ROBBIE LAWLER VS. MELVIN MANHOEF, JOE RIGGS VS. JAY HIERON SET FOR STRIKEFORCE: MIAMI JAN. 30

Source - Strikeforce:

NEW YORK (January 6, 2009)– Knockout artists “Ruthless” Robbie Lawler (16-5) and Melvin “No Mercy” Manhoef (24-6-1) will square off with each other in a middleweight (185 pounds) contest at the STRIKEFORCE: Miami mixed martial arts (MMA) event at BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Florida on Saturday, January 30. Wrestling powerhouses Joe “Diesel” Riggs (32-10) and Jay “The Thoroughbred” Hieron (18-4) will face off at welterweight (170 pounds).

The 27-year-old Lawler, one of MMA’s most explosive punchers, will attempt to rebound from the first round (2:02) submission (guillotine choke) he suffered at the hands of Jake Shields in the main event the first-ever STRIKEFORCE fight card in St. Louis, Missouri on Saturday, June 6, 2009.

One fight prior to the meeting with Shields, Lawler, who hails from Granite City, Illinois, thrilled millions of fans when he unleashed his wrath on Scott “Hands of Steel” Smith in the main event of the live, CBS primetime televised event held in Stockton, California on July 26, 2008.

Born in San Diego, California, Lawler relocated with his family to Bettendorf, Iowa where, at the age of 16, he became a protégé of MMA legend Pat Miletich. Just three years later, Lawler exploded onto the MMA scene, emerging victorious in his first seven starts.

Lawler’s second round KO of Steve Berger at UFC 37.5 on June 22, 2002 made history when it became the first MMA fight ever to air on cable television during an episode of Fox Sports Net’s The Best Damn Sports Show, Period.

A seven-time veteran of UFC action, Lawler also made a splash in the now-defunct PRIDE Fighting Championships when he scored a crushing knockout on Joey Villasenor with a flying knee a mere 22 seconds into their matchup at Las Vegas, Nevada’s Thomas and Mack Center on October 21, 2006.

Manhoef, one of STRIKEFORCE’s newest signees who hails from Amsterdam, Netherlands, notched his latest conquest just days ago at the annual New Year’s Eve K-1 “Dynamite!” event in Japan when he scored a first round (1:49) TKO on former top 10 ranked Kazuo Misaki with a barrage of punches.

His arrival in STRIKEFORCE comes after Manhoef reached the semifinal round of the 2008 DREAM Middleweight Grand Prix tournament by scoring first round TKOs on Dae Won Kim and legendary champion Kazushi Sakuraba on May 11, 2008 and June 15, 2008 respectfully.

His well-known battle cry “When I fight, I am willing to die” has translated into Manhoef’s explosive style of fighting, one that has helped him earn 22 of his 30 career MMA wins and 27 of his 45 career kickboxing victories by way of knockout.

Manhoef’s tenure in K-1, the world’s premiere stand-up fighting league, dates back to February 24, 2002. During his tenure with the Japanese promotion, he has triumphed over the likes of former K-1 tournament champions Stefan Leko and Ruslan Karaev, whom Manhoef crushed with a left hook only 31 seconds into their meeting in Amsterdam on June 23, 2007.

Riggs, a 27 year old native of Phoenix, Arizona, will attempt to extend a four fight win streak that began with his second round (2:05) TKO of Luke Stewart in a STRIKEFORCE: Destruction bout at HP Pavilion in San Jose, California on November 21, 2008.

In his last effort under the STRIKEFORCE banner, Riggs dominated hard-hitting “The New York Badass” Phil Baroni for three consecutive rounds of action before walking away with a unanimous judges’ decision victory at St. Louis’ Scottrade Center on June 6, 2009.

Hieron, a former nationally ranked NCAA wrestler for Hofstra University, has been victorious in each of his last six starts. The Long Island, New York native made his STRIKEFORCE debut in his last effort, earning a unanimous decision win over Jesse “J.T. Money” Taylor at HP Pavilion on August 15, 2009.

A former troubled teen, Hieron has since become an inspiration, winning a world title with the now defunct International Fight League (IFL) and relocating to Las Vegas in order to train with the fight squad headed by MMA legend Randy “The Natural” Couture.

Tickets for STRIKEFORCE: Miami are on sale at the BankAtlantic Center ticket office and Ticketmaster (800) 745-3000 as well as online at www.Ticketmaster.com and www.Strikeforce.com.

In the main event, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Nick Diaz (20-7) of Stockton, California will take on fellow superstar and DREAM welterweight (170 pounds) champion Marius “The Whitemare” Zaromskis (13-3) of Siaulial, Lithuania at welterweight.

STRIKEFORCE Women’s World Lightweight (145 pounds) Champion Cris Cyborg (8-1) of Curitiba, Brazil will put her title on the line against Marloes Coenen (17-3) of Deventer, Holland.

Football legend Herschel Walker (0-0) will make his highly anticipated MMA debut against an opponent that has yet to be determined. Undefeated heavyweight and former WWE champion Bobby Lashley (4-0) will make his STRIKEFORCE debut during the event.

Doors at BankAtlantic Center will open for the event at 6:30 p.m. The first non-televised, preliminary bout will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The live SHOWTIME telecast of STRIKEFORCE: Miami will begin at 10 pm ET/PT (delayed on the west coast) and will include as many as five bouts.

STRIKEFORCE in March 2009 signed a multi-year agreement to stage live MMA events on the premium cable television network. The promotion made its live, primetime debut on CBS with the “Fedor vs. Rogers” mega-fight that it co-promoted with M-1 Global on Saturday, November 7 and generated 5.46 million viewers for the main event between the world’s number one heavyweight, Fedor Emelianenko, and superstar Brett “The Grim” Rogers.

About STRIKEFORCE

STRIKEFORCE (www.strikeforce.com) is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, STRIKEFORCE has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” In May 2008, West Coast Productions, the parent company of STRIKEFORCE, partnered with Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment (SVS&E), an entity created in 2000 to oversee all business operation aspects of the San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion at San Jose.

Funk's Corner - Kurt Angle, Bret Hart And Stu Hart

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

The Return of Monday Night War was an emotional ride, having coached the two featured superstars on WWE and TNA.

I first met Kurt Angle At the WWE Funking Dojo. As Kurt's coach I told him everything he has accomplished in amateur wrestling he can accomplish in professional wrestling and he has.

Bret Hart has been a friend of since 1970 when I worked for Stu Hart in Calgary as NWA World Champion. I was Bret Hart's Coach when he came to visit my home in Texas at the age of 17. I taught him to water ski on Lake Meredith just north of Amarillo.

Stu Hart will be inducted into the 2010 WWE Hall of Fame at Wrestlemania. I can never forget the good times working for Stu and getting to know the entire Hart Family.

Now on !BANG! TV, Dory Funk Interview with Bret Hart and Kurt Angle (With Coach Dory Funk in his corner) vs Christian Cage.

It is all on !BANG! TV at http://www.dory-funk.com (Click on the !BANG! TV Icon)

Dory Funk Jr. - Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE Wrestling Talent.

Next !BANG! TV Taping Saturday January 23rd. Tickets are now available online at http://www.dory-funk.com and Pardee Moving and Self Storage. For more ticket information and training schedules, call 352-895-4658

Mattel And WWE® Launch Toy Line Worldwide

Source - Mattel, Inc:

Mattel Rings in New Year with New WWE® Toy Line Targeted to Both Kids and Collectors

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan 5, 2010 -- World Wrestling Entertainment® (NYSE: WWE) and Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) today debut the most comprehensive portfolio of WWE® action figures and accessories for fans of all ages on store shelves worldwide. Mattel will manufacture, market and distribute the exclusive line of WWE action figures and accessories. These two leading entertainment brands will bring the thrill of WWE home in a new and fun way to the more than half a billion television households that view WWE programming worldwide. In the U.S. alone, more than 16 million viewers tune in each week to “Monday Night Raw®,” “Friday Night SmackDown®,” “ECW®” and “WWE Superstars.”

The line includes action figures and toys for both kids and collectors. Younger fans will delight in Mattel’s first-ever FlexForce™ Action Figures, which allow them to recreate the excitement of their favorite WWE Superstar moves. Based on innovative design research, the figures utilize flex-loaded arms and legs to execute the thrilling trademark maneuvers made famous by WWE Superstars such as John Cena®, CM Punk® and Rey Mysterio®. Other products designed specifically for kids will include Superstar Rings, Championship Belts, Ring Action Megaphone and motion-activated Tough Talkers™ that deliver WWE Superstar catch phrases and striking sounds.

“Mattel is excited to bring the iconic WWE entertainment brand to fans worldwide, through an authentic line of products that capture all the drama and excitement that makes the WWE a worldwide phenomenon,” said Tim Kilpin, general manager, Mattel Brands' Girls, Boys & Games Division. “WWE has spent the past decade tailoring its live and broadcast entertainment experience to a more mainstream audience. Our goal is to help kids and parents extend the experience even further by safely recreating the action in the home through play with these action figures.”

“We are elated to be partnering with an industry leader like Mattel in producing the most authentic and realistic WWE action figures and accessories imaginable for our young fans and collectors,” stated Donna Goldsmith, COO, WWE. “This new WWE line is truly reflective of Mattel’s extensive research into what kids and collectors want. Mattel’s unparalleled expertise with kids is the perfect complement to WWE’s commitment to PG, family-friendly entertainment.”

Mattel is equally dedicated to creating products that appeal to WWE's enormous collector community, delivering a line that surpasses all previous ones in terms of attention to detail and realism. With all action figures featuring “Superstar Scale,” fans can now experience the differences in height and size between WWE Superstars from Rey Mysterio to the Undertaker®. Mattel’s portfolio of action figures also features an Elite Collection designed with precise detail. This extensive line also comes packed with a collector stand and name card for easy display.

Fans looking to complete their collection will have a chance to purchase new figures each month throughout the year. Basic figure single packs will be released every month, while two-packs and Elite figures will roll out every other month. In addition to the global retail launch, Mattel’s line of WWE action figures, Championship Belts, Superstar Rings, Ring Action Megaphones and role playing accessories will be available to purchase at the more than 300 live WWE events held throughout the year.

Leveraging social media channels, Mattel will update fans on never before seen products and offer the opportunity to engage directly with fellow collectors. Visit the Mattel WWE Facebook fan page for more information.

About WWE, Inc.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. can be found at corporate.wwe.com.

About Mattel, Inc.

Mattel, Inc., (NASDAQ:MAT) (www.mattel.com) is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products. The Mattel family is comprised of such best-selling brands as Barbie®, the most popular fashion doll ever introduced, Hot Wheels(R), Matchbox®, American Girl®, Radica® and Tyco® R/C, as well as Fisher-Price® brands, including Little People®, Power Wheels® and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toy lines. In 2009, Mattel is recognized among the "100 Best Corporate Citizens," as one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and as one of FORTUNE Magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For." With worldwide headquarters in El Segundo, Calif., Mattel employs approximately 30,000 people in 43 countries and territories and sells products in more than 150 nations. Mattel's vision is to be the world's premier toy brands--today and tomorrow.

© 2010 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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

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

!BANG! TV EXCLUSIVE! - Jimmy Hart Talks About Vince McMahon, Hulk Hogan, WWE, TNA, Monday Night January 4th On Studio Sar-Ah

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

Now on !BANG! TV, "The Mouth of the South," WWE Hall of Famer, Jimmy Hart is Special Guest on Studio Sar-Ah. Jimmy Hart speaks in depth with Sar-Ah about the return of Monday Night Competition. Jimmy Hart Talks openly and honestly about his opinion of Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan in regard to the upcoming competition as they go head up in a battle for ratings on Monday Night January 4th for WWE and TNA respectively.

Sar-ah reads from Jimmy's book "The Mouth of the South," about Jimmy Hart meeting Hulk Hogan for the first time then tells of Jerry Lawler's surprising comments on the future of Hulk Hogan in the wrestling business.

Jimmy Hart talks about managing Bret Hart as a member of the Heart Foundation then in an emotional moment, Jimmy quotes from his book, Hulk Hogan and Bret Hart's opinion of himself (Jimmy Hart).

Jimmy speaks about his reason for getting into the music and wrestling business and writing themes for Shawn Michaels (Sexy Boy) The Road Warriors and Bret Hart. Jimmy talks about the great wrestlers he has managed including Road Warriors in WCW and The Funks in WWE.

Jimmy talks about what it will mean for TNA to have Hulk Hogan on board and the contributions Bret Hart can bring to WWE on Monday Night Raw. Jimmy also goes in depth on his opinion of Vince McMahon and the controversy between Vince McMahon and Bret Hart.

According to Jimmy Hart, "Maybe the Monday Night Wars are starting over."

Sar-Ah closes the interview asking Jimmy Hart his plans for 2010?

The complete interview is now up at http://www.dory-funk.com.

Dory Funk Jr. - Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE Wrestling Talent.

!BANG! TV Report - Jimmy Hart Is Special Guest At The Funking Conservatory's New Year's Eve Party Plus Results From "Hell's Bells"

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

Now on !BANG! TV, "The Mouth of the South" and WWE Hall of Famer, Jimmy Hart is our Special Guest bringing in the New Year at the Funking Conservatory with the !BANG! Gang.

The New Year's Eve Celebration is now on !BANG! TV at http://www.dory-funk.com.

!BANG! TV Results from Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells" All matches inside a steel cage:

Main Event for the Women's Championship
Women's Gauntlet Match - Rachael Moore (Champion)
Claudia "The Claw" Reiff, Melissa Coates, Sar-Ah and "Rain"
Winner and New Champion - Claudia "The Claw" Reiff

Dory Funk Jr. and Johnny Magnum
Managed by Jimmy "Mouth of the South" Hart
VS
Hack Meyers and Shane Chung
Winners - Dory Funk and Johnny Magnum

Tag Team Championship Match
"The Cold Front" Christian Norskog and Jordan Vinson
VS
Damien Steele and Rachael Moore
Winners Christian Norskog & Jordan Vinson

World Title Match
Shane Chung (Champion) vs Blain Rage
Time Limit Draw - Still Champion, Shane Chung

European Title Mach
Walter "Killer" Roberts vs Johnny Romano
Winner Walter "Killer" Roberts

Damien Steele and Rachael Moore
vs
Luke Spencer and Mad Dog Medeske
Winners Damien Steele and Rachael Moore

Shane Chung and Damien Steele
vs
Mad Dog Medeske and Luke Spencer
Winners Mad Dog Medeske and Luke Spencer by DQ

Next !BANG! TV Taping coming to the Funking Conservatory Sound Stage, Support Your Troops 48, "Cold War" Saturday January 23rd.

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

Dory Funk Jr. is the coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School, a WWE Hall of Famer and Trainer of WWE Talent.

Happy New Year! ...

Even though I rarely work, I appreciate all of your support.

No matter what you decide to do, or where you decide to go, be safe and have fun!

Talk to you sometime in 2010.

Shoot Interview With Dory Funk Jr. On China's Only Wrestling Website's By Daddy Shawn

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

The entire Dory Funk Jr. Shoot Interview is now on our website at http://www.dory-funk.com Click on Dory Funk Jr. Shoot Interview.

Daddy Shawn talks to Dory Funk about holding the NWA World Heavyweight Title for 4 1/2 years. Dory explains the life of being the World Champion. Dory Funk talks about the politics and atmosphere behind the NWA Board of Directors meetings. Dory talks about whether his father being in the NWA Board helped him to be the World Champion. Dory talks about the whole fiasco with Dory losing his title due to his auto accident at his father's ranch.

Daddy Shawn asks about Dory's opinion about how Dory thinks of past Champions like Bruno Sammartino being really bitter about the business today. Dory talks about how tough it was for him running the territory after Dory Funk Sr. past away. Dory talks about the funny story about him having a bear in one of their shows and it is very different to Terry Funk's version. Dory tells Daddy Shawn how they would use their connections in the business and the promoters around the country to run their territory.

Daddy Shawn asked if New Japan ever asked the Funks to jump ship since they were the backbone of the foreigners in All-Japan Pro Wrestling at the time. Daddy Shawn asks Dory Funk Jr.. if he felt All-Japan pushed them down the card after All-Japan has signed Stan Hansen. Dory Funk Jr. talks about how hard Stan Hansen could hit, "You never knew where he was going to hit!"

With the foreigners (Gaijins) in All Japan so strong at that time, Dory Funk was asked what they would do to make them stay on top of all the foreigners. Dory funk talked about there were much money made in WWF when he joined at the same time he was running as hard as the time he was the World Champion. Dory talked about the name of Hoss and whether Dory Funk Jr. liked it. Dory was asked his opinion about Jimmy Jack Funk after Terry left WWF in 1986. Dory talked a bit about Bruiser Brody and Jumbo Tsuruta.

Daddy Shawn asked which Japanese wrestlers did Dory train.

Daddy Shawn asks Dory Funk on whether if he ever thought of joining Pro Wrestling NOAH instead of staying with All Japan Pro Wrestling when the late Mitsuharu Misawa took majority of the roster to NOAH at that time. Daddy Shawn asks why Dory Funk returned to Royal Rumble 1996.

Dory talks about how he started to train some WWE up and comers at the requests of WWE. He also mentioned who were the first two recommendations he gave to WWE. When asked about ECW, Dory joked, "What am I doing here!? How did this happen?" Dory talks about helping for Carmen Electra's Naked Women Wrestling League. Dory is asked what he thinks of the business which has become today. Daddy Shawn and Dory Funk Jr. talk about the business in China and how could China be turned into a huge wrestling market. Dory mentioned how the internet is huge for the business. He used his !BANG! TV as the prime example. Dory was asked if he believes the art of professional wrestling has lost over the years. Dory is asked his thoughts of old-school style of professional wrestling training to his style of training today.

Dory mentions why the old Japanese style of professional hierarchy is not the way for any Japanese pro wrestling companies. Daddy Shawn asks who he believes is his finest student that he has ever trained? Daddy Shawn and Dory talked about his Chinese student Shane Chung and what plans there are for him. Dory told people who want to train as a pro wrestler to never give up. Dory and Daddy Shawn talked about doing a possible training seminar in China for 2010. Daddy Shawn also thanked Dory's help on helping him to connect with All Japan Pro Wrestling.

Dory Funk Jr. is Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and trainer of WWE Developmental Talent. - For training schedules and ticket information to Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells go to http://www.dory-funk.com.

HDNet Secures Title Sponsorship Of MMA Expo Philadelphia

Source - HDNet:

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DEC. 28, 2009 - Mixed Martial Arts Expo, LLC - The Original MMA Expo since 2005 - today announced HDNet, "Your Home for MMA," as the title sponsor of MMA Expo Philadelphia taking place January 9-10, 2010 at the Valley Forge Convention Centre.

"HDNet has an impressive track record of providing MMA Fans with some of the most exciting coverage in the sport," commented Gerald Chopik, president of MMA Expo. "I'm an avid fan of HDNet's Mixed Martial Arts coverage and 'Inside MMA' with Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten, and we are thrilled to be working with the network as the title sponsor of our Philadelphia event. The color commentary and fight analysis by Michael Schiavello and Guy Mezger are second to none - always high energy, insightful, creative and informative. This is the level of content that the sport demands and HDNet is known for delivering."

"MMA Expo Philadelphia kicks off what will be an explosive year for MMA and for HDNet," said Andrew Simon, CEO of HDNet Fights. "The fans have supported HDNet's commitment to bringing home more MMA than any network in the world - and now we are excited to partner with MMA Expo Philadelphia to bring our great sport right to the fans. Mixed Martial Arts Expo has a five-year history of delivering a solid event with a long list of MMA celebrities and HDNet is proud to be the title sponsor."

Philly fans are in for a great MMA weekend on January 9-10 according to Chopik. "We have another stellar celebrity line-up with former UFC Lightweight Champion 37-4-1 Sean Sherk, King of the Cage Champion 48-20-7 Shonie Carter, former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion 6-0-0 Cung Le, 9-2-0 Matt Hamill, UFC Hall of Famer 90-16-7 Dan Severn, 9X Submission Grappling Champion Marcelo Garcia, 4X Olympian and Judo Bronze Medalist Jimmy Pedro, as well as World Karate Champion Tokey Hill." More celebrities are due to be announced shortly.

MMA Expo comprises a number of action-packed combative sports competitions including USA Boxing, Gi and No-Gi Submission Grappling by On The Mat and the USA Karate Open with the Tokey Hill Challenge. MMA Celebrity seminars feature hands-on instruction with Sherk, Carter, Hamill and Severn. And for those interested in a career as an MMA official, there's even a Referee and Judging Seminar by seasoned MMA official, Marc Fennell.

MMA Expo Philadelphia is co-located with the popular Philadelphia Sports Expo and a single general admission gives attendees access to both events. For more information about MMA Expo Philadelphia, visit www.MixedMartialArtsExpo.com.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net, twitter.com/hdnet) is the independent network with unique and provocative content that appeals to men of all ages and is 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.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage including more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network. 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, and revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "New York 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 (www.hdnetmovies.com, twitter.com/hdnetmovies) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.

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, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliated companies. To receive HDNet information via email, simply go to www.hd.net/listpage.

About Mixed Martial Arts Expo

The concept for Mixed Martial Arts Expo came about as a result of president Gerald Chopik's experience as a trade and consumer show producer and martial artist. Since its launch in 2005 Mixed Martial Arts Expo has hosted hundreds of exhibitors and martial arts instructors, and brought MMA fans together with many of the top names in the game including popular ring girl Arianny Celeste, PRIDE fighter Gary Goodridge, striking Coach and trainer of UFC Champions Sean Tompkins, UFC Hall of Famer Dan Severn, James Irvin - record holder of the fastest KO in the UFC, current and former UFC fighters Ben Rothwell, Denis Kang, Jason MacDonald, Matt Hamill, Patrick Cote and Pete Sell, as well as former MMA champions Frank Trigg, Carlos Newton, Dan Henderson, Matt Serra, Andre Arlovsky and many more.

Mixed Martial Arts Expo, LLC and Mixed Martial Arts Expo, Inc operate in the USA and Canada respectively. Mixed Martial Arts Expo is not associated in any way with any mma expo events recently held in California and New York.

BANG! TV Report - New Year's Eve, All Matches Inside A Steel Cage, Jimmy Hart In Dory Funk And Johnny Magnum's Corner / 5 Girl Gauntlet For The Gold

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

Professional Wrestling Comes to Ocala, Florida at the Funking Conservatory Sound Stage http://www.dory-funk.com

New Year's Eve, Thursday December 31st, Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells" All Matches Inside a Steel Cage, Jimmy Hart in Funk and Magnum's Corner - Showtime 7:00pm doors open at 6:00pm - Meet the stars of !BANG! TV

Heavyweight Title Match
Shane Chung
VS
Blain Rage

5 women's gauntlet for the Women's Title
CLAUDIA “the CLAW” REIFF
SAR-AH
MELISSA COATES
Miss Rachel FUNKING CONSERVATORY WOMEN'S CHAMPION
RAIN

Legends Tag Team Match
Dory Funk Jr. and Johnny Magnum Managed by Jimmy Hart
VS
Shane Chung and Hack Meyers

European Title Match
Johnny Romano
VS
Walter "Killer" Roberts

Tag Team Championship Tournament
round 3
the winner of round 2 will face the
Tag Team Champions, the "Cold Front"
Jordan Vinson and Christian Norskog

Tag Team Championship Tournament
round 2
Damien Steele and Mystery Partner
to face winner of the 1st round

Tag Team Championship Tournament
round 1
Mad Dog Medeske and Luke Spencer
VS
Shane Chung and Blain Rage

Tickets are $10 purchased in advance and $15 purchased the day of the show. Advance Purchase Tickets are available at Pardee Moving and Self Storage in Ocala, Florida.

Advance tickets can also be purchased online at http://www.dory-funk.com

For more ticket information and training schedules at the Funking Conservatory call 352-895-4658

Dory Funk Jr. is the coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE Developmental Talent.

Funk's Corner - Celebrate New Year's Eve At The Funking Conservatory Wrestling School

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

Arrive Tuesday December 29th. Check in at the Hotel.

Train three sessions with Dory Funk Jr., Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE Developmental Talent.

Appear on !BANG! TV New Years Eve Special "Support Your Troops 47 "Hell's Bells." All Matches Inside a Steel Cage.

Attend the Wrestlers New Year's Eve Wrestler's Party after the show.

Depart Friday January 1st.

All Accommodations Included 1400

Call now 352-895-4658 for information on this program and upcoming programs at the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School.

Visit the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School - http://www.dory-funk.com.
**************************
Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells"
Thursday December 31st in Ocala, Florida at the Funking Conservatory Sound Stage - Showtime 7pm doors open at 6:30. Tickets in advance 10, the day of the show, 15.
All Matches Inside a Steel Cage
Featuring the "Mouth of the South"
Jimmy Hart

Main Event for the Women's Championship
Women's Gauntlet Match Inside a Steel Cage - Rachael Moore (Champion) Claudia "The Claw" Reiff, Melissa Coates, Sar-Ah and "Rain"

Dory Funk Jr. and Johnny Magnum
Managed by Jimmy "Mouth of the South" Hart
VS
Hack Meyers and Shane Chung

Tag Team Championship Match
"The Cold Front" Christian Norskog and Jordan Vinson
VS
Damien Steele and Mystery Partner???

World Title Match
Shane Chung (Champion) vs Blain Rage

Also Appearing:
Karl "Mad Dog" Madetzke, Luke Spencer, Johnny Romano
Walter "Killer" Roberts

One night tournament for the Tag Team Championship

Tickets are Available at Pardee Moving and Self Storage
For Ticket Information, Call 352-895-4658 or visit http://www.dory-funk.com.

WWE's 'Tribute To The Troops' - Early Viewership Information

Even though I didn't see the show, I'm just bored enough to talk about the following:

While a blizzard kept a good many of us in our homes, it apparently didn't force us to watch NBC (or, for that matter, any other broadcast network), according to Nielsen Media Research's data.

Saturday's big numbers were actually drawn by the NFL Network, which pulled in somewhere around eleven-million viewers (for a Cowboys-Saints game). That easily doubled anything the broadcast nets had on, including the 'Tribute' program, which only managed about two-million-four-hundred-thousand viewers.

If it's any consolation, I'm pretty sure that'll blow away the combined efforts of Strikeforce and WEC.

!BANG! TV Report - WWE Hall Of Famers, Jimmy Hart And Dory Funk Jr. Coming To !BANG! TV - Rematch A Year In The Making

Source - Dory Funk Jr.:

The Mouth of the South, Jimmy Hart will be at !BANG! TV's Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells."

In a return match one year in the making, Dory Funk Jr. will team with Johnny Magnum, Jimmy Hart will be in their corner inside a Steel Cage against Hack Meyers and Funking Conservatory World Champion, Shane Chung.

Now on !BANG! TV you can watch last year's match that resulted in this year's match inside a steel cage at http://www.dory-funk.com.

For the Women's Championship, The Champ[ion, "The Wasilla Wrecker" Rachael Moore will risk it all in a 5 girl Gauntlet Match Inside a Steel Cage with Claudia "The Claw" Reiff, Melissa Coates, Rain and Sar-Ah.

Inside the Steel Cage, "The Cold Front" Jordan Vinson and Christian Norskog will defend their Tag Team Championship against Damien Steele and a Mystery Partner yet to be named.

Blain Rage will challenge for the Funking Conservatory World Championship. Also on the card, Walter "Killer" Roberts, Karl "Mad Dog" Madetzke, Luke Spencer and Johnny Romano.

!BANG! TV presents 10 Webisodes leading to Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells" coming to the Funking Conservatory Thursday December 31st, All matches will take place inside a steel cage.

In all on !BANG! TV you can browse through 75 current webisodes and wrestling matches starring the wrestlers of the Funking Conservatory and superstars from the golden age of professional wrestling.

For ticket information to New Year's Eve Special - Support Your Troops 47, "Hell's Bells" and training schedules at the Funking Conservatory call 352-895-4658 or visit http://www.dory-funk.com.

Tickets may also be purchased at Pardee Moving and Self Storage of Ocala, Florida or online from our website at http://www.dory-funk.com.

Advance purchase tickets are $10 and $15 if purchased the day of the show.

Dory Funk Jr. is the coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE Developmental Talent.

Jake Shields, Brian Stann And Frankie Edgar To Guest On TONIGHT'S 'Inside MMA' On HDNet

Source - HDNet:

Upbeat panel of MMA stars discuss their recent successes with Kenny and Bas Friday, December 18 at 9:00 p.m. ET

DALLAS, Dec. 18 -- WHAT: HDNet's "Inside MMA" features a trio of fighters on winning streaks this Friday, December 18 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

This episode has it all! Jake Shields talks to Bas and Kenny about the impact of Dan Henderson's signing with Strikeforce and an upcoming potential title bout between the two. Frankie Edgar tells the world whether or not he is ready to try to take the UFC lightweight title away from BJ Penn, while Brian Stann discusses his military service and his future in the light heavyweight division.

Also, reporter Ron Kruck heads to Las Vegas to share an exclusive feature on the growth of gambling in the MMA world, and how to interpret what the odds mean when you bet on a fighter.

Don't miss this week's Inside MMA!

WHEN: TONIGHT - Friday, December 18 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and provocative content that appeals to men of all ages and is 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 five regular season games from the Premiere Season of the United Football League. HDNet also features the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, "HDNet Fights" (www.hdnetfights.com). "HDNet Fights" works with leading MMA promoters including DREAM, Sengoku, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "New York 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 (www.hdnetmovies.com) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.

Upcoming Sneak Preview films include "Wonderful World" starring Matthew Broderick.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, 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, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Verizon FiOS and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliated companies.

The HDNet networks can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet1, facebook.com/HDNetFights and facebook.com/HDNetMovies and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetfights and, twitter.com/hdnetmovies.

SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO OFFER POPULAR ONLINE EXPERIENCE STRIKEFORCE: ALL ACCESS

Source - Showtime Networks Inc.:

Live Mixed Martial Arts Event – STRIKEFORCE: “Evolution” –

To Stream Simultaneously With Live SHOWTIME® Telecast

Saturday, Dec. 19 From HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

NEW YORK (Dec. 17, 2009)— SHOWTIME Sports will once again offer Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fans around the world STRIKEFORCE: All Access, the cutting edge online interactive experience, live on Saturday, Dec. 19, for STRIKEFORCE: “Evolution” from HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

The immersive digital experience will stream simultaneously with the live SHOWTIME® telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET* and be available to fans around the world including those in Brazil, Japan, throughout Europe as well as in the U.S. and Canada.

STRIKEFORCE: All Access will cost $24.95 per user and is available for pre-order at http://strikeforce.sho.com now. Purchase includes access to the live stream and replays anytime thereafter through December 24, 2009.

STRIKEFORCE: All Access debuted on April 11, 2009, when world-class MMA promotion STRIKEFORCE brought Frank Shamrock vs. Nick Diaz to SHOWTIME. The unique experience was offered again on June 6, for the Robbie Lawler vs. Jake Shields event. On both previous offerings, STRIKEFORCE: All Access was limited to U.S.-based online users. All Access went global for the first time with STRIKEFORCE: “Carano vs. Cyborg” on Aug. 15.

With STRIKEFORCE: All Access, fans can be their own director and toggle among five live cameras with full pause and rewind capabilities including SHOWTIME Sports exclusive CageCam®—a small, high quality camera worn by the referee which takes viewers inside the cage during the fights. Audio tracks will include the SHOWTIME telecast fight call by host and play-by-play announcer Mauro Ranallo, and color commentators Frank Shamrock and Stephen Quadros, as well as the corresponding audio to the selected camera. SHOWTIME is again working with BitGravity, Inc. and Episodic, Inc. to enable this unique multi-media experience.

As part of STRIKEFORCE: All Access fans also will receive a live Twitter feed from the event and can join behind-the scenes staff in tweeting about “Strikeforce” and “SHOWTIME Sports” during the evening.

Through a Facebook® Connect application, fans will be able to make predictions, comment on the live fights, discuss outcomes and more directly on the All Access page.

Other features include professional and amateur photography from the spectacle in the arena. Images of the fights, fan interaction and backstage will be uploaded during the live event via Flickr, the popular image and video hosting website and online community.

The Dec. 19 fight card features the return of undefeated superstar and former STRIKEFORCE World Middleweight Champion Cung Le against power punching Scott “Hands of Steel” Smith. Le, one of the most prolific and exciting fighters in all of martial arts, will return to the cage for the first time since relinquishing his title to concentrate on a movie career. STRIKEFORCE World Lightweight Champion Josh “The Punk” Thomson will defend his title against top-seeded rival and Interim Champion Gilbert “El Nino” Melendez. Undefeated Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal will make his United States and STRIKEFORCE debut when he meets two-time NAIA wrestling All-American Mike Whitehead. Middleweight Matt “The Law” Lindland will battle highly regarded STRIKEFORCE newcomer Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza.

*Telecast airs live in the U.S. at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME (delayed on the West Coast); STRIKEFORCE: All Access will be webcast live in available countries at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Facebook® is a registered trademark of Facebook Inc.

CageCam® is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc.

About Strikeforce

Strikeforce is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, Strikeforce has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” In May 2008, West Coast Productions, the parent company of Strikeforce, partnered with Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment (SVS&E), an entity created in 2000 to oversee all business operation aspects of the San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion at San Jose.

About Showtime Networks Inc.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

About Episodic, Inc.

The Episodic publishing platform enables the broadcast of live and on-demand video to any web site, mobile phone or Internet connected device. With Episodic, content producers are able to push video to their web properties, showcase content via social networks, and even build custom branded iPhone applications around their media. Episodic spans the video value chain, providing everything publishers need to manage, measure and monetize their content.

About BitGravity

BitGravity has built the first global content delivery network optimized to deliver affordable video on demand, live broadcasts in standard and high-definition, software applications, Web assets, and interactive applications. BitGravity is based in Burlingame, CA and is privately held, with strategic investment from Allen & Company, Tata Communications and private investors. www.BitGravity.com

SIX QUESTIONS WITH MATT LINDLAND WHO FACES STRIKEFORCE NEWCOMER “JACARE’’ SOUZA ON DEC. 19, 2009, SHOWTIME® CARD

Source - Strikeforce:

Tickets For STRIKEFORCE: Evolution On Sale NOW!

SAN JOSE, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2009) — Former Olympic wrestling medalist Matt “The Law” Lindland, who recently took a stab at the world of politics, answered Six Questions recently posed to him regarding his highly-anticipated return to mixed martial arts (MMA) action this Saturday during the live SHOWTIME® telecast of STRIKEFORCE: Evolution.

Lindland (21-6) will take on submission expert “Jacare” Souza (10-2) at middleweight (185 pounds) on the star-studded fight card being headlined by Cung Le vs. Scott Smith at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

Lindland, the 2000 Olympic Games silver medalist in Greco-Roman wrestling, holds wins against Pat Miletich, as well as former champion Carlos Newton and Jeremy Horn. Lindland is one of only two men to submit Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Travis Lutter.

QUESTION: How’s your training been going for Dec. 19?

LINDLAND: “How’s my training going? I answer those questions every day. Can’t you be a little more creative than that? My training is going good and if it wasn’t I’d lie to you anyway and tell you it was.”

QUESTION: OK. Fair enough. We’ll get right into the politics questions. In 2008 you won the primary for a seat on the Oregon House of Representatives but were defeated in the general election. What did you learn from that experience and how active are you currently in politics?

LINDLAND: “You know, I’m really not that active. I’m an activist. I’m a registered Republican and I just felt it was my civic duty to run. I felt like we did not have a qualified candidate to run. Would I run for politics again if I had to? Yeah, absolutely. I would first try and find someone more qualified than me to do it and get behind them and support them instead but if I felt there wasn’t anyone qualified then I would.

QUESTION: You must have learned a lot during your run in politics?

LINDLAND: “I did learn a lot about the political process. I learned it’s not about valuables and principles but how much money you can raise. Politics is dirtier then NHB (No Holds Barred) when fighting was first starting and there were no rules. Politics has fewer rules than that.”

QUESTION: Who is the toughest fighter you’ve ever faced?

LINDLAND: “I think it just really depends on what point of my career I was in. I mean, early in my career I faced the legend Pat Miletich (in 2003). Then I had to face Fedor Emelianenko (in 2007) who is the best heavyweight in the world. It just depends on where you’re at in your career and when you’re fighting these guys. But I guess the obvious answer would have to be Fedor. Everyone knows I’ve fought him and he’s a phenomenal fighter.”

QUESTION: You fought him in Russia. Was that tougher to do on his home soil than over here in the States? And would you like to face him again?

LINDLAND: “I think so. They don’t make calls in Russia when guys grab ropes and stuff. He’s in a different weight class now. It’s a fight I don’t need to take but I’ll fight whoever. It doesn’t matter to me.”

QUESTION: Do your two children James and Robin like and participate in mixed martial arts?

LINDLAND: “Robin is a sophomore and doing track and field. As far as martial arts goes she’s the highest ranked kid we’ve ever had come out of our kid’s program. Both kids are pretty active in studying the martial arts. It’s not something they’re pursuing long term but I think teaching martial arts to kids, any combative sport, is a must. It teaches them a lot of good principles.

Tickets for Dec. 19, priced from $30, are on sale at the HP Pavilion ticket office as well as at all Ticketmaster locations (800-745-3000), Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com) and STRIKEFORCE’S official website (www.strikeforce.com).

Doors at HP Pavilion will open at 5 p.m. PT for the STRIKEFORCE: “Evolution” event presented by Rockstar Energy Drink and the first preliminary bout will begin at 6:00 PM, PT.

The live SHOWTIME telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast).

About STRIKEFORCE

STRIKEFORCE (www.strikeforce.com) is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, STRIKEFORCE has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” In May 2008, West Coast Productions, the parent company of STRIKEFORCE, partnered with Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment (SVS&E), an entity created in 2000 to oversee all business operation aspects of the San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion at San Jose.

WWE(R) Thanks President Obama And General Petraeus For Holiday Messages

Source - World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.:

STAMFORD, Conn., Dec 17, 2009 -- World Wrestling Entertainment(R) would like to thank both President Obama and General Petraeus for providing the WWE(R) with taped, non-partisan holiday messages to the men and women in the US Armed Forces to be included in our annual special, "Tribute to the Troops," this Saturday on NBC at 9 PM ET. This marks the second year that the Commander in Chief has provided a special message for the troops.

For the last seven years, WWE has traveled to the Middle East to entertain troops serving overseas in appreciation for their service to our country. WWE would also like to thank all those responsible in the White House, First Lady's office and the US Central Command for making this happen.

The request process for the President's video began in April 2009, when WWE met with Trooper Sanders, Deputy Director of Policy and Projects for the First Lady. WWE continued these discussions after Labor Day as requested. In November, WWE was pleased to receive confirmation from Matt Flavin, Director of Veterans and Wounded Warrior Policy at the White House, that a Presidential message would be supplied for "Tribute to the Troops." WWE supplied background information, as well as our production and deadline needs. We received confirmation on Monday that President Obama's message had been taped, and it was delivered on Tuesday morning.

We are hopeful that everyone, especially the service men and women of the Armed Forces and their families, enjoy "Tribute to the Troops."

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE:WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Tokyo, Toronto and Sydney. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE) can be found at corporate.wwe.com.