Lion” Schultz (North Platte, Neb.) knocked out previously undefeated 20-year-old Chris “The Polish Hammer” Horodecki (London, Ontario), capping an exciting night of action by winning the lightweight (155-lbs.) championship at the inaugural International Fight League World Grand Prixfinals, held tonight in front of 5,731 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Four other Championship belts also took place, including victories by Roy “Big Country” Nelson (Las Vegas) at heavyweight (265-lbs.), Wagnney Fabiano (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at featherweight (145-lbs.), Jay Hieron (Las Vegas) at welterweight (170-lbs.), and Matt Horwich (Portland, Ore.) at middleweight (185-lbs.).

The five Championships were the most ever contested on one night in North American MMA history.

Schultz took control early in the first round and continued to pound Horodecki before the referee stepped in late in the round to stop the bout. Schultz had been named a late replacement in the title bout after injuries to Horodecki’s previous two opponents.

In the first Championship bout of the night, at 265 lbs., Nelson came out swinging against Antoine Jaoude (Rio de Janeiro), eventually scoring a TKO seconds into the second round, to win the heavyweight belt. After nearly finishing off Jaoude near the end of the first round, Nelson kept up the pressure, landing several uncontested punches, resulting in the referee stoppage. Next, Fabiano kept his unbeaten (6-0) IFL record intact by working a submission over L.C. Davis (Kansas City, Mo.) via armbar late in the first round. Long Island, N.Y., native Hieron scored a TKO at the end of the first round to claim the welterweight bout, finishing off Delson Heleno (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) with a ground-and-pound after knocking him to the mat with a right hand. Horwich stunned Benji Radach (Deerfield Beach, Fla.) in the second round of their middleweight bout, knocking out the previously unbeaten Radach after absorbing several blows in the first round.

In three preliminary bouts held prior to the Championship competition, Alex Cook (Whitehaven, England) helped introduce the new British IFL team, coached by Ian Freeman, which will begin competition in 2008, against Marcello Salazar (Portland, Ore./Brazil), with Salazar taking a unanimous decision. Brett Cooper (Long Beach, Calif.), who was selected through the IFL Draft in Los Angeles in October, scored a second-round TKO over Rory Markham (Chicago), who fights out of Pat Miletich’s camp, in a welterweight bout. Undefeated military vet Tim Kennedy (Fayetteville, N.C.), knocked out local standout Elias Rivera (Meriden, Conn.) two minutes into the first round of their middleweight matchup.

About the IFL

International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv.

IFL World Grand Prix
Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Preliminary Bouts
185 lbs.: Marcello Salazar, Brazil def. Alex Cook, Whitehaven, England, via decision (unanimous) after three rounds
170 lbs.: Brett Cooper, Long Beach, Calif., def. Rory Markham, Chicago, via TKO (strikes), 1:15, 2nd round
185 lbs.: Tim Kennedy, Fayetteville, N.C., def. Elias Rivera, Meriden, Conn., via KO (strikes), 2:00, 1st

Championship Bouts
265 lbs.: Roy Nelson, Las Vegas, def. Antoine Jaoude, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, via TKO (strikes), 0:20, 2nd
145 lbs.: Wagnney Fabiano, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, def. L.C. Davis, Kansas City, Mo., via submission (armbar), 3:38, 1st
170 lbs.: Jay Hieron, Las Vegas def. Delson Heleno, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, via TKO (injury/strikes), 4:00, 1st
185 lbs.: Matt Horwich, Portland, Ore. def. Benji Radach, Deerfield Beach, Fla., via TKO (strikes/referee stoppage), 1:58, 2nd
155 lbs.: Ryan Schultz, North Platte, Neb. Def. Chris Horodecki, London, Ontario, via TKO (strikes/referee stoppage), 2:51, 1st

Saturday, December 29, 2007

GEORGIA WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 12/29/2007

NEWS

NWA Anarchy is back in Cornelia, GA, tonight at the NWA Arena, with matches getting underway at 8:00 PM. Call (706) 768-9071 for more info. Advertised: Patrick Bentley versus Slim J in a cage match; Phil Shatter defends the Anarchy Heavyweight Title against Mikal Judas and Iceberg in a three-way; Nemesis versus Shadow Jackson; Jeff Lewis versus Kory Chavis in a death match; the Awesome Attraction defend the Anarchy Tag Team Title versus the Devil’s Rejects; Wes Grissom versus Todd Sexton for a shot later in the night versus Truitt Fields for the Anarchy Television Title; Jeremy Vain & Mr. Adonis versus Jerry Palmer & a mystery partner; Sal Rinauro & the World’s Prettiest Tag Team versus the Anger Alliance; and the New Wave versus the Hollywood Brunettes.

All-Star Wrestling Network will be back in Fort Valley, GA, tonight, at the Wrestleplex, beginning at 8:00 PM. Advertised: Chick Donovan versus Sam Slaughter for the AWN Heavyweight Title; Shaun Hunter versus Pitbull for the AWN Heritage Title; Genocyde versus K.I. Elite for the AWN Tag Team Title; Leon McMichael versus Iron Will in a grudge match; Johnny Camo & Mike Payne versus Brokishi & Q-Ball; Rick Michaels versus Simon Sermon; and Ron Stalker versus the Underfaker.

Southern Extreme Championship Wrestling runs in Villa Rica, GA, tomorrow night at the SECW Arena, beginning at 6:00 PM. Call (770) 355-5742 for more info. This will be Bob Rogers Night, with proceeds from the show going to help with medical bills for the currently hospitalized wrestling fan of some fifty-plus years. Advertised: Bull Buchanan & the Nightmare versus Bulldog Raines & the Super Destroyer in the main event. Adrian Hawkins, Frankie Valentine, Kyle Matthews, Billy Love, L.T. Faulk, and El Mexicano are also scheduled to appear.

AWA World-1 South will return to Valdosta, GA, tomorrow night at the Valdosta Conference Center, starting at 7:00 PM. Call (866) 244-0104 for more info. This will be a card featuring Jody Peterman’s W1S versus Ed Pitts’ Spinebuster Championship Wrestling. Advertised: The Heartbreak Express (W1S) will defend the AWA World Tag Team Title versus Bonez the Cutthroat & Steve Corino (SCW); Preston Paradise (SCW) versus Q-Ball (W1S); Ricky Landell (W1S) will defend the US Heavyweight Title versus Mr. Wrestling #3 (SCW); Jake Slater (W1S) versus Less Fortunate (SCW): Dave Holiday (W1S) versus Tommy Dame (SCW); and Lance Alonte (SCW) versus Big Bank Barfield (W1S).

Down South Hardcore Wrestling will be in Darien, GA, tomorrow night at the Multiplex, with action beginning at 7:15 PM. Advertised: Cameron LaRue versus Scotty Bullwinkle for the DSHW Heavyweight Title; Sebastian Troy versus Ash Kristiansen for the DSHW Light Heavyweight Title; Vordell Walker versus Dallas Riley; and Ryan Savage versus Teddy Baddstreet. Morbid Angel, Gangsta Nation, Kamo, Frizza, Emo Kid, and the Phoenix are also scheduled to appear.

NOTES

We would like to take a moment and express our gratitude to the many sites that make this daily report available to you. Since we started putting these together in October, our site has hit record numbers, even more so than the growth we achieved with our Aftermath of Tragedy piece that launched in August, covering the tragedy surrounding the events at the Benoit home and the resulting fallout.

2007, our fifth year in existence, saw GWH evolve from strictly a site paying tribute to the past of Georgia wrestling to one attempting to provide exposure to the current scene as well. We appreciate all who help plug us to their visitors, as well as the visitors who continue to come and check out what we have to offer.

We hope everyone has a great beginning to 2008, and that it is a safe, healthy, and prosperous year for you all.

NOSTALGIA

1904: M.J. Dwyer defeated Charles Leonhardt in two straight falls at the DeGive Opera House in Atlanta.

1933: Bob Anderson defeated Eddie Wagner at the Avondale Arena for promoter Wesley Brownlee. Joe Lennox, billed as a “wrestler, acrobat, and trick diver,” was advertised to perform at this card.

1944: Charlie Harben defeated Dick Lever by disqualification in the main event at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones.

1950: Babe Zaharias defeated Tarzan White in the main event at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones.

1956: Jerry Graham defeated Freddie Blassie to retain the Southern Heavyweight Title in a Texas death match at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Graham had been the reigning champion since he defeated Bobby Weaver (Arnold Skaaland) on December 14, 1956, in Atlanta.

1961: Eddie Graham & Dick Steinborn defeated Tojo Yamamoto & Taro Myaki to retain the US Tag Team Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Graham & Steinborn had been the reigning champions as recognized by the Tampa, FL, office since they defeated Yamamoto & Myaki on November 30, 1961, in Jacksonville, FL.

1962: “Live Atlanta Wrestling”, hosted by Ed Capral, moved to a new time slot of 6:30-7:30 PM.

1967: Enrique, Alberto & Ramon Torres defeated Louie Tillet, Stan & Butcher Vachon in the main event at the Paul Jones Sports Arena in Atlanta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones.

1970: The Assassins defeated Bob Armstrong & Freddie Blassie to retain the Macon Tag Team Title at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. The Assassins had been the reigning Macon Tag Team Champions since they defeated Bob Armstrong & Paul DeMarco on December 15, 1970, in Macon.

1972: Eddie & Mike Graham defeated Sputnik & Rocket Monroe to win the vacant Georgia Tag Team Title in the final round of a one-night tournament. The title had previously been held by Dick Steinborn & Argentina Apollo, who had since defected to the All-South Wrestling Alliance. Other teams in the tournament included Bill Dromo & Bob Orton, Jr., and Norvel Austin & the Masked Marvel, managed by ‘Dandy’ Jack Crawford. Eddie Graham defeated Crawford in the main event. It was reported that if Crawford failed to appear and wrestle Graham, he would be fined and suspended indefinitely from wrestling in Atlanta. Also, Buddy Colt defeated Bob Armstrong to win the Southern Heavyweight Title. Sputnik Monroe was barred from ringside during the match. Armstrong had been the reigning champion since he defeated Colt on December 15, 1972, in Atlanta. Eddie Smith was credited as being a referee for this card.

1975: Terry Funk defeated Dick Slater to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Charlie Harben. Funk had been the reigning champion since he defeated Jack Brisco on December 10, 1975, in Miami, FL. Also, Mr. Wrestling #2 defeated Rock Hunter in a no disqualification match. Bob Armstrong defeated the Spoiler, managed by Gary Hart.

1979: On the “Georgia Championship Wrestling” television program hosted by Gordon Solie, during a match between Mr. Wrestling #2 and Mr. X, Wrestling #2 removed X’s mask to identify him as Tony Perkins. Wrestling #2 was then attacked by the Masked Superstar, who unmasked Wrestling #2. Referee Tommy Weathers covered Wrestling #2’s face and escorted him to the dressing room so his face could not be seen.

1980: Mr. Wrestling #2 defeated Ole Anderson in a main event Texas death match at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Charlie Harben.

1984: The Long Riders (Bill & Scott Irwin) defeated Tommy Rich & Abdullah the Butcher to retain the National Tag Team Title at the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus for Championship Wrestling from Georgia promoter Ole Anderson. The Riders had been the reigning champions since they defeated Brad Armstrong & Jacques Rougeau, Jr., in a tournament final on November 18, 1984, in Atlanta.

1995: We don’t have results for this card, but the following lineup was advertised at the National Guard Armory in Cordele for Peach State Wrestling promoter Ben Masters: Billy Black versus Rob Van Dam for a shot later in the night for the Cordele Heavyweight Title, held by Ricky Morton; Mike Jackson was to defend the US Junior Heavyweight Title versus Lee Thomas; Adrian Street, with Miss Linda, versus Gorgeous George III; Bob Armstrong versus the French Angel (reportedly Frank Morrell); Luscious Lonnie & the Botswana Beast versus the Pretty Young Things (Jim Bryant & Fred Avery); and Scott & Steve Armstrong, managed by Mad Jack, versus the Blazers (Ray Lloyd & R.D. Swain), managed by Ronnie Gossett.

GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

Website For Women Fighters Delivers On Mission - Wfighter.com Sponsors Established Female Fighter, First-Of-Its-Kind Charity Event

Courtesy of Wfighter.com:

Newly established website for women fighters and fight fans announced it will sponsor veteran Muay Thai fighter in upcoming rematch and support charity Muay Thai, Kickboxing and MMA promotion in Washington.

Las Vegas, NV, December 29, 2007 -- Newly launched website Wfighter.com is already backing up its mission of providing a platform for women fighters and women fight sports. The creators of the site recently announced they will sponsor Christine Toledo, a professional Muay Thai fighter out of Las Vegas, as well as an upcoming fight in Tacoma, Wash. benefiting AIDS orphans in Africa through the charity Acres of Love.

“We are proud to be able to kick off 2008 by supporting not only a well-respected, talented woman like Christine but also by backing a unique event that supports both women fighters as well as an extremely important cause,” said Lisa King, Wfighter.com co-founder.

Toledo is a veteran Muay Thai fighter ranked #1 in the United States and #3 in the world in her weight division by the W.I.K.B.A. Her record is 11 wins, 2 losses with her next fight scheduled for Jan. 12 at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas where she will fight a widely-anticipated match against Maiko Katsuyama to avenge her loss from March 2005.

Then, on Feb. 16, at the Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center, Wfighter.com will be one of the noted sponsors of “Thunder – Fight for Life,” a non-profit Muay Thai and MMA promotion. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Acres of Love, an established Republic of South Africa non-profit organization that provides comprehensive care for abandoned and HIV positive infants and children.

“As the site grows, we will be looking for even more ways to get involved with the fighters and the fight world,” said King. “So many organizations have good intentions to support women fighters, but there is so often a lack of follow through. We’re just jumping right in, and I’m excited for what the next year will bring for both the Website and the world of women’s martial arts.”

About Wfighter.com

Launched in December 2007, Wfighter.com offers breaking news, events, fight results, articles, interviews and training tips written and presented by women fighters for women fighters and fans. It provides a virtual community for all things related to women’s fighting and covers all arts including women’s MMA, boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and Muay Thai. Staff writers interview experts on the latest trends, gear and training techniques and also provide profiles on top women fighters and trainers. The site offers a forum, photo gallery, gym directory and a calendar of upcoming events.

Contact Information
Wfighter.com
Lisa King
702-647-1126
theblackwidow@cox.net
www.wfighter.com

WRESTLING BABYLON: List Of 11 Wrestlers Under Age 50 Who Died In 2007

Courtesy of Irvin Muchnick:

http://muchnick.net/babylon/2007/12/29/list-of-11-wrestlers-under-age-50-who-died-in-2007/ (See also: "Why Wrestling Dodged the Congressional Bullet," http://muchnick.net/babylon/2007/12/29/why-wrestling-dodged-the-congressional-bullet/)

I’ll go out on a limb here and predict that no more pro wrestlers under age 50 will die in the last three days of 2007. If so, the number will hold at 11. The appendix of my book Wrestling Babylon listed 89 other performers from 1985 through 2006 who didn’t make it to their 50th birthdays. That study was far from complete, but it occurs to me that our little corner of wrestling necrology has now counted an even 100.

Here’s the roll call for this year:

JANUARY 19
Scott “Bam Bam” Bigelow, 45. Hudson, Florida. Cocaine, painkillers, etc.

FEBRUARY 17
Michael “Mike Awesome” Alfonso, 42. Tampa, Florida. Suicide by hanging.

JUNE 15
Sherri Russell (“Sherri Martel”), 49. Birmingham, Alabama. Painkillers.

JUNE 24
Shayne “Biff Wellington” Bower, 44. Lloydminster, Alberta. “Heart attack.”

Around JUNE 22
Nancy “Woman” Benoit, 43. Fayette County, Georgia. Strangled to death with a cord by her husband, Chris Benoit.

Around JUNE 24
Chris Benoit, 40. Fayette County, Georgia. Suicide by hanging.

JULY 4
Nathan “Moondog Nathan” Randolph, 37. Athens, Alabama. “Heart attack.”

Around JULY 12
James “Devil Bhukakan” Fawcett, 31. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Suicide by hanging.

JULY 18
George “John Kronus” Caiazzo, 38. Laconia, New Hampshire. “Heart failure.”

AUGUST 13
Brian “Crush” Adams, 40. Tampa, Florida. Painkillers, antidepressants, etc.

DECEMBER 23
Greg “Mr. Gillis” Gillies, 44. British Columbia. “Heart attack.”

Friday, December 28, 2007

Smackdown Your Vote!® And Rock The Vote Tag Team In ‘Rock The Caucus’ Effort

Courtesy of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.:

STAMFORD, Conn.--(December 28, 2007)--World Wrestling Entertainment®’s Smackdown Your Vote! is teaming up with Rock the Vote to support its “Rock the Caucus” initiative in Iowa. WWE® is using the star power of its Superstars to urge Iowa high school students of voting age to get active and make their voices heard by attending either the Democratic or Republican Caucus on Thursday, January 3, 2008.

Smackdown Your Vote! tapped ECW Champion CM Punk™, WWE Superstar Mr. Kennedy™, and WWE Diva Maria™ to appear in a special promotional poster that was distributed to high schools. It can be downloaded at www.rockthecaucus.com and at www.smackdownyourvote.com. A Public Service Announcement was created featuring Mr. Kennedy and it is airing on CW cable network affiliates in Iowa. The PSA can also be seen on www.smackdownyourvote.com. WWE is also utilizing grassroots and social networking sites to promote these items.

“The Iowa youth vote is a much-coveted voting bloc in 2008, and being courted by campaigns in a way we haven’t seen in years,” said Heather Smith, Executive Director, Rock the Vote. “The high school bloc is especially critical in Iowa where any Iowan who will be 18 by November 4, 2008 is eligible to caucus in January. This mean nearly every 17- and 18-year-old in the state is eligible to participate in his or her first caucus on January 3rd.”

“As the first major electoral event in the presidential race, the Iowa caucuses are generating considerable excitement. We want to get high school students in Iowa equally excited to participate in the Caucuses,” said Gary Davis, Executive Director, WWE’s Smackdown Your Vote!. “WWE and Rock the Vote are leveraging the power of both organizations in this election to promote involvement and awareness in the political process.”

Rock the Vote and Smackdown Your Vote! joined forces earlier this year on a nationwide poll of young voters that was conducted by Sacred Heart University. The poll found young adults increasingly engaged in politics and on track for a strong turnout in 2008, a finding bolstered by 18-29 year olds’ record turnout to the polls in 2004 and 2006. Rock the Caucus is intended to continue this momentum by mobilizing young voters in the first-in-the-nation primary, cueing up a year of energy and action among young voters and for Rock the Vote and Smackdown Your Vote!.

About Rock the Vote: Rock the Vote’s mission is to build the political clout and engagement of young people in order to achieve progressive change in our country. Rock the Vote uses music, popular culture and new technologies to engage and incite young people to register and vote in every election. And we give young people the tools to identify, learn about, and take action on the issues that affect their lives, and leverage their power in the political process.

Rock the Vote is creative, effective, and controlled by nobody’s agenda but our own – we tell it like it is and pride ourselves on being a trusted source for information on politics. We empower the 45 million young people in America who want to step up, claim their voice in the political process, and change the way politics is done. www.RockTheVote.com

About Rock the Caucus: Rock the Caucus is a joint, nonpartisan program between Rock the Vote, Iowa’s PIRG’s New Voters Project, and Secretary of State Michael A. Mauro. The goal of Rock the Caucus is to mobilize young adults to the January 3rd Iowa caucuses and ensure that, at the first-in-the-nation caucus, young adults’ voices are heard loudly and clearly. Rock the Vote’s Rock the Caucus efforts are targeted at turning 17- and 18-year-old high school seniors out to their first caucuses by securing pledges to caucus at high school assemblies, class presentations, via online social networking sites, at mock caucuses, and during after-school parties on January 3rd. For more information, see www.RocktheCaucus.com or visit our Rock the Caucus Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=5779469266

About Smackdown Your Vote!: founded in July 2000, Smackdown Your Vote! is a non-partisan campaign to encourage young people to become active participants in their democracy and vote. Working with non-partisan partners and the major political parties, WWE and its Superstars have the sole focus of encouraging more young people to register and vote, and to have more candidates for political office address the credible issues of Americans under 30.

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

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

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

Contacts
WWE Media:
Gary Davis, 203-353-5066
OR
WWE Investors:
Michael Weitz, 203-352-8642
OR
Rock the Vote Media:
Kat Barr, 202-223-1520 x120

GEORGIA WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 12/28/2007

NEWS

World Wrestling Entertainment returns to Atlanta, GA, tonight at Philips Arena, with a bell time of 7:30 PM.

Alternative Pro Wrestling is back in Royston, GA, tonight at the Royston Gym, with matches getting underway at 8:00 PM. Call (706) 680-3234 for more info.

Georgia Wrestling Federation will be in Summerville, GA, tonight at the GWF Arena, with action beginning at 8:00 PM. Call (706) 936-2901 for more info.

NOTES

GWH wishes a happy birthday to Lanny Poffo, who turns 53 today.

NOSTALGIA

1936: Tarzan Jordan defeated Petro Rossi to win the Southern Light Heavyweight Title at the Spring Street Arena in Atlanta for promoter Frank Bettis. Rossi had been the reigning Southern Light Heavyweight Champion since he defeated John Mauldin on December 21, 1936, in Atlanta.

1945: Bill Longson defeated Al Massey, substituting for George Koverly, to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Longson had been the reigning champion since he defeated Bobby Managoff in St. Louis, MO, on February 19, 1943. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association.

1951: Don McIntyre & Eddie Gossett defeated Art Nelson & Lou Plummer in the main event at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones.

1962: Eddie Graham defeated World Heavyweight Champion Freddie Blassie by disqualification in a title match at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Don McIntyre. Blassie was disqualified due to outside interference from Mike Paidousis. Blassie had been billed as champion since June 29, 1962. Also, Fran Gravette & the Fabulous Moolah defeated Judy Grable & Margaret Garcia.

1964: Joe Scarpa defeated Jack Dalton (Don Fargo) by disqualification in the main event at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Steve Manderson.

1971: Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones was rushed to St. Joseph’s Infirmary due to coronary problems.

1971: Bob Armstrong & Dick Steinborn defeated Billy Spears & Buddy Colt at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Armstrong also won a battle royal that included Steinborn, Spears, Colt, Bill Dromo, the Red Demon, Jimmy Dancing Bear, Klondike Bill, Alex Medina, Flash Monroe, Karl Von Stroheim, and Bill White.

1972: Rock Hunter & the Hollywood Blonds defeated Tommy Seigler, Roberto Soto & Argentina Apollo in the main event at the J&J Center in Athens for All-South Wrestling Alliance promoter Ann Gunkel.

1973: Jack Brisco defeated Tim Woods to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Brisco had been the reigning champion since he defeated Harley Race on July 20, 1973, in Houston, TX. Also, Bobby Shane & Gorgeous George, Jr., managed by Gary Hart, defeated Bob Armstrong & Robert Fuller to retain the Georgia Tag Team Title. Shane & George, Jr., had been the reigning champions since they defeated Armstrong & Fuller on December 21, 1973, in Atlanta. Bill Watts defeated Freddie Blassie to retain the North American Heavyweight Title that had been held up on December 14, 1973, following a match in Atlanta between them. Watts had been billed as champion since September 28, 1973.

1976: NWA World Heavyweight Champion Terry Funk and Mr. Wrestling #2 wrestled to a one-hour draw in a title match at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Funk had been the reigning champion since he defeated Hack Brisco on December 10, 1975, in Miami, FL.

1980: We don’t have results for this match, but Harley Race was scheduled to defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title against Tony Atlas at the Ohio Center in Columbus for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Les Thatcher. Race had been the reigning champion since he defeated Giant Baba on September 9, 1980, in Ohtsu, Japan. Also, Ole Anderson was to wrestle Dusty Rhodes in a Texas bullrope match. A handicap match featuring Jack & Jerry Brisco versus the Freebirds (Michael Hayes, Terry Gordy & Buddy Roberts) was also advertised.

1984: Ron Garvin defeated Bob Roop to win the World Television Title in Saginaw, MI, for Championship Wrestling from Georgia promoter Ole Anderson. Roop had been billed as champion since September 1984.

1992: The Great Muta won an eight-man battle royal after eliminating Barry Windham at the Omni Auditorium in Atlanta for World Championship Wrestling’s Starrcade. Also included in the royal were Van Hammer, Steve Williams, Dan Spivey, Sting, Big Van Vader, and Dustin Rhodes. Sting defeated Vader in the finals of the King of Cable tournament. Ricky Steamboat & Shane Douglas defeated Windham & Brian Pillman to retain the WCW World Tag Team Title. Ron Simmons defeated Williams, substituting for Rick Rude, in a reverse decision by referee Nick Patrick to retain the WCW World Heavyweight Title. Masahiro Chono defeated Muta to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title. It was reported that 8,000 were in attendance for this card.

GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

FCW Joins David Williams Troops Tribute 1/12/08

Courtesy of Alan J. Wojcik:

On Saturday January 12, 2008 Florida Championship Wrestling will visit Hernando High School, 700 Bell Avenue in Brooksville with a bell time of 8pm as part of the David Williams Celebrity Tribute to the Troops. The proceeds will benefit the Hernando County Sheriff’s Youth Education Services Foundation and Lea’s Prayers & Postage Inc. $10 is the admission for this event. FCW is a developmental territory of World Wrestling Entertainment. Visit our website for information about our shows at www.fcwwrestling.com

The Florida Championship Wrestling roster includes 3rd generation stars FCW Southern Heavyweight champion Ted DiBiase Jr., Nattie Neidhart and Afa Jr. Plus: "Stampede Kid" TJ Wilson, Billy Kidman, "The Professional" Mike Mondo, "The Natural" Nic Nemeth (w/Big Rob), "the Carnival Freak" Sinn Bowdee, the 7FT Giant Titan, Hade Vansen, Bryan Kelly, Kevin Kiley, Ichiban (w/Mr. Yamamoto), "the Mastodon of Mayhem" G-Rilla, Derick Linkin, "Bad Seed" Shawn Osborne, Steve Lewington, Sheamus, Doink the Clown, "Super Fan" Chet Douglas, Rycklon, Robert Anthony, Chris Grey, "the Campus Legend" Brad Allen and Tommy Taylor. Don’t forget the gorgeous FCW Diva’s Victoria Crawford, Maryse and the Bella Twins (Nicole and Bri).

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Youth Education Services Foundation or YES is a non-profit organization that was formed to develop programs for our growing youth population. The programs offered teach them the importance of being a good citizen and to make the right choices throughout their lives. These programs are taught in both public & private schools by the Sheriff Office personnel. For more information on becoming a YES member contact (352) 754-6830 ext. 53660 or log onto www.hsco.hernando.fl.us

Lea’s Prayers & Postage Inc is a non-profit organization created by Dee Mills in memory of her son Sgt. Lea Robert Mills who served in the US Marine Corps until he was killed in action on April 28, 2006. Lea’s Prayers & Postage Inc generates postage for all the patriotic people in America who send packages to our service personnel. Since May 2006, Lea’s Prayers & Postage Inc has paid over $33,000 of postage. The only requirement for postage to be paid is a military overseas address that is inside a war zone. For information on the charity contact Ms. Dee Mills via Lea’s Prayers & Postage Inc. PO Box 9000, Masaryktown, FL 34604.

Remember we will not be hosting a show on January 1st to allow everyone time to enjoy the holiday with their families. But we will return January 8th 2008. Remember each and every Tuesday you can see the future star of pro wrestling, Florida Championship Wrestling, the developmental territory of WWE at Bourbon Street night Club, 4331 US 19N in New Port Richey. Log onto www.fcwwrestling.com for more information on all the FCW Superstars and Divas plus a new video message from Smackdown Superstar and former World Heavyweight champion Rey Mysterio!!! You never know who from Raw, Smackdown or ECW might come to FCW.

On Saturday January 19th we will be at the USA Flea Market 11721 US 19 in Port Richey for a 1pm show.

On January 26th we will return to the Jewish Community Center. The JCC is located at 9841 Scenic Drive in Port Richey and we begin our show at 8pm.

Alan J. Wojcik Reviews The WrestleCrap Book Of Lists

Courtesy of (shock-of-shocks)Alan J. Wojcik:

Just when you thought it was safe to watch professional wrestling on TV or at your local arena, RD Reynolds & Blade Braxton (tagging in from author Randy Baer) are in your face again, this time with The WrestleCrap Book of Lists (ECW Press, 357 pp. $19.95 US, $21.95 CDN).

If you read the original WrestleCrap book or have been to the website www.wrestlecrap.com you are ready for what is coming in the pages that follow. If not let me give you some background and some current pop culture references that will make sense (at least I hope). Reynolds, Baer and Braxton are major wrestling fans, more like junkies but instead of smack or dope, their drug is WWE, TNA, ROH and any wrestling promotion mixed in between going back decades. But as you can guess from the title of the book, in addition to liking stuff they also hate stuff. Like really hate stuff to the point they came up with the two books and website where they address bad angles, storylines, characters and gimmicks used in matches. Now for a pop culture reference: have you read or seen Nick Hornby’s High Fidelity? If not let me explain why I reference it, in this project Rob Gordon owns a record shop and his pals sit around creating top 5 lists of things from songs to wake up with to songs to shower to. I am not sure if Reynolds and Braxton have read the book or seen the flick, but they took that idea and brought it to professional wrestling in several chapters: A Question of Character; Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…What’s the Crappiest Look Of All, Tell Us A Story Uncle Vince, Employee of the Month: The Dog-Faced Gremlin, Those Poor, Poor Promoters; The Pornotastic World of Pro Wrestling, Wrestling: You Know Actual Pro Wrestling, Can You Believe It? Someone Bought This and So It Comes To This: The 25 Worst Characters in Wrestling History.

No one and I mean no one is safe from ridicule in this book. Everyone from WWE Chairman Vince McMahon to anyone who has stepped in a wrestling ring (wrestler, family member of a promoter or celebrity) or called a match on TV is in the target sight. Reynolds and Braxton go through lists like: the worst wrestler character names, the dumbest concepts for matches in wrestling history, the worst wrestling champions in history, the worst drag queens, the most distasteful exploitations and my personal favorite; the top 4 excuses for not wanting to do a job (wrestling speak for losing to someone.) In the introduction the authors say this book was not designed to be read in one sitting, more to be read in sessions so you can go and discuss it with fellow wresting fans. I agree because reading this will create conversations just like the original book did the first time I read it. In fact I am going to read it again in a couple of months to let it sink in. This is a great late Christmas gift for that someone in your life.

This book is available in stores nation wide in the US and Canada or by logging onto www.ecwpress.com

Thursday, December 27, 2007

GEORGIA WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 12/27/2007

NEWS

AWA World-1 South results from Dublin, GA, on December 22: Drew Bannen over David Raines; Lance Alonte over Nick Fame; Tommy Rich & Glacier over Matt Mercer & Big Bank Barfield; David Raines over Kevin Kantrell; and the Heartbreak Express over K.I. Elite to retain the AWA World Tag Team Title. It was reported that 92 were in attendance for this card, a fundraiser for the Dublin Tip-Off Club at the Oconee Gymnasium.

Down South Hardcore Wrestling will be in Darien, GA, on December 29 at the Multiplex, with action beginning at 7:15 PM. Advertised: Cameron LaRue versus Scotty Bullwinkle for the DSHW Heavyweight Title; Sebastian Troy versus Ash Kristiansen for the DSHW Light Heavyweight Title; Vordell Walker versus Dallas Riley; and Ryan Savage versus Teddy Baddstreet. Morbid Angel, Gangsta Nation, Kamo, Frizza, Emo Kid, and the Phoenix are also scheduled to appear.

NOTES

GWH wishes a happy birthday to Bill Eadie (60), Bill Goldberg (41), and Chyna (38) today.

From Larry Goodman:

“Blake Norton has scripted a detailed alternative to TNA's introduction of Booker T. It's long, but as someone who was amazed at TNA's ability to turn a WWE superstar into just another guy in a matter of a few weeks. I found it to be a very interesting read. Click here for the article.”

larry@georgiawrestlinghistory.com

NOSTALGIA

1887: John Muhler and Greek George wrestled to a draw at Concordia Hall in Atlanta. It was reported that Muhler won the first fall at 48:00 and George won the second at 13:00. The final round ended upon a midnight curfew at 18:00. James Lynch was credited as the referee. It was reported that the winner would receive 75% of the gate money, with the loser getting the remainder. Mr. Hopper managed Muhler. Atlanta Mayor John Tyler Cooper was in attendance for this card.

1946: Tex Riley defeated Carlos Rodriguez to retain the World Junior Heavyweight Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Riley had been the reigning champion as recognized by the Nashville, TN, office since he won a tournament on July 12, 1946, in Nashville, TN.

1957: Ray Gunkel defeated Don Lee to retain the Southern Heavyweight Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Gunkel had been the reigning champion since he defeated Kurt Von Brawner on October 18, 1957, in Atlanta.

1963: Eddie Graham & Joe Scarpa defeated the Assassins in the main event at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Don McIntyre. Charlie Smith was credited as being a referee on this card.

1968: Dale Lewis defeated the Professional (Doug Gilbert) to win the Georgia Heavyweight Title at the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Lewis put up $1,000, betting he could not be pinned within the first thirty minutes. The Pro had been the reigning champion since he defeated Johnny Valentine on December 6, 1968, in Atlanta.

1969: Leo Garibaldi defeated Buddy Colt, managed by Homer O’Dell, by disqualification at the WQXI Studios in Atlanta for the taping of the “Atlanta TV Wrestling” television program hosted by Ed Capral. O’Dell had promised Garibaldi that if he defeated or at least lasted fifteen minutes against Colt, O’Dell would wrestle him on January 2, 1970. Garibaldi submitted to a Colt hammerlock, but when O’Dell attacked the referee following the match, Colt was disqualified and promoter Paul Jones made the match between O’Dell and Garibaldi as a punishment.

1972: Norvel Austin, managed by ‘Dandy’ Jack Crawford, & Rocket Monroe defeated Bill Dromo & Jerry Oates in the main event at the Columbus Municipal Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward.

1974: Rocky Johnson defeated Buddy Colt, managed by Bearcat Wright by disqualification to retain the Georgia Heavyweight Title at the Omni Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Johnson had been the reigning champion since he defeated Colt on November 22, 1974, in Atlanta. Also, Bob Armstrong defeated Bobby Shane to retain the North American Heavyweight Title. Armstrong had been the reigning champion since he defeated Colt on June 8, 1974, in Jacksonville, FL.

1976: Terry Funk defeated Mr. Wrestling #2 to retain the NWA World Heavyweight Title at the William Bell Auditorium in Augusta for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Charlie Harben. Funk had been the reigning champion since he defeated Jack Brisco on December 10, 1975, in Miami, FL.

1977: Stan Hansen defeated Mr. Wrestling #2 to retain the Georgia Heavyweight Title at the Macon Coliseum for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Fred Ward. Hansen had been billed as champion since November 19, 1977. Also, Dick Slater & Tony Atlas defeated Georgia Tag Team Champions Ole Anderson & Jacques Goulet by disqualification in a title match.

1980: We don’t have results for this match, but Harley Race was scheduled to defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title against Tommy Rich at the Chattanooga (TN) Memorial Auditorium for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Paul Jones. Race had been the reigning champion since he defeated Giant Baba on September 9, 1980, in Ohtsu, Japan. Also, a semi-main event of Jack & Jerry Brisco versus Terry Gordy & Buddy Roberts was advertised.

1981: We don’t have results for this match, but Ric Flair was scheduled to defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title against Tommy Rich at the Ohio Center in Columbus for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Les Thatcher. Flair had been the reigning champion since he defeated Dusty Rhodes on September 17, 1981, in Kansas City, MO. Rhodes was scheduled to wrestle the Great Kabuki, managed by Gary Hart, in the semi-main event.

1982: Ivan Koloff & Buzz Sawyer defeated Tommy Rich & Paul Orndorff by disqualification in the main event at the Riverfront Coliseum in Cincinnati, OH, for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Les Thatcher.

1983: Brett & Buzz Sawyer defeated the Road Warriors, managed by Paul Ellering, to retain the National Tag Team Title at the Canton (OH) Civic Center for Georgia Championship Wrestling promoter Les Thatcher. The Sawyers had been the reigning champions since they defeated the Warriors on November 27, 1983, in Cincinnati, OH, although the company didn’t officially recognize the change until another meeting on December 4, 1983, in Atlanta.

GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Funk's Corner - The Dory Funk Uppercut Forearm Blow

"People either have to think wrestling is fake or they think wrestlers can't throw a punch hard enough to break an egg."

The man doing the talking was Iron Mike Dibiase, father of the "Million Dollar Man," Ted Dibiase.

It was a Sunday afternoon in the old Amarillo Territory and we were traveling the new Interstate 40 between Amarillo and Albuquerque. Iron Mike was one of my father's best friends and someone I could trust to talk to about the wrestling business.

That night in Albuquerque Iron Mike was wrestling Ricky Romero who liked to punch a lot, but like me, had a lot of respect for Mike Dibiase. Iron Mike was the leader in the match, the "Ring General." Mike was a wrestling heel and only threw a punch if there was a good reason for it. That night Iron Mike had so much heat little Ted Dibiase was running back and forth at ringside bawling his eyes out yelling at the fans for booing his father.

In the other main event that night, Terry and I were wrestling Kurt and Karl Von Brauner managed by Saul Weingroff. The "Sly Foreigner" German Team with the Jewish manager had so much heat promoter and ring announcer Mike London's voice couldn't be heard over the jeers and boos of the wrestling fans as he tried to introduce them.

The big one and the real German Kurt Von Brauner didn't even through a punch but rather threw a forearm uppercut blow to the chest.

I noticed the fans reacted much more to his forearm smashes than to the multitude of punches often thrown by inexperienced wrestlers.

After the match I asked Kurt to show me how he throws the European forearm smash. I tried it some and had good fan response, but it was difficult and far from perfect.

As a young wrestler, I tried to work in more wrestling, bumps and highspots rather than fall into the rut of punch, punch and punch until your arm actually blows up that you sometimes may see watching inexperienced wrestlers.

I learned to throw the forearm smash shown to me by Kurt Von Brauner through practice. I practiced on my family, bathroom doors, friends and even brick and concrete walls and I still practice today. Any time I open a door, I give it just a little forearm tap and enter.

In the late sixties, my father, Dory Funk Sr. brought Lord Alfred Hayes to the Amarillo Territory. Dad forever wanted an English Lord as a heel in the territory even to the point of having earlier brought in Pat Patterson giving him the name, Lord Patrick Patterson even though he had a French Canadian accent.

Working with Lord Alfred Hays I had the opportunity to learn even more about the European style of work. They worked from the right as opposed to the left here in America. Europeans were used to a hard surface ring and took more of a rolling fall as opposed to what has been labeled the "Bumping Style" here in America. The European wrestlers did much more wrestling and few at all even knew how to throw a good punch.

It was my observation that a combination of the two styles of work taking the best of each style along with my basic training in amateur wrestling learned from my Father would more fit a style of credibility that I wanted to accomplish in professional wrestling.

To best demonstrate that style, now on !BANG! TV on our website we have a match from Japan between myself and one of the best European wrestlers Horst Hoffman.

Dory Funk Jr. - Coach of the Funking Conservatory - www.dory-funk.com.

For information on our next !BANG! TV Taping coming Monday December 31st and Funking Conservatory training schedules Call 352-895-4658

Ron Simmons Between The Ropes Interview

Courtesy of Adam Samons:

Between The Ropes
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Central Florida's Sports Radio 740 The Team
Simulcast online at BetweenTheRopes.com

On Wednesday night, December 19, Ron Simmons joined hosts Brian Fritz, Dickerman, and Vito DeNucci live on Between The Ropes on Central Florida's Sports Radio 740 The Team to discuss his famous "Damn" catchphrase, his role in the WWE, how he broke into the business, and much more.

Things kicked off with Ron being asked about his recent trip to Iraq with the WWE. Ron said the trip went really well and noted that it was his fifth time. He also talked about a "Damn off" that occurred with some of the troops. "I had a "Damn off" with a couple of people. There were a couple of them that tried to out damn me and I couldn't let them do that, I had to take them on. But they didn't know what I was doing, I had a bit of trickery in it because some of them were good. I told them to give me a damn with a southern accent, then give me a damn like you lived in Boston. That threw them off so that way they couldn't get deep into their voice." Ron then proceeded to do a damn in a Boston accent.

Continuing on the topic of Ron's popular catch phrase he was asked whether he could have ever have imagined a 4 letter word changing his life like this? Ron laughingly replied "well, no, but I know a lot of 4 letter words in the past that have changed a lot of other people's lives, and it wasn't damn."

Regarding his current role with the WWE Ron admitted that he misses being in action full time after 21 years in the business. He also hinted at a further APA reunion, saying "He (JBL) is a very good friend of mine, I can't speak of him enough. We spent 7 years together as tag team partners and in the future we might spend some more time together."

Ron then discussed whether he preferred being in singles or tag team competition. He said he had no preference between the two because "once you get into it and immerse yourself into it you put everything you've got into it there's no partiality to one. You don't care if it's singles or a tag team, you just want to get in there and perform and do the best you can and give a good performance for the people."

On being the first African American World Champion in pro wrestling history: "It came as a total surprise to me. I just showed up there and something happened. They had a drawing out of a hat and my name was pulled. They said, 'Ron, you're going for the World's Heavyweight Championship tonight' and I said 'what? You've got to be kidding me, I just showed up here to have a match.' It meant a whole lot. That meant a lot for myself and for a lot of other young African Americans who came along. They saw that if you work hard things are possible and can happen."

Lastly, Ron talked about his interesting transition from being a college football great at Florida State to becoming a professional wrestler. "Initially I wanted to go into communications and I was doing voiceovers for a while in Tampa. Somehow or another I walked right into a Japanese trainer by the name of Hiro Matsuda. He asked me if I still had good joints and I said 'yeah, why?' 'I'd like to put you in the ring as a wrestler.' I said 'no, I don't think so that's not possible.' Hiro said I could do really well and asked me how much money I was making and I said 'nothing.' Hiro told me he'd triple that and so I said 'I'll be there tomorrow, what time?"

To listen to the Ron Simmons interview, including his thoughts on the current tag team division and his thoughts about his time in Doom, as well as the entire December 19 edition of Between The Ropes in streaming audio, visit the show online at http://www.BetweenTheRopes.com. Join us for Between The Ropes for two hours every Wednesday night at 10:00pm ET on Central Florida's Sports Radio 740 The Team and worldwide on BetweenTheRopes.com.

IFL Coaches, LA BOXING Locations To Hold Free Self-Defense Classes Nationwide In Conjunction With National Self-Defense Awareness Month In January

Courtesy of the International Fight League:

At Least Eight Schools To Support National Initiative

NEW YORK, December 26, 2007 – The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) today announced that many of its world-champion coaches and athletes will host free classes at their respective martial arts academies and at LA BOXING locations, in support of the National Self-Defense Institute’s “Self-Defense Awareness Month” in January. In all, at least eight schools will hold free classes nationwide. These and other coaches may also sponsor additional classes during the month.

The academies involved will include those of such mixed martial arts stars as Bas Rutten, Matt Lindland, Pat Miletich, Marco Ruas and Renzo Gracie, as well as athletes from their IFL camps, with events being held in New York, Chicago, Southern California, South Florida, Las Vegas and other cities. The classes are open to men and women of all ages and are on a first come, first serve basis. Those interested in participating should contact the school in advance for more information.

“The IFL and our coaches are proud to be promoting Self-Defense Awareness Month in this way,” said IFL Co-founder and Commissioner Kurt Otto. “Many people, particularly women, utilize martial arts for self-defense purposes, and by providing these free classes, our coaches and athletes, in concert with LA BOXING, are making an important commitment to help people in the same communities in which they train their IFL teams and others where they run academies.”

National Self-Defense Institute (www.nsdi.org) utilizes the opportunity to promote its SAFE (Self-Defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange) program. The program has a two-fold purpose: to prevent crimes of sexual violence through programs of education and training, focusing primarily on awareness and prevention; and to educate women about realistic options that will help them avoid, escape, and survive assaults if they do occur.

Following is the schedule of free classes to date; participants are urged to check www.ifl.tv/SelfDefense08.html for an updated list, and to call ahead to the academy in their respective area to reserve a spot.

Bas Rutten's Elite MMA, 2955 E Hillcrest Dr., Suite 108, Thousand Oaks, Calif.; Phone: (805) 496-4472 www.elitemmagym.com; Sunday, Jan. 6, noon, 1 p.m. (two sessions)

Renzo Gracie Academy, 224 W. 30th St., New York; Phone: (212) 279-6724; www.renzogracie.com; Saturday, Jan. 19, 3 p.m.

Team Quest Training Center, 18206 SE Stark St., Portland, Ore.; Phone: (503) 661-4134; www.tqfc.com; Friday, Jan. 18, 8 p.m.

Miletich Fighting Systems, 325 16th St., Bettendorf, Iowa, www.mfselite.com; date(s) TBD

Ruas Vale Tudo, Laguna Niguel, Calif., date(s) TBD

LA BOXING, 6315 S. Rainbow Blvd. Suite 105 & 106, Las Vegas, Phone: 702.878.IBOX, www.laboxing.com/lasvegas; Wednesday, Jan. 16, 5:30 p.m.,

LA BOXING, 8241 Bruceville Rd, Suite 140, Sacramento, Calif., Phone: 916.688.KBOX, www.laboxing.com/sacramento; date(s) TBD

LA BOXING, 10 Meadowlands Pkwy., Secaucus, N.J., Phone: 201.348.UBOX, www.laboxing.com/secaucus Saturday, Jan. 19, time TBD

About LA BOXING

With more than 90 locations throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, LA BOXING Franchise Corporation is the fastest rising franchise operation IN the Health and Fitness industry. Offering several levels of membership that consists of unique professional boxing and kickboxing training regimens, it utilizes a system and products that are proprietary to LA BOXING. For more information please visit www.laboxing.com.

About the IFL

International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv.

2nd Annual Magnum TA Clash For The Cup!! Saturday January 26th, 2008 Legends To Appear This Year!!!!!!!! Mr USA Tony Atlas

Courtesy of Pro Wrestling Mid-Atlantic:

Pro Wrestling Fans!!!!!!!
"Ring the Bell Old School Pro Wrestling, is Back in Session!!!!!"

Saturday January 26th, 2008
The Khedive Temple
645 Woodlake Drive
Chesapeake, Virginia
757-870-6954

2nd Annual Magnum TA Clash for the Cup!!!!!!
Singles Pro Wrestling Tournament

Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Bell Time 8:00 pm

Legends to appear this year!!!!!!!!
Mr USA Tony Atlas
Nikita Koloff
Ivan Koloff
Jimmy The Boogieman Valiant
&
Magnum TA

Tickets on sale at all
Tidewater Sports & Collectibles Locations....
Comic Kings in the Fairfeild Shopping Center in Virginia Beach,Virginia

Check us out on the web at
www.prowrestlingmidatlantic.com
contact-keithkrockett@prowrestlingmidatlantic.com
for VIP and Platinum Ticket information!!!!!!

Dont Miss Magnum TA's 2nd Annual Clash for the Cup!!!!!!
Be There!!!!!
Saturday January 26th, 2008

Ultimate Fighting Championship® Returns To Columbus UFC 82: Pride Of A Champion Saturday, March 1, 2008 Live From Nationwide Arena

Courtesy of the Ultimate Fighting Championship:

UFC® WORLD MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ANDERSON SILVA vs. DAN HENDERSON

Tickets Go on Sale Sunday, Dec. 30 at 10am ET

Las Vegas, NV (USA) 12/26/2007 – In a long-awaited super-fight to determine the undisputed king of the middleweight division, Anderson "The Spider" Silva, UFC Middleweight Champion, will take on PRIDE 183-lb. Champion Dan Henderson when the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) makes its third trip to the state of Ohio on Saturday, March 1, 2008 for UFC 82: PRIDE OF A CHAMPION, live from Nationwide Arena in Columbus.

“Anderson Silva has been so dominant as UFC Middleweight Champion that people are starting to wonder if there is anyone out there who can dethrone him,” said Dana White, UFC President. “Now Pride champion Dan Henderson has stepped up to the challenge. Anderson Silva may be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport and Dan Henderson may be the strongest, toughest guy in the middleweight division so there is no doubt in my mind that this will be a battle that goes down in the history books.”

The UFC visited Columbus, Ohio last year when it held UFC 68: THE UPRISING at Nationwide Arena on March 3. More than 19,000 people attended the sold-out event, which grossed a gate of more than $3 million. The event set a new record for the highest North American attendance figure for a mixed martial arts event, and still stands as the largest gate in Nationwide Arena history.

Tickets for UFC 82: PRIDE OF A CHAMPION go on sale Sunday, Dec. 30 at 10am ET and are priced at $400, $300, $200, $100 and $50 and are available at the Nationwide Arena Ticket Office, at all Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.ufc.com and by phone at (614) 431-3600. Tickets may also be purchased at the FSN Ohio Blue Line locations at the Chiller Ice Rinks and The Mall at Tuttle Crossing. All tickets are subject to facility fee and service charges.

UFC® Fight Club™ members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event Thursday, Dec. 27 at 10am ET. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Saturday, Dec. 29 starting at 10am ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through www.ufc.com.

UFC 82: PRIDE OF A CHAMPION is available live on pay-per-view at 10pm EST/7pm PST on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN, Bell ExpressVu, Shaw Communications and Viewer’s Choice Canada for a suggested retail price of $44.95 for standard definition or high-definition broadcasts (where available).

Silva (20-4), fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil, is an extremely well-rounded fighter with phenomenal striking skills as well as a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He became the UFC 185 lb. Champion when he defeated Rich Franklin at UFC 64 via a first round KO. “The Spider” then took on Travis Lutter in February non-title bout, with Silva finishing Lutter by submission at 2:11 of the second round. Silva defended his title for the first time against Nathan Marquardt at UFC 73 in July and scored an impressive first round TKO. In October, the Brazilian firmly established himself on top of the pound for pound list when he knocked out Franklin a second time in their highly-anticipated rematch at UFC 77, and on March 1st, Silva will look to add a third UFC title defense to his record, as well as a new accolade as the undisputed 185 lb. world champion by defeating PRIDE 185 lb. Champion Dan Henderson at UFC 82.

“I’m really motivated and I’m looking forward to this fight because it’s going to be the two best middleweights in the world putting their belt on the line - winner takes all,” said Silva. “These are the fights everyone wants to see. I will put on a great performance and a good show for all the UFC fans in the world, the United States, and especially in Ohio – the people there treated me with so much respect the last time I was there, I can’t wait to go back.”

Fighting out of Temecula, California, Dan Henderson (22-6) is one of the most decorated wrestlers in United States history, and the two-time Olympian has a truckload of amateur championships to his name. He has matched that success in the world of mixed martial arts, beating Wanderlei Silva, Vitor Belfort, Murilo Bustamante, and Ryo Chonan en route to becoming the only man in PRIDE history to hold both the 183-pound and 205-pound championships at the same time. In September, Henderson returned to the Octagon for the first time since 1998 and engaged in a torrid five round war with UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton Jackson before losing a close decision. Now dropping back to 185 pounds, Henderson has his sights firmly set on Silva.

“I know that I can beat everyone at 185 pounds, and that’s what I’m gonna do on March 1st,” said Henderson. “I think style-wise, I’m a bad matchup for Anderson Silva, whereas his previous opponents have been good matchups. So I don’t think it will be a problem to beat him. I’ll take a knockout or a submission -- I’m just excited to fight him and to fight in Ohio, I know it has a big wrestling community, and with my wrestling background, I think I’ll have a lot of support.”

For more information about UFC 79, UFC 80, UFC® Fight Night™ on Jan. 23, UFC 81, UFC 82 or any upcoming UFC event, visit www.ufc.com or uk.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change.

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

A Personal Message To All Of You ...

Merry Christmas, son-son!

Monday, December 24, 2007

12/15 SAW TV Report

Courtesy of Larry Goodman:

Southern All Star Wrestling
Airdate December 15, 2007
Taped November 30, 2007 at the SAW Arena in Millersville, Tn


Opening with highlight clips from last week…Arrick Andrews pinned A.M. Vision to advance to the Television Tournament Final against Nore Havoc…Havoc (with Paul Adams) interrupted Andrews’ interview segment. “Now, you’ve got a shot, a teeny one, but a shot to face Nore Havoc for this TV Title.” Andrews stood his ground. A heated confrontation verged on getting physical.

Cut to Jack Johnson and Hot Rod Biggs at ringside in their Christmas hats. Biggs hyped the Andrews/Havoc title match as today’s main event. SAW starts NOW!

(1) Mason Raige beat “Big” Rig Brown via submission in 6:55. A showcase for Raige’s strength and power. Brown (formerly Kliff Hanger) is billing himself as the best truck driver in the world. Johnson questioned just how that was determined. Brown’s gear, with the giant K on the jersey, must be leftovers from the previous gimmick. Rig didn’t look very big next to Raige, who goes about 6-3 and 260. Raige finished Brown with his version of the torture rack called “The Rack of Raige.”

Over at the desk. Johnson asked Raige for his thoughts on the tournament. Raige said Havoc pinned him in the semis by using the tights but he wasn’t going to complain about it. Raige was going with Andrews, but whoever won was going to have to deal with “The Modern Man of Steel.”

They cut to comments from Rick Santel, who said Andrews was also his pick to win.

As Homicidal Tendencies strutted out to the desk. Johnson reminded the fans that Tendencies held four belts (SAW and NWA Top Rope tag titles). Kory Williams said the tag team scene in SAW had turned pathetic since Tendencies got rid of the Naturals and Maddox Brothers. Williams said things were so bad Brother Vic had to beat up on an Injun, (Lennox Lighfot.) Williams called him “Lightfoots.”

I gotta go beat up on somebody. Why should Vic have all the fun? Hey, I almost didn’t recognize him (Lightfoots) without the casino t-shirt on.

Williams and Bruiser made a fool out of Johnson by rearranging his Santa hat.

(2) Lennox Lightfoot beat Kory Williams (with Vic the Bruiser) in 6:18. Williams did mock tomahawk chops and motioned that Lightfoot was drinking firewater. Johnson was suspicious about Bruiser’s presence at ringside. Biggs said being on the road together 330 days a year made them tag team brothers, so Johnson was jumping to conclusions. The “brothers” each took a dropkick from Lightfoot. Williams fired chops. Johnson said those were called the Pork Chops. Lightfoot reversed and lit Williams up. Bruiser interfered and Williams knocked Lighfoot out of the ring with a knee in the back. Bruiser beat up on Lightfoot, while referee Kurt Herron was admonishing Williams. Back inside the ring, Lightfoot ducked Wiliams’ lariats and got the upset win with a flying crucifix.

Tendencies gave Lightfoot a postmatch beating. Bruiser hit a Samoan drop into a hangman’s neckbreaker. Tendencies proceeded to rub makeup all over Lightfoot’s face. Williams grabbed Lightfoot’s Indian war bonnet.

Each one of those feathers means something, and now “Hot Chocolate” Kory Williams is just ripping them up and throwing them everywhere. This is crazy.

Indian Outlaw hit the ring for the save. Wiliams accused Lightfoot of being an imposter because he didn’t paint himself up, so Tendencies did it for him.

“The Graduate” Jason James predicted that Havoc would defeat Andrews.

A. M. Vision beat T. J. Harley in 5:45. Vision attacked at the opening bell. Harley came back with the Pounce. Harley had him in trouble, until Vision shoved Harley into the turnbuckles and laced him with an enzuigiri. There was a screwy spot where it looked like Harley wanted to slingshot to the inside, and Vision surprised him with a wicked slingshot stomp to the outside. Vision showed off his moveset. Biggs said they were cutting to more predictions on the Havoc/Andrews match. Silence. Harley kicked out of what Biggs called the best top rope elbow he had ever seen. Where do you go from there? Frogsplash and Harley kick out again. Vision’s offensive barrage left Harley face down on the mat. Vision used Jericho’s Codebreaker. But Harley countered the Infamy with a side backbreaker, and it was both men down. Harley hit a helluva push up powerbomb. Pin attempt by Vision, reversed by Harley, reversed by Vision 1..2..3.

“Boogie Woogie Boy” Gary Valiant was Biggs’ special guest on “Shop Talk.” Biggs wondered how Boogie was doing after being put out of action by Hammerjack’s piledriver. “The doctors hasn’t released me.” Boogie was slurring his words. Valiant said he was tired of being jumped from behind. Last time, Hammerjack put him through a table while Charming Charles made Miss Boogie watch. Biggs said it was absolutely disgusting, and brought up the time Valiant’s trips to Skyline Medical Center. Valiant said the second time, he thought he was out wrestling for good.

Like his saying goes, don’t turn your back on Hammerjack. You know, I got that firsthand…I’m astin Hammerjack, right now. Hammer., I’m astin you for a match. The biggest card that’s ever came to Columbia, Tennessee. Hammerjack, sign it. cuz I will be there, if I have to STEAL, BORROW, BEG, or if I have to hitchhike to Columbia. Be there.

Cut to Johnson with Hammerjack and Charles. “You guys have got so many chains it’s unbelievable.” Charles offered to give Valiant a Christmas Chain Match on December 25 in Columbia.

Chain match, my brother. You remember the classic Charles Dickens, “A Christmas Carol?” Remember Ebenezer Scrooge, the ghost of Christmas past, locked in chains for the sins he had committed? Well, Gary Valiant, you are going to be locked that night in chains for the sins you’ve committed. You are going to be drug from corner to corner to corner in these chains, Gary. And you have got to agree to our terms. If you walk out of this, which you won’t, (giggles like a crazy man) you are going to be mangled. You are going to be unmercifully beat. So Christmas Night, Columbia, Tennessee, National Guard Armory. We’d love to see you, Gary.

Next up was a series of clips explaining the 6 month history leading to Andrews/Havoc…June 16 – After a fake display of good sportsmanship, Chris Michaels attacked Andrews’ injured hamstring, but Andrews managed to roll Michaels up for the flash pin…July 14 – Andrews interrupts Havoc’s interview time. Havoc warns Andrews to NEVER turn his back on him again. Havoc back jumps Andrews during his match. Michaels and Havoc shave Andrews’ head…August 4 – Andrews chases Havoc with a stick and accidentally shoves it into the throat of Commissioner Freddie Morton. August 11 – Andrews fined $10K and suspended for 21 days by Morton. Last week – Andrews reaches the finals and refuses to bow down to the mighty Havoc.

(4) Arrick Andrews beat Nore Havoc (with Paul Adams) to win the SAW Television Title Tournament in 10:20. Biggs said Havoc had been his pick from day one. Biggs announced James Storm vs. Chris Michaels for Christmas night in Columbia. Andrews throttled Havoc with straight wrestling. There was a totally illogical spot where Havoc turned his back to talk to the referee Kurt Herron and got nailed. Johnson said Havoc had lost his marbles. The match did a 180 when Havoc pulled the top rope down. While Adams distracted Herron, Havoc worked Andrews over at ringside. Johnson complained about Adams. Biggs said Johnson was biased. Johnson told Biggs he was going to get coal in his stocking, among other things. A shaky looking spin-around bulldog started the comeback. But it was all good from there. Havoc kicked out of a reverse rolling cradle, and Andrews blasted Adams, who was on the apron ready to interfere. Adams bumped to the floor. Havoc schoolboyed Andrews using the tights for a close near fall. Havoc tried for the Chopping Block (RKO), but Andrews blocked. Adams grabbed Andrews by the leg. Andrews yanked Adams up to apron. Andrews ducked, and Adams got clocked by Havoc. Andrews nailed a disbelieving Havoc with the Dragon’s Curse.

Shameless plug…

Christmas Night at the National Guard Armory in Columbia, Tennessee with an 8:01 belltime.

Christmas Chain Match : “Boogie Woogie Boy” Gary Valiant vs. Hammerjack (with Charming Charles).

2 out of 3 fall for the SAW TV Title: Arrick Andrews(c) vs. A. M. Vision.

“Cowboy” James Storm, Chris Michaels, Homicidal Tendencies, Tribal Nation.

Closing Thoughts: Charles cut a money promo, primo stuff, straight from the heyday of the territories, the type that is sadly becoming a lost art in today’s wrestling. If you can’t appreciate stuff like Valiant murdering the English language, the politically incorrect comedy of Tendencies vs. Tribal Nation, and the ridiculousness of an indie wrestler getting fined 10K, then this is probably not the show for you. Some of Johnson’s comments had me laughing out loud. Biggs still has heelish leanings on color, but he took a major step in coming out as a babyface. I was at the live taping. Vision/Harley came across to me much better match on TV, particularly Harley’s selling like he was nearly dead before making the come back. Raige also made a better impression on TV. He’s green but pushable, and needs to be brought along slowly. They did an excellent job of making a big deal out of the title match with the comments from other wrestlers and the clips to explain the story. The jump cuts cameras were much smoother this week. There was only the one obvious technical glitch. There are times when they do themselves no favors with the camera angle, like the cringeworthy close up of Bruiser barely touching Lightfoot. Good heat for the title match with the crowd heavily into Andrews. His ring work was was nothing special. With that said, good booking can cover a multitude of sins, and this story was an all out push for Andrews as top babyface. He goes over the guy that shaved his head for the title, and overcomes outside interference to get a clean pin with his finisher.