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

Saturday, February 28, 2009

MMA BigShow Announces Partnership With Pure Romance As New Title Sponsor For March And April Events At Belterra Casino Resort & Spa

-- MMA BigShow

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pure Romance will take the center of the MMA BigShow cage and the title of its new broadcast initiatives

Cincinnati, OH (February 28, 2009) -- MMA BigShow, the region's most-established mixed martial arts promotion, and Pure Romance Inc, a home-built multi-million-dollar company based in Cincinnati, formally announced today a major partnership establishing Pure Romance as the title sponsor of the first two MMA BigShow events of the year on March 7th and April 11th at the Belterra Casion, Resort & Spa in (city)

Pure Romance will take the center of the MMA BigShow cage for the inaugural March 7th show at Belterra with their logo appearing prominently on the mat and in the resulting broadcast of the show.

"We are elated to have Pure Romance, Inc. as part of the MMA BigShow family," said Jason Appleton, owner of MMA BigShow. "It's a classy company that prides itself on its integrity and I feel it's a perfect match for what we do with the MMA BigShow. I could not be happier."

The March 7th MMA BigShow event, entitled RETRIBUTION, will pit IFL/Bodog Veteran Seth Bacsynski versus MMA BigShow 170lb Champion "Relentless" Roger Bowling. Also appearing on the card is WEC Veteran Brendan Seguin versus 185lb Champion Billy "Mojo" Horne.

The April 11 HEAVY HITTERS card will feature UFC Veteran Josh Hendricks, whose most recent fight was against Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 91 - Lesner Vs Couture, will be fighting current BigShow Heavyweight Champion Brian Heden, whose most recent fight ended with a knockout win over Rod Housely, who previously held titles in other promotions.

RETRIBUTION will be shot LIVE-to-tape as a one-hour television broadcast to air regionally on the CW the week prior to the April 11th event, which will also be shot live-to-tape for regional airing.

Future plans call for additional programming to be sourced from the content created at both the March and April shows and in addition to the scheduled Belterra fights, the television program will also feature a more behind the scenes look into some of the fighter's lives and personalities.

There are also plans to produce a reality show focusing on the training and lives of MMA BigShow fighters preparing for their fights, which will finish out each show.

Tickets for both the March 7th and April 11th shows are on sale now through Ticketweb, order by phone at 866-468-3401 or find direct links to fight cards and ticket sales pages at www.mmabigshow.com.

Tickets are $35, $45 and $55 depending on seat location for ages 21 and over only.

About Pure Romance Inc:

www.pureromance.com

Founded in 1993 by Patty Brisben, Pure Romance is an in-home party company which offers an exclusive line of heighteners, lubricants and bedroom accessories for relationship enhancement. Pure Romance products are not sold in stores but may be purchased at in-home parties or through a network of independent sales consultants. Currently, thousands of Consultants nationwide from all 50 states, Canada, and the Virgin Islands are teaching the art of romance. In a little over a decade, Pure Romance has grown into a multi-million dollar company, bringing in $43 million in retail sales during 2004 alone. Based in Cincinnati with 80 full-time employees, Pure Romance operates out of a state-of-the-art facility comprised of a 40,000-square-foot distribution center and a 10,000-square-foot Corporate Office. In addition to a full-time Customer Service Staff, the company also invested over a quarter of a million dollars to provide a fully automated communication system which offers Consultants 24 hour service and support. Other Pure Romance support systems include an in-house Marketing Agency, National Training Department, Health Education Department as well as a corporate interactive website.

About MMA BigShow:

www.mmabigshow.com

Founded in 2006 by Jason Appleton, MMA Big Show has built a name and reputation established by promoting the regions biggest and most successful events at venues such as the NKY Convention, Cincinnati Gardens Arena and many others where national veterans of promotions such as the UFC, Elite XC, IFL and others are brought in to fight MMA Big Show Champions such as Billy "Mojo" Horne vs. Josh "Bring The Pain" Haynes at MMA Big Show: Martial Fury at Belterra Casino Resort & Spa. Preparing for the 2009 year MMA Big Show has begun signing professional fighters to exclusive contracts such as Roger Bowling, Mojo Horne, Joe Ammerman and Dave Hess with more to come. Each Big Show fighter is also getting his/her own exclusive merchandise line of which they receive a percentage of revenues. 2009 will be a banner year for the Big Show as they broaden their television reach and build on an already successful promotion.

KJ Noons Looking For Work

-- Ric Gillespie

If you were still holding out hope that KJ Noons would soon be returning to mixed-martial-arts (and, if you were, that makes one of us), forget it.

If, however, you're interested in booking Noons, the boxer, contact City Boxing's Mark Dion (mark@cityboxing.com, 310-877-8209).

Friday, February 27, 2009

An Incredible Tag Match Caps Off An Exciting Night Of Wrestling At Aston University In Birmingham, This Past Friday!

-- Oliver Newman

IPW:UK/AWW Wrestling LIVE report from Aston University, Birmingham, England (Friday 20th February 2009)

Venue: Aston University
Time: 8:00pm
Date: Friday 20th February 2009
Attendance: Standing Room Only

Non Title
Gladiator Oblivion vs. Spud ©

This was the kind of match you expected going in Big Man vs. Little Man, Oblivion’s strength vs. Spud’s speed and agility. Oblivion was too much for Spud in the early going this caused Spud to rethink his strategy, deciding on riling Oblivion up on the Ring Announcer’s Microphone “Oblivion you are a big Pussy”. This seemed like a sound strategy as Spud was able to catch the big man off guard and hit some of his signature moves, when it looked like Spud could secure the big upset, Oblivion used his ring savvy and some underhand tactics to hit a low blow on Spud, following up immediately with a Twisting DVD for the three count.

Match Time: 15 Minutes
Winner: Gladiator Oblivion

‘Toughest man to ever wear a Dress’ Vito vs. Current CZW Best Of The Best ‘Black Jesus’ Sabian

The Birmingham fans showed their love for Vito, with “Vito, Vito” chants. Sabian didn’t get the same reception as he was booed for the majority of the match. Vito used the dress as an effective weapon against Sabian to the point where it riled him up so much he shouted out “I came here to wrestle, so lets wrestle” Vito responded with “You want to wrestle, I’ll wrestle” and then just as they were about to lock-up he lifted up his dress again taking Sabian completely out of the game! Mostly a comedy match with flashes of wrestling which thoroughly entertained the crowd; the match ends with Sabian getting caught with Vito’s Impaler DDT. The fans showed Sabian some respect after the match ended though; he obviously left them with a good impression.

Match Time: 10 minutes.
Winner: ‘Toughest man to ever wear a dress’ Vito

Non Title
’Irresistible’ Iestyn Rees © w/Gilligan Gordon vs. AWW’s MK Mikinan

MK comes out ready for the match, The Thrillers music interrupts and Gordon inserts Rees into the match. A pretty dominant performance from the IPW:UK Champion Rees who wins via a brutal Power bomb (which caused an MK concussion).

Aftermath: As Rees attempts another Al Snow comes out for the save, after talking about the previous night (when he beat Rees in a non title match) he goads Rees into an IPW:UK Title match tonight!

Match Time: 4 Minutes
Winners: ’Irresistible’ Iestyn Rees

1st Time Ever Meeting
Non Title
The Leaders (Zack Sabre Jr & Marty Scrull) vs. The Thrillers (‘Star Attraction’ Mark Haskins & ‘Physical Specimen’ Joel Redman) ©

THE match for a lot of the fans who turned up for the show this evening. I think it’s fair to say based on the crowd reaction at the end this match didn’t disappoint! 3 of the best wrestlers in the UK and my first time seeing Scrull. This was a frantic, fast paced tag with everything the fans could ask for and more, wrestling via Redman and Sabre Jr in the early going of the match. Scrull and Haskins brought the agility and quickness to the match and it all meshed well together. Lots of action, brutal moments Haskins’s nose being made bloody by a Sabre Jr kick to his face! Near-falls a plenty, never before seen double team manoeuvres and after 20 minutes (that seemed to fly by) Scrull tripped up Haskins and quickly followed up with a quick pin for the win.

Match Time: 20 minutes
Winners: The Leaders (Marty Scrull & Zack Sabre Jr)

Aftermath: MC for the evening Andy Quildan announces The Leaders will get a rematch vs. The Thrillers for the IPW:UK Tag Team Titles (fans go crazy) and it will be right here in Birmingham! (The roof of the place almost comes off) as the fans struggle to contain their excitement at the announcement.

INTERMISSION

‘Human Hate Machine’ Moralez vs. Doug Basham w/ Gilligan Gordon

Pre-match: Basham takes the Microphone and talks of being a 2 Time WWE Tag Team Champion, he goes on to say he’s an athlete and Moralez has man boobies.

Match: Pretty even start to the match which takes Basham out of the game somewhat. Moralez has the obvious strength advantage, a fate which Basham hasn’t been use to over his career. Basham stalls and takes the microphone once more “I think I underestimated you Moralez”. Basham states that he can hold Moralez over his head and throw him around, this begins a funny exchange when Basham attempts to pick up Moralez to no avail. Moralez returns the favour with a big power slam on Basham. The match continues to go back and forth, with Basham in the ascendancy. Basham attempts his leg lariat finisher but Moralez skilfully reverses that into a sit-down power bomb for the win.

Aftermath: A kid in the crowd STEALS Gordon’s hat!

Match Time: 17 Minutes
Winner: ‘Human Hate Machine’ Moralez

AWW Guest Match
Dave Williams vs. ‘Mr. 450’ Dan Ryder w/Miss Ryder

The fans were unsure that this was the best AWW had to offer not from Ryder’s perspective (as he has been a mainstay in the promotion) but Williams is an AWW trainee, so it seemed a strange choice to showcase AWW. Ryder looked sharp in his 2nd match back from suffering a Broken Arm against Mad Dog Maxx, Williams did not seem out of place and pulled out a spinning wheel kick which shocked everyone in attendance (myself included). Ryder inserted his usual crazy style with a moonsault to the outside which wowed the crowd. Ryder attempted the 450 for the 1st time since the Injury, missing as Williams moved out of the way. Williams took advantage of this error of judgement or so he thought but Ryder was able to win via a victory roll after reversing Williams’s attempted Tombstone Piledriver.

Winner: ‘Mr. 450’ Dan Ryder
Match Time: 12 Minutes

Main Event for the IPW:UK Heavyweight Title
Al Snow w/Head vs. ’Irresistible’ Iestyn Rees © w/ Gilligan Gordon

This match featured lots of stalling unfortunately to the point where people started leaving, as it was 10:40pm at night when the match finally started. The crowd were fully behind Snow with constant chants of “Head, Head”. The story of this match was when Snow would finally use Head as he teased it the entire time, scaring both Rees and Gordon. Rees and Snow wrestled a back and forth match, with elements of comedy and classic old school wrestling. A funny moment occurred when Rees brought a chair into the ring, He and Snow played ’pass the parcel’ with it and Snow smacked the ground and laid down (Eddie Guerrero like). Which brought loud chants of “Eddie, Eddie” he then poked Rees in the ass and when Rees jumped up the Ref accused him of hitting Snow with the Chair! The match broke down at that point and after Snow waylaid Gordon with Head, Rees quickly rolled him up whilst holding the tights for the three count.

Winner and STILL IPW:UK Heavyweight Champion: ’Irresistible’ Iestyn Rees
Match Time: 22 Minutes

I managed to catch up with ‘Black Jesus’ Sabian when he returned to Philadelphia here is what he had to say:

Oliver Newman: What did you think of Sunny Old England?

Sabian: I liked it. I just got to stay longer next time.

ON: What did you make of the tour in general, was it a success from your perspective?

S: Yeah definitely. Good crowds and good matches.

ON: How did the tour go for yourself, were you happy with your matches, the experience, etc?

S: Yeah, I really felt that the crowd was appreciative of what we all did in the ring. They were there to be entertained and to have a good time. I liked my matches, particularly the matches with Vito, Mark Sloan and Andy Boy Simmonz.

ON: What was it about your matches with Sloan, Vito and Simmonz that you enjoyed and why? (this is turning into ANOTHER interview! Opps)

S: Well, Vito and I have worked with each other a bunch of times in Spain and we have good chemistry in there. It was my first time working with Andy and Mark and right away I just knew that the matches were going to be good. We had Instant chemistry, that always leads to a good match I think. Yeah, another interview, it’s all good though.

ON: I notice you haven't mentioned your matches with what I feel are two of the best wrestlers in the UK in Zack Sabre Jr and 'Human Hate Machine' Moralez, is there a reason for this, or just an oversight?

S: Yeah, I enjoyed those matches as well. I think that Moralez is a good big man that would do well in the states. Zack and his partner Marty would definitely do big things out here too. I was also really impressed with The Thrillers and Gilligan Gordon too.

ON: What impressed you about Zack Sabre Jr, Marty Scrull & The Thrillers w/Gilligan Gordon?

S: Well the Thrillers and Gilligan really know how to get the fans riled up and they carry themselves like stars. I liked their music too. Zack and Marty are both really explosive and know how to keep the fans into what they do.

ON: What was it about your matches with Sabre Jr and Moralez that you enjoyed and why?

S: I think that if we were given more time, the matches with Zack and Moralez would have been better and they were good with the time that we were given. It's just that with more time, we could've really built the matches up more and really tore it down.

ON: Any words for Luke 'Dragon' Phoenix who missed the tour due to work commitments?

S: I was looking forward to working with Luke and hopefully we'll get to work together sometime in the future.

Upcoming Shows:

IPW:UK – Extreme Measures 4, Saturday February 28th 2009!

» IPW:UK are bringing back an old favourite as we present to you EXTREME MEASURES 4. This is what made IPW:UK a cornerstone of the British wrestling industry as it was the concept from our first event back in September 2004. Past winners of the Extreme Measures tournament include PWG superstar Super Dragon (downing ‘The Wonderkid’ Jonny Storm in the Iron Fist match), former IPW Champion “The Guvnor” Martin Stone (after defeating Spud in the final) and Leroy Kincaide.

There is, however, a slight difference in the format this year. The first round will still see eight competitors compete in singles action to advance to the next round. The four winners will then face off in a 'Final Four' match which will be contested under no DQ elimination rules. With eliminations occurring through pinfall, submission or being thrown over the top rope and both feet hitting the floor. The last man standing will then go on to face IPW:UK Champion, “Irresistible” Iestyn Rees. Usual format would see the winner of two contests then have to take on the titleholder in an Iron Fist match straight away. This year, that match will be delayed until the next Swanley event to give them plenty of time to prepare for the big match.

» To get tickets, head over to http://www.ipwuk.com/shop

Please note the special-offer ticket prices for this, the return show to Swanley!

» For more information on IPW:UK, head over to http://www.ipwuk.com

» To become a wrestling trainee with IPW:UK, head over to http://www.ipwuktraining.com

First Of The Extreme Measures Tournament Matches Announced!

» Lince Dorado is one of the top stars in American independent promotion CHIKARA. A trainee of Mike Quackenbush, Dorado recently had an excellent showing at the 2008 King of Trios tournament, coming out as one third of the winning Trio, getting the winning fall in the final himself. Lince has proven in his feuds with other top CHIKARA stars that 2009 could be his breakout year.

» ‘The Star Attraction’ Mark Haskins (of The Thrillers) is the crown jewel of the Thrillers. Considered the top up and comer in the whole of the UK for 2008, Haskins is quickly realising the potential IPW:UK saw in him 2 years ago. A product of the world renowned FWA:Academy training facility, Haskins may be inexperienced, but he’s quick, and wise beyond his years!

- Lince Dorado vs. Mark Haskins

Second Of The Extreme Measures Tournament Matches Announced!

» ‘The Human Hate Machine’ Dave Moralez has taken to his own in singles competition. Always known as one half of the former IPW:UK Tag Team Champions, The Untouchables, Dave forayed into singles action in 2008, much to the disgust of now former tag partner Jack Storm. After strong wins against Dan Head, Mark Haskins, Terry Frazier and international stars Sabian and Doug Basham, Moralez is quite clearly now at the absolute peak of his professional career and ready to move into the IPW:UK Title picture.

» ‘The Vigilante’ Johnny Moss has proven himself to be no joke when it comes to Pro Wrestling tournaments. Finishing as the runner up in the British National Championship, losing out on in the Final (his first defeat in IPW:UK), Moss is by far the biggest thing to storm into the IPW:UK rings in years. With strong wins in the past against the likes of El Ligero, Doug Williams and Sam Slam, Moss is by far Moralez’ biggest pound-for-pound challenge so far!

- Dave Moralez vs. Johnny Moss

And therefore the current card for IPW:UK’s “Extreme Measures 4” is:

“Final Four” Main Event – No DQ Elimination Match!
- Winners From The Four 1st Round Extreme Measures Bouts Collide!

Extreme Measures 4 – First Round Match
- Dave Moralez vs. ‘Vigilante’ Johnny Moss

Extreme Measures 4 – First Round Match
- Lince Dorado vs. ‘The Star Attraction’ Mark Haskins

Plus Matches From the Other Extreme Measures Tournament 2009 Participants:-
- Leroy Kincaide
- Marty Scurll
- Luke ‘Dragon’ Phoenix
- Jon Ryan

British Tag Title Match
- The Thrillers (Hype/Redman) (c) [3 defences] vs. The Kartel

Singles Bout
- The undefeated Nick ‘Oblivion’ Aldis vs. Spud

Singles Pre-Show Bout
- ‘Mr. IPW’ Ashley Reed vs. Matthew Campbell

» Your MC will be none other than ‘Hardcore’ John Atkins, with referees Chris Hatch & Chris Roberts. Your announce duo for the evening will be Dave ‘Stats’ Bradshaw, and former Big Brother competitor and all around bad-guy Billi Lightning!

» Plus, IPW:UK Champion ‘Irresistible’ Iestyn Rees will be in the building to oversee the Extreme Measures tournament!

-- IPW:UK presents “Extreme Measures 4”, Saturday February 28th 2009 at the White Oaks Leisure Centre, Swanley, Kent, England. Doors 6:00pm, show starts 6.30pm. Tickets SPECIAL OFFER:- £12 general admission (£7 children). Family ticket available for £30. Ringside £18 all ages. Birthdays, Office Parties and Other Group Bookings now catered for specifically. For more information about IPW:UK, click here: http://www.ipwuk.com/ or e-mail Daniel Edler: daniel@ipwuk.com.

AWW March 6th The Irish Club, 14-20 High Street
Deritend, Digbeth,
Birmingham, B12 0LN

Doors Open: 7:30pm. Show Starts: 8pm

Ticket Prices: £7 donations will go to comic relief

BBS & Danny Devine’s final matches in AWW.

Including Former WWE Star Doug Basham

BBS Vs Lee Hunter

Danny Devine Vs Dan Ryder

Spud has faced many AWW roster members and come out on top, such as Dan Ryder, Lee Hunter, Carnage and Dave Moralez. But now Spud defends the title against quite possibly his toughest opponent to date, Doug Basham!

MK Mikinan one of AWW up and coming takes on Brad Flash, the two both have a quick pace resulting in an interesting match when these two meet for the first time.

Carnage & Heratio go up against Wago & X-Bonez in tag team action, now you may be wonder what an odd couple Carnage and Heratio may be, but the story behind that is that Heratio is now offering his wisdom to Carnage, to help him climb the ladder of success once more and capture the AWW Championship once again, but the only way Heratio believes this can be achieved is by being a true gentleman, which will be something certainly new to the veteran.

Check out: www.alternativewrestling.tv for more information.

This is just a heads up for people who would like to but aren't sure how to support me in my quest to be a FULL TIME PAID Pro Wrestling Journalist.

Link to my work: http://blog.myspace.com/brummieol (by copying and pasting this into your web browser).

You'll find: Show Reports, Interviews (Steve Corino, ECW's Tyson Kidd (TJ Wilson), Bobby Cruise, Todd Sinclair, 'Hurricane' John Walters, ROH Commentator Lenny Leonard and 'Black Jesus' Sabian my latest interview), Previews, Articles, etc.

If you would like to show your support, I Implore you to subscribe to my blog, I write because I want to bring RESPECT and PASSION back to Pro Wrestling on the Journalism side of things!

You can subscribe to my work (by copying and pasting this into your web browser): http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseac....iendID=35737715

I have also created a message board where you can read all of my work and
pose questions to future interviewees: http://olibrum.proboards.com/index.cgi

SOUTHEASTERN WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 02/27/2009

--Georgia Wrestling History

NEWS and NOTES

Thursday’s edition of the NoseBleed Section, hosted by John Cannon and Joe Cowart, who were joined by Mark Danger and corporate news lackey Cedric Dean, featured talent booker Johnny Idol who called in and presented his own "unique" take on the wrestling business. The program is a presentation of Georgia Wrestling History’s GWH Radio Network. Click here for the archive.

World Wrestling Entertainment’s RAW/ECW crew will be in Long Island, NY, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, tonight. Advertised: John Cena, Randy Orton, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, Jr., Vladimir Kozlov, Chris Jericho, Kane, CM Punk, William Regal, Christian, Finlay, Mark Henry, Beth Phoenix, Santino Marella, Melina, and Kofi Kingston. Bell time is 7:30 PM.

WWE’s SmackDown crew will be at the Cornwall Civic Complex in Cornwall, ON, tonight. Advertised: Edge defends the WWE World Heavyweight Title against Jeff Hardy; Shelton Benjamin defends the WWE US Heavyweight Title against the Great Khali; and Carlito & Primo Colon defend the WWE Tag Team Title against Brian Kendrick & Ezekiel. Also on the bill: Matt Hardy, Umaga, R-Truth, MVP, and Natalya. Bell time is 7:30 PM.

The lineup for tonight’s SmackDown broadcast on MyNetwork TV, from WWE, is as follows: John Cena requests his rematch for the WWE World Heavyweight Title; Carlito & Primo Colon versus John Morrison & the Miz; Cena versus the Big Show; Vladimir Kozlov versus the Undertaker; Matt Hardy versus Jeff Hardy; and Shelton Benjamin versus Chavo Guerrero, Jr.

Tickets for the following WWE events go on sale Saturday: April 13, at Philips Arena in Atlanta, GA; April 26, the Backlash PPV at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, RI; April 28, SmackDown/ECW at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY; May 11, at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH; May 12, at the Nutter Center in Dayton, OH; May 19, at the US Bank Arena in Cincinnati, OH; and May 23, at the E-Center of West Valley City in Salt Lake City, UT.

WWE has announced the following events: May 28, RAW at Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico; May 30, SmackDown/ECW at the McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga, TN; May 30, RAW at Palacio De Los Deportes in Mexico City, Mexico; and June 7, the Extreme Rules PPV at the New Orleans Arena in New Orleans, LA. Tickets for the Mexico shows go on sale March 2, while Chattanooga tickets are available on March 28. Tickets for New Orleans go on sale April 11.

The lawsuit against WWE by Scott ‘Raven’ Levy, Chris Kanyon, and Mike Sanders has been dismissed. The suit disputed WWE’s claims that its talent are independent contractors rather than employees. The attorney for the wrestlers says they are pursuing options, including asking Judge Peter Dorsey to reconsider or simply filing an appeal. Dorsey dismissed the case on Tuesday after receiving a motion for dismissal from WWE on Monday.

Total Nonstop Action has announced an event at the First Arena in Elmira, NY, on April 17. Tickets go on sale March 6.

Ring of Honor will be at the Danbury Police Athletic League Building in Danbury, CT, tonight. Advertised: Nigel McGuinness defends the ROH World Heavyweight Title against Jerry Lynn, Jimmy Jacobs, and Tyler Black in a four-man elimination match; Kevin Steen & Jay Briscoe versus Chris Hero & Eddie Edwards, with Larry Sweeney; Bryan Danielson versus Delirious; Brent Albright versus Claudio Castagnoli; Brodie Lee versus Necro Butcher in a street fight; Kenny King & Rhett Titus versus Bobby Dempsey & Erick Stevens; and Austin Aries versus Sami Callahan. Bell time is 8:00 PM.

ROH has added a match featuring Bryan Danielson versus Tyler Black to the Philadelphia, PA, card on March 1; a tag team match with Kenny King & Rhett Titus versus Erick Stevens & Matt Cross for Elizabeth, PA, on March 20; and Jerry Lynn versus Mike Quackenbush and Jay Briscoe versus D-Lo Brown to the event on March 21 in New York, NY.

The first round matches for the IWA Deep South “Southern Classic Invitational” will take place tonight and tomorrow at the National Guard Armories in Sylacauga, AL, and Calera, AL, respectively. Advertised: Tracy Smothers vs. Chuck Taylor. Chrisjen Hayme vs. Jesse Emerson. Michael Elgin vs. Jeremy Flynt. "Do or Die" Chip Day vs. "Too Hot for TV" Kyle Matthews. Ricochet vs. Kris Chambers. Shaun Tempers vs. Orion Bishop. IWA-DS champion Dingo vs. Johnny Slaughter. "Black Jesus" Sabien vs. Corey Shaddix. Ruckus vs. Ace Rockwell. Tickets are $15 for the first row, $10 for general admission, and $5 for kids 10 and under. Bell time for both events is at 7:00.

Florida Championship Wrestling will be at the Plant City Armory in Plant City, FL, tonight. Tickets are $30 Golden VIP for the first row, $20 reserved ringside for rows 2-3, $12 for general admission, and $8 for kids. Bell time is at 7:30.

Action Packed Wrestling will be at the APW Arena in Chester, SC, tonight.

Alternative Pro Wrestling will be at the Cherry Street Gym in Royston, GA, tonight.

All-Star Wrestling of the Carolinas will be at the National Guard Armory in Morganton, NC, tonight.

The Exodus Wrestling Alliance will be at the Mooresville Armory in Mooresville, NC, tonight.

NWA Main Event will be at the Community Life Center in Nashville, TN, tonight.

Pro Wrestling Eklipse will be at the Jo Bob's Gym in Zephyrhills, FL, tonight.

The Pro Wrestling Federation will be at the National Guard Armory in Rogersville, TN, tonight.

Showtime All-Star Wrestling will be at the SAW Mill in Millersville, TN, tonight.

The Southern Wrestling Federation will be at the SWF Arena in Tullahoma, TN, tonight.

The United States Wrestling Organization will be at the Stadium Inn in Nashville, TN, tonight.

The Universal Wrestling Council will be at the National Guard Armory in Snow Hill, NC, tonight.

The following information in regard to birthdays and memoriams has been compiled from various sources. In the event you can let us know of any omissions or corrections, please email to contributions@georgiawrestlinghistory.com.

Today’s Birthdays: Bill White (1945) and Lance Rock (1977).

Today In Memoriam: Dean Detton (49, 1958).

Results from the return of Pro Wrestling Evolution on February 22 in Canton, GA, at Hot Wheels Skating Center: The show opened with Kareem Abdul Jamar in the Half Court Lounge leading to Jamar over Ric The Kick; Ride or Die defeated The Skeleton Crew; Bobby Moore beat Joey Lightning; Crystal Fire beat Sheena Layne; The Merchants of Death (Murder One & Orion Bishop with Wicked Nemesis) beat Chris King & Scotty Beach; Ace Rockwell won a four way over Super Punk and Johnny Slaughter and Kyle Matthews to become the first PWE Internet Champion. Next show is back at Hot Wheels on March 29 for Grappler's Delight.

NWA Anarchy returns to the NWA Arena in Cornelia, GA, for their next television taping on March 7 featuring an NWA Anarchy Heavyweight Title Match: Shadow Jackson (c) vs. Iceberg (with The Reverend); NWA Anarchy Television Title Match: Truitt Fields (c) vs. Kimo (with Jeff G. Bailey); The debut of "The Talent Show" with host JT Talent and special guests Brodie Chase and "Hands of Steel" Seth Delay; Young Lion's Title Match: Azrael (with the Reverend) (c) vs. Chris King; Todd Sexton & The Technicians (Bobby Moore & Tyler Smith) vs. Slim J & TK Cross & Bo Newsome; The Entourage (Jeff Lewis & Mike Mosley & Hollywood Brunettes (Kyle Matthews & Andrew Alexander) vs. Chip Day & Caleb Konley & Kareem Abdul Jamar & Alan Funk; Plus NWA Anarchy owner Jerry Palmer, Ace Rockwell, "Sugar" Shaun Tempers, Jeremy Vain & Mr. Rob Adonis, Malachi, Adrian Hawkins, and Don Matthews & Chris Mayne on location in Bucksnort, TN. Bell time is 8pm.

DISCLAIMER: GWH is not liable for any card changes, cancellations, etc. We can only report what is reported to us. As always, we suggest you check with the promotion within 24 hours to verify information posted here.

NOSTALGIA

FEBRUARY 27, 1934 (TUESDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – BELLWOOD ARENA (Bellwood Athletic Club – Promoters) > Eddie Wagner versus Whitey Patterson > Bill Collins versus Harry Nixon / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 27, 1940 (TUESDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA THEATRE (Bill Hartman and Thad Holt – Promoters / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Nyman defeated Gordon McKenzie > Dick Raines defeated Tiny Morgan > Dan O’Connor defeated Roland Kirchmeyer / Notes: Bill Hartman had assisted Henry Weber and Frank Speer in years past and had been a successful Atlanta businessman for about thirteen years when he began promoting professional wrestling after Tom McCarthy stopped running cards.

FEBRUARY 27, 1946 (WEDNESDAY) – SAVANNAH, GA – SAVANNAH MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Lou Masters, Dick Leonard, and Buster White – Promoters) > Jack Dillon defeated John Cretoria > Jack Singer defeated Charlie Harben > Jack Wentworth defeated Abe Ginsberg

FEBRUARY 27, 1948 (FRIDAY) – CLINTON, SC (Fred Ward – Promoter / Fred Ward Promotions) > Jim Benedetti versus Jose Lopez > Women’s Match: Dottie O'Shea versus Midge Marsh > George Schnabel versus Tommy Ward / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found. It is unclear as to what venue was the site of this card.

FEBRUARY 27, 1951 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Red Dugan defeated Pat Welsh > The Golden Terror defeated Tom Mahoney > Man versus Animal Match: Ginger the Bear defeated Bobby Lane

FEBRUARY 27, 1959 (FRIDAY) – MARIETTA, GA – LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie & Skull Murphy defeated Ray Gunkel & Chief Little Eagle at 17:00 > Paul Anderson defeated Don Lee

FEBRUARY 27, 1961 (MONDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Robert McCoy – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Women’s Match: Jessica Rogers versus Kathy Carr > No DQ Match: Bill Dromo versus Killer Campbell / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found. Guy Mitchell and Gypsy Joe were also scheduled to appear on this card.

FEBRUARY 27, 1962 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Charley Laye and Tony Jiminez wrestled to a draw > Eduardo Martinez defeated Frank Hickey > US Tag Team Title Match: the Assassins* defeated Eddie Graham & Rito Carreon / Notes: The Assassins had been the reigning US Tag Team Champions since they defeated Eddie Graham & Dick Steinborn on January 26, 1962, in Atlanta.

FEBRUARY 27, 1963 (WEDNESDAY) – COLUMBUS, GA – COLUMBUS SPORTS ARENA (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lenny Montana defeated Prince Omar at 11:00 > Matt Jewell defeated the Black Panther at 4:00 > Derrell Cochran and George Bell wrestled to a draw at 20:00 > Chief Little Eagle versus the Bat ruled a no contest

FEBRUARY 27, 1965 (SATURDAY) – MARIETTA, GA – LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: A card was scheduled for this date, but no information has been found.

FEBRUARY 27, 1968 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Greg Peterson and Silento Rodriguez wrestled to a draw > Enrique & Alberto Torres defeated Chris Tolos & Hans Schmidt by disqualification > Loser Unmasks Match: Mr. Wrestling defeated Dr. M (1) / Notes: As part of the stipulation, Dr. M was forced to unmask following the match with Mr. Wrestling, and was identified as El Mongol. Jack Crawford managed Dr. M.

FEBRUARY 27, 1970 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – PAUL JONES SPORTS ARENA [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Alex Perez versus Greg Peterson > Les Wolff versus Oki Shikina > El Mongol defeated Buddy Colt by disqualification > Alberto & Ramon Torres defeated the Assassins > Wilbur Snyder defeated Nick Bockwinkel / Notes: Alex Perez and Greg Peterson were scheduled to wrestle each other, as were Les Wolff and Oki Shikina, but no results were reported after the card. The match between Wilbur Snyder and Nick Bockwinkel was originally supposed to be the latter challenging Doug Gilbert for the Georgia Heavyweight Title, but with the champion injured, Snyder challenged Bockwinkel to a rematch. Homer O’Dell managed Buddy Colt. Charlie Harben was credited as being a referee for this card. The program for this card mentioned that fans had started a petition to have the Assassins removed as Georgia Tag Team Champions because of their actions in injuring Gilbert on February 20, 1970. It urged fans to add their names to the list.

FEBRUARY 27, 1971 (SATURDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > El Mongol defeated Luke Graham by disqualification > Buddy Colt defeated the Scorpion > The Assassins defeated Michel Dubois & Fidel Castillo / Notes: This was taped for the “Atlanta TV Wrestling” television program hosted by Ed Capral. Homer O’Dell managed Buddy Colt.

FEBRUARY 27, 1973 (TUESDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – LAKEWOOD FAIRGROUNDS (Ann Gunkel – Promoter / All-South Wrestling Alliance) > Wayne Cowan versus Kubla Khan > Randy Curtis versus Krusher Karlson > Tommy Seigler versus the Avenger > Bill Bowman & Joe Turner versus Ray Candy & Bearcat Wilkerson > Guillotine Gordon versus El Mongol > Dick Steinborn & Argentina Apollo versus Rock Hunter & Assassin #2 > WWA Heavyweight Title Match: Bob Ellis* versus Ox Baker / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found. Rock Hunter managed Assassin #2.

FEBRUARY 27, 1973 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON COLISEUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Women’s World Title Match: the Fabulous Moolah* defeated Vicky Williams > Macon Tag Team Title One-Night Tournament: the Super Infernos (Winners) to win title Bob Armstrong & Jerry Oates, Chati Yokuchi & Fuji, Bill Dromo & Koa Tiki, Tank Morgan & Tarzan Tyler, Victor Rivera & El Sicodelico, Jack Evans & the Destroyer, Arman Hussein & Pantera Negra, Sputnik & Rocket Monroe, Jerry Valentine & Butcher Brannigan, Pat O’Brien & Mr. Wrestling #2, and Norvel Austin & Bob Orton, Jr., also participated / Notes: It is unclear as to the pairings and results of the tournament. Jack Crawford managed Tarzan Tyler. J.C. Dykes managed the Super Infernos.

FEBRUARY 27, 1976 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Rick Martel and Ervin Smith wrestled to a draw > Les Thornton defeated Ken Mantell > Bob Backlund defeated Tony Charles > Thunderbolt Patterson defeated Rip Hawk > Stan Stasiak, Moondog Mayne & the Spoiler defeated Bob Armstrong, Dick Slater & Mr. Wrestling #2 > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Terry Funk* versus Abdullah the Butcher / Notes: Terry Funk and Abdullah the Butcher were scheduled to wrestle each other, but no results were reported after the card. Gary Hart managed the Spoiler.

FEBRUARY 27, 1978 (MONDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Charlie Harben – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Paul Ellering versus Abdul Zataar > Tommy Rich versus Jacques Goulet > Dick Slater versus the Bounty Hunter > Georgia Tag Team Title Match: Tony Atlas & Mr. Wrestling #2* versus Ole & Lars Anderson > Stan Hansen versus Dusty Rhodes / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 27, 1980 (WEDNESDAY) – COLUMBUS, GA – COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Baron Von Raschke defeated Genichiro Tenryu > Ivan Koloff & Alexis Smirnoff defeated Ray Candy & Bill Dromo > Lars Anderson defeated Dutch Mantell > Kevin Sullivan, Tony Atlas & Mr. Wrestling #2 defeated Austin Idol, Terry Funk & Dory Funk, Jr. > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Harley Race* defeated Wahoo McDaniel by countout / Notes: Rock Hunter managed Ivan Koloff and Alexis Smirnoff.

FEBRUARY 27, 1982 (SATURDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Charlie Harben – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Brad Armstrong versus the French Angel > Stan Hansen & Kevin Sullivan versus Ted & Jerry Oates > Bullrope Match: Ron Bass versus Jimmy Garvin > Bob Armstrong versus Roddy Piper > National Heavyweight Title Match: Tommy Rich* versus Ole Anderson / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 27, 1983 (SUNDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – OMNI COLISEUM [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Bob Roop defeated Tom Prichard > Paul Ellering defeated Joe Lightfoot > Brian Blair, Ray Candy & Tito Santana defeated the Super Destroyer & the Moondogs > Dick Murdoch defeated the Iron Sheik > Paul Orndorff defeated the Assassin > Ole Anderson & Buzz Sawyer and Stan Hansen & the Masked Superstar wrestled to a draw > Bruiser Brody and Abdullah the Butcher wrestled to a draw > Butch Reed defeated Ivan Koloff / Notes: J.J. Dillon managed the Moondogs.

The information compiled within our daily reports are through the efforts of various contributors, including, but not limited to, Rich Tate, Larry Goodman, Chuck Thornton, Brian Waits, Don Luce, Brian Slack, Fred Hornby, Thomas Bugg, J Michael Kenyon, Steve Yohe, David Williamson, Becky Taylor, John Cannon, Mike Norris, Bobby Simmons, Les Thatcher, Crimson Mask, Dan Masters, Tim Dix, Tim Dills, Jimmie Daniel, Gene Restaino, Matt Tew, Dave Wills, Shannon Rose, Alan Wojcik, Devin Cutting, and Richard O’Sullivan.

WORLD EXTREME CAGEFIGHTING® ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING DEAL WITH FOX SPORTS EN ESPANOL

--World Extreme Cagefighting

For Immediate Release
February 27, 2009

FSE Expands WEC® Programming with Launch of “WEC: ALBOROTO” Friday, March 20

Las Vegas, NV (USA) -- World Extreme Cagefighting® (WEC®) and Fox Sports en Español (FSE) announced today that FSE is significantly expanding its mixed martial arts content with the launch of WEC: ALBOROTO, a new Spanish-language program featuring some of the most memorable matchups ever seen in the WEC.

“We are pleased to have this new programming deal in place with Fox Sports en Español, World Extreme Cagefighting will complement UFC programming currently airing on FSE,” said Peter Dropick, Vice President, Event Operations & Production. “Like the UFC, this deal will open up World Extreme Cagefighting and its incredible fighters to a larger, more diverse U.S.-based audience.”

FSE’s new show “WEC: ALBOROTO” premieres Friday, March 20 at 12:00am ET/9pm PT. FSE network will air 24 one-hour programs throughout the year. The scheduled episodes will feature top WEC fighters in spectacular matchups, including Mike Brown vs. Jeff Curran; Urijah Faber vs. Dominick Cruz; Brian Bowles vs. Charlie Valencia; Damacio Page vs. Scott Jorgensen; and Brandon Foxworth vs. Manny Tapia.

“With the launch of this new programming, Fox Sports en Español demonstrates its continued commitment to providing viewers with coverage of the world’s most exciting sporting events,” said David Sternberg, General Manager & Executive Vice President of Fox Sports International.

In the fall of 2006, Fox Sports en Español and UFC reached a television deal to give FSE Spanish-language television rights to the first UFC show fully produced in Spanish.

For more information and current WEC fight news, please visit wec.tv.

About World Extreme Cagefighting

The WEC brand is recognized as one of the premier mixed martial arts organizations in the United States. Founded in 2001, the WEC features many of the most prominent athletes in the sport of mixed martial arts today. Owned and operated by WEC Holdings LLC., and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., the WEC produces live and taped events annually that are distributed through the Versus network. In addition to its U.S distribution, WEC programming is shown on the TSN network in Canada and Cadena Tres in Mexico.

World Extreme Cagefighting® and WEC® are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by WEC Holdings, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions and are licensed to WEC Productions, LLC.

About Fox Sports en Español

Reaching more than 14 million cable and satellite households in the country, of which over 5 million are U.S. Hispanic Households, Fox Sports en Español is the leader in Spanish-language sports media. We feature premier soccer programming with exclusive coverage of the top leagues and tournaments in Latin America and Europe; coverage of Major League Baseball’s regular season, League Championship Series, All-Star Game and World Series; championship boxing and UFC® and mixed-martial arts across four compelling media platforms. With more than 1,600 hours of live and exclusive programming, a robust web site brimming with streaming video, portable content from FSE Móvil and the Fox Sports en Español Magazine, we are and will continue to be the first name in the U.S. Hispanic sports space.

Fox Sports en Español is distributed by Fox Cable Networks Group and operated by Fox Pan American Sports LLC, an international sports programming and production entity jointly owned by HM Capital Partners, LLC and News Corporation’s (NYSE: NWS) Fox Sports International. For more information, visit Fox Sports en Español online at foxsportsla.msn.com.

Cephas Signs Wrestling Legend, "The Iron Sheik," For Branded iPhone Applications

--Cephas Holdings Corp.

NEW YORK, NY, February 27, 2009 - Cephas Holdings Corp. (OTCBB: CEHC) today announced that its subsidiary, Bomani Corp., has signed international wrestling superstar, "The Iron Sheik," to a three year licensing agreement for iPhone applications.

The Iron Sheik is known to millions of fans around the world as one of the most recognized personalities in the history of professional wrestling. The Sheik has recently recaptured the public's imagination with a several outspoken appearances on the Howard Stern Show and a series of popular interviews on Youtube.

The company expects to use The Iron Sheik in a number of different applications capturing his unique personality, opinions, and worldwide fame.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release includes forward-looking statements concerning the future performance of our business, its operations and its financial performance and condition, and also includes selected operating results presented without the context of accompanying financial results. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations. We caution that all forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from the assumptions, estimates or expectations reflected or contained in the forward-looking information, and that actual future performance will be affected by a number of factors, including economic conditions, technological change, regulatory change and competitive factors, many of which are beyond our control. Therefore, future events and results may vary significantly from what we currently foresee. We are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Funking Conservatory Press Release - Dory Funk Jr. With Video Comments On His Induction To The WWE Hall Of Fame

--Dory Funk Jr.

Dory Funk Jr. has spoken out on !BANG! TV about His selection to be inducted in to the WWE Hall of Fame. Dory's comments include his take on the controversial selection of The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes to give His Induction Speech.

Dory Funk Jr.'s Special WrestleMania / Hall of Fame interview can be seen at http://www.dory-funk.com. Go to the WrestleMania Section.

On the same page you can see, Dory Funk Jr.'s life pass before your eyes in 3 1/2 minutes, Read Dory Funk Jr.'s and Bret Hart's take on Mickey Rourke's portrayal of "The Wrestler."

You can also view WWE's release on the Induction of Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk to the WWE Hall of Fame.

Meet Jason "The Giant" as !BANG! TV Cameras capture the News of Dory Funk's Induction to the WWE Hall of Fame. We have "Reality Video" shot inside the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School with Dory Funk Jr., Wahoo McDaniel Jr., Jumbo Elvis, Diamond Derek Ian, The Claw, Claudia Reiff and 7' 4" 450 pound Jason The Giant.

See WWE Hall of Fame inductee, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Dory Funk Jr. together and watch !BANG! TV Video of WWE Hall of Famer, Jimmy Hart as He is presented with the Funking Conservatory Fighting Heart Award.

Go to http://www.dory-funk.com and click at the top on WrestleMania / WWE Hall of Fame.
*******************************
Professional Wrestling comes to the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School this Sunday March 1st at 7:00pm. - Support Your Troops 37, Cold War, featuring the Return of Awesome Kong and Dory Funk Jr. speaking on his Induction to the WWE Hall of Fame at WrestleMania.

Tickets are $10 purchased in advance and $15 purchased at the door.
Tickets are available on line from our website.
You can also purchase advance tickets at Pardee Self Storage in Ocala or Call 352-895-4658 for advance ticket reservations.

If you would like to become a professional wrestler and appear on !BANG! TV Call 352-895-4658 or visit our website at http://www.dory-funk for more information.

The Funking Conservatory is the Official American Training Center for All Japan Pro Wrestling.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

HDNET TO AIR "HDNET FIGHTS PRESENTS: FieLDS K-1 WORLD MAX 2009"

--HDNet

MEDIA ALERT
DALLAS (February 26, 2009)

HDNet adds to an action-packed MMA schedule with the premiere of K-1 MAX from Japan Friday, February 27 at 10:00 p.m. ET

WHAT: This Friday, HDNet will air "HDNet Fights Presents: FieLDS K-1 World MAX 2009 Japan Tournament" at 10:00 p.m. ET. The event features a one-night, 8-man tournament of the best 154-pound and under kickboxers in Japan. These men are vying for the right to represent Japan in the K-1 World MAX Final Elimination tournament in July which will air exclusively in North America on HDNet.

The quarter-finals pit Nagajima "Jienotsu" Juichiro vs. HAYATO, MAX veteran TATSUJI vs. Yuya Yamamoto, Yasuhiro Kido vs. HINATA, and Andy Ologun vs. Taishin Kohirumaki, plus Sergey Golaev vs. Yoshihiro Sato in a Superfight and much more.

WHEN: Friday, February 27 at 10:00 p.m. ET on HDNet.

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, M1, 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 and Eric Bana.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Great Buck Howard," starring Colin Hanks, John Malkovich and Tom Hanks, and "HarlemAria," starring Damon Wayans.

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.

DVD REVIEW: ‘Kayfabe’ – A Fake Real Movie About A Fake Real Sport

--Steven Wilson of MainEventRadio.com

Over the years wrestling themed movies have generally been hit or miss. The Wrestler is a smash hit, while Ready to Rumble was, well, I think we all know what Ready to Rumble was. Now Kayfabe Entertainment brings us their entry entitled “Kayfabe”.

Sporting the tag line of “A fake real movie about a fake real sport” this comedy follows a fictional independent wrestling company during its final days. Much like the popular TV series The Office, it is shot mockumentary style and pulls back the curtain on the world of independent wrestling. Wrestling fans can be reassured that this is not a film created by a bunch of Hollywood types who know nothing about the wrestling business as the story is based off of real life experiences of one of the film’s creators Pete Smith, who aside from being a well accomplished lawyer in real life, has also moonlighted as a professional wrestler since the late 80’s. In the film his character, The Rocket Randy Tyler, finds himself the TCICWF champion in the company’s dyeing days. Attendance has been down, the wrestlers barely get paid, and the promoter, “The Legendary Al Thompson” is so fed up of the business that he is throwing in the towel, informing Taylor that he is not renewing the lease on the company’s venue. Tyler then quickly finds himself in the charge of the group when the promoter goes incognito in the weeks leading to the final show. The cast of characters is typical of any indy wrestling lockerroom, you have the one guy who has been to the big leagues but has since been chewed up and spit back out, you’ve got the rookie looking to make a name for himself, the happy go lucky jobber looking for a break, the company’s lackey who will do anything to just be involved in someway shape or form, not to mention the promoter’s daughter, the guy who comes off like a homosexual, and of course Randy Tyler, the solid worker with a mind for the business side of the company. Having been in or around indy wrestling for the better part of the past decade I can attest that the characters ring true, as does the stories they tell. You get a taste of why they risk their necks and bust their butts to do what they do, you learn about the backstage behavior and relationships, while also getting bombarded by the ribs and jokes along the way.

Press materials for the film mentions how it covers a lot of the same ground The Wrestler did, but with a comedic angle, And while it does cover some of the same independent wrestling ground, this is a completely different film, not only because it’s a comedy, but also because its in no way a story centered around a single individual. Press materials also stress that both wrestling fans and non wrestling fans alike can enjoy this film. A claim which was certainly made about The Wrestler, but speaking to non wrestling fans who watched the wrestler, I often got the reaction that they loved the personal story it told, but didn’t necessarily enjoy the wrestling scenes. With Kayfabe being in a way more about pro wrestling than The Wrestler was, I would have to say that only those non wrestling fans who wonder why wrestlers do what they do will enjoy this film, Meanwhile actual wrestling fans are guaranteed to love this film, as its not only hilarious, but gives its proper due to the world they love.

Also like The Wrestler, before being released to the masses, this film made the rounds in numerous festivals garnering much praise along the way, including the Best Canadian Indie Feature at the Okanagan Film Festival, the Audience Choice Award at the Eugene International Film Festival and was a double winner at the Lakedance Film Festival scoring Best Comedy and Best Mockumentary awards. The praise is much deserved. For a small independent release, shot in less than 2 weeks, it’s presentation is impressive.

Extras for the DVD include a feature length commentary with the film’s creators and stars, As well as deleted scenes with optional commentary, and I’d definitely say its worth picking up as its not too often you see something of this quality come along in the wrestling world.

Kayfabe is now available on DVD from Kayfabe Entertainment Corp via the film’s official website at www.kayfabemovie.com, To read my previous DVD reviews head on over to www.wrestlingdvdreviews.vze.com or add the myspace via www.myspace.com/wrestlingdvdreviews

SOUTHEASTERN WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, AND NOSTALGIA: 02/26/2009

--Georgia Wrestling History

NEWS and NOTES

Tonight’s edition of the NoseBleed Section, with hosts John ‘Stoney’ Cannon and Joe ‘Joco’ Cowart, presents a tongue-in-cheek look at the world of pro wrestling. They will be joined by Koko B. Ware, Johnny Idol, and Jon Malus. The broadcast starts at 9:00 PM ET, and is brought to you by Georgia Wrestling History’s GWH Radio Network.

Wednesday’s edition of Peach State Pandemonium, hosted by Rich Tate and Les Thatcher, focused on a discussion-based commentary looking at what they believe is wrong with independent wrestling today, and things that can and should be done to improve the scene. PSP is a presentation of the GWHRN. Click here for the archive.

The GWHRN’s MMA Sunday will be on hiatus indefinitely, as some re-tooling to the show occurs.

The final overall rating for the Tuesday edition of World Wrestling Entertainment’s ECW was 1.4.

The lineup for tonight’s iMPACT broadcast on Spike TV, from Total Nonstop Action, is as follows: Angelina Love & Velvet Sky versus Madison Rayne & Taylor Wilde; Jimmy Rave & Lance Rock versus Beer Money; Jeff Jarrett confronts the Main Event Mafia; an interesting turn of events with Don West and Mike Tenay; a four-way match featuring Chris Sabin, Jay Lethal, Alex Shelley, and Consequences Creed; and Rhaka Khan & Sojourner Bolt versus Raisha Saeed & Awesome Kong.

Great Championship Wrestling will be at the Gr8 Sk8 Plex in Phenix City, AL, tonight with "Total Chaos". Advertised: Frankie Valentine vs. Sal Rinauro; and J.P. Money vs. Wicked Nemesis. Also on the bill: Hot Like Lava, the Merchants of Death, J-Rod, Tex Monroe, and Hooters Girls will also be in the house. Bell time is 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 for ringside, and $8 for general admission. For tickets, call 334-664-1780.

The Southside Trash, Drew Golden and Randy Harris, notified GCW that they quit the company effective Wednesday. "We have no ill feelings and wish them success," said Golden in a phone conversation earlier today. Golden said that on a personal level, they were treated well by everyone associated with GCW including Diane Hewes and Quentin Michaels, but they differed with GCW management on a professional level. They did not feel they were being used correctly, and leaving became the best option for all involved. Golden said they strongly believed that the Trash are more effective as heels, and their request to turn had been denied. He explained that by keeping them as babyfaces, he felt the Trash had been stripped of their identity. The Trash had been exclusively babyface since jumping from NWA Prime Time in October. Golden said their strong suit was entertaining, and they needed to be more outlandish than GCW was willing to allow. Golden said he regretted that they were not doing the professional thing by returning to drop the titles in the ring. However, the situation had reached the point that they could not continue. Golden confirmed that they made the move to GCW with the idea that they would be involved in the booking. That did not happen, but according to Golden, it was not the cause for their decision to leave. "The mission changed, so we changed with the mission." As for the way they left Prime Time, Golden said it was not the best decision, and he does not look back on it fondly. Golden said that he and Harris plan to remain active in wrestling. They are open to accepting other bookings from this point forward.

An official statement from the management of GCW regarding the announcement by Southside Trash that they are quitting the promotion is as follows: "Neither Diane Hewes or Quentin Michaels, nor any other member of GCW management, have been contacted by Drew Golden, Randy Harris, or any other representative of the Southside Trash. It is hopeful that the Southside Trash, personal issues or not, would not back out on its fanbase for an advertised match, as well as disrespect Orion Bishop, Murder One, Cru Jones, and Shaun Banks, all whom are also advertised in the match put in jeopardy by this unprofessional and yet to be confirmed situation. Suitable substitutions will be made in the event the Trash decide to no show, however as of now, they are still advertised and booked for Thursdays event, as the last words spoken directly to us by Mr. Golden at 10pm Tuesday night were "I'll see you Thursday." In light of that, GCW will take Golden and Harris at face value for their agreed appearance, and let their actions, or lack of, speak louder then words this Thursday Night in Phenix City."

All-State Wrestling will be at the Statum Cab Company Building in Shelbyville, TN, tonight.

Ericules Wrestling Promotions will be at the Green Acres Flea Market in Louisville, TN, tonight.

Florida Championship Wrestling will be at the FCW Arena in Tampa, FL, tonight.

The following information in regard to birthdays and memoriams has been compiled from various sources. In the event you can let us know of any omissions or corrections, please email to contributions@georgiawrestlinghistory.com.

Today In Memoriam: George Culkin (78, 2005).

As reported last week, Helmut Gutmann was attacked by Verne Gagne, and died several days later. The Medical Examiner has ruled the death a homicide, but because of the mental state of Gagne, it is believed no criminal charges will be filed.

Dave Meltzer is reporting a story that Edward Graziano has been arrested for attempting to have his wife Debbie murdered by a hit man. Click here for more on the story.

Click here for this week’s update of Wrestler’s Eye View with Les Thatcher.

Jimmy Rave can be booked by emailing showbis@aol.com.

Dirty South Pro Wrestling was in Pensacola, FL, on February 20. Results: Black Scorpion defeated B-Country. "DDG" Lee Manning, w/Tiny Tiswell, defeated Cowboy Ray, w/Short Bandit, to retain the cruiserweight championship. In a triple threat match, Omega, w/"the 7th Deadly Sin" Vain, defeated "Mr. Electricity" Jerry Reiner and Cruze. Team Sexy defeated Deacon Stone & "the Prince of Pain" Damon Black to retain the tag championship. Jason Steele & the 610 Kid defeated "the Age of Old School" Damian LaVaye & "the Future Legend" DJ Pringle. "Shooter" Kory Jackson defeated Street Bandit. The Gothic Warrior, w/"Naughty-Licious" Mystress, defeated Johnny Rebel & Evergreen McQueen in an over the top rope elimination match to retain the DSPW championship. Tiny Tiswell, w/"DDG" Lee Manning, defeated Short Bandit, w/Cowboy Ray, in a strap match.

DSPW will be at the East Brewton Civic Center in Brewton, AL, on March 7. Matches to be announced. Tickets are $10 ringside and $5 general admission. Doors open between 6:00-6:30, and bell time is between 7:00-7:30.

DSPW will be at the Knights of Columbus in Pensacola, FL, on March 13. Matches to be announced. Tickets are $10 ringside and $5 general admission. Doors open between 6:00-6:30, and bell time is between 7:00-7:30.

Global Championship Wrestling will be at the Civic Center in Pell City, AL, on February 28. Advertised: For the GCW Heavyweight championship, Scotty Blaze defends vs. Johnny Swinger. "Roaddog" B.G. James vs. Micah Taylor. Chrisjen Hayme vs. Joey Lightning. Amos Moses vs. Jesse Pain. Dynamo vs. Sgt. Hammer. Theordore Tutwiler III vs. Inhuman Fly. Fantasy vs. Tiffany Roxx. Tickets are $10. Bell time is at 7:30.

Southeastern Xtreme Wrestling will be at the SXW Xtreme Sportatorium in Dothan, AL, on February 28. Advertised: For the light heavyweight championship, the Mexican Kid vs. Preston Veston III vs. the Blackheart vs. Street Bandit. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for military and kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Bring 2 non-perishable food items and get $1 off ticket price. Bell time is at 7:30.

Coastal Championship Wrestling will be at Jimmy Snuka's Bodyslam University in Pompano Beach, FL, on February 28. Matches to be announced. Tickets are $6.00. Doors open at 7:30 and bell time is at 8:00. For more information, call (954) 275-1334.

Pro Wrestling Fusion will be at the PAL Center in Fort Pierce, FL, on March 7. Advertised: For the Luchacore championship, Prince Iaukea defends vs. Chris Jones. Tommy Taylor vs. Christopher Gray. South Street Saints vs. Blunt Force Trauma. Jerrelle Clark vs. Billy Fives. Tickets are $20 ringside and $10 general admission. Bell time is at 8:00. For more information, call (772) 224-9332.

The Alabama Wrestling Federation will be at the Civic Center in Loxley, AL, on March 13. Advertised: the Honky Tonk Man. Matches to be announced. Tickets are $10, and kids under 7 get in free. Doors open at 7:00 and bell time is at 8:00.

The AWF will be at the Mary G. Montgomery High School Gym in Semmes, AL, on March 14. Advertised: the Honky Tonk Man. Matches to be announced. Tickets are $10, and kids under 7 get in free. Doors open at 7:00 and bell time is at 8:00.

New Heights Wrestling will be at the Old National Guard Armory in Florala, AL, on March 14. Advertised: In a match to determine the #1 contender for the heavyweight championship, BTY vs. Milo. For the cruiserweight championship, Chris Tighe defends vs. "Pure" Doug Pitt. Omega, w/Vain, vs. "the Master of the Spinebuster" David Prime. "Scarface" Terry Ryker vs. "Supernerd" Lane Smart in a no DQ match. Tickets are $7, and children under 7 get in free. Doors open at 6:30 and bell time is at 7:30.

Division One Pro Wrestling will be at the Boulevard Heights Community Center in Hollywood, FL, on March 20. Advertised: For the heavyweight championship, Bruce Santee defends vs. Too Cold Scorpio. For the tag championship, Heartbreak Express defends vs. Dark City Fight Club. For the Caribbean championship, Johnny Vandal vs. Maximum Capacity. Lou Cypher vs. Tommy Vandal. Jerrelle Clark vs. Maxx Stardom. Francisco Ciatso vs. Adam Evans. The Loggers vs. the New Heavenly Bodies. The Falcon vs. C.J. O'Doyle. Andrew Wolf vs. Barney Rumble. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for kids. Advance tickets can be bought for $10. Doors open at 6:30 and bell time is at 7:30. For more information, call (954) 554-7688.

Full Impact Pro will be at the National Guard Armory, located on 8551 West Venable Street, in Crystal River, FL, on March 28. Doors open at 7:30 pm and the show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $20 Ringside, $15 General Admission, and for kids 13 and under $10 General Admission. Advance tickets are $12 General Admission, and for kids 13 and under $8 General Admission. Advertised: FIP World Tag Team Championship: Erick Stevens & Roderick Strong (c) vs. the YRR (Sal Rinauro & Chasyn Rance), w/Mister Saint Laurent. Also advertised: ROH World Champion Nigel McGuiness, 2009 Eddie Graham Memorial Battle of the Belts Winner Davey Richards, the Dark City Fight Club of Jon Davis & Kory Chavis, FIP Florida Heritage Champion Chris Jones, “Addicted to Love” Rhett Titus, the Heartbreak Assassins of Chris Escobar & Damien Wayne, “the Bad Seed” Shawn Osborne, Brad Attitude, “the Littlest Lumberjack” Grizzly Redwood, the British Lions of Tommy Taylor & Chris Gray, and making his debut in FIP, T.J. Perkins.

Pro Wrestling Xtreme will be at the Central Florida Fairgrounds in Orlando, FL, on May 16. The Sandman vs. Sabu. Tickets are $20. For more information, call (407) 729-8918.

DISCLAIMER: GWH is not liable for any card changes, cancellations, etc. We can only report what is reported to us. As always, we suggest you check with the promotion within 24 hours to verify information posted here.

NOSTALGIA

FEBRUARY 26, 1934 (MONDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – FAIR STREET ARENA (Jason Thompson – Promoter) > Young Londos defeated the Italian Bull > Stanley Buresch defeated Harry Nixon > Georgia Light Heavyweight Title / Southern Light Heavyweight Title Match: Fred Lassiter defeated Bill Crussell* (2-1) to win titles / Notes: Bill Crussell suffered a broken shoulder in the second fall of his match with Fred Lassiter and was forced to forfeit the match and his titles. Crussell had been the reigning Georgia Light Heavyweight Champion and Southern Light Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Hugh Winn for both titles on February 19, 1934, in Atlanta, GA. He later disputed the title change and defended the Georgia Light Heavyweight Title. Harry Nixon married Miss Idalia Langley in the ring during the event.

FEBRUARY 26, 1935 (TUESDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Henry Weber – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > John Dameron defeated Frank Remille > Jim Coffield and Lee Meyers wrestled to a draw at 30:00 > Dick Raines defeated Pete Schuh at 28:00 > Karl Sarpolis defeated Joe Cox by disqualification at 32:00 (2-1)

FEBRUARY 26, 1936 (WEDNESDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – NEW COLISEUM (Bill Metzger – Promoter) > Abe Yourist versus Dutch Schultz > Southern Lightweight Title Match: Jack Ross* versus Pat Newman / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found. Jack Ross had been billed as Southern Lightweight Champion since January 8, 1936.

FEBRUARY 26, 1937 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA THEATRE (Frank Speer – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > George Hagen and Tommy O'Toole wrestled to a draw at 30:00 > Bill Lee defeated Jimmy Parker (2-0) > Orville Brown defeated Cowboy Luttrall at 18:10 (2-0)

FEBRUARY 26, 1937 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – NORTHSIDE ARENA (Frank Bettis and Cleve Roby – Promoters) > Doc Poole versus Tiger Mills > Joe Wheeler versus Paddy Nolan > Tarzan Jordan versus Gene LeBell / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 26, 1943 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Sammy Friedman – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Boom Boom defeated Ralph Garibaldi > Roland Kirchmeyer defeated Nick Elitch > Emir Badui and Dorv Roche wrestled to a draw

FEBRUARY 26, 1960 (FRIDAY) – MARIETTA, GA – LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Vince Bryant & Chief Little Eagle versus Krusher Larson & El Lobo > Big Humphrey versus Bad Boy Hines > Bill Dromo versus Tokyo Joe / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 26, 1962 (MONDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Steve Manderson – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Women’s Match: Sweet Georgia Brown defeated Diana Beamon > Ray Gunkel & Lou Bastien versus the Assassins / Notes: Ray Gunkel & Lou Bastien and the Assassins were scheduled to wrestle each other, but no results were reported after the card.

FEBRUARY 26, 1963 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Farmer Powell and Prince Omar wrestled to a draw > Matt Jewell defeated the Black Panther at 6:25 > Lenny Montana & the Bat defeated Derrell Cochran & Chief Little Eagle by disqualification

FEBRUARY 26, 1965 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Billy Hines defeated Red Roberts > Greg Peterson defeated Bob Dalton > Bill Dromo defeated Pancho Villa > Joe Scarpa defeated Jack Bence > The Mysterious Medics defeated Tony Marino & Dick Steinborn > Mario Galento defeated Buddy Fuller / Notes: Mario Galento was declared the winner of the match when Buddy Fuller was deemed unable to continue. According to the program for this card, Sputnik Monroe offered to come to Atlanta if Fuller would take him as a partner to help in his feud with Galento.

FEBRUARY 26, 1971 (FRIDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – PAUL JONES SPORTS ARENA [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Sabu Singh and the Scorpion wrestled to a draw > Jim Wilson defeated Nikita Mulkovitch > Luke Graham defeated Bob Griffin > The Assassins defeated Mr. Ito & the Great Ota > Roberto Soto and Buddy Colt wrestled to a draw > Georgia Heavyweight Title Match (No DQ): El Mongol* defeated Kubla Khan / Notes: El Mongol had been the reigning Georgia Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Nick Bockwinkel in a tournament final on February 5, 1971, in Atlanta. Homer O’Dell managed Buddy Colt. Jack Crawford managed Kubla Khan & Nikita Mulkovitch. Charlie Smith was credited as being a referee for this card. Buddy Colt participated in an autograph session for fans.

FEBRUARY 26, 1974 – ATLANTA, GA – LAKEWOOD FAIRGROUNDS (Ann Gunkel – Promoter / All-South Wrestling Alliance) > Handicap Match: the Magnificent Zulu versus the Viking & the Iron Russian > Ox Baker, the Super Gladiator & the Missouri Mauler versus Ray Candy, Charlie Cook & El Mongol > Georgia Junior Heavyweight Title Match: Wayne Cowan defeated the Champ* to win title > Assassin #2 versus Thunderbolt Patterson / Notes: Rock Hunter managed Assassin #2 and the Missouri Mauler.

FEBRUARY 26, 1974 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON COLISEUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ali Vaziri defeated Bill Costello > Women’s Tag Team Match: Maria Garcia & Rita Gomez defeated Sharon Brooks & Daisy Mae > Leon Ogle & Choo-Choo Lynn defeated Jerry Lawler & Prince Leilani > Mr. Wrestling #1 defeated Art Nelson > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Jack Brisco* defeated Mr. Wrestling #2 by disqualification

FEBRUARY 26, 1978 (SUNDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON COLISEUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Adrian Adonis defeated Abdul Zataar > Jacques Goulet defeated Bill Dromo > The Bounty Hunter defeated Tommy Rich > Andre the Giant defeated Stan Hansen > Georgia Tag Team Title Match: Tony Atlas & Mr. Wrestling #2* defeated Ole & Lars Anderson > Dusty Rhodes defeated Abdullah the Butcher by disqualification

FEBRUARY 26, 1978 (SUNDAY) – SAVANNAH, GA – SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER (Aaron Newman – Promoter / Jim Crockett Promotions) > Jerry Stubbs defeated Frank Monte > The Missouri Mauler defeated Abe Jacobs > Roberto Soto & the Mighty Igor defeated Mr. X #1 & #2 > Bobo Brazil defeated the Masked Superstar > US Heavyweight Title Match: Blackjack Mulligan* versus Mr. Wrestling #1 ruled a no contest / Notes: Boris Malenko managed the Masked Superstar.

FEBRUARY 26, 1979 (MONDAY) – AUGUSTA, GA – WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Charlie Harben – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > John Wolfe defeated Pierre Lefebvre > Jerry Oates defeated Larry Latham > Rick Oliver defeated Jerry Roberts > Stan Hansen defeated Tommy Rich > Wahoo McDaniel defeated Ole Anderson > Cage Match: the Masked Superstar defeated Mr. Wrestling #2 / Notes: Rick Oliver substituted for Blackjack Lanza in the match with Jerry Roberts.

FEBRUARY 26, 1980 (TUESDAY) – MACON, GA – MACON COLISEUM (Fred Ward – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Candy defeated Bobby Garrett > Tony Atlas defeated Dutch Mantell > Baron Von Raschke defeated Gerald Finley > Dory Funk, Jr., defeated Genichiro Tenryu > Mr. Wrestling #2 defeated Killer Khan > Lars Anderson & Wahoo McDaniel defeated Ivan Koloff & Alexis Smirnoff by disqualification > Coal Miner’s Glove Match: Kevin Sullivan defeated Austin Idol / Notes: The Great Mephisto managed Killer Khan. Rock Hunter managed Ivan Koloff and Alexis Smirnoff.

FEBRUARY 26, 1981 (THURSDAY) – DALTON, GA – FORT HILL SCHOOL GYMNASIUM (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Steve Keirn versus Ron Cheatham > Charlie Cook & Bill Dromo versus Jim Duggan & Jos LeDuc > Bobby Eaton versus Steve O > Tony Atlas versus Kevin Sullivan / Notes: No documented results for this card have been found.

FEBRUARY 26, 1984 (SUNDAY) – ATLANTA, GA – OMNI COLISEUM [P] (Paul Jones – Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Jesse Barr and Pez Whatley wrestled to a draw > The Spoiler defeated Johnny Rich > Mr. R defeated Ted DiBiase by disqualification > NWA World Junior Heavyweight Title Match: Les Thornton* defeated Tommy Rogers > Nikolai Volkoff versus Wahoo McDaniel ruled a no contest > Jake Roberts defeated Ron Garvin > Stan Hansen & King Kong Bundy versus the Road Warriors ruled a no contest > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Ric Flair* defeated Brad Armstrong / Notes: Paul Ellering managed Jake Roberts, the Spoiler, and the Road Warriors.

FEBRUARY 26, 1984 (SUNDAY) – SAVANNAH, GA – SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER (Aaron Newman – Promoter / Jim Crockett Promotions) > Pinky Larson defeated Ali Bey > Sam Houston defeated Ben Alexander > Tully Blanchard defeated Barry Hart > Denny Brown defeated Hans Schroeder > Rufus R. Jones defeated Ernie Ladd > Greg Valentine defeated Dick Slater > Jimmy Valiant & Dory Funk, Jr., defeated the Assassins

FEBRUARY 26, 1985 (TUESDAY) – ALTOONA, PA (Ole Anderson – Promoter / Championship Wrestling from Georgia) > Ron Garvin defeated Ron Starr > Billy Graham defeated Eagle > Magnum T.A. defeated Bob Roop > John Tatum and Eagle wrestled to a draw > Bob Backlund defeated Ron Bass

The information compiled within our daily reports are through the efforts of various contributors, including, but not limited to, Rich Tate, Larry Goodman, Chuck Thornton, Brian Waits, Don Luce, Brian Slack, Fred Hornby, Thomas Bugg, J Michael Kenyon, Steve Yohe, David Williamson, Becky Taylor, John Cannon, Mike Norris, Bobby Simmons, Les Thatcher, Crimson Mask, Dan Masters, Tim Dix, Tim Dills, Jimmie Daniel, Gene Restaino, Matt Tew, Dave Wills, Shannon Rose, Alan Wojcik, Devin Cutting, and Richard O’Sullivan.

UltimateBet.net Kicks Off Free Online Poker Qualifiers For WWEs 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) Prize Package

--UltimateBet

Online poker fans in Canada invited to take part in series of free online poker tournaments for a shot at the ultimate WWE® 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania®prize package that includes two seats to the event in Houston, Texas, airfare, hotel accommodations, and more.

Miami, FL, February 25, 2009 -- A pair of tickets to WWE(r)'s 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) could be just a pocket pair away for one Canadian* Texas Hold'em fan. Leading online poker site UltimateBet.net has launched free WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) online poker qualifiers. WWE fans can SmackDown their way to the ring in Houston, Texas this April by winning a series of no-charge online poker tournaments.

The free online poker site is holding two online Texas Hold'em tournaments each day from Monday through Friday at 2pm ET and 8pm ET. The top 100 in each daily tournament will secure a spot in the following Sunday's online poker satellite at 8:30pm ET.

The top 200 from each Sunday satellite will win a spot in the final online poker Main Event, set to get underway on March 16 at 8:30pm ET. The champion of the online Texas Hold'em winner-take-all match will win the ultimate WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) prize package that includes:

* Two (2) tickets to WWE(r)'s 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas on Sunday, April 5

* Round trip airfare to Houston, Texas for two (2)

* Three (3) nights hotel accommodations for two (2)

* $500 spending money

* Meet & greet with a WWE(r) Superstar in Houston

* Two (2) replica WWE(r) Championships

* One (1) framed WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) poster

* Two (2) WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) chairs

UltimateBet.net is the official sponsor of WWE(r)'s 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) in Canada. Qualifiers are now live at UltimateBet.net and run until Saturday March 13. WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) takes place on April 5, 2009 in Houston, Texas.

Full details on UltimateBet.net's free WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) qualifiers are available at UltimateBet.net.

*The WWE(r) 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania(r) promotion is only open to residents of Canada, excluding Quebec, who are 18 years of age or older.

About World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.

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/

About UltimateBet.net

Designed with the best poker players in the world - Phil Hellmuth and Annie Duke - UltimateBet.net provides the best free poker games on the net. Players can download the free poker software, play in free ring games and tournaments and get tips from these pros to learn the sport or to enhance their playing strategy. UltimateBet.net currently has over 2 million registered players.

Injury Forces Change In WEC 40 Main Event

--Ric Gillespie

No sooner do I finish updating the lineup for April 5, than Brian Bowles injures his back, and as a result, is forced to withdraw from his Bantamweight title fight against Miguel Angel Torres.

Bowles will be replaced by Takeya Mizugaki, a Shooto and Cage Force veteran, who hasn't lost in over two-years.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

WWE Monday Night RAW Ratings Soar Over The Top Rope

--USA Network

Last Two Weeks on USA Nets Highest Ratings in Almost Seven Years

NEW YORK, Feb. 25 -- The last two weeks on WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW have broken ground to ratings highs not seen in almost seven years for the year-round ratings titan. The 2/16 and 2/23 episodes have delivered an average of 6.015 million total viewers, 3.028 million in P18-49, 2.9 million in P25-54, 4.055 million households and a household coverage rating of 4.1.

"Charismatic characters, high production value, intricate storylines, action-adventure, soap opera, rock concert, comedy, athleticism, and drama are all a recipe for success. When combined with the partnership of USA Network, Monday Night RAW is the undisputed champion of cable television" said Kevin Dunn, Executive Vice President, Television Production.

The two week delivery of 6 million total viewers for RAW was the first time that has happened in almost seven years -- since April 2002

RAW delivered over 3 million in P18-49 two weeks in a row, the first time that has happened in 6 /12 years -- since August 2002

This past week the 10pm hour USA was the #1 TV network among M18-34 (1.153 million) almost doubling the nearest competitor ABC. The 10pm RAW segment also drew in more M18-34 viewers for the night than Fox's 24 (9pm). USA was also #1 in the 10pm hour, above all TV channels, among M25-54 (2.262 million) and M18-49 (2.219 million) and beat CSI Miami among P18-49 (3.258 million). In the 9pm hour USA topped both ABC's The Bachelor and CBS among M18-34 (880,000) and beat The Bachelor among both M18-49 (1.1814 million) and M25-54 (1.951).

*Note: all weekly daypart and program data is Live+SD.

USA Network is the #1 network in all of basic cable and is seen in 94 million U.S. homes. A division of NBC Universal, USA is the cable television leader in original series and is home to the best in blockbuster theatrical films, acquired television series and entertainment events. The award-winning USA website is located at www.usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.

USA Network is a program service of NBC Universal Cable a division of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.

MMA Heavyweight Gladiators Nelson & Monson In Classic Match-Up Of World-Class Grapplers

--Full Court Press

Jones-Sheika headlines pro boxing/MMA PPV March 21 in Pensacola

PENSACOLA, Fla. (February 25, 2009) – Former IFL heavyweight champion Roy “Big Country” Nelson believes his March 21st fight against former UFC title challenger Jeff “The Snowman” Monson has all the makings of a classic match-up between a pair of world-class grapplers that all fight fans -- mixed martial arts and boxing -- will truly appreciate.

Nelson-Monson is part of a boxing/MMA show, headlined by 8-time world boxing champion Roy Jones, Jr. against 4-time world title challenger Omar Sheika, being broadcast live on pay-per-view from Jones’ hometown of Pensacola, Florida.

The pro boxing/MMA show, presented by Square Ring Promotions in association with Hirsch Borao Boxing and the Pensacola Civic Center, is being distributed by Square Ring Promotions, Inc. at 9:00PM ET/6:00PM PT in North America on cable and satellite via iNDemand, TVN, DirecTV and Dish Network in the United States, as well as Viewer's Choice, Shaw Cable, Star Choice and Bell TV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

Tickets, priced at $128.00, $103.00, $78.00, $53.00 & $28.00 are on sale and available at all Ticketmaster locations, the Pensacola Civic Center Box Office and ticketmaster.com.

Nelson (13-6, 6 KOs, 4 Submissions), fighting out of Las Vegas, was once known strictly as a submission specialist and ground technician, but he has developed his overall game and he’s now as dangerous on his feet striking as he is grappling on the mat.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Monson (27-8, 2 KOs, 15 Submissions) was a Pac-10 wrestling champion at Oregon State, earning a Master’s Degree in psychology, who is generally recognized as one of the world’s all-time greatest submissions grapplers.

“Monson has been to the top, fighting for the UFC belt and taking on some of the top MMA fighters in the world,” Nelson said. “But I belong at the top of that food chain, too. He’s an outstanding grappler but, he lacks reach, compared to other heavyweights. We’re both world-class grapplers, but my advantage is I hit harder and I’m a better fighter on my feet than him. Our ground game will be a stand-off. We’re gladiators; they can put in the tiger but I’m still coming out the winner. Just like in boxing, it’s all about match-ups, and I’m the guy who brings the show. You have two outstanding grapplers who both know how to get out of holds. We’ll nullify each other on the ground, forcing us to fight standing-up, and that’s where it’s going to be a war. The difference is I’m a finisher…..and entertainer.”

Jones Jr. (52-5, 38 KOs), who has won titles in four different weight classes (middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight and heavyweight), returns to fight in his hometown for the first time in a decade. Still ranked among the top 10 light heavyweights in the world by three major boxing organizations as well as The Ring magazine, Jones has defeated 18 world champions – Bernard Hopkins, James Toney, Virgil Hill, Felix Trinidad, Mike McCallum and John Ruiz among the more notables – and all five of his career losses have been to world champions.

However, Sheika (27-8, 18 KOs), fighting out of Paterson, N.J., holds a victory against a fighter who beat Jones, Glen Johnson, by 10-round decision in 2000. A hand injury hampered Sheika the past few years but he’s fully recovered and shooting for an upset.

“I think it’s great for MMA fighters to be fighting in front of a new audience – boxing fans,” Nelson added. “They’re in for a real surprise, another level of fighting, and I believe they will really appreciate it. Roy Jones is a legend in boxing. He’s one of the biggest names in boxing, but MMA is a different beast. If Roy, the promoter, takes what’s right in boxing and changes what’s wrong in MMA, I think this (boxing/MMA show) is going to be a major success.”

Additional boxing and MMA bouts are in the process of being added to the March 21st pro boxing/MMA show. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

CONTACTS:

Ed Keenan, EMC (609) 399-1330
keenan@emcevents.com

Summer Jimmerson, Pensacola Civic Center: (850) 432-0800 x231 sjimmerson@pensacolaciviccenter.com

Bob Trieger, Full Court Press, (978) 664-4482, bobtfcp@hotmail.com

CREDENTIALS: www.emcevents.com

“The Fight Expo” On Tap March 21-22 In Del Mar

--Bob Trieger

Dreams come true for 5 Make-A-Wish children

DEL MAR, California (February 25, 2009) -- A massive two-day Mixed Martial Arts and Extreme Sports extravaganza, “The Fight Expo,” is coming to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the weekend of March 21-22, in Del Mar, California.

“The Fight Expo” is the first event of its kind, infusing MMA, Grappling, Pankration, and several Extreme Sports -- Motocross, Skateboarding, Harley Davidson Pulls and much more -- into one giant entertainment supershow. “The Fight Expo” has chosen The Make-A-Wish Foundation of San Diego as its beneficiary with portions of proceeds from every ticket sold, charity auctions, and MMA seminars going to this worthwhile cause.

UFC announcer, Bruce Buffer, “The Voice of the Octagon,” has joined the team to create a very special event for five Make-A-Wish children suffering from life threatening illnesses, which will include the children being escorted around by American Gladiator and the World’s Most Famous Female Fighter, Gina Carano, as well as getting publicly introduced by Bruce Buffer as Honorary Fighters in the Cage. They will also have an opportunity to meet their favorite MMA Superstars from a group including Brandon Vera, Joe Stevenson, Jake Shields, Chung Le, TUF Season 8 finalist Vinny Magalhães, Eliot Marshall, the Tapout Crew (Punkass, Mask and Skrape), Dean Lister, and many more.

For Grappling and Pankration fans, “The Fight Expo” will host the 10th anniversary of Grapplers Quest Competition with 300 Submission Grappling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Divisions, plus two mega-Superfight Divisions to crown The World’s Best Submission Fighters, totaling $25,000 in prizes.

Bud Light presents the Pankration Team Battles on Saturday night (Mar. 21), pitting two military teams, 29 Palms vs. Camp Pendleton.

Greg Jackson, coach of UFC champions Georges St. Pierre and Rashad Evans, will be conducting the inaugural 100% Make-A-Wish Charity MMA Seminar on Sunday (Mar. 22) for MMA fighters and fans.

Other event highlights include G.I. Joe star and world famous model, Channing Tatum, and other stars from the upcoming Rogue Picture's film release, "Fighting," 100+ exhibits selling top MMA clothing, nutrition and health products; special area for women including the "Chic Boutique," which will have clothing, jewelry, massage therapists and an "elite" dating service; as well as the Grappling Hall of Fame award presentations by Grapplers Quest.

Proceeds from every ticket sale will benefit fundraisers for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of San Diego.

For discount tickets and more information about “The Fight Expo,” go to www.TheFightExpo.com.

For more information on Grapplers Quest, go to: http://www.GrapplersQuest.com.

For Exhibit & Sponsorship opportunities, contact Ken Schmitz of SALESFISH, the marketing and sponsorship sales agency for “The Fight Expo” at kschmitz@salesfish.com.

Interview Request: Contact: Lori Andrews, Event Producer, landrews@thefightexpo.com, (877) 703-3397

Sponsorship Opportunities: (877)703-3397

March Is A Monster Month Of MMA Action On HDNet - Headlined By 'Affliction: Day Of Reckoning'

--HDNet

Explosive match-up between Fedor and Arlovski to air for the first time since the live pay-per-view event - exclusively on HDNet Friday, March 13 at 10:00 p.m. ET

DALLAS, Feb. 25 -- For true MMA fans, HDNet is THE place to be this March as the network kicks off a full schedule of new MMA events, featuring the first cable network television broadcast of the blockbuster "Affliction: Day of Reckoning" event.

"Affliction: Day of Reckoning" was originally broadcast on pay-per-view and featured the long-awaited match-up between World Alliance of Mixed Martial Arts Heavyweight Champion Fedor Emelianenko and former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski.

HDNet will air "Affliction: Day of Reckoning" on Friday, March 13 at 10:00 p.m. ET. The broadcast is part of an exclusive long-term partnership to air Affliction Entertainment events on HDNet in North America.

"HDNet Fights continues its mission to bring the best fighters in the world to HDNet," said Andrew Simon, CEO of HDNet Fights. "After watching 'Day of Reckoning,' there is no doubt that Fedor is the #1 pound for pound fighter in the world. This event had the highest fighter payroll in MMA history - and the fighters delivered throughout the night."

Also this March, HDNet will broadcast three new Mixed Martial Arts events.

On Saturday, March 14, at 9:00 p.m. ET HDNet will premiere "HDNet Fights Presents: HEIWA DREAM 7 Featherweight Grand Prix - 1st Round." This event, taped in Japan on March 8, features Atsushi Yamamoto, Chase Beebe, Takafumi Otsuka, and Abel Cullum - plus the match-up between WAMMA World Lightweight Champion Shinya Aoki and David Gardner.

Then, on Friday, March 20, it's the debut of Sengoku as "HDNet Fights Presents: World Victory Road: Sengoku 7" airing LIVE from Japan at midnight PT. The event will feature Hatsu Hioki, Hideki Kadowaki, L.C. Davis, Nick Denis, plus undefeated Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal takes on Ryo Kawamura. HDNet will also broadcast an encore presentation of this event at 10:00 p.m. ET on Friday, March 20.

Finally, on Saturday, March 28, "HDNet Fights Presents: FieLDS K-1 World Grand Prix 2009." This is the first event in 2009 of the much anticipated K-1 World Grand Prix. HDNet's partnership kicked off late last year with the K-1 World Grand Prix Finals and has featured the best K-1 fighters in the world through the K-1 Classic series - airing Friday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET. Participants for the K-1 World Grand Prix 2009 include Remy Bonjasky, Badr Hari, Semmy Schilt, and Peter Aerts. Timing for this live broadcast will be announced at a later date.

These events and much, much more round out a full month of MMA action this March - making HDNet THE television destination for MMA fans!

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, M1, 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 and Eric Bana.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Great Buck Howard," starring Colin Hanks, John Malkovich and Tom Hanks, and "Harlem Aria," starring Damon Wayans.

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.