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

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Funk's Corner - John Tolos, Best Man At Silento Rodriguez's Wedding

-- Dory Funk

The preacher said, "I now pronounce you man and wife, you may kiss the bride.

Pastor Macready was standing in the ring at a packed house at the Amarillo Sports Arena. This was my first time to witness a marriage inside a professional ring.

The Proud Groom, Professional Wrestler, Silento Rodriguez turned and kissed his bride.

Silento's Best Men, Ricky Romero, Sir Nelson Royal, Dandy Dan Miller and The Golden Greek, John Tolos lined up. They were next in line to kiss the bride. Ricky Romero, Nelson Royal and Dan Miller kissed the bride on the cheek and wished her a happy marriage to Silento. Next was John Tolos. The Golden Greek grabbed The Bride by the hair on both sides, pulling her into his body and laid a kiss on her she could never forget as Silento and other Best Men had to pull them apart.

Everyone reached to help Silento's Bride maintain her equilibrium. Big John Tolos took a big bump in the middle of the ring then made his escape ad Silento was enraged that his Best Man would do such a thing to his bride.

Next week at the Amarillo Sports Arena a packed crowd returned to see Silento Rodriguez take on John Tolos.

John was a good friend of our family back in the late fifties and early sixties in Amarillo having been a frequent guest of our family at the Flying Mare Ranch in Umbarger, Texas.

He was a great heel.

My condolences to his family.

John's humor and kindness will be missed.

Dory Funk Jr. - Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School - http://www.dory-funk.com.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Bellator Brings MMA World Middleweight Semi-Finals To Louisiana

-- Bellator Fighting Championships

Monroe Civic Center to Host Bellator IX Mixed Martial Arts Middleweight World Championship Semi-Final Bouts

Los Angeles, Calif., May 27, 2009 -- Bellator Fighting Championships announced that the promotion will continue its 12 week, nationwide world championship series with its ninth event, Bellator IX, taking place at the Monroe Civic Center in Monroe, Louisiana on May 29, 2009. After his stunning uppercut knockout at Bellator III, Cuban Olympian Hector "Shango" Lombard returns to Middleweight tournament action to compete against Army Ranger Damien Stelly, who is coming off a spectacular victory of veteran Alex "El Toro" Andrade.

Also competing for the $50,000 prize and the chance to appear in the Bellator Middleweight world championships is undefeated Oklahoma wrestling phenom Jared Hess taking on the veteran slayer Yosmany Cabezas. Both fighters returning from upset victories, Hess defeated Spanish superstar Daniel Tabera and Cabezas eliminated Mexican legend Edwin Aguilar. The two winners from the Middleweight semi-finals at Bellator IX at the Monroe Civic Center on May 29, 2009, airing exclusively on ESPN Deportes on Saturday, May 30, will compete in the Bellator Middleweight world championships finals in June.

"The stunning first round of the middleweight tournament generated three upset victories with MMA veterans losing to spectacular new talents to the sport, demonstrating how unpredictable our tournament format can be," said Bellator Fighting Championships CEO Bjorn Rebney. "We could not be more pleased to be bringing our nationally and internationally televised series featuring our biggest and most powerful competitors to Monroe and the magical state of Louisiana."

Bellator IX at the Monroe Civic Center in Monroe, Louisiana will feature two middleweight tournament bouts with Hector Lombard vs. Damien Stelly and Jared Hess vs. Yosmany Cabezas. The winners will receive $50,000 and advance to the first ever Bellator Middleweight world championship finals and compete for the $100,000 reward. In addition to the tournament will be undercard fights featuring undefeated Nick Ring taking on veteran Isidro "Chilo" Gonzalez and Ultimate Fighter participant Noah Thomas taking on Canadian standout Ben Greer.

The event will take place live at the Monroe Civic Center on May 29 and air exclusively on The Worldwide Leader in Sports, ESPN Deportes, May 30.

Tickets will go on sale Friday, May 15th at 10:00 a.m. CST and will be available from the Monroe Civic Center Box Office and at all Ticketmaster outlets. For Ticketmaster tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Tickets will be $15 for general admission, and $25 and $40 for seats. For more information, call the Monroe Civic Center Box office at 318-329-2338.

Middleweight World Championship Semi-Final Bouts:
185 lbs. - Hector Lombard (19-2-1) vs. Damien Stelly (10-2)
185 lbs. - Jared Hess (7-0-1) vs. Yosmany Cabezas (8-1)

Non-tournament Bouts:
185 lbs. - Nick Ring (7-0) vs. Chilo Gonzalez (12-11)
185 lbs. - Dan Keenan (Pro Debut) vs. Chad Leonhardt (2-0)
145 lbs. - Shad Lierley (4-2) vs. Nate Murdock (5-3)
HWT - Jaime McKinney (3-3) vs. Shawn Jordan (0-0)
155 lbs. - Mikey Braswell (0-1) vs. Chas Skelly (0-1)
185 lbs. - Alex Andrade (8-5) vs. Christian Fulgram (0-0)

For more information about Bellator Fighting Championships, visit www.bellator.com. For the Spanish language version of the website, visit Espanol.Bellator.com. Please contact your local cable provider to learn more about viewing Bellator Fighting Championships on ESPN Deportes.

About Bellator Fighting Championships

Bellator Fighting Championships is a Mixed Martial Arts promotional company with offices in Los Angeles and Chicago. Bellator's founders, Bjorn Rebney and Brad Epstein, are experienced fighting sports and entertainment professionals with a deep commitment to the purity and integrity of the sport of MMA and its athletes. Bellator
Fighting Championships' executive team is comprised of top industry professionals in the areas of live event production (including Rob Beiner, winner of 12 Emmy awards for sports programming), fighter relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

On June 6, Former WWE Star Sunny Makes Her Way To RCW In San Antonio!

-- Brandon Oliver

A former WWE/WCW/ECW star returns to Texas as "The Original Diva," Tammy "Sunny" Sytch, makes her debut in River City Wrestling! In addition... four modern-day gladiators will vie for the top championship in RCW... a feud will be settled... a new identity will be known... and a referee decides to take action by stepping into the ring! Sunny Days are Here Again for River City Wrestling!

Saturday, June 6
Church Triumphant
339 W. Hutchins Pl
San Antonio, TX 78221
Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the action starts at 8 p.m.
More information at http://www.rcw-wrestling.com or (210) 842-8398

On the card:

- The Return to Texas of "The Original Diva!" Former WWE/WCW/ECW star Tammy "Sunny" Sytch will make her debut in RCW. Her role is uncertain at this point, but a star of this magnitude will surely shake things up! In the 1990's and into 2000, Sytch was known as "Sunny" in World Wrestling Entertainment. She was a pioneer for women in wrestling, and her career has taken her all over the world, including stints in World Championship Wrestling and Extreme Championship Wrestling! Always controversial, Sytch is here in RCW to ensure that Sunny Days are Here Again!

- Local sportscaster and RCW Commissioner Joe Reinagel continues to issue a $5,000 bounty on RCW promoter Brandon Oliver. Reinagel will issue a $5,000 check to anyone that can handcuff Oliver and deliver him to Reinagel. With Oliver's charge -- TNA superstar Hotstuff Hernandez -- out of commission with neck surgery for 6-9 months, Oliver is all alone as he continues to face an unfriendly environment. Andy Dalton tried at the last RCW event on May 23 and was unsuccessful... will anyone else attempt to collect the bounty?

- Four Way Match for the RCW Championship
"Pretty Boy" Keith Lee puts his title up against three formidable challengers in Ryan Genesis, "New Style" Ben Galvan, and fellow HNIC partner Big Dogg! This is a true heavyweight championship match in which the stakes are high, and anyone of them can leave the squared circle as champion!

- Loser Leaves RCW Match
Mr. Right takes on Andy Dalton where the Loser Must Leave RCW! This feud began earlier this year when the self-proclaimed "RCW Legend" piledrove "The Young Punk" onto the cement floor, putting Mr. Right on the injured shelf for months. Since coming back, these two have been at each other's throats, and Right has scored two victories over Dalton, including on May 23 when Dalton was supposed to receive ten lashes with a belt due to the loss, but interference from Joey Spector enabled Dalton to escape. This time, there is no escape and one of these athletes is leaving the promotion... PERMANENTLY!

- Referee vs. Wrestler - Street Fight Rules
Alex Marrozos, veteran Texas referee for 20 years, finally steps into the ring to take matters into his own hands as he faces Joey "Super Shot" Spector, whom will be accompanined by his sister Pink. For the past several months, Joey Spector had to earn his name back, resulting in the grappler taking on the identities of several individuals in RCW, including referee Alex Marrozos. Marrozos didn't care for it at all, showing his frustration physically by slapping Spector! Since then, these two have not seen eye-to-eye, resulting in Spector challenging Marrozos to step out from behind the striped shirt and into a wrestling ring! In addition, the RCW fans called this one... they chanted "Street Fight" on May 23, and the office of RCW heard their chants loud and clear! No DQ, no count outs, and anything goes!

- Commissioner Reinagel promised we would see a "brand new" Don Juan, and on June 6, we will see what he means as Don Juan faces HNIC spokesman "Flawless" Jerome Daniels! RCW isn't quite sure what to make of Reinagel's research on the "Heart & Soul of RCW," but he has promised that we will see a Don Juan that we have never seen before! Standing in the way however is Daniels, the spokesman of the HNIC and a dangerous competitor whose ability reinforces his loud mouth.

- In addition, HNIC member Skitz-Bro will face Mace Malone, who will be making his debut in RCW.

- Also at the event will be ACH, Weazy Woo, Just Willie, Lillie Mae, Ray The Voice and more!

Tickets at the door are $12 for adults, $9 for kids/student ID/and military ID. Children three years of age or younger are free.

"Express Tickets," which are tickets that enable the purchaser to enter the building first, are $12 for adults, $9 for kids/student ID/and military ID. These tickets may be purchased at:

Astro Bowl Sports Center
3203 Harry Wurzbach
(210) 824-6348

Gallista Gallery
1913 S. Flores St.
(210) 212-8606

"Discount Express Tickets" are available at http://www.rcw-wrestling.com. For more information, please call (210) 842-8398.

Monday, May 25, 2009

NATTIE NEIDHART, HARRY SMITH & TJ WILSON PHOTOS

-- Robert Beukema

MONTHS AGO I HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHOOT PHOTOS WITH TJ WILSON HARRY SMITH NATTIE NEIDHART AND DIANA HART...

http://flrankings.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=12955

Saturday, May 23, 2009

MKG International Presents Erik Paulson (A Weekend “Combat Submission Wrestling” Workshop)

-- Drake Ritchie

Erik Paulson is one of the finest Martial Art coaches in the world. He is the creator and founder of CSW. He held two Shooto title belts in Japan before retiring in 2000. With fighters like Josh Barnett, Brock Lesnar and many others using CSW training methods its validity cannot be denied. Striking, clinching and groundwork will be covered using BJJ, shoot wrestling, JKD, catch wrestling, Thai boxing and many other arts. With over 40 coaches and 30 years in the martial arts his vast knowledge base will be shared in a fun and easy to learn environment. Beginners to the seasoned veterans will find his workshops valuable. Erik Paulson will also be evaluating and testing for CSW Association advancement.

WHEN: JUNE 13 & 14 12-4pm
WHERE: MKG INTERNATIONAL MARTIAL ARTS
1621 WEST MICHIGAN STREET
DULUTH, MN 55806
COST: $95.00 FOR THE WEEKEND OR $55.00 A DAY.
REGISTER BY: JUNE 1ST, SPACE IS LIMITED!
(218) 940-6655
WWW.MKGINTERNATIONAL.COM

School owners and/or instructors register six students and get in free!

Thursday, May 21, 2009

WWE® Reschedules Loveland And Colorado Springs Events

-- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

STAMFORD, Conn., May 21, 2009 -- Due to the scheduling conflict caused by Kroenke Sports Enterprises, World Wrestling Entertainment® has rescheduled the May 24th live event in Loveland, CO to Saturday, August 8th. The May 26th live event in Colorado Springs, CO has been moved to Sunday, August 9th.

Tickets for the originally scheduled events will be honored for the new dates. Any fans unable to attend their respective rescheduled event can return their tickets to place of purchase no later than June 12 in order to receive a refund.

WWE again apologizes to all Colorado fans who have been inconvenienced by this situation. We look forward to returning to Colorado in August for exciting WWE action.

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, trademarks, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

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.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

WWE® Moves RAW® To Staples Center

-- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

STAMFORD, Conn., May 20, 2009 -- World Wrestling Entertainment® announced today that due to the debacle caused by Kroenke Sports Enterprises regarding Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs, WWE is moving the May 25, 2009 edition of Monday Night RAW® from the Pepsi Center in Denver, CO to the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The event will begin at 5:30 PM PT.

In addition, due to the overwhelming support shown by the Staples Center, Los Angeles Lakers and the California WWE Fans, WWE will hold back-to-back nights of action at the Staples Center, with a second event on Tuesday, May 26 at 6:30 PM PT. Both shows go on sale tonight at 11 PM ET/8 PM PT through Ticketmaster.

WWE will be returning to Denver for an event at the Denver Coliseum on Friday, August 7. Refunds for the Pepsi Center event can be obtained by returning tickets to the place of purchase.

“WWE is extremely grateful to the Lakers and the Staples Center for the hospitality and professionalism shown to WWE during this whole situation,” said Vince McMahon, Chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment. “We apologize to all of the WWE fans in the Denver area who have been inconvenienced by Kroenke Sports Enterprises. We look forward to bringing two consecutive nights of WWE excitement to Staples Center this Monday and Tuesday night.”

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, trademarks, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

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.

Court Of Appeals Affirms Dismissal Of WWE Lawsuit Against JAKKS Pacific

-- JAKKS Pacific, Inc.

MALIBU, Calif., May 20, 2009 -- JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ:JAKK) announced that the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit unanimously affirmed the judgment of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (Karas, J.), dismissing in its entirety WWE's federal action against JAKKS and certain of its officers.

Jack Friedman, the Company's Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer, stated: "We are pleased that both the Federal District Court and the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit have dismissed WWE's federal claims."

About JAKKS Pacific, Inc.

JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK) is a leading designer and marketer of toys and consumer products, with a wide range of products that feature some of the most popular children's toy licenses in the world. JAKKS' diverse portfolio includes Action Figures, Art Activity Kits, Stationery, Writing Instruments, Performance Kites, Water Toys, Sports Activity Toys, Vehicles, Infant/Pre-School, Plush, Construction Toys, Electronics, Dolls, Dress-Up, Role Play, and Pet Toys and Accessories, sold under various proprietary brands including JAKKS Pacific(R), Play Along(R), Flying Colors(R), Creative Designs International(TM), Road Champs(R), Child Guidance(R), Pentech(R), Funnoodle(R), Go Fly a Kite(R), Color Workshop(R), JAKKS Pets(TM), EyeClops(R), Plug It In & Play TV Games(TM), Girl Gourmet(TM), Kids Only(R), Tollytots(R) and Disguise. JAKKS is an award-winning licensee of several hundred nationally and internationally known trademarks including Disney, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros., World Wrestling Entertainment, Ultimate Fighting Championship, Graco and Cabbage Patch Kids. JAKKS and THQ Inc. participate in a joint venture that has worldwide rights to publish and market World Wrestling Entertainment video games. For further information, visit www.jakks.com.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) that are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about JAKKS Pacific's business based partly on assumptions made by its management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such statements due to numerous factors, including, but not limited to, those described above, changes in demand for JAKKS' products, product mix, the timing of customer orders and deliveries, the impact of competitive products and pricing, and difficulties with integrating acquired businesses. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date on which they are made, and JAKKS undertakes no obligation to update any of them to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

HDNET ANNOUNCES TIME CHANGE FOR COVERAGE OF "HDNET FIGHTS PRESENTS: OLYMPIA DREAM 9 FEATHERWEIGHT GRAND PRIX, 2nd ROUND"

-- HDNet

MEDIA ALERT
DALLAS (May 20, 2009)

Event now begins at 5:00 am ET, Tuesday, May 26

WHAT: HDNet will broadcast exclusive coverage of "HDNet Fights Presents: OLYMPIA DREAM 9 Featherweight Grand Prix, 2nd Round 2009," early Tuesday morning, May 26, at 5:00 a.m. ET LIVE from the esteemed Yokohama Arena in Kanagawa, Japan.

MMA fans can catch former MLB slugger Jose Canseco who will be making his mixed martial arts debut in the open weight competition entitled the "Super Hulk" Tournament vs. 7-foot-2 and 330-plus pound Hong-Man Choi from Korea.

Gegard Mousasi, Mark Hunt, and Bob Sapp will also compete in first round action in the "Super Hulk" tournament.

DREAM 9 will also feature the second round of its Featherweight Grand Prix including a highly anticipated bout between Norifumi "Kid" Yamamoto and Joe Warren, plus Jason "Mayhem" Miller meets Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza for the vacant DREAM Middleweight Title.

WHEN: Tuesday, May 26 at 5:00 a.m. ET (early morning) on HDNet with an encore presentation to air Friday, May 29 at 10:00 p.m. ET

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is a network that is original, thinks independently and delivers
unique content and provocative, authentic programming that appeals to men of all ages, delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts through HDNet Fights. HDNet Fights partners with leading MMA promoters including Affliction, DREAM, Sengoku, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Vegas Confessions," "Deadline" and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

Only HDNet Movies delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, and Emily Blunt.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Girlfriend Experience" directed by Steven Soderbergh.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies presents viewers with over one hundred films and an average of twenty-five "HD Premieres" each month. HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

So You Want To Be A Fighter!(TM) Enter The Octagon(TM) With UFC(R) 2009 UNDISPUTED(TM)

-- THQ Inc.

Debut Videogame Based on Ultimate Fighting Championship(R) to Deliver Unparalleled Mixed Martial Arts Experience, Including Extensive Roster and Invigorating Gameplay Modes

AGOURA HILLS, Calif., May. 19, 2009 -- THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) and Zuffa, LLC today announced that UFC® 2009 Undisputed™, the heavily anticipated debut videogame based on the Ultimate Fighting Championship®, is now available at retailers worldwide for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Featuring an unprecedented roster of more than 80 top fighters in UFC competition across all five weight classes and a brand new fighting game engine developed to combine numerous martial arts disciplines, UFC 2009 Undisputed is rated “T” for Teen and is available for the suggested retail price of $59.99.

“The widespread popularity of the UFC brand and its refined mixed martial arts experience lend themselves perfectly to the interactive entertainment world,” said Brian Coleman, vice president, global brand management, THQ. “With one of the largest playable rosters on the market today, a highly intuitive control system and a host of compelling gameplay options, including the ability to recreate key moments in UFC history through a Classic Fights Mode, gamers everywhere can now take part in this growing global phenomenon.”

“With more than two million downloads of our playable demo thus far1, it is evident UFC 2009 Undisputed opens the door for videogame and fight fans around the world to identify with the most exciting live sports experience today,” said Dana White, president, UFC. “UFC 2009 Undisputed is, without question, the most compelling, the most exciting and the most realistic mixed martial arts experience to ever be featured in a videogame format.”

About UFC 2009 Undisputed

UFC 2009 Undisputed is an explosive fighting game that recreates the action, intensity and attitude of a UFC live event. Players will explore a deep roster of more than 80 top fighters in UFC competition across all five weight classes. In addition, they will enter the Octagon surrounded by the sport’s renowned announcer, commentators, referees, trainers, Octagon Girls and more. Photorealistic models are at the forefront, as players will view amazing ripple effects across the faces and bodies of their fighters from the impact of devastating punches and kicks.

A brand new fighting game engine designed specifically for next generation systems delivers innovative, responsive and easy-to-play controls that enable unparalleled command of fighters, as players take down opponents with a variety of mixed martial arts disciplines, including Muay Thai, Kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The game’s Create-a-Fighter system jumpstarts the careers of future champions through character customization, while a robust Career Mode will develop a fighter’s attributes and skill sets while fighting to enter the UFC Hall of Fame. In addition, UFC 2009 Undisputed lets players revisit key moments in UFC history and attempt to recreate the matchups through a Classic Fights Mode. Furthermore, players may enhance their gameplay experience through online support, including downloadable content.

More information about UFC 2009 Undisputed can be found at www.ufcundisputed.com and www.thq.com.

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship®

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is the world’s leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa™, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, BellTV, SaskTel Max™, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Viewers Choice, and WOWOW in Japan, and Premiere Combate and SporTV in Brazil, and via the Internet worldwide on Yahoo! Sports, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. and Canadastar in Canada. In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit UFC.com, UK.UFC.com, GERMANY.UFC.com or UFCEspanol.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

About THQ Inc.

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) is a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers and wireless devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ sells product through its global network of offices located throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. More information about THQ and its products may be found at www.thq.com. THQ and the THQ logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.

Ultimate Fighting Championship®, Ultimate Fighting®, UFC®, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC and affiliated entities in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.

Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, the Xbox logos, and the Xbox Live logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

“PlayStation,” "PLAYSTATION," “PS” Family logo and “PSP” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the business of THQ Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “THQ”), including, but not limited to, expectations and projections related to the UFC 2009 Undisputed videogame and are based upon management’s current beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, business, competitive, economic, legal, political and technological factors affecting our industry, operations, markets, products or pricing. Readers should carefully review the risk factors and the information that could materially affect THQ’s financial results, described in other documents that THQ files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2008, and particularly the discussion of risk factors set forth therein. Unless otherwise required by law, THQ disclaims any obligation to update its view on any such risks or uncertainties or to revise or publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

1 Microsoft Franchise Health - Report for Media Title: UFC® 2009 Undisputed™ Demo (5-7-2009); Sony Storefront Activity Report (5-3-2009)

Monday, May 18, 2009

WWE® VS. NBA

-- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

STAMFORD, Conn., May 18, 2009 -- World Wrestling Entertainment®’s live, internationally televised broadcast, WWE Monday Night RAW®, (USA Network, 9:00 PM ET) to take place at the Pepsi Center in Denver next Monday, May 25th is in jeopardy of being cancelled by the Denver Nuggets. The WWE and Denver Nuggets are currently at an impasse in resolving a scheduling debacle by the team and the Pepsi Center. A sell-out crowd is expected to attend the WWE show at the same time the Denver Nuggets are slated to square off against the Los Angeles Lakers for Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Finals. WWE has held the May 25th date with the Pepsi Center since August 15, 2008.

“Even though the Denver Nuggets had a strong team this year and were projected to make the playoffs, obviously Nuggets and Pepsi Center owner Stan Kroenke did not have enough faith in his own team to hold the May 25th date for a potential playoff game,” said WWE Chairman Vince McMahon.

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

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.

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Updated Lineup - Bellator X (Friday, June 5, 2009)

Citizens Business Bank Arena
Ontario, California
Delayed broadcast on ESPN Deportes
Saturday, June 6, 2009 @ 9 PM ET
Card subject to change


* Yahir Reyes vs. Joe Soto - featherweight finals
* Wilson Reis vs. Roberto Vargas - featherweights
* Seven more bouts

Friday, May 15, 2009

Funk's Corner - Ocala Star Banner Story May 15, 2009 - NEW! Photos Of Funks at WM 25-HOF

-- Dory Funk

Ocala Star Banner Story May 15, 2009

On Saturday afternoon, April 4th, I stood on stage facing 12,000 empty seats at the Toyota Center in Houston. I was rehearsing my induction speech for that night’s WrestleMania 25 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Midway through my Speech someone grabbed me from behind. I wondered who it was with such a strong grip on me?

At WrestleMania 25 I was with my family, in fact two families of Funk and some outstanding wrestlers from the Funking Conservatory. I mingled with celebrities who treated me as a celebrity. I even sparred with Kid Rock.

On this night, WWE President Linda McMahon talked to me about her appointment to the Connecticut Board of Education and her ideas on improving our education system.

On this night, I spoke with Vince McMahon, Linda McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, Triple H, Shane McMahon, Dusty Rhodes, Kid Rock, Mickey Rourke, Chris Jericho, Former students, Matt and Jeff Hardy, Mark Henry, Edge, Christian, Lord Steven Regal and Mickie James.

I spoke to my brother Terry Funk about how proud our late Mother (Dorothy Funk Culver) and Father (Dory Funk Sr.) would be.
READ MORE... www.dory-funk.com

Photos from WrestleMania 25 Hall of Fame Induction and the complete story from the Ocala Star Banner are now on our website at http://www.dory-funk.com.

Next !BANG! TV Taping comes to the Funking Conservatory Sunday June 14th.

If you would like to become a professional wrestler, call 352-895-4657

Next !BANG! TV Taping Sunday June 14th, Support Your Troops 40, Super Summer Sizzler

Former WWE Star "Goldberg" to Take Part In Havasu 95 Speedway Event

-- Havasu 95 Speedway & Lake Havasu City Convention and Visitors Bureau

Lake Havasu City is known as a boating destinatnion, but as the Havasu 95 Speedway season closer, the boat races will be on land. Various celebrities will be on hand as Havasu 95 Speedway presents "Night of Destruction" Saturday, May 23, at 7:00 pm.

Lake Havasu City, AZ, May 15, 2009 -- Various celebrities will be on hand as Havasu 95 Speedway presents "Night of Destruction" Saturday, May 23, at 7:00 pm.

The first event of the evening will be a 50 lap endure race with the "Slammin Bangin" Factory Stocks. "This is a distance never before attempted by these guys, so it should be a ton of fun," said Dennis Rudin, with Havasu 95 Speedway.

The endure will be followed by Lake Havasu City's first ever Asphalt Boat Race. "This is anything but an ordinary show," Rudin said. "Basically, it's cars crushing boats," said Rudin. "Cars will drag a boat, without a trailer, around the track in hopes of having the most boat left to win the cash prize."

Fans may recognize some of the entrants in the event.

- Matt Kutcher who has a lengthy resume as Special Effects Supervisor for such films as Righteous Kill (2008), Snakes on a Plane (2006) and currently Piranha 3D (In production in Lake Havasu City).

- Bill Goldberg, the current host of SPEED's "Bullrun" and a former WCW & WWE professional wrestler.

- David Freiburger, the world's most renowned car junkie and Editor for Hot Rod Magazine, along with his hard wrenching comedic sidekick Chad Reynolds.

Additionally, the event will garner the city some television coverage. "44 Blue Productions is going to film this event for a Car Junkies' episode, which will air on TRU TV," said Rudin.

According to event organizers, the excitement amongst the local drivers is apparent, judging by the number of entries and boats that are being collected. There is still room for more contestants however, and interested drivers are encouraged to sign up. Rules are posted at www.havasu95speedway.com.

Intermission will feature a complete car for spectators to "Whack for Wounded Warriors." Spectators will have the chance to demolish a Ford Crown Victoria with a 20 pound sledge hammer for adults, and a smaller one for kids. Participants will get two "whacks" for $3, with the proceeds going to the Wounded Warrior Project. Rudin
promised that anything remaining of the car will then be finished off "violently" by the Havasu 95 Speedway crew.

After intermission is the Demolition Derby. It will be cars crushing cars, until the last one survives. "This event is always a crowd pleaser," said Rudin.

The evening conclused with a fireworks display for the fans to enjoy.

Tickets are $15 which includes one Adult and one child (12 years or younger). Ticket quantities are limited. Advance purchase for tickets will begin May 13 at several local businesses, including Anderson Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep, Walt's Motorsports, Anderson Toyota and Peggy's Sunrise Cafe.

VIP tickets are $30 per person and will be on sale May 23 at the gate.

For more information about the event contact

Dennis Rudin
Havasu 95 Speedway
(928) 716-6634

Jarrod Lyman
Lake Havasu City Convention and Visitors Bureau
928-453-3444 x134

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Ticketmaster Entertainment And HP Pavilion Management Announce Multi-Year Ticketing Extension For HP Pavilion At San Jose

-- Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc.

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. and SAN JOSE, Calif., May 14, 2009 -- Ticketmaster, a Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc., (Nasdaq:TKTM) operating business, and HP Pavilion Management today announced a multi-year extension of their decade-long ticketing partnership. The agreement extends Ticketmaster's exclusive ticketing for all HP Pavilion events including the National Hockey League's San Jose Sharks, and the National Lacrosse League's San Jose Stealth; along with the SAP Open, the annual men's tennis tournament; Strikeforce, world-class mixed martial arts and American Metal & Iron Fight Night at the Tank, live boxing events.

Ticketmaster will continue to provide the latest ticketing technology and build upon its seamlessly integrated event ticketing distribution solutions, including: on-site scanning technology to validate barcoded event tickets; online and offline event marketing and communication tools; and a multitude of new services to help drive ticket sales and enhance the overall entertainment experience for fans.

"HP Pavilion at San Jose is pleased to extend the current agreement that keeps Ticketmaster as the exclusive ticketing provider for all HP Pavilion events," said HP Pavilion General Manager Jim Goddard. "Ticketmaster continues to provide state-of-the-art ticketing technology and first-class customer service making the ticketing process easy and convenient for our patrons. We look forward to working with Ticketmaster to continue to grow and enhance our partnership in the years to come."

"We are excited to continue working with HP Pavilion at San Jose, to maximize their ticketing business and serve their diverse fans," said Don Orris, Ticketmaster's Regional Vice President for the West. "Ticketmaster is committed to providing quality service, distribution and platforms that will meet the current and future ticketing and marketing needs for HP Pavilion at San Jose and their fans."

About HP Pavilion At San Jose

HP Pavilion at San Jose continues to be the premier sports and entertainment venue in Northern California along with being one of the busiest concert venues in the country. HP Pavilion is home to the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, San Jose Stealth of the National Lacrosse League, SAP Open men's professional tennis tournament, Strikeforce Mixed Martial Arts, and American Metal & Iron Fight Night at the Tank and hosts a multitude of events annually including concerts, family shows and civic events.

About Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc.

Ticketmaster Entertainment consists of Ticketmaster and Front Line Management Group. As the world's leading live entertainment ticketing and marketing company, Ticketmaster connects the world to live entertainment. Ticketmaster operates in 20 global markets, providing ticket sales, ticket resale services, marketing and distribution through www.ticketmaster.com, one of the largest e-commerce sites on the Internet; approximately 7,100 retail outlets; and 17 worldwide call centers. Established in 1976, Ticketmaster serves more than 10,000 clients worldwide across multiple event categories, providing exclusive ticketing services for leading arenas, stadiums, professional sports franchises and leagues, college sports teams, performing arts venues, museums, and theaters. In 2008, the Company sold more than 141 million tickets valued at over $8.9 billion on behalf of its clients. Ticketmaster Entertainment acquired a controlling interest in Front Line Management Group in October 2008. Founded by Irving Azoff and Howard Kaufman in 2004, Front Line Management Group is the world's leading artist management company. Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc. is headquartered in West Hollywood, California (Nasdaq:TKTM).

Lashley Bringing Out “The Beast” In Sapp

-- Bob Trieger

MMA PPV June 27 in Biloxi, MS

BILOXI, Miss. (May 14, 2009) – Styles make fights and the June 27th main event match-up between contrasting MMA fighters, kick-boxer Bob “The Beast” Sapp and wrestler Bobby Lashley, features a potential instant classic of pure entertainment on the “Ultimate Chaos” pay-per-view event live from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Mississippi.

The imposing 6-4, 350-pound Sapp (10-3-1), who played in the NFL for four years before becoming an iconic combat fighter in Japan, wants to brawl on his feet while the chiseled 6-3, 265-pound former WWE star Lashley (2-0), 3-time NCAA champion (1996-98) and 4-time All-America wrestler at Missouri Valley College, prefers to ground and pound.

“Ultimate Chaos,” presented by Prize Fight Promotions and Fight Force International, in association with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum, Treasure Bay Casino and Budweiser, is being produced and distributed by Gotham MMA and Integrated Sports at 9:00PM ET/6:00PM PT in the United States on cable and satellite via iNDemand, TVN and DirecTV for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

Sapp starred as an offensive lineman on the University of Washington’s football team, winning the prestigious Morris Award, and he was selected in the third round of the NFL draft in 1997 by the Chicago Bears. Bob turned to pro wrestling after football and was later recruited by PRIDE in Japan, where his incredible size, strength and bull-rush style made him an instant fan favorite. He went on to star in K-1 as well as become an actor, playing roles in movies like The Longest Yard and Elektra.

“This fight is what fight fans want to see,” Sapp said. “It’s intriguing and will be very entertaining. Bobby is bringing ‘The Beast’ out in me - I want to brawl. I’m the last person to say I’m a submission artist. I want to box. I’m a brawler. I’m going to come at him with my long arms and legs, punching and kicking. He’s going to come strong at me, trying to take me off balance, but I’ll come back with a straight right knee to his jaw and follow with a left hook. He’s never been hit by anybody like me. He’s new on the MMA scene. Bobby’s more or less a grounder and pounder who wants to slam me and hold me down. He’ll throw in some elbows and maybe some new, slick MMA moves. What’s left?

“I’m a huge test for him, which says a lot about Bobby. He has no fear of getting cracked real hard. It could be a flash knockdown or an accumulation of punches, which does worse damage and is tougher to get over. Bobby’s powerful, his slams are strong and he does have some pro wrestling moves. But I’ll be faster than he imagines. If he wants to be a star in MMA, he needs a more entertaining style of fighting, one that I’ve built by career on. I’m more of an entertaining fighter than typical MMA guy.”

After graduating from Missouri Valley College, Lashley joined the U.S. Army and was a 2-time Armed Forces Champion and 2002 Military Games Championship silver medalist. Two years ago, Lashley became a WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) superstar, joining Donald Trump at Wrestlemania 23 in a bet against WWE president Vince McMahon. Lashley won the match and helped Trump shave McMahon’s head in the ring. Bobby made his MMA debut last December 13, stopping Joshua Franklin only 0.41 into the opening round, and March 21 he won a 3-round decision versus 37-fight veteran Jason Guida in Pensacola (FL).

“This fight is going to let fans in the U.S. know that Bob’s still around,” Sapp added. “I’ve been fighting for organizations all over the world, in a ring, not a cage. I want to go at it and make all my fights exciting. I’ll be training 20 days in a Judo center in Japan (for a DREAM show there in late May) and it’ll be the first time that I’m only training for an MMA fight – no movies, no television, just training everyday. It’s a great opportunity for me and American fans are going to see the real Beast.”

In a co-feature that could be the main event on most cards, former UFC title challenger and feared Brazilian striker, Pedro “The Rock” Rizzo (16-8-0), takes on controversial Dutch heavyweight Gilbert “The Hurricane” Yvel (35-13-3).

Dangerous lightweight Din “Dinyero” Thomas (24-8-0), star of The Ultimate Fighter 4, faces former KOTC and Gladiator Challenge champion Javier “Showtime” Vasquez; Canadian lightweight sensation Chris “The Polish Hammer” Horodecki (12-1-0) meets dangerous William “The Bull” Sriyapai (12-4-0).

Also fighting on the card are welterweights Brett Cooper (8-4-0) vs. Waachiim “Native Warrior” Spirit Wolf (5-4), Affliction vice president Tom Atencio (1-0) vs. lightweight Randy Hedderick, middleweight James Orso (3-2-0) vs. Colby McMahan (1-0-0), middleweight Danny Abbadi (3-4-0) vs. Lance Thomson (1-0-0), and welterweight Eric Bradley (2-1-0) vs. Colin McKee (3-2-0). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $25.00 (limited discount seating), $40.00 (general admission) and $55.00 (premium reserved seating) and sale at the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and all TicketMaster outlets.

For more information go to www.theultimatechaos.com, www.fightforce.org or www.mscoastcoliseum.com. Doors open at 5PM/CT, first fight 6 PM/CT, and the first PPV fight is at 8 PM/CT.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Finalized Lineup - Debut Edition Of 'ShoMMA Strikeforce Challengers'

-- Ric Gillespie

Friday, May 15, 2009
Save Mart Center - Fresno, California
Live broadcast on Showtime - 11 PM ET
Card subject to change


TELEVISED (first to last)
* Tito Jones vs. Boa Quach - featherweights
* Aaron Rosa vs. Anthony Ruiz - light heavyweights
* Lavar Johnson vs. Carl Seumanutafa - heavyweights
* Sarah Kaufman vs. Meisha Tate - bantamweights
* Mike Aina vs. Billy Evangelista - lightweights

UNTELEVISED (first to last)
* Spencer Herns vs. Chad Sutton - middleweights
* Fabricio Camoes vs. Torrance Taylor - lightweights
* Ousmane Thomas Diagne vs. Kaleo Kwan - lightweights
* Zoila Frausto vs. Avery Vilche - flyweights
* Ben Holscher vs. Cody Cantebury - one-hundred-sixty pounds

MMA BIG SHOW ANNOUNCES HUGE TELEVISION SYNDICATION AGREEMENT

-- Jason Appleton

May 13, 2009
For Immediate Release

Goliath Promotions, AMG Networks and British Sky Broadcasting to Broadcast MMA Big Show Action

OHIO (USA): MMA Big Show, one of the top mixed martial arts (MMA) promotions in North America, is pleased to announce a national syndication agreement with Goliath Productions and AMG Networks now including the Sky Network in the UK. Scheduled to begin airing nationally and internationally in the Fall of 2009. MMA Big Show events have garnered a reputation as some of the hottest cards in the sport of MMA. Fight fans can expect two hour broadcast specials from each event to air leading into the next event, while every two major events will be edited into 13 half-hour episodes, which will also feature fights not included in the two-hour specials. With MMA superstar Phil Baroni and FOX Sports' Jeff Piecoro manning the commentary mics, and featuring some of the hottest MMA action in North America, MMA Big Show events are sure to be a big hit with the national and international TV viewing audiences.

Regarding the agreement with Goliath and AMG, MMA Big Show owner and promoter Jason Appleton said, "After 3 years in promotion and building a reputation and it's finally happening. We are negotiating with various sponsors and looking forward to developing many solid relationships moving forward! I'm very excited" Expect an announcement soon on exact air times, and a full TV schedule for each market at mmabigshow.com. "We are starting out by airing some of our historical fights such as Mojo Horne Vs Josh Haynes which was a banger, then move to airing our new matchups starting from our March and April events while aiming towards live 2 hour specials." Explains Appleton.

MMA Big Show's next event is "CONVICTION," scheduled for June 20th at Belterra Casino Resort & Spa at Veevay, Indiana. Featured in the main event is MMA Big Show Middleweight Champion Mojo Horne (6-0) taking on Revolution Fight League Middleweight Champion and Bodog/Belator Veteran John Troyer (8-3). The question has always been asked, "What would happen if one promotion's champion were to fight another?" MMA Big Show is providing the MMA world with the answer. The undefeated Horne is coming off a devastating TKO win over Brendan Seguin (16-13), while Troyer (8-3), fighting out of Louisville, KY, brings his equally impressive resume with the RFL Middleweight belt and his Bellator experience. The crowd is sure to be hot for what is sure to be a very exciting fight.

The co-main event will feature former MMA Big Show Lightweight champ Joe Ammerman taking on Team Tarhe's own former Navy Seal Danny Woodruff. In addition to all the hot MMA action, a special Playboy Playmate surprise is planned to entertain the crowds, as a new MMA Big Show ring girl will debut on June 20th. She will also be available for photo-shoots after the show. MMA superstar Phil Baroni and FOX Sports' Jeff Piecoro will call the action, and with 12 fights total scheduled, "CONVICTION" is sure to take hold in the MMA world. Tickets are $35, $45 and $55, and are on sale through TicketMaster.com, BelterraCasino.com, or MMABigShow.com.

About Goliath Promotions

Goliath specializes in the development, production, and distribution of quality film and television projects for the US and international marketplace. Goliath Promotions (www.goliatharts.com) is a licensed content provider delivering programming to both free and premium pay channels in Europe and throughout the US. Goliath Promotions is also a licensed content provider for one of the largest video on demand providers, distributing to HBO, Showtime, Starz, Time Warner Cable and others. As a production company, Goliath continues to engage in original programming in both development and co-production ventures.

About AMG TV

AMGTV is one of the fastest growing broadcast networks in the industry, delivering television to viewers through their affiliated broadcast stations and cable stations. AMG TV programming is useful and informative, entertaining and distinctive. A slice of life with shows that highlight the entertainment wishes of viewers: Home Life, Adventure, Sports, Drama, Comedy, Health, Finance, Instruction, Travel and Children's programs. AMG claims 200 terrestrial affiliates in North America and Latin America, many of them in the exurbs of major markets. AMG has also recently announced its plans to become the world's first 3D broadcast network. "Terry Elaqua, President of AMGTV noted "We are pleased to add MMA Big Show to our lineup. AMGTV viewers have enjoyed the weekend sports block and we show some of our highest viewership levels at that time - we want to give the people what they want. Obviously MMA Big Show will be something to keep our viewers coming back for more."

HDNET TO AIR LIVE COVERAGE OF "HDNET FIGHTS PRESENTS: OLYMPIA DREAM 9 FEATHERWEIGHT GRAND PRIX, 2nd ROUND"

-- HDNet

MEDIA ALERT
DALLAS (May 13, 2009)

Catch former MLB Slugger Jose Canseco in his MMA debut, early Tuesday morning, May 26 at 12:00 a.m. PT

WHAT: HDNet will broadcast exclusive coverage of "HDNet Fights Presents: OLYMPIA DREAM 9 Featherweight Grand Prix, 2nd Round 2009," early Tuesday morning, May 26, at 12:00 a.m. PT LIVE from the esteemed Yokohama Arena in Kanagawa, Japan.

MMA fans can catch former MLB slugger Jose Canseco who will be making his mixed martial arts debut in the open weight competition entitled the "Super Hulk" Tournament vs. 7-foot-2 and 330-plus pound Hong-Man Choi from Korea.

Gegard Mousasi, Mark Hunt, and Bob Sapp will also compete in first round action in the "Super Hulk" tournament.

DREAM 9 will also feature the second round of its Featherweight Grand Prix including a highly anticipated bout between Norifumi "Kid" Yamamoto and Joe Warren, plus Jason "Mayhem" Miller meets Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza for the vacant DREAM Middleweight Title.

WHEN: Tuesday, May 26 at 12:00 a.m. PT (early morning) on HDNet with an encore presentation to air Friday, May 29 at 10:00 p.m. ET

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is a network that is original, thinks independently and delivers
unique content and provocative, authentic programming that appeals to men of all ages, delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts through HDNet Fights. HDNet Fights partners with leading MMA promoters including Affliction, DREAM, Sengoku, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Vegas Confessions," "Deadline" and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

Only HDNet Movies delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, and Emily Blunt.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Girlfriend Experience" directed by Steven Soderbergh.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies presents viewers with over one hundred films and an average of twenty-five "HD Premieres" each month. HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net.

Undefeated Female MMA Fighter Jessica Pene Endorses Weight Management Product Düzoxin®

-- Sun Media US. Inc.

Undefeated Female MMA Fighter Jessica Pene Endorses Weight Management Product Düzoxin® after her win at Bellator V. She joins ranks with several other celebrity spokespeople including cast members of Bravo TV's hit docu-soap reality series Vicki Gunvalson and Tamra Barney of The Real Housewives of Orange County and Ramona Singer of The Real Housewives of New York.

Newport Beach, CA, May 13, 2009 -- Sun Media Enterprises, Inc. a leading Global Brand Management and Distribution company of nutritional supplements announced its partnership/endorsement deal with Jessica Pene, undefeated female MMA fighter.

"At one point in my life I was unmotivated, didn't care about anything, and wasn't living a healthy lifestyle. Mixed Martial Arts has become such a positive catalyst for change in my life and my training has inspired me to become a better person. I found confidence in myself and became motivated not only to fight but to pursue my education and hold down a full time job" says Pene.

At age twenty-six Jessica Pene has established a name for herself in the quickly growing world of women's mixed martial arts (MMA). She started her training at Apex Jujitsu in Aliso Viejo with the late Jeremy Williams, and now trains with Adam Lynn at Subfighter in Laguna Hills and Legends in Hollywood with Chris Reilly and Jimmy Ramiro. Legends Gym was started by Bas Rutten and the former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion Randy Couture. Jessica has also been recently signed with Bellator Fighting Championships and teaches a women's program at LA Boxing in Lake Forest and Laguna Niguel. Her record stands undefeated and 6-0. She was introduced to Düzoxin® by friend, Brian Williams and immediately fell in love with the energizing formula that enhanced her workouts and helped her make weight for her fight.

"Jessica is a bright, young woman with an amazing future ahead of her. We are thrilled to sign this remarkable, undefeated MMA fighter on as an official spokesperson for Düzoxin®. Jessica is a force to be reckoned with as an undefeated cage-fighter with a hard edge and indomitable spirit, winning her last bout at Bellator V within one minute, thirty-five seconds. Yet she can also slip into a little black cocktail dress and look like a million dollars. Jessica is definitely our "million dollar baby!" states Dominique Mainon, author of The Modern Amazons: Warrior Women On-Screen and Director of Marketing at Sun Media US, Inc.

Düzoxin® is a botanical weight management and energizing supplement. Its ephedrine-free, all-natural formula boosts metabolism and subsequently reduces body fat for more effective weight loss or weight management. See for more information.

Jessica Pene joins ranks with several other well-known celebrity spokespeople for Düzoxin® including Vicki Gunvalson and Tamra Barney of Bravo TV's hit docu-soap reality series The Real Housewives of Orange County, and Ramona Singer of The Real Housewives of New York.

Sun Media Enterprises is the sole distributor of Düzoxin®. Sun Media products are designed to fit the lifestyles of all individuals by being on the cutting edge of sport and fitness advancements.

Note to Editors: Düzoxin® is a registered trademark of its respective company.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Interview With Francine

-- Stephen Ashfield

There weren’t that many females in ECW (the real ECW of course) but those that were in the company were all memorable. None more so than the Queen of Extreme herself, Francine. It’s a busy time for her at present, not just organising the ECW Reunion event (more about that on page 21 of this edition), working for WEW and getting ready to give birth in the next few months. Here Francine looks back at her career and tells us more about the ECW Reunion and WEW.

SA: Thanks for the interview, firstly I have to ask how's the pregnancy going?

F: Everything is going great. I'm 6 months pregnant now and couldn't be happier!

SA: You won a front row ticket for Monday Night Raw in a competition that also saw you shooting a commercial with Vince McMahon, what was that like and did that spark off your desire to get into the wrestling business?

F: It was a lot of fun. I really wanted to get involved once I started watching ECW in 1993. That's when I called and started my training at the ECW Arena.

SA: December 1993 saw you join ECW and you were the first graduate at the ECW House of Hardcore training school, what was that training experience like?

F: I was the only girl there, so it was hard at first. But I was determined to make it, so I kept at it and the rest is history.

SA: It wasn't until 1995 that you debuted as a fan of Stevie Richards, what are your memories of your first ECW appearance?

F: Scared. I had to sit in the crowd with the fans and the Philly fans are really crazy. Plus I had to talk on the mic and that was pretty frightening as well. But fun nonetheless.

SA: How different do you think your career would have been if you'd taken up the offer to join WWE as 'Sister Love' and why did you turn that offer down?

F: I'm sure it would of been completely different. But I am glad I stayed with ECW. I was just completely comfortable with the locker room and I was happy, so why leave and change anything?

SA: What was it about the company, both in and out of the ring that made it so memorable?

F: That fact that we were a family. I love the boys and had a great 7 years there.

SA: What was Paul Heyman like to work with?

F: Paul was great. So smart and talented. And willing to listen to our ideas.

SA: What are your memories of working with Beulah McGillicutty and was there any real rivalry between the women in ECW?

F: Her and I had a great time together. We all got along for the most part. People fight sometimes and then you get over it. It's a job first and foremost, but it never really felt like work to me because I enjoyed it so much.

SA: One such move saw you end up with a broken pelvic bone, what are your recollections of that injury and did it put you off taking bumps in the future?

F: Not at all. Bam Bam didn't tell me what he was going to do to me, and accidents happens. I never blamed anyone for my injuries. You take a chance every time you get into the ring. I just wanted to work!

SA: How did the atmosphere change in the company as the financial problems grew and the future of ECW became more doubtful?

F: We all became worried and depressed but as they say the show must go on. So we continued to work.

SA: 2002 saw you in TNA feuding with Elektra, Jasmine St Claire and Taylor Vaughn, those were the early days of TNA, what did you think of the company and why did you leave after the match with St Claire?

F: I only signed a 4 night deal and they didn't know what to do with me anymore so that was pretty much it. I had fun while it lasted.

SA: In 2005 the Hardcore Homecoming and WWE's One Night Stand ECW reunion shows were held and you appeared on both. How did each show compare and how emotional was it for you being reunited with many of the original ECW roster?

F: It was great to be involved with both shows and I loved seeing everyone again. I was happy to be on both shows.

SA: Following that appearance at One Night Stand, you signed a contract with WWE to appear on the new ECW brand working with Balls Mahoney in his feud with Kevin Thorn and Ariel. What did you think of this new version of ECW and was it disappointing you were released after only a few months?

F: I wasn't happy there and asked for my release. I got it a month and a half later. I was relieved. I'm much happier now then I've ever been. It just wasn't my cup of tea.

SA: In June, you're holding the 'Legends of the Arena' event in aid of the American Cancer Society. Can you tell my readers more about what they can expect on June 27th and the reasons for putting on the event?

F: My father and sister both died of cancer 4 days apart from each other last September. My other sister had kidney cancer and beat it. So cancer has affected my family deeply. I know there is still a desire for the original ECW product, so I wanted to have a reunion using only former ECW talent at the former ECW arena and be able to make a donation to the American Cancer Society on behalf of my Dad and sister. The fans can expect a bit of the past and a lot of fun. I can't wait! For more info, please go to www.myspace.com/legendsofthearena

SA: How frustrating is it that you can't use the ECW name?

F: It's ok. People know what kind of show it is just by looking at the talent booked and where it is being held. Those letters don't have to be mentioned at all and you still know!

SA: How can my readers find out more about you, your career and all the ventures you're working on at present?

F: www.myspace.com/francinefournier

To read more of this interview, go to www.fightingfemales.co.uk. The latest edition also includes interviews with Tammy Sytch, Melissa Coates, Roxie Cotton, Lizzie Valentine. Rick Cataldo and more.

USWO Results 5/8/09 And USWO/ATL Results 5/9/09

-- Lekisha Oliver

USWO Results – Stadium Inn, Nashville, Tennessee: Dyron Flynn & "The Doctor of Style" Richard Lowe def. White Tiger & Psycho Medic; Jesse Emerson def. Phil Wilson; Stylin’ Shane Eden def. Convict & Drifter; Jason Xavier def. "Limited Edition" Lee Cross via count out; Mitch Ryder def. James Duncan; Chrisjen Hayme def. Bryan Casey; Josh Crowe & Damien Payne def. Saint & Tim Renesto in a 2 out of 3 falls match. (5-8-09).

USWO/ATL Results – Stadium Inn, Nashville, Tennessee: "Mr.110%" LT Falk def. Damien Payne via disqualification; Jason Xavier & Harold Knight def. “Bad Boy” Kevin Dunn & Bad Boy Dixon; Kevin James def. Psycho Medic; “Impressive” Anthony Wayne def. Robbie Ruffin; Josh Crowe def. Aiden Scott via disqualification; Tony Falk, LT Falk, TJ Weatherby & Cody Weatherby def. James Duncan, Richard Lowe, Damien Payne & Chris Norte. (5-9-09)

Saturday, May 9, 2009

M-1 CHALLENGE IN BRAZIL TO STREAM LIVE TONIGHT ON M-1GLOBAL.COM AND MIXFIGHT.RU FOR NON-U.S. AND KOREAN RESIDENTS

-- M-1 Global

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -

Sao Paulo, Brazil - A much anticipated best-of-five series between the 2008 defending M-1 Challenge Cup Champions Team Imperial and host country Brazil headlines a 15-bout "M-1 Challenge Presented by Affliction" event that will be streamed live on Saturday night from the luxurious Ginasio Esporte Clube Sirio in Sau Paulo, Brazil.

The live stream will be available free of charge to non-U.S. and non-Korean residents, free of charge, courtesy of M-1 Global starting at 8 p.m. local Sao Paul time and 7 p.m. ET and 4 p.m. PT. Fans of the M-1 Challenge will be able to access tonight's stream at both the English-language website for M-1 at www.M-1Global.com and Russian-language site at www.Mixfight.ru.

In addition to Brazil and Fedor Emelianenko's Team Imperial competing for a playoff spot in Pool B, 2008 M-1 Challenge finalists Team Benelux will return to action against Bulgaria in a Group C matchup while Germany and Russia Legion to compete for sole possession of first place in Group D.

For Brazil and Imperial, both teams will be look for redemption after suffering upset losses to Team U.S.A. West and South Korea, respectively. Both teams have made significant changes heading into tonight's fight with M-1 Selection graduates Amirkhan Mazikov and Maksim Grishin stepping in to replace Mikhail Malyutin and Alexy Oleinik.

The lineup changes for Imperial marks a drastic change in philosophy from last year, as the team made just one lineup change the entire season, with Oleinik being brought on in the finals when Kirill Sidelnikov was signed by Affliction to fight Paul Buentello during January's "Day of Reckoning" event.

Mazikov, 1-0, will be stepping up at lightweight and will be giving up a lot of experience against Brazilian Hacran Dias, a tremendous prospect with a 10-0-1 record. Meanwhile, Grishin, 1-0, will take on Joaquim "Mamute" Ferreira, 7-2. Grishin will be giving up a lot of experience in the ring, but will have a four and a half inch reach advantage.

Imperial will also be looking for Mikahil Zayats, 8-2, its ace, to bounce back following February's shocking upset against South Korea's Jae Young Kim. The loss was just the second of Zayats' career and his first during M-1 Challenge competition. One of the top light heavyweight prospects in MMA, Zayats will look to get back on the winning track vs. Brazil's Alexander Machado.

Eduardo Pamplona, the lone holdover since the team's Feb. opener in Tacoma, was still expected to face former BodogFIGHT veteran Erik Oganov despite having encountered troubles making weight on Friday. Despite the weight issues, the former IFL superfight veteran's showdown with Oganov is one of the most anticipated of the evening.

Joining Imperial and Brazil in a quest for redemption if Benelux, which was upset in Tacoma by Finland. Back for Benelux will be Jason Jones, who is looking for revenge after losing an upset unanimous decision to Marcus Vanttinen. The team will also receive a major shot in the arm from perhaps the most talented heavyweight in the M-1 Challenge, Jessie Gibbs. Gibbs compiled a perfect 4-0 during regular season play in the '08 M-1 Challenge but was not present at the '09 season opener in Tacoma. Back on the roster, the 6-2 rising star will taking on Nikola Dipchikov, a newcomer to Team Bulgaria.

Team Bulgaria is led by Jordan Radev, both a former UFC fighter and a former Bulgarian national wrestling team member. After getting shut out in their home country on Bulgaria vs. USA East this past March, its imperative for Radev and his teammates to step up and make a respectable showing vs. Benelux. Another lopsided defeat could eliminate any possibility of qualifying for the '09 post-season.

In the third team challenge, Germany is out to prove its 5-0 win against Turkey in March while in Bulgaria was no fluke. But they face a major step up in competition tonight against Russia Legion, the third-place finisher in the '08 M-1 Challenge. Head-to-head matchups between Radev and Legion's Sergey Kornev along with Bulgaria's Ivan Ivanov vs. Magomed Shihshabekov are just two fights for fans to look forward to.

By the end of Saturday evening, 30 fights representing teams from six different countries will have competed in the fourth edition of the 2009 "M-1 Challenge Presented by Affliction" in Sao Paulo, and non-U.S. and non-Korean residents will be able to partake in all of the excitement free of charge at both www.M-1Global.com and www.Mixfight.ru start at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

The complete 15-bout lineup with official weights is listed below:

Team Challenge Number One: Bulgaria vs. Benelux -

1. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Yanko Yanev (Bulgaria - 69.5 kg) vs. Dan van Bergen (Benelux - 70 kg)
2. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Ivan Ivanov (Bulgaria - 76 kg) vs. Raymond Jarman (Benelux - 69.3 kg)
3. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Jordan Radev (Bulgaria - 83.8 kg) vs. Danny Smit (Benelux - 82.7 kg)
4. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Emil Samoilov (Bulgaria - 91.6 kg) vs. Jason Jones (Benelux - 89.4 kg)
5. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Nikola Dipchkov (Bulgaria - 96.6 kg) vs. Jessie Gibbs (Benelux - 125 kg)

Team Challenge Number Two: Russia Legion vs. Germany -

6. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Yura Ivlev (Legion - 69.2 kg) vs. Franco de Leonardis (Germany - 70 kg)
7. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Magomed Shihshabekov (Legion - 75.3 kg) vs. Sven Heising (Germany - 76 kg)
8. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Sergey Kornev (Legion - 83.7 kg) vs. Gregor Herb (Germany - 83.7 kg)
9. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Gadzimyrat Omarov (Legion - 92.8 kg) vs. Ismail Centinkaya (Gemany - 83.8 kg)
10. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Akhmed Sultanov (Legion - 110 kg) vs. Lars Klug (Germany - 109.7 kg)

Team Challenge Number Three: Brazil vs. Team Imperial -

11. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Hacran Dias (Brazil - 69.3 kg) vs. Amirkhan Mazikhov (Imperial - 69.8 kg)
12. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Eduardo Pamplona (Brazil - *76.6 kg) vs. Erik Oganov (Imperial - 75.9 kg)
13. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Leandro Silva (Brazil - 83.6 kg) vs. Dmitry Samoilov (Imperial - 83.8 kg)
14. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Alexander Machado (Brazil - 92.6 kg) vs. Mikhail Zayats (Imperial - 91.2 kg)
15. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Joaquim Ferreira de Rocha (Brazil - 106 kg) vs. Maksim Grishin (Imperial - 96.6 kg)

* Pamplona was still 0.6 kg above weight as of press time. He is scheduled to weigh-in a third time in order to meet his contracted weight of -76 kg.

Funk's Corner - The Legacy Of Wahoo McDaniel's Indian Strap Match

-- Dory Funk

In Amarillo, Texas in 1965 Wahoo McDaniel introduced the Indian Strap Match to professional wrestling, winning a bloody battle against The Viking. (Bob Morris)

In Las Vegas Nevada in 1987 while wrestling for the AWA, Wahoo McDaniel wrestled Mr. Perfect, Kurt Hennig in an Indian Strap Match. With Wahoo on the way to victory, Adrian Adonnis ran to ringside with a butcher knife and slashed the strap. Wahoo McDaniel was declared the winner by disqualification.

May 3rd, 2009 at the Funking Conservatory's !BANG! TV Taping, Wahoo McDaniel Jr continued the tradition of his father's legacy facing Jumbo Elvis Sharp using the same Indian Strap used by Wahoo McDaniel Sr. against Kurt Hennig in Las Vegas and The Viking in Amarillo.

Now on !BANG! TV at http://www.dory-funk.com, Indian Strap Match, Wahoo McDaniel Jr. vs Jumbo Elvis Sharp, Indian Strap Match. (Includes close up photo of Wahoo Jr.'s stitched up Indian Strap used in his father's historic Strap Matches).

For information on training schedules at the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School, Call 352-895-4658 or visit http://www.dory-funk.com.

Tonight and Tomorrow Night at the Funking Conservatory All Japan Pro Wrestling Tryouts with Osamu Nishimura. For ticket information call 352-895-4658.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

HDNET'S "INSIDE MMA" TO AIR BROADCAST OF FEDOR VERSUS AOKI

-- HDNet

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HDNet presents the exclusive television broadcast of this exhibition match on "Inside MMA" Friday, May 8 at 9:00 p.m. ET

DALLAS (May 7, 2009) - This Friday's "Inside MMA" will feature exclusive footage from an exhibition match between reigning WAMMA heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko and WAMMA Lightweight champion Shinya Aoki.

The five-minute sparring match took place on April 29 during the recent M-1 Challenge event at the Differ Ariake in Japan.

"Inside MMA" co-hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten will provide commentary for the match while also gaining insights from this week's "Inside MMA" panelists, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Patrick Cote and Andre Galvao.

HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the first and only one of its kind - an original, weekly television program devoted completely to news and highlights from the world of Mixed Martial Arts.

Hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten are joined by the sport's top fighters and news-makers every week to discuss and analyze the latest in MMA. The program also includes event highlights, viewer mail, and Ron Kruck providing up-to-the-minute news and features with Kruck's Korner. "Inside MMA" has become the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving fans their weekly fix of everything MMA.

Since the program's inception in September of 2007, "Inside MMA" has covered some of the biggest stories in the business, presenting interviews with the biggest names involved. From Randy Couture's legal battles with the UFC to Seth Petruzelli's upset win over Kimbo - and the Florida State Athletic Commission's investigation of that fight - to the fall of EliteXC, "Inside MMA" has covered it all.

"Inside MMA," HDNet's weekly series covering the latest news, rankings, stats and highlights from the world of Mixed Martial Arts airs every Friday at 9:00 p.m. ET.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is a network that is original, thinks independently and delivers
unique content and provocative, authentic programming that appeals to men of all ages, delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts through HDNet Fights. HDNet Fights partners with leading MMA promoters including Affliction, DREAM, Sengoku, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live mixed martial arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest mixed martial arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Vegas Confessions," "Deadline" and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

Only HDNet Movies delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, and Emily Blunt.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Girlfriend Experience" directed by Steven Soderbergh.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies presents viewers with over one hundred films and an average of twenty-five "HD Premieres" each month. HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net.

Exosphere, A Sports Marketing And Holding Company, Reports Its MMA Advertising Network Sees Substantial Gains In Impressions

-- Exosphere Aircraft Company, Inc.

TEMPE, Ariz., May 7, 2009 -- Extreme Sports Marketing, Inc. (Pink Sheets:EXSA), a sports marketing and holding company focused on one of the fastest growing sports -- Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) -- today announced that its MMA Advertising Network has seen substantial gains in the number of impressions registered over the first four months of 2009.

Total impressions for the 2009 first quarter amounted to 10,932,464. April impressions totaled 4,417,131 -- 40% of first quarter results in just the first month of the second quarter.

"I would have to associate the impression growth with the continued success and exposure of the MMA industry as a whole, along with our improved website and our growing affiliate network," said CEO Jason Genet. "We have some of the best affiliate sites, which translates into greater exposure for our advertisers by offering a higher click-through rate.

About Extreme Sports Marketing, Inc.

Extreme Sports Marketing, Inc., also known as Exosphere Aircraft Company, Inc. is a sports marketing and holding corporation focusing on one of the fasting growing sport today, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). MMA Advertising Network, also known as MMAAdNet or MMAAN, all of which can visited at www.MMAAdNet.com, is one of only a handful of specialized advertising networks focused on linking MMA websites with a very dynamic demographic -- men between the ages of 18 to 35.

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any of the forward-looking statements. The words "plan," "confident that," "believe," "scheduled," "expect," or "intend to," and similar conditional expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations or any of its forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to, the availability of components and successful production of the company's products, successful performance of internal plans, the impact of competitive services and pricing, general economic risks and uncertainties, and various other information detailed from time to time in the company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof. In addition, the company cannot guarantee the outcome concerning past events, this is not a recommendation to buy or sell this security. This should be construed as an informational statement concerning progress to date. We will continue to make our very best efforts in updating corporate records as reported in recent news announcements. As the past continues to be a challenge, the company still remains very optimistic with its focus on the sports marketing arena.

WWE(R) Reports 2009 First Quarter Results

-- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

http://canvaschronicle.com/PressReleaseQ109050609FINAL_000.pdf

Monday, May 4, 2009

Lashley-Sapp Headlines “Ultimate Chaos”

-- Bob Trieger

MMA PPV June 27 In Biloxi, MS

Below and attached find the lead release, as well as quotes from today's press conference, for the June 27th "Ultimate Chaos" MMA pay-per-view event in Biloxi, Mississippi. Also attached is a picture from today's press conference: (L-R) Bobby Lashley, co-promoter Ricky Derouen and Bob Sapp. (photo by Pamela Rogers) Media credential request forms will be distributed tomorrow.



BILOXI, Miss. (May 4, 2009) – The cage may have to be reinforced for the “Ultimate Chaos” headliner as former WWE star Bobby Lashley and mixed-martial-arts legend Bob “The Beast” Sapp battle June 27 on a special pay-per-view event live from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Mississippi.

The chiseled 6-3, 265-pound Lashley (2-0), 3-time NCAA champion (1996-98) and 4-time All-America wrestler at Missouri Valley College, takes on the 6-4, 350-pound Sapp (10-3-1), who played in the NFL for four years before becoming an iconic combat fighter in Japan.

“Ultimate Chaos,” presented by Prize Fight Promotions and Fight Force International, in association with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum, Treasure Bay Casino and Budweiser, is being produced and distributed by Gotham MMA and Integrated Sports at 9:00PM ET/6:00PM PT in the United States on cable and satellite via iNDemand, TVN and DirecTV for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“There is a huge MMA fan base down here on the coast and this card speaks for itself,” co-promoter Ricky Derouen (Chairman of the Board, Fight Force International) said. “I’m very proud to have this event in my hometown. That really means a lot to me. Just to give an idea of the hype surrounding this event, the tickets go on sale May 8th. We have 1,300 floor seats available and 1,100 of those are already gone. The tickets aren’t even for sale, yet, so that’s a good thing.”

After graduating from Missouri Valley College, Lashley joined the U.S. Army and was a 2-time Armed Forces Champion and 2002 Military Games Championship silver medalist. Two years ago, Lashley became a WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) superstar, joining Donald Trump at Wrestlemania 23 in a bet against WWE president.

Vince McMahon. Lashley won the match and helped Trump shave McMahon’s head in the ring. Bobby made his MMA debut last December 13, stopping Joshua Franklin only 0.41 into the opening round, and March 21 he won a 3-round decision versus 37-fight veteran Jason Guida in Pensacola (FL).

Sapp starred as an offensive lineman on the University of Washington’s football team, winning the prestigious Morris Award, and he was selected in the third round of the NFL draft in 1997 by the Chicago Bears. Bob turned to pro wrestling after football and was later recruited by Pride in Japan, where his incredible size, strength and bull-rush style made him an instant fan favorite. He went on to star in K-1 as well as become an actor, playing roles in movies like The Longest Yard and Elektra.

In the co-feature, controversial Dutch heavyweight Gilbert “The Hurricane” Yvel faces Brazilian striker, Pedro “The Rock” Rizzo (16-8-0), former UFC heavyweight title challenger.

Lightweight Din “Dinyero” Thomas (24-8-0), star of The Ultimate Fighter 4, meets former KOTC and Gladiator Challenge champion Javier “Showtime” Vasquez, while hot Canadian lightweight prospect Chris “The Polish Hammer” Horodecki (12-1-0) tangles with dangerous William “The Bull” Sriyapai (12-4-0).

Also fighting on the card, welterweights Brett Cooper (8-4-0) and Waachiim “Native Warrior” Spirit Wolf (5-4) throw-down against each other, Affliction vice president Tom Atencio (1-0) moves from the office to the cage against Randy Hedderick, middleweights James Oros (3-2-0) and Colby McMahan (1-0-0) also square-off.

Tickets are priced at $25.00 (limited discount seating), $40.00 (general admission) and $55.00 (premium reserved seating) and go on sale May 8 (8 AM/CT) at the Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and all TicketMaster outlets.

For more information go to www.theultimatechaos.com, www.fightforce.org or www.mscoastcoliseum.com. Doors open at 5PM/CT, first fight 6 PM/CT, and the first PPV fight is at 8 PM/CT.

PRESSER QUOTES

Bobby Lashley - “I’m going to try and be good this time. Let’s be honest, this fight is going to be a train wreck. It’s two guys going out there to bang and it’s not going to take three rounds to do it, either; one maybe two. The fans are going to get what they want and June 27th Bob Sapp is going to get beat!”

Bob Sapp - “My opponent, as you can see, is a big boy. He’s big and strong, but he’s yet to be tested. I’m here to give him his test and I’m here to let you know it is going to be an F.”

Tom Atencio - “I want to thank Prize Fight as well as Fight Force for putting on this card. I’ve been seen in front of the cameras before as far as the business side, but it’s time to fight. I’m doing something Dana White won’t do and that’s fight. He talks like a fighter, so why doesn’t he fight? I’m stepping up to the plate and win, lose or draw I attempted it. I don’t ever think he would fight.”

Randy Hedderick - “I would like to thank Tom for this opportunity. This is very huge for me. I’m expecting a war and I’ll see everybody on June 27th.”

-###

CONTACTS:

Pamela Rogers, Pamela Rogers PR, 1.818.282.5788, pamela@pamelarogerspr.com

Bob Trieger, Full Court Press, 1.978.664.4482, bobtfcp@hotmail.com

Percy Crawford, (985) 710-2654, nardfan@bellsouth.net

FEDOR VS. AOKI VIDEO: WATCH NOW AT M-1GLOBAL.COM

-- M-1 Global

Courtesy of M-1 Global, exclusive video of the special sparring exhibition conducted between WAMMA heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko and WAMMA lightweight champion Shinya Aoki is now available.

With commentary provided by M-1 Challenge commentators Sean Wheelock and Jimmy Smith, Fedor and Aoki engaged in a Sambo-style grappling competition last Wednesday evening in Tokyo, Japan at Differ Ariake during the third edition of the M-1 Challenge.

Free of charge, please enjoy this video in its entirety by clicking here or copying and pasting the following URL into your browser: http://www.m-1global.com/en/news/detail/id/9317/fedor-vs-aoki-watch-it-here-now

Saturday, May 2, 2009

COMING OFF LOSSES, RUSSIA IMPERIAL AND TEAM BENELUX MAKE MAJOR LINEUP CHANGES IN ANTICIPATION OF M-1 BRAZIL ON MAY 9

-- M-1 Global

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -

Amsterdam, Holland -- When the inaugural season of the M-1 Challenge (www.M-1Glolbal.com) in 2008 was complete, there were two teams left standing: Team Benelux (formerly Team Holland) and Team Imperial (formerly Russia Red Devil). Team Imperial went on to win the first-ever M-1 Challenge Championship Cup and was poised to repeat in 2009.

With both Benelux and Imperial in action during the 2009 "M-1 Challenge Presented by Affliction" season opener in Tacoma, Wash. this past February, both were favored to win their respective matchups vs. Team Finland and South Korea. But a funny thing happened in their first steps towards returning to the finals, as Benelux and Imperial were on the receiving end of upset defeats.

Both teams are set to return to action in their second team matchup of the season during the fourth edition of the 2009 M-1 Challenge on Saturday, May 9 in Sao Paulo, Brazil at the Esporte Clube Síri. And as Imperial and Benelux look to get back to their winning ways, each team has made significant lineup changes.

For Team Imperial, there will be new fighters at lightweight and heavyweight. After going 5-2 during M-1 competition in 2008, Mikhail Malyutin established himself as the premier lightweight fighter in the M-1 Challenge. However, he was upset in Tacoma against South Korea's Do Hyung Kim and decided to take a fight for the Pro Fighting Championship promotion in Russia at the end of March.

In place of Malyutin, Fedor Emelianenko's Imperial Team will turn to hot shot prospect prospect Amirkhan Mazihov, a product of M-1 Global's M-1 Selection fight series. The M-1 Selection series is a season-long competition featuring the top gyms in Russia vying for the right to represent their home country in next year's M-1 Challenge.

For Mazihov, his chance to represent Russia will come sooner than expected after he dazzled M-1 matchmakers during his pro debut on March 13 in which he recorded a second round submission over Rustam Tasheuv. He will have to earn the right to remain on the Imperial roster by performing well during its head-to-head Group B matchup on May 9 against host country Brazil.

When Kirill Sidelnikov was signed by Affliction to fight Paul Buentello at "Day of Reckoning" in January, Imperial turned to Alexey Oleinik to fill-in as its heavyweight. All Oleinik did was go 2-0 with wins over both Jessie Gibbs and Sang Soo Lee via a pair of Ezekiel chokes. But with a Team Imperial gym loaded with prospects, the temptation to add Maksim Grishin to the roster following his impressive first round TKO over Magomed Umarov during March's M-1 Selection event in St. Petersburg, Russia was too good to resist.

Imperial's road to redemption will not be easy against host country Brazil. The official subtitle of the May 9 M-1 Challenge event is "Fourth Edition," but "M-1 Redemption" might be a more befitting name. In addition to Benelux and Imperial looking to bounce back, Team Brazil wants some payback after being upset during the '09 opener against USA West. The Brazilian team took its loss on foreign soil hard and a defeat on its home turf is not an option. With the exception of welterweight Eduardo Pamplona, a former IFL superfight veteran, Brazil has overhauled its entire roster.

Stepping up at lightweight to fight Mazihov in place of the injured Flavio Alvaro is Hacran Dias, a dynamic 24-year old prospect training out of Nova Uniao with a 10-0-1 record. After Juliano Belgine lost a split decision to USA West's Reggie Orr in Tacoma, Team Brazil coaches made the decision to bring in Leandro Silva Batata as its new middleweight fighter. Joining Batata and Dias as additions to Team Brazil are light heavyweight Alexander Machado and Joaquim Ferreira de Rocha.

Batata and Machado will be fighting Imperial holdovers Dmitry Samoilov and Mikhail Zayats, who is looking to rebound from his upset loss in Tacoma against Jae Young Kim while de Rocha will draw Grishin.

The most notable change for Benelux is the return of heavyweight Jessie Gibbs, one of the most dominant fighters during the 2008 M-1 Challenge. However, Gibbs disappointed his coaches after getting choked out during the Championship finals vs. Oleinik this past January. But with Gibbs re-focused and said to be training harder than ever, the decision was made to re-insert him into the lineup after Sander Duyvis, his replacement, was TKO'd by Finland's Toni Valtonen just 18 seconds into their fight in Tacoma.

With a 6-2 record that includes a win over current UFC heavyweight Denis Stojnic, Gibbs and light heavyweight teammate Jason Jones will look to move Benelux up the standings in Group C as it faces Team Bulgaria, which was routed 5-0 in its home country by USA East on March 28 during the second edition of the M-1 Challenge.

In all, a total of 30 fighters competing in 15 fights during three head-to-head matchups featuring six teams are scheduled for the May 9 event in Sao Paulo. In addition to Benelux vs. Bulgaria and the Imperial Team vs. Brazil fights, a much anticipated matchup between Germany and Russia Legion is also slated as well. Both Legion and Germany won in Bulgaria with Germany currently ahead of Legion in the standings as a result of the first tiebreaker of individual wins. The Germans hold a slight one fight lead over Legion with at 5-0 individual record compared to 4-1.

The complete head-to-head lineup for the event is as follows:

Team Challenge Number One: Bulgaria vs. Benelux

1. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Yanko Yanev (Bulgaria) vs. Dan van Bergen (Benelux)
2. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Ivan Ivanov (Bulgaria) vs. Raymond Jarman (Benelux)
3. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Jordan Radev (Bulgaria) vs. Danny Smit (Benelux)
4. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Emil Zaharev (Bulgaria) vs. Jason Jones (Benelux)
5. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Nikola Dipchkov (Bulgaria) vs. Jessie Gibbs (Benelux)

Team Challenge Number Two: Russia Legion vs. Germany

6. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Yuri Ivlev (Legion) vs. Franco de Leonardis (Germany)
7. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Magomed Shihshabekov (Legion) vs. Sven Heising (Germany)
8. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Sergey Kornev (Legion) vs. Gregor Herb (Germany)
9. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Gadzimyrat Omarov (Legion) vs. Adam Bakayoko (Germany)
10. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Akhmed Sultanov (Legion) vs. Lars Klug (Germany)

Team Challenge Number Three: Brazil vs. Team Imperial

11. Lightweight (154 lbs./-70 kg): Hacran Dias (Brazil) vs. Amirkhan Mazikhov (Imperial)
12. Welterweight (167.2 lbs./-76 kg): Eduardo Pamplona (Brazil) vs. Erik Oganov (Imperial)
13. Middleweight (184.8 lbs./-84 kg): Leandro Silva Batata (Brazil) vs. Dmitry Samoilov (Imperial)
14. Light Heavyweight (204.6 lbs./-93 kg): Alexander Machado (Brazil) vs. Mikhail Zayats (Imperial)
15. Heavyweight: (204.7 lbs.-plus/+93 kg): Joaquim Ferreira de Rocha (Brazil) vs. Maksim Grishin (Imperial)

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CONTACT: Jacob Schaap of M-1 Global at jacob.schaap@m-1global.com.

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ABOUT M-1 GLOBAL AND THE "M-1 CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY AFFLICTION:"

M-1 Global (www.M-1Global.com) has been one of the leading Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organizations in the world for over a decade. International MMA stars who have fought under the M-1 banner have included Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Aleksander Emelianenko, Keith Jardine, Alistair Overeem, Yushin Okami, Ben Rothwell, Mike Pyle, Melvin Manhoef, Roman Zenstov, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Amar Suloev, and Chalid Arrab, to name a few.

Billed as the "World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts," the M-1 Challenge is a full season of MMA events sponsored by partner Affliction that showcases some of the best up and coming MMA fighters in the world. Broadcast to over 80 countries around the world, including HDNet in the United States, the M-1 Challenge pits teams of five fighters representing their respective countries against each other for international bragging rights and the title of M-1 Challenge Champions.

The "M-1 Challenge Presented by Affliction" affords MMA prospects all over the world an opportunity to test their skills, gain valuable experience at the international level, and become future stars in the sport of MMA. Fighters who succeed on the M-1 Challenge's international breeding ground will earn the opportunity to participate in major MMA events presented by M-1 Global and their promotional partners such as Affliction Entertainment.