Last Month, Booker T ... This Month, Scott Steiner

If you'd like to book Scott Steiner (and/or brother Rick), talk to Bill Behrens for your hookup. Get it? Hookup?

showbis@aol.com
www.sbibookings.com

Art Of Fighting 7 Hits The Sun Dome

Source - USF:

TAMPA, 02/09/2010 - Make sure to catch all the thrilling blow-to-blow excitement and action of the Art of Fighting 7 as it returns to the to the USF Sun Dome on Saturday, April 3, 2010.

The event will feature 10 professional cage fights, including the main event featuring six-time World Jiu Jitsu Champion, and UFC Veteran that defeated Frank Mir, Marcio "Pe de Pano" Cruz. Cruz will defend his world heavyweight title against knockout artist Dave "Pay Me" Yost. Yost is known for his extraordinary strength and knockout power and earned his fight name as a collector for a bookie before his professional fighting days. This fight will look like an old school UFC bout as the Jiu Jitsu specialist takes on the heavy handed brawler.

The co-main event will include WWE wrestler, movie actor, and super heavyweight fighter Imani Lee making his Tampa debut. In his last appearance in AOF, Lee shattered his opponents knee cap and twisted it half way around his leg. He is 6.6"and weighs over 320 lbs., but fights with incredible speed and athleticism. Lee will be fighting French up and comer Sofian Iglarne who earned a hame for himself as a slugger in Europe.

Other Fights that night will include the first women's bout in AOF History featuring local kickboxing amatuer star and model Tiffany Connell who takes on Michelle Gutierrez from Virginia.

Mark Serkez returns to the Sun Dome after earning "Knockout of the night" honors in his last appearance as he toppled 6-7 fighter Corey Krebbs in the first round. Serkez will be fighting another KO artist in Keith McCabe who also won by knockout in his last appearance at the Sun Dome. This fight is going to be an absolute war, expect blood.

Tickets are available at the USF Sun Dome Box Office or Ticketmaster.com. Fans can also see the full card and details by logging on to http://www.artoffighting.tv/.

In addition, VIP Tables are available by calling 888-748-8862 or emailing vip@aofmma.com

Programming Alert: Cheap Plug ...

Why? Because, I can!

This Wednesday's edition of 'Ringside Rap' (8 PM ET), with my boy, Rich Tate, and cohosts Les Thatcher and Mike Sempervive, will feature a tribute to Jack Brisco.

Buddy Colt, JJ Dillion, Dory Funk Jr., Jody Hamilton, Danny Hodge, Steve Keirn, Mr. Wrestling II, and Harley Race have already agree to participate, and the list may not be finalized.

Programming Alert: Former Referee To Speak Out On WWE Release

Between 6-7 PM PT, Marty Elias (who, until last summer, had about a two-year stint in the Fed) will be a guest on KCAA radio's 'Empire Wrestling Radio Show' (1050 AM in and around San Bernardino).

Elias has promised to discuss, for the first time, specifics on his release, and even if you're out of the area, the program can be heard on the web (www.empirewrestlingfederation.com & www.kcaaradio.com).

!BANG! TV Report - Fourth Generation Dory Funk Comes To !BANG! TV

Source - Dory Funk:

Dr. Dory Funk Jr. Is coming to the Funking Conservatory to train for professional wrestling. Dr. Dory Funk Jr. is the son of Dr. Dory Funk of Paonia, Colorado, Grandson of Dory Funk Jr. and Great Grandson of Dory Funk Sr.

Dr. Dory Funk Jr. (Dory Funk IV) will make his first appearance on !BANG! TV Saturday February 20th at Support Your Troops 48, "Cold War." Dr. Dory Funk Jr. brings 6 years of karate experience to the Funking Conservatory.

The Main Event at Support Your Troops 48, "Cold War will be:

Johnny Magnum, Dory Funk Jr. and Dr. Dory Funk Jr. (Dory Funk IV)
vs
Hack Meyers, Shane Chung and Blain Rage

Also appearing on the card - Claudia "The Claw" Reiff, "The Wasilla Wrecker" Rachael Moore, Sar-Ah, Star of Studio Sar-ah, "Mad Dog" Madetzke, Walter "Killer" Roberts, Chris Haile, Luke Spencer and more.

For ticket information to our next !BANG! TV Taping and training schedules at the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School visit http://www.dory-funk.com.

Now featured on !BANG! TV 2 tag team matches each featuring 4 NWA World Champions as "The Funk's" face Harley Race and Ted Dibiase with Lou Thesz as Referee and "The Funk's" face Ricky Steamboat and Jay Youngblood with Lou Thesz as Referee.

Dory Funk Jr. is the Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainier of WWE, TNA and Japanese Wrestling Talent.

For training information and tickets to our next !BANG! TV Taping visit http://www.dory-funk.com or Call Now, 352-895-4658.

Ric's Quick Pics - 'UFC 109: Relentless' (Main Card)

* Couture (I think)
* Marquardt
* Thiago (Sorry, Mike)
* Maia (although I'm on the fence)
* Serra (although, for a change, it wouldn't bother me should Trigg win)

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend

Source - World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.:

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb 05, 2010 -- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE) today declared the Company's regular quarterly dividend of $0.36 per share on its Class A shares of common stock. As previously announced, members of the McMahon family have waived $0.12 per share of the dividends. As a result, all Class A and Class B shares owned by the McMahon family will instead receive dividends in the amount of $0.24 per share. The record date for the dividend will be March 15, 2010, and the payment date will be March 25, 2010.

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. can be found at corporate.wwe.com. If you have additional questions, please contact WWE Investor Relations via e-mail at investor.relations@wwecorp.com.

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, 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.

Card Update - 'WEC: Aldo Vs. Faber'

ARCO Arena
Sacramento, CA
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Live on pay-per-view @ 10 PM ET
Lineup subject to change

* Jose Aldo vs. Urijah Faber - featherweight title
* Donald Cerrone vs. Ben Henderson - lightweight title
* Mike Brown vs. Manny Gamburyan - featherweights

UFC(R) 2009 Undisputed(TM) Reaches "Platinum Hits"And "Greatest Hits" Sales Milestones In North America

Source - THQ:

Debut Videogame Based on Ultimate Fighting Championship(R) Now Available at Reduced Price Point for Xbox 360(R) Video Game and Entertainment System from Microsoft and PlayStation(R)3 Computer Entertainment System

AGOURA HILLS, Calif., Feb 02, 2010 -- THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) and Zuffa, LLC today announced that UFC(R) 2009 Undisputed(TM), the critically and commercially acclaimed debut videogame based on the Ultimate Fighting Championship(R), has achieved "Platinum Hits" status in North America for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, as well as joined Sony's "Greatest Hits" collection in North America for the PlayStation(R)3 computer entertainment system. Having shipped more than 3.5 million units worldwide to date, both versions of the videogame originally launched on May 19, 2009 and are now available for the suggested retail price of $29.99.

"Reaching 'Platinum Hits' and 'Greatest Hits' status is an honor that speaks to the strength of our software and the power of the UFC brand," said Brian Coleman, Vice President of Global Brand Management, THQ. "With a reduced price point, more players can now step into the Octagon(TM) and take part in the ultimate virtual UFC experience."

"We are excited that so many fans around the world have helped us achieve these impressive milestones in our debut year," said Dana White, President, UFC. "UFC 2009 Undisputed opened the door for us to further share the UFC brand with videogame and fight fans around the world, and we cannot wait to return this spring with the release of UFC Undisputed 2010 on May 25, 2010."

About UFC 2009 Undisputed

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

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

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

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship

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

About THQ Inc.

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

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

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

"PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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

Alan J. Wojcik's Review Of YouShoot With Bob Holly

www.alanwojcik.com:

Bob “Hardcore” Holly worked for the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment promotion for the better part of 15 years, tenured as long as the Undertaker. Yet he’s been called a bully, a cheap shot artist, a locker room snitch and other things I will not mention here. Now that he’s not under contract he can speak his mind and what better place to do it then Kayfabe Commentaries YouShoot DVD series ($20.00 from their site)

As always Sean Oliver is the host and question supplier. If you are new to the YouShoot concept; here’s how it works: You go to the KC website and do what you’re told, like this link for the upcoming shoot with Jim Cornette http://www.kayfabecommentaries.com/you_shoot_info.html . The good and bad part is Sean Oliver will take as many submissions and present them to the guest, in this case Bob Holly. As with previous guests like Sabu, New Jack, Sandman and Honky Tonk Man they agree to answer any and all questions Oliver presents to them. As with previous reviews I have voiced my opinion that some of the wrestling fans who submit to the DVD are real examples of what America thinks wrestling fans are. Some appear to have been personally harmed in some way by Holly or feel he ruined wrestling as there is venom in their questions.

For every dumb fan question there are some good questions asked of Holly including some from famous wrestling people I will not give away. The DVD is broken down into several chapters: SMW, Sparky Plugg, Bombastic Bob, Hardcore Holly, The Brand Split, Bully Bob, Brock, Sex and Drugs and The Boys. As with previous DVD’s there are breaks from the questions with some games created by Oliver such as a word association with items pulled from a gym bag (alcohol, pills, crack, etc.) New to this DVD for the guest is: “More Hated than Bob Holly,” “Tougher than Bob Holly” and “How Would Bob Holly Kick His Ass?” The popular “Roll the Joint/Timed Event” championship stays with Sabu.

Like the previous guests Holly holds nothing back and I mean nothing, calling fans stupid morons. He has zero love for the internet sites that are considered to be gossip mongers nor does he have love for current TNA star Ken Anderson/Mr. Kennedy. He feels you can have your opinion of him but as he says, “You don’t know me; you only know my wrestling character.” While he talks about the past he also talks about his present love; car racing and mechanical work. Holly is a delight to watch handle all questions including talking about the night he broke his arm in a match with Kurt Angle, pain pills, Rene Dupree, Matt Cappotelli, John Heidenreich, having his back sliced in a match with Rob Van Dam, the real reason he left WWE and nearly losing his arm to a staph infection. I think along with Rikishi, Holly is the only guest not to drink alcohol on camera of the DVD’s I have reviewed. I would love to see Holly compete in WWE again or possibly TNA in the future. Definitely buy this DVD or borrow it from someone because it should be in the top of 2010 competition later in the year.

The next releases from www.KayfabeCommentaries.com according to their site are Missy Hyatt’s Pajama Party w/Lacey Von Erich & Friends and the mentioned YouShoot with Jim Cornette.

Updated Lineup - 'Strikeforce Challengers' - March 26, 2010

(I'm bored and, for a change, actually felt like doing some work.)

Save Mart Center
Fresno, CA
Live on Showtime @ 11:45 PM ET
Card subject to change

* Lavar Johnson vs. Lolohea Mahe - heavyweights
* George Bush III vs. Ron Humphrey - light heavyweights
* Andre Galvao vs. Luke Stewart - welterweights
* Zoila Frausto vs. Miesha Tate - bantamweights
* Bryan Travers vs. Justin Wilcox - lightweights
* Ben Holscher vs. ??? - lightweights

Tonight's 'Inside MMA' To Preview The Fight Card For 'Strikeforce: Miami'

Source - HDNet:

Three MMA Champions join Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten, Friday, January 29 at 9:00 p.m. ET

DALLAS, Jan. 29 -- WHAT: This week the "Inside MMA" panel will preview the "Strikeforce: Miami" fight card with the following fighters joining Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten to add perspective to the event and to discuss their own journey through the ranks in mixed martial arts. The panel features Gegard Mousasi, Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champ (and former Dream Middleweight Champ), Gilbert Melendez, Strikeforce Lightweight Champ and Tony Lopez, the Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight Champion of King of the Cage. The panel will take a look at the Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos vs. Marloes Coenen match-up, along with the Nick Diaz vs. Marius Zaromskis fight and Herschel Walker vs. Greg Nagy.

Also, Ron Kruck files a report on the MMA debut of Walker, the Heisman Trophy winner, and former NFL running back. Despite having several decades of experience in martial arts and being a sixth-degree black belt in tae kwon do, Walker admits he has quite a learning curve.

Also, HDNet will make a BIG announcement on tonight's broadcast. Don't miss it!

WHEN: TONIGHT, January 29 at 9:00 p.m. ET only on HDNet.

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 "District 13: Ultimatum."

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.

DVD Review: You Shoot With Bob Holly

Source - Main Event Radio's Steven Wilson:

When you think of former WWE superstar Bob Holly your likely to think of the racing character “Sparky Plug” from the WWF in the 1990’s, otherwise you likely will think of the controversial shoot incidents he had in the WWE during the final years of his run there. One thing’s for certain, Bob Holly is not well liked individual, some may respect him, while others absolutely hate him, but very few have a kind word to say about Bob Holly so to say the least that makes him a good candidate to sit down and go on the record with the public during the latest installment of the You Shoot series from Kayfabe Commentaries.

The DVD starts off with the expected progression from training to Smoky Mountain Wrestling to entering the WWE and hating the name Sparky Plugg. From there his days in the New Midnight Express and eventually becoming Hardcore Holly are talked about. Along the way Holly offers some interesting stories such as telling off the clique and whether he ever thought about jumping ship to WCW during the Monday night wars.

The meat and vegetables of this DVD then begins as the interesting topics and questions for Bob Holly do not revolve around the progression of his career but rather with the controversies that garner internet press and the reputation of being a bully. Holly is accosted by large shirtless men in submitted videos and numerous emails about working stiff with people in the ring and incidents with the likes of Matt Capottelli, Rene Dupree, Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle. Holly holds nothing back in addressing each one, providing information that wasn’t provided in the many internet reports at the time of the various incidents and explains why his so called stiff ring work is overblown.

Beyond that some other topics covered include whether he would consider jumping to the MMA world (including a challenge for Brock Lesnar), just how bad his pain killer addiction was, whether he used steroids and whether those in the WWE locker room use them, and whether or not Molly Holly has a naughty side (she apparently does!)

One of the things that I looked forwarding to seeing is what type of games host Sean Oliver would play with Bob Holly, After all You Shoot has come to be known for some of its crazy games and Bob Holly doesn’t come off as the type to play games. However, as they always do, the guys at Kayfabe come up with something unique to suit their guest, this time around they feature a hilarious “How would Bob Holly kick their ass” where Bob comes up with some crazy ideas to inflict pain and torture on people in the business that he doesn’t see eye to eye with like Ken Kennedy. As you know by now Holly is rather hated amongst wrestling fans so a game debating on who is more hated than Bob Holly is featured and then a debate on who is tougher than Bob. The You Shoot classic of What’s in the bag returns as well.

The most appealing aspect of this DVD is finally hearing Bob Holly’s side of a long controversy filled story. I think there is a lot to be learned from this DVD, that is if you want to learn something. Holly eludes to numerous times in this DVD that people will believe what they want to believe.

There is 2 sides to every story and I think the You Shoot with Bob Holly DVD is a must see for any Bob Holly hater because it sets the record straight on so many things. As the back of the DVD cover states, Bob Holly…Bully? Coward? Or misunderstood, You be the judge. Ive never been a big fan of Bob Holly, I respect him as a guy who was employed that long by the WWE has to have talent, and after watching this DVD, my judgement is he is somewhat misunderstood.

You Shoot with Bob Holly is now available on DVD from Kayfabe Commentaries. For more information or to order your own copy check out www.kayfabecommentaries.com and to read my previous reviews check out www.maineventradio.com and stalk me on twitter via twitter.com/wrestlingreview

Funk's Corner - Gene Kiniski

Source - Dory Funk Jr. - Coach of the Funking Conservatory Wrestling School and Trainer of WWE, TNA and Japanese Wrestling Talent:

My Father, Dory Funk Sr. always said you can never learn the wrestling business unless you face the best.

In my first year in the wrestling, I faced the best. I wrestled Verne Gagne to an hour draw, defeated Sonny Meyers, Fritz Von Erich, and Pat O'Connor and I wrestled Gene Kiniski to a one hour draw in what I still consider one of the toughest matches I ever had. At about the 40 minute mark, Gene grabbed both of my legs and gave me his "Giant Swing" until I nearly blacked out, then dropped me in the center of the ring and jumped on me with all 6' 6 280 pounds, then crossed my face with his forearm and said, "Your Mother is coming to ringside, Dorothy is worried about you, here she comes to help you." To this day I still consider wrestling Gene Kiniski the most demanding athletic event I have participated in.

In the finals of a tournament to see who would face Lou Thesz for the NWA World Championship. I went over Iron Mike Dibiase. Before a sellout crowd in Amarillo, Texas I wrestled Lou Thesz to a one hour draw for the World Heavyweight Championship.

In my second year in the business, (1964) it was my fathers opinion that I must prove myself a box office attraction in other places if I were going to climb to the top in the wrestling business. We chose the Vancouver Territory as the place to go. My father had built a reputation there a few years before wrestling as the Texas Outlaw.

My father made the trip to Vancouver with me for the first week. We were booked around the territory as father and son tag team. This was an introduction for me to the Vancouver Territory. After the first week, Dad returned to Amarillo and I stayed to work the Vancouver Territory. The loop included Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, New Westminster, Chilliwack, and Tacoma Washington.

After the first week I had a meeting with promoter Rod Fenton. He told me, "people here pay to see big men in the ring. Just look at my stars, Gene Kiniski, Don Leo Jonathan, Mike Sharpe, Dale Lewis, and Tex McKenzie." I had some concern that maybe Rod Fenton was doing a favor for my father and doubted my ability.

The wrestlers in Vancouver were great to get along with. Mike Sharp, Gene Kiniski, and Don Leo Jonathan were my friends. In the dressing room I would hear Jonathan say, "Okay kid, lets get your pushups done, 300 of them, then Gene and Mike would make me lay on a bench and they would work my neck until I couldn't turn it from side to side. Gene Kiniski would give me advice, "Listen kid I want to see you in a sport coat every night. Give these people some wrestling that is what they are paying to see, not a bunch of bull shit." Mike would say, "Okay kid work my neck. He would lay down on the bench. "Work it Hell, I couldn't even move it."

After the first week, my father was gone and I was on my own. I received my booking sheet. The whole loop for that week I was scheduled against preliminary wrestlers on the first match every night. I did my best hoping I could move up the card the next week.

At the end of the second week I received my next booking sheet and saw that I was working second match with Peter Whickinoff. I had never heard of him, but I would do my best. Peter Whickinoff was substituted for all week by more jobbers. After suffering through my second week of mediocre matches, I went in to get my next booking sheet and saw that I was wrestling second match with Joe Noshow who turned out to be replaced by, you guessed it, more jobbers.

I had had it. I was 2000 miles from home with my wife and two kids trying my best and felt like I was going nowhere. I remember getting my pay from Tacoma Washington, it was an all time record low for me. $17 and promoter Rod Fenton looked at me and said, "Don't tell anybody in Texas about this." I told Mr. Fenton, "Please give me a chance. I promise I will do anything if you will let me show you what I can do. The next day I got my booking sheet, Monday in Vancouver was a battle royal and the rest of the week, I was on top wrestling Gene Kiniski. I was thrilled.

I wanted to be spectacular in the Battle Royal, "Impress the promoter." I was in the corner on the top rope with Tex McKenzie and Mike Sharpe in front of me, both 6' 9" tall. From the top rope I jumped over the top of them, landing in the middle of the ring. As I jumped from the top, Mike reached up and grabbed at my leg, throwing me off balance. In an effort to land standing in the middle of the ring I reached for the floor with one leg only. As I landed, I could feel the knee break to the inside. As I set there on the mat knowing my knee was busted, my friends picked me up and threw me over the top rope and down to the floor. That's what friends in wrestling are for. (You know, the show must go on)

The next morning I was in the doctors office. He said, "Check in the hospital tomorrow and we will do knee surgery." Disappointed and Dejected, I called Promoter, Rod Fenton to give him the bad news. Fenton said, "Before you have surgery, call Gene Kiniski. I didn't speak much to Gene, I just listened. "Kid, go to a sporting good store and buy some tough skin, some tape, and long wrestling tights. Shave your leg and show up for the show one hour ahead of time. I did what he said.

That night I had to cover up and sneak in the back door. I was on the main event wrestling Gene Kiniski and couldn't let the wrestling fans see that I couldn't walk. Gene was there one hour ahead of schedule. He taped my leg tight as a cast from top to bottom, then said bend it till you get a slight tear in the tape by your knee. As Gene left, he growled, "Okay kid, I will see you in the ring."

Gene Kiniski was there every night that week one hour ahead of schedule to tape my knee before we wrestled, then we would go into the ring and he would whip the heck out of me but leave the knee alone. I owe it to Gene Kiniski that I did not have to have surgery on my knee in Vancouver and he may have saved my career, In fact I have been wrestling all these years and never had more trouble or surgery on my knees.

When time came to leave the Vancouver Territory and return to Amarillo, I was wondering what to give to Gene Kiniski for a gift to thank him for taking care of me and most likely saving my career in wrestling but as my advisor, Big Gene left nothing to chance. At my last show in Vancouver, Gene came to me and said, "Listen Kid, Before you leave for Amarillo, you need to go to the liquor store and pick up a bottle of Crown Royal and on your way out drop it off and my house in Bellingham." (Washington) On the way out of the territory with wife and kids we stopped by Gene's house with Gene's bottle of Crown Royal.

Five years later in Tampa Florida on February 11, 1969 I went over Gene Kiniski for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. No one was prouder of my career as NWA Champion than Gene Kiniski.

At WCW's Slamboree in '93, Gene Kiniski was my manager in the legends match against Nick Bockwinkel. Verne Gagne was in Bockwinkel's corner and John Valentine was commentating the match. As we walked into the ring at the Omni, Gene had his arm around my shoulder, still the boss and still telling me what to do. As we came to the center of the ring in the Omni in Atlanta, He stopped, looked at me and said, "Look up, Your father is up there looking at us now. Do you see Nick Bockwinkel over there?" "Give'em hell Kid."

**************

Now on !BANG! TV at http://www.dory-funk.com "Blast From the Past" Dory Funk Jr. vs Gene Kiniski NWA World Championship Match from the Tampa Armory February 11, 1969 / Photo of NWA Champions.

For training information and ticket information to !BANG! TV Tapings, call 352-895-4658 or visit http://www.dory-funk.com.

WWE SUPERSTAR CHRIS JERICHO REFLECTS ON HIS PAST AND HOW THE RING PREPARED HIM FOR HOLLYWOOD IN THE MARCH ISSUE OF MEN’S FITNESS

Source - SJB Communications:

On Newsstands January 25th Nationwide

NEW YORK, NY—He’s a television personality, actor, best selling author and one of WWE’s biggest stars. Now Chris Jericho reflects on his humble beginnings as a struggling wrestler and the path that led him to success in the new March issue of Men’s Fitness. “In those days, there was no Internet, no cell phone. I was a smaller guy coming from a small town. How does anyone become a wrestler? I just figured that God had this plan for me,” he says in the issue. "When I didn’t have enough money for gas to drive the 25 minutes to Calgary, I worked out in a barn. Pull-ups on the wooden struts and hay bale curls. Chugging raw eggs and devouring liver for extra protein. You do what you have to do to keep in shape.”

Following are highlights from his interview in the March issue of Men’s Fitness, on newsstands January 25th nationwide.

On What Influence Him To Be A Wrestler

“I loved the pomp and circumstance. It was like a play between good and bad guys.”

On How Life In The Ring Prepared Him To Tackle A Career In Hollywood

“We still gotta take the bumps and bruises,’ he says. ‘It’s show-business boot camp. You learn how to behave in front of a live crowd. In this day and age, it’s not how big your biceps are, it’s about connecting with fans. It’s like being an actor onstage.‘ ”

On His Challenges To Eat Right During Hard Times

“You’d go into convenience stores and buy hard-boiled eggs, bottled water and some apples and that’s your healthy dinner. If you’re lucky.”

Trainer Chris Gonzalez On Jericho’s Strong Return to the Ring

“When he returned to the WWE, the other guys thought he looked bigger and leaner than when he left.”

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. To Report 2009 Fourth Quarter And Full Year Results

Source - World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.:

STAMFORD, Conn., Jan 20, 2010 -- World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE) announced that it will report its 2009 fourth quarter and full year results on Thursday, February 11, 2010, before the opening of the market. The Company's Chairman and CEO, Vincent K. McMahon, and senior management will host a conference call beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results.

All interested parties are welcome to listen to a live web cast that will be hosted through the Company's web site at corporate.wwe.com. Participants can also access the conference call by dialing 888-647-2706 (conference ID: WWE). Please reserve a line 15 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call.

The earnings release and presentation to be referenced during the call will be available at corporate.wwe.com.

A replay of the call will be available approximately two hours after the conference call concludes, and can be accessed on the Company's web site.

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. can be found at corporate.wwe.com. If you have additional questions, please contact WWE Investor Relations via e-mail at investor.relations@wwecorp.com.

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, 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.