Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Friday, March 2, 2007
Thursday, February 22, 2007
TRUMPED!
Here is our our list of who Donald Trump should choose as his representative in the "Battle of Billionaires" Match at Wrestlemania 23: Hillbilly Jim, Jumping Jim Brunzell, Tugboat, Van Hammer, Firebreaker Chip, Tom Zenk, Nick Bockwinkel, Prince Iaukea, David Sammartino, Mini Mankind and of course our first choice if he was still with us..Hercules Hernandez!
That 70's Guy..
Regardless of his Fat Chick Thriller Persona in the post-nWo wcw era, We will always remember Mike Awesome for his victory over Masato Tanaka at ecw's One Night Stand PPV (which quite honestly in our eyes was the last ecw match ever)
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Monday, February 19, 2007
If he knew then, what we know now...
Remember the good old days of wrestling when a second-rate Rikishi cousin on his second gimmick wasn't headlining one of the main events at WrestleMania?
Saturday, February 17, 2007
How'd you find three pictures of Kwee Wee on the Internet?
It wasn't easy, but this is for you, Mr. Funk.
Kip James: That's a Shoot
Here our interview from last spring
The Full Monty
No Sapp, TNA's Kip James opens up on TNA, career, and the biz
By Jon Chattman
In the world of professional wrestling, Monty Sapp has gone by many names. He was a New Age Outlaw, Mr. Ass, "Bad Ass" and "The One" Billy Gunn. These days, the former WWE grappler goes by the name Kip James in TNA (Total Nonstop Action) Wrestling. While the names and attire have changed throughout the years, one thing's remained the same: the former "King of the Ring" succeeded on every level of the business. We recently spoke to James about his career and how life in TNA is going thus far. While he's enjoying his time in TNA and strongly believes in the product, James was a realist when it came to questions about the company's future. He also played ball with our quirky questions. With that, we take a page from his slogan, there's no futher introduction needed. Here's the interview.
JC: TNA seems to just keeps getting momentum and momentum. Do you think it's inevitable that the company will go head to head with WWE?
KJ: As long as they keep it in perspective and keep building on it...That's our goal to go head to head. I see that in everybody's eyes and in everybody's mind. It's a good product and they're going in the right direction, but I don't think head to head is coming for a long time. As much as I love TNA, I'm just being honest. It's nothing against the company. Head to head almost to me means the Superbowl. [It's] like taking a high school team and playing Pittsburgh. You have to understand Vince [McMahon] is it. He's been around since his dad was putting this together, and he knows what's going on and he knows this company. I know [WWE's] kind of like in a wishy-washy spot. It's in that downhill slope. They just don't have any storylines or anything that anyone really wants to see[TNA's] getting close, but it'll be little ways before they even get to that kind of a level. I only speak because I've been there and I know I've been there for 13 years, so I kind of know a little of what's going on in that company.
JC: Speaking of both companies, you've gone through a bunch of gimmicks over the years, and you never seem to mind no matter how crazy they are...
KJ: Yeah, and I loved that. That's the thing about what my perspective is on this business. When they come to us with a gimmick, even if I hate it, it's always a challenge to try and get it over. The Rockabilly thing, which almost killed me because of the circumstances and the way it all came about, wasn't good and there was no thought put into it. It was nothing. It was just something to do with no big gimmick, which is different with all the other gimmicks that I've done. Smoking Gun, I cared about. I cared about DX. I cared about the Chuck and Billy thing. They kind of were laughing at first and then all of a sudden, they got it. And, it got over big, but it was one of those things, like me and Brian (James of TNA), we never thought we're going to be as good as we were. We didn't even think that. We were just going to have fun with it. It was the same thing with me and Chuck. They were putting some thought into it, and they let us run with it and do what we wanted to do and it got huge publicity.
JC: Be honest, do you think the Billy and Chucky gimmick influenced "Brokeback Mountain?"
KJ: [Laughs] I don't know if they would've researched us. I don't think we had too much to do with that.. I [still] talk to Chuck about a couple of times a month whenever he's not in Japan. We kind of hookup, because I know he gets busy in Japan because he's doing really good over there. He'll call me or I'll call him and leave a message just to make sure and see what's going on with him.
JC: Getting back to TNA, 3 Live Cru is done now right? No more staple with Ron Killings, Konnan, right?
KJ: Everybody left. It's just me and Brian now. It's just the Dream Team now. Me and Brian are just getting back together and it's going to be fun. We could never top [what we did before], but can we at least try to keep it going and get one good little run out of it? Yeah, I think we can because of our personalities and just the way that we both are together. I'm having a blast. I'm having fun again and it's like being young again where I don't have all this pressure and stress of trying to worry about what's happening in NY and things likes that. I don't have any of those worries anymore.
JC: It must be nice traveling less in TNA as opposed to WWE....
KJ: Yeah, I missed a lot. I have two boys and I missed doing a lot of stuff with them, but now I think they want me to get my job back so I'll go away. [Laughs] I love spending time with them. I'll pick them up from school, go to practices and games, and it's fun for me. I love spending time with them now, because now I have a relationship with them.
JC: Okay, enough with all this serious stuff, I'm going to throw out a bunch of ideas for wrestling gimmicks and you tell me if they work. A guy wrestling in a monkey suit called "Monsoon Gorilla"?
KJ: No. No, that'll never work.
JC: What about a guy with a hairy chest who wears a mask and he's called The Masked Furchest?
KJ: If he was ugly enough and he was hairy enough... I think that's about as close as you can get with that one.
JC: Last one: What about a big guy named Joe who goes by the name The Big Joe?
KJ: That's a possibility. I think that could work. It depends on how big Joe really is.
JC: Good point. Hey, do people call you "Mr. Ass" whenever you walk into a bar?
KJ: Yeah, they laugh for a second. "Mr. Ass! Badass!" People are starting to get the TNA thing because I had people coming up to me and say "Kip." It kind of throws me off guard for a minute because I wasn't used to people calling me that.
JC: Was there ever a time when you were going to use your real name?
KJ: Well, Kip is my middle name. [And], we just threw in the James thing so we could get that angle a little bit with Brian like a volunteer brother kind of thing.
JC: Are you an ass man or breast man?
KJ: I'm a leg guy, actually.
JC: Are you in talks about a Mr. Ass ride at Disney World?
KJ: They approached me at one time and then figured "Dumbo's Ride" was as far as they would get with that.
No Sapp, TNA's Kip James opens up on TNA, career, and the biz
By Jon Chattman
In the world of professional wrestling, Monty Sapp has gone by many names. He was a New Age Outlaw, Mr. Ass, "Bad Ass" and "The One" Billy Gunn. These days, the former WWE grappler goes by the name Kip James in TNA (Total Nonstop Action) Wrestling. While the names and attire have changed throughout the years, one thing's remained the same: the former "King of the Ring" succeeded on every level of the business. We recently spoke to James about his career and how life in TNA is going thus far. While he's enjoying his time in TNA and strongly believes in the product, James was a realist when it came to questions about the company's future. He also played ball with our quirky questions. With that, we take a page from his slogan, there's no futher introduction needed. Here's the interview.
JC: TNA seems to just keeps getting momentum and momentum. Do you think it's inevitable that the company will go head to head with WWE?
KJ: As long as they keep it in perspective and keep building on it...That's our goal to go head to head. I see that in everybody's eyes and in everybody's mind. It's a good product and they're going in the right direction, but I don't think head to head is coming for a long time. As much as I love TNA, I'm just being honest. It's nothing against the company. Head to head almost to me means the Superbowl. [It's] like taking a high school team and playing Pittsburgh. You have to understand Vince [McMahon] is it. He's been around since his dad was putting this together, and he knows what's going on and he knows this company. I know [WWE's] kind of like in a wishy-washy spot. It's in that downhill slope. They just don't have any storylines or anything that anyone really wants to see[TNA's] getting close, but it'll be little ways before they even get to that kind of a level. I only speak because I've been there and I know I've been there for 13 years, so I kind of know a little of what's going on in that company.
JC: Speaking of both companies, you've gone through a bunch of gimmicks over the years, and you never seem to mind no matter how crazy they are...
KJ: Yeah, and I loved that. That's the thing about what my perspective is on this business. When they come to us with a gimmick, even if I hate it, it's always a challenge to try and get it over. The Rockabilly thing, which almost killed me because of the circumstances and the way it all came about, wasn't good and there was no thought put into it. It was nothing. It was just something to do with no big gimmick, which is different with all the other gimmicks that I've done. Smoking Gun, I cared about. I cared about DX. I cared about the Chuck and Billy thing. They kind of were laughing at first and then all of a sudden, they got it. And, it got over big, but it was one of those things, like me and Brian (James of TNA), we never thought we're going to be as good as we were. We didn't even think that. We were just going to have fun with it. It was the same thing with me and Chuck. They were putting some thought into it, and they let us run with it and do what we wanted to do and it got huge publicity.
JC: Be honest, do you think the Billy and Chucky gimmick influenced "Brokeback Mountain?"
KJ: [Laughs] I don't know if they would've researched us. I don't think we had too much to do with that.. I [still] talk to Chuck about a couple of times a month whenever he's not in Japan. We kind of hookup, because I know he gets busy in Japan because he's doing really good over there. He'll call me or I'll call him and leave a message just to make sure and see what's going on with him.
JC: Getting back to TNA, 3 Live Cru is done now right? No more staple with Ron Killings, Konnan, right?
KJ: Everybody left. It's just me and Brian now. It's just the Dream Team now. Me and Brian are just getting back together and it's going to be fun. We could never top [what we did before], but can we at least try to keep it going and get one good little run out of it? Yeah, I think we can because of our personalities and just the way that we both are together. I'm having a blast. I'm having fun again and it's like being young again where I don't have all this pressure and stress of trying to worry about what's happening in NY and things likes that. I don't have any of those worries anymore.
JC: It must be nice traveling less in TNA as opposed to WWE....
KJ: Yeah, I missed a lot. I have two boys and I missed doing a lot of stuff with them, but now I think they want me to get my job back so I'll go away. [Laughs] I love spending time with them. I'll pick them up from school, go to practices and games, and it's fun for me. I love spending time with them now, because now I have a relationship with them.
JC: Okay, enough with all this serious stuff, I'm going to throw out a bunch of ideas for wrestling gimmicks and you tell me if they work. A guy wrestling in a monkey suit called "Monsoon Gorilla"?
KJ: No. No, that'll never work.
JC: What about a guy with a hairy chest who wears a mask and he's called The Masked Furchest?
KJ: If he was ugly enough and he was hairy enough... I think that's about as close as you can get with that one.
JC: Last one: What about a big guy named Joe who goes by the name The Big Joe?
KJ: That's a possibility. I think that could work. It depends on how big Joe really is.
JC: Good point. Hey, do people call you "Mr. Ass" whenever you walk into a bar?
KJ: Yeah, they laugh for a second. "Mr. Ass! Badass!" People are starting to get the TNA thing because I had people coming up to me and say "Kip." It kind of throws me off guard for a minute because I wasn't used to people calling me that.
JC: Was there ever a time when you were going to use your real name?
KJ: Well, Kip is my middle name. [And], we just threw in the James thing so we could get that angle a little bit with Brian like a volunteer brother kind of thing.
JC: Are you an ass man or breast man?
KJ: I'm a leg guy, actually.
JC: Are you in talks about a Mr. Ass ride at Disney World?
KJ: They approached me at one time and then figured "Dumbo's Ride" was as far as they would get with that.
Jackie Gayda... Interview
Hey check it out from last year... she's had a baby since this which we'd bet could already kick our ass. Thecheappop’s interview with TNA’s Jackie Gayda
By Jon Chattman
When she got married last year (to fellow grappler Charlie Haas), Jackie Gayda likely had something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. She, as fate would have it, also got something pink, as in a slip. "Everybody was extremely shocked," Gayda told thecheappop recently of her and her husband's untimely release. Some seven-and-a-half months removed from it, Gayda offers no sour grapes. The 2002 "Tough Enough" Winner told us she and Charlie understand the nature of the business, and left the WWE on very good terms. As a matter of fact, the knockout, who joined TNA in November, informed us Haas has been involved in serious discussions with both TNA and WWE as of late, and is expected to re-sign with the latter soon. And, as for Gayda, life couldn't be better. The All-Ohio athlete is enjoying every minute on TNA, and is hopeful with a better timeslot, it can elevate the company, not to mention the women's division, to the next level.
JC: Hey Jackie, how's married life treating you?
JG: It's going great. I can't complain yet. [Laughs] It hasn't been a year so you might want to ask me after the year mark. Just kidding. Charlie and I, we're really blessed. We had a chance to get to know each other under the most stressful circumstances and situations. And, that's what they say married life's all about. Right now, it's going really, really well.
JC: And, it must be nice to have to be on the road all the time. The benefits of TNA, at least for now, is that there's not a lot of traveling - unlike the WWE experience...
JG: You're absolutely right. I love Orlando. And, it's really great that it's just so in and out. It's a very, very nice change to actually feel like you're at home when you're at home. The bigger time slot and more dates and everything may not be too far off in the future, but right now it's a nice change.
JC: How's Charlie doing?
JG: He's doing a lot of indie dates...doing a lot of work with New Japan, (and) just did an England show. He's trying to make the right decisions. He's looking at things in terms of longevity with career goals, for his future, and our future financially. He has a lot of offers on the plate, including WWE, and he's talking to Jeff Jarrett with TNA. I can assure you that he'll be showing up at one of the places very, very soon. I'm not giving anything away, but decisions with him and WWE are looking like they're going to merge again.
JC: That sounds great... That must be nice considering it didn't end great for you guys at WWE...
JG: You never really know why people leave or get let go, because the whole thing is based on gossip and 'he said' or 'she said.' But, we've talked to the McMahon family face to face, unfortunately at Eddie's (Guerrero) funeral. We left on great terms. It was not a bitter leave by any means. [Pauses] Everyone was extremely shocked including Vince's (McMahon) righthand men about both of us... extremely shocked about Charlie. If he goes back, it's going to be on his terms this time, and get the run he rightfully deserves. He's been kicking his ass for awhile. He's really developed himself as a singles wrestler. To go back [to] WWE, that's something that might be right around the bend.
JC: And, what about you? You joined TNA in November. Did you know off the bat that that was the right fit for you?
JG: When everything happened with WWE, I can honestly say I wasn't too sure if wrestling was going to stay much in my future. I knew that it was Charlie's livelihood. I think he'll be in the business one way or another until he's 100 years old. But, I had to weigh my options for a month or so. I wasn't sure if it was going to be TNA or just doing some indies with Charlie or a few overseas tours. I really had to weigh it out. Wrestling goes in ups and downs: one week, it's great, the next you're not too sure about things. I know I made the right decision. It's a fantastic company from top to bottom.
JC: Your signing with TNA gave the company a boost in terms of its on-air women talent. What do you think of the women's division in TNA?
JG: There isn't anything right now. Every single week, we're hoping that that changes. The good thing about it is Gail (Kim), Traci and I have all worked with each other at one time. At the same token, TNA is all about going back to storyline, and not shoving entire two [or] three months worth of a soap opera into a segment and a half, which tends to be seen on wrestling nowadays. They really want to stretch it out, but as far as the women's divison, with an hour time slot , they have to pick and choose what it is they're going to focus on. There's so many great athletes on the roster, and you can't shove 15 stories into one minute. We're just taking it one step at a time. Hopefully, we'll have a larger time slot and we can make that happen.
JC: TNA is kind of the underdog. Is it exciting to be a part of its growth?
JG: I don't even know if I'd say its the underdog anymore, but I see what you're saying. You need a starting point. Look how far TNA has come. The company's only been around for three years or so. People are interested. Every week, our ratings are going up and up.
JC: On another note, do you think you'd still would have gone into the wrestling business if you didn't win/participate on "Tough Enough."
JG: I really don't think I would've. Things happen at the right time, right place, for the right people. It was one of those things. I was in college up in Ohio getting right to my major at the end of my sophomore year. I had a million things going on. I was a track and cross country athlete, and just had a lot of stuff on my plate. Wrestling just kind of happen. I was watching RAW one night, [and] my boyfriend at the time said 'why don't you try out for this.' I kind of watched it here or there. I watched it growing up with my dad a little bit. I said 'why not.' He kind of printed out application. I threw it in the mail, and didn't think much of it. I got a call back, and one thing led to another. Wrestling is a blessing in my life. It brought me to the rest of my life - not to sound mushy. But, it's bizare and strange, it brought me to my future family.
JC: It's got to be surreal for you... this whole three-year ride...
JG: It really, really has been. But, you have to take it one step at a time with things. And, take time to look back and realize what has happened and put things into perspective. It really has been surreal: the fans, people that write in, or [I'll] hear something like 'I watched you on TV, you motivated me with your knee.' Funny thing is, I'm still just me.
JC: Yeah, you sound pretty grounded...
JG: Oh, please. Charlie keeps me grounded. Everything happens for a reason whether good or bad. You have to take life and learn from it, and hope that you don't get too big for your pants or too small for them.
JC: Lastly, what's your biggest achievement in the ring?
JG: Probably the best and most outstanding moment that sticks out is being in Wrestlemania XX. Madison Square Garden... I remember thinking 'Who am I? I won this contest, now I'm in a storyline with three other talented and beautiful women.' It really was breathtaking. You have to step back and take it in. That's the highlight of my career so far. We'll see if something can beat it. I'm sure it will. Want more of Jackie? Check JustJackie.Net
Brother Dvon retro interview
Check out our retro interview with Devon... or Dvon... or oh whatever...
Because he's one half of arguably the best wrestling tag team ever and to a lesser degree, because he digs Cosby's sweaters, it's time for Cheek to Cheek with TNA Wrestling's Brother Devon (formerly Dvon Dudley of The Dudley Boyz)
By Jon Chattman, for thecheappop.com
Graphic/Rich Tarantino
JC: Hey Devon, how long have you been a wrestling fan?
D: I started watching wrestling back in '77 at five years old. I was hooked. I remember saying to myself at one point 'man, it's great. It's fun.' I never really thought about it again until Hogan came on the scene. Growing up in the projects, it was very hard. I tried to stay out of trouble, and it was Hogan that kept me [out of trouble.] Back in 1983, it was just unbelievable. I saw people all the time, especially young people [rooting for Hogan]. You don't know what it was like unless you were there. The Steve Austin and Rock era was huge, but it was nothing like the Hulk-a-mania era. They'd never seen wrestling on that big of a scale. Wrestling never crossed over into the entertainment business and you never really saw actors and things like that, coming to the shows. I remember thinking, 'that's what I want to do.' I owe a lot to Hulk Hogan, because watching him made me want to do this. And just a small little tidbit, everytime I'm in the ring, I do a leg drop almost similar to Hogan's. I hit the ropes, take two steps, jump up, and hit it. That's just my little tribute, because if it wasn't for him I don't think I would've taken the initial step to get into the business.
JC: You've never been on the receiving end of a leg-drop from Hogan, right?
D: No, I've never been. That was always my dream to be in the ring with him. I was in the ring with him one time at a Battle Royal on Smackdown! and I remember telling everybody, "Do not touch me. I don't care what he does to me. Let me just stay with Hogan." When the man grabbed me, I felt like a little kid in a candy store. It was just unbelievable. I'll never forget that. I don't have it on tape, unfortunately. I wish I could get it. That was my only moment that I had in the ring with Hogan.
JC: Did the Hulkster know how big of a fan you were of his?
D: I never had the heart to tell him. I do know Big Show told him. Big Show was a huge fan, but I think he even knew that I was an even bigger fan than he was. I believe Edge told him, too. Edge is a huge Hogan fan, and he always rubs it in my face that he got to win the tag team belts with him.
JC: That bastard! Just kidding... lets jump into TNA. You and Brother Ray have been there a couple months now after being arguably the most dominant tag team in WWE history....
D: I like it. I think TNA is great, and I'm not just saying that because I left WWE. In my opinion, I've had a lot of great years at WWE, during The Rock and Austin era. It was a great time. We made a lot of money. We had a great time. It made us into stars. There's no question about that. Right now, the direction the company is going: it's not us. We'd been there for six years, but within that last year, it was a whole new regime that came in. And, there were no tag teams to work with. I don't mind if you're putting tag teams together, but for not for the hell of it. They were putting these tags together to beat us, but then breaking them up next week. And, we're supposed to be the [best] tag team in the business? That was one of the things we were really unhappy with.
JC: TNA is filled with tag teams....
D: The list goes on and on. I remember we were embraced by a lot of the boys in the back [when we arrived to TNA.] They were happy to see us especially the tag teams. They wanted to learn from us, which was great. It was weird actually being the veteran, but it was a role that we would've been more than happy to take. These guys are hungry. They love it, and you can see it. They remind me of ECW when it first started. It's a promotion trying to make headway. They're the real deal. This is what they're trying to do. I think they have potential. You got A.J. Styles, Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe, Monty Brown... you've got all these guys that are making an impact. The fans may not know who they are right now, but they will get to know them as time goes on. It's just like when ECW started going mainstream. TNA has some learning to do, but that's with every new growing company. That's going to come with time. Everything that they're doing now, they're doing it on the right track. They're making headway and I think one division I'm very proud of is that X-Division. It's fantastic.
JC: Yes, the emphasis there is wrestling as opposed to the entertainment factor...
D: We're wrestlers, not actors. We're the worst actors in the entertainment business, but you let us do what we do best, and we can put on a show. Let wrestlers go out there and perform. Let them wrestle. The fans want that. This is what the fans have been asking for and for some reason WWE are not listening.
JC: It ended pretty bad with The Dudley Boyz and WWE. Are you guys bitter at all? It's one thing to let you guys go, it's another to copyright your names and gimmick....
D: Yeah it's a shot in the [butt], but as far as taking our names, I look at it this way: we know we have the right to our names. They know we have the right to our names. Basically, we're being bullied. I'm tired of bullies. We were The Dudley's way before we even thought about coming to WWE. We made a name for ourselves before we even got there, and we were on a national level TV-wise, way before we got to WWE. And, Vince [McMahon] knows this. He can try every loophole he can, but it's not going to work because we know the deal. [Legally], we're not giving up on that by a long shot.
JC: Moving on, TNA just signed Christian, is it exciting that talent is flocking to TNA?
D: I'm loving it. I think the more names, the better. It'll help TNA's product. Not that we're trying to get rid of the guys that helped build the foundation of TNA, but it just help those guys along way. It can make things a little bit easy on them. We're in this to make money and entertain the fans and that's what we have to do. A lot of the boys that are coming over from the other company or anywhere else, if they can help out in any way, shape or form, I think that's great. We need competition, because that's when Vince is at his best, and the business...
JC: Do you know others in the business that want to jump to TNA?
D: Oh yeah. There's a few of them that I know of, that I speak to, that tell me they can't wait because of how unhappy they are because they're not able to do what they want to do. They don't want to be actors, they want to wrestle, and put on a show in the ring. They want to tell their story in the ring, and not in front of a camera with a script in front of them. They're not getting that opportunity. At one point in time, you couldn't go anywhere because there was nowhere to go. Now there is and they're happy about that. They can't do anything now until they're contracts are up. You're going to see a lot of the boys leaving and coming over to TNA.
JC: Out of curiousity, why do you think tag teams are a dying breed?
D: Tag team wrestling was never at the forefront of the company. It was always on the backburner. I think that was used, in my opinion, to add on to the show: to give guys work to do. WWE has always been a company that emphasized on singles wrestling. It's always been that way. Tag-team wrestling was always secondary. It's just something that Vince has always seen as his baby. I think it all started back in the day of the Hulk-a-mania era. [In recent years], the tag team division started to wear down and they started breaking people up, and making them singles. They never have anything planned ahead of time. But I don't know, maybe one day Vince will wake up and start doing things the way he's doing them and stop the "I'm Vince McMahon and you do as I say.'
JC: Okay Devon, now for the serious questions. Why don't you ever wear tights?
D: Uh, I've got legs like my mother. I didn't take from my pops. I remember my trainers telling me once, "How the hell are those legs holding up that body?"
JC: What was the most embarassing moment you've had?
D: I can't remember the place, but I can see the building. Someone stuffed toilet paper as a trick, down my pants, hanging down. I'm running [to the ring], and you can see the paper flapping in the background as if it was a cape. As I'm circling the ring, Brother Ray sees it and goes, "come here." He pulls the paper out. Thank God it wasn't on TV.
JC: Who's the greatest and worst tag team of all time?
D: I would have to say The Road Warriors. A lot of people say we surpassed them, but I don't think so. I think they made such an impact that it would be hard for even us to take that away from them. I don't think we could. I really don't think we could. The worst? The Dynamic Dudes, or something like that. They came out on skateboards. We tease Shane [Douglass] all the time about that. Anything with Johnny Ace was the worse.
JC: What's your favorite TV show?
D: Number one is The Cosby Show, shows like Good Times and What's Happenin' Now. I love watching those shows. They bring back so many memories of my childhood and how I use to always be in front of the TV watching those shows. I'm happy seeing them back on TV now [with] TV Land.
JC: Are you old school with music, too?
D: I love the '80's. I'm a big 80's fan. I'm a huge fan of the rap and R&B of the '80's, early '90's. Even somewhat mid-90's. Today's rap I'm not too fond of, but there's certain artists I like 50 Cent and Eminem and Jadakiss, but a lot of it really turned me off because of violence and what have you. I know they're not glorifying violence. They're just talking about what goes on in their neck of the woods and where they grew up, but sometimes you don't want to hear that. At one point when you heard rap music, it was to forget all those bad things that were going on in your neighborhood.
JC: Hell yeah, people used to rap about McDonalds!
D: Exactly. That's what I miss about it. And, that's why I stick with the '80's and early '90's. If I could go back in time, I'd go back there. I look at that show, "Where are they now?" and it brings back so many memories, because you have no idea. It was so easy to please me as a kid.
JC: Thanks for your time Devon. Good luck in TNA and happy holidays. The latter of which, bring us to our final question. You've broken a lot of tables, but have you ever set the table?
D: [Laughs] Oh, plenty of times! My wife won't let me do anything else but set the table!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Spike Dudley: 150 pounds soaking wet
Here's thecheappop.com's interview with Matt Hyson from last year...
Because he probably weighs 150 lbs. soaking wet and can still kick your ass... it's time for cheek to cheek with Matt Hyson (formerly Spike Dudley on WWE, which was formerly on Spike TV, and Brother Runt in TNA, which is on Spike TV now) - How's that for a headline?
By Jon Chattman, for thecheappop.com
Hey Matt, are you bitter with what happened at WWE?
Not bitter at being fired. I can handle getting let go, it's the nature of the business for talent to come and go. What I resent are the lies the office of the WWE spews at the talent. I was promised over the phone a two year extension on my last contract. Why would they promise that and a month later fire me with no explanation? Why would the office constantly re-assure me my job is safe only to fire me? What work place in the world treats their employees like that? I can honestly say I'm not bitter, just flabbergasted that they operate like that. After 5 years of literally destroying my body for the sake of the company don't I deserve, at least, a face-to-face meeting instead of a late night cell phone call? Their lack of appreciation is what's disapointing.
Do you think you'll find a new home with TNA or another company?
I'll definintely make a home somewhere. There's plenty of wrestling left in me and there are a number of companies out there. I can't point to any one promotion and say that's my new home. I believe I'll have to wrestle the circuit, as I've been doing. I'm having too much fun to commit to one place only.
Are you surprised Joey Styles is commentating for RAW now?
I wasn't aware he was until you asked. Nothing surprises me anymore.
Whats your crowning achievement in the business?
There's no such thing. I've found every time I go out to the ring it's better than the last time. Just having my first match was my crowning achievement. Every thing else is icing on the cake.
What's your general feeling about the state of the industry these days?
The business is always on a roller coaster. It goes up and down with the fans and the styles. Something works, everyone exploits it until it gets old, something new pops up, sparks everyone's interest unil it's exploited. I think the business is in the upswing. I feel the WWE has lost touch with it's fan base and is much too focussed on the "entertainment" side and has forgotten the "pro wrestling" side. This might be economically smart for them, but it leaves the industry wide open for a group like TNA to come in and steal the wrestling fans. By going back to wrestling TNA is a giant breath of fresh air to a very stale WWE product. Wreslting fans now have options, be it TNA or UFC or Indy shows. As I've hit the independants I still see the true wrestling fan out there. I believe some big changes will occur in the next year or two in pro wrestling.
Do you still consider yourself a wrestling fan?
Of course, I have hundreds of tapes. I've always been a student and I'm always watching wrestling. I do prefer old-school stuff, put I'm the biggest fan in the world.
You've accomplished so much despite being a "little guy," what's your secret?
Gravity.
That question was pretty lame, wasn't it?
No, really there's no secret. Work hard, love pro wrestling, be a pro, give it your all. That's my secret.
What question are you sick and tired of every one asking you?
What's it like to go through table? I hate that one. It F'N hurts!!! What else can I say?
Okay, thanks Matt, what does the future hold for you - in this business or out?
That's your lame question.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Tonight on Howard Finkel's House of Tinkle...
A bra and panties rematch between "The Fink" and Harvey Whippleman...hey we can dream can't we
Paid To Lose 2
B is for Brooklyn Brawler. Whether he's Steve Lombardi or the Brooklyn Brawler this guy has been losing matches for decades. This one time member of the Heenan Family had a brief push back in day against The Red Rooster (go figure) and he even scored a clean victory over Triple H during The Game's heyday. However no wrestler in WWE history has been on the losing end of the 1-2-3 more times than the artist formerly known as Abe "Knuckleball" Schwartz.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Paid To Lose
Starting today Sunday Night Steam is going to chronicle the biggest losers in wrestling history from A-Z. So let's begin with the biggest jobber of them all. A is for Andre "The Giant" Roussimoff. Andre is without a doubt one of the most well known faces in professional wrestling history. Dubbed "The Eighth Wonder of The World" he is perhaps the biggest athlete ever to appear in a wrestling ring. Sadly however, after a long and successful career The Giant will be remembered most for these three loses: 1)Wrestlemania III in front of 93,000 Andre takes one for the team and jobs to a guy named Hulk Hogan, the same Hogan that Andre used to slap around during the Verne Gagne AWA era. 2)Saturday Night's Main Event went primetime as Andre became the WWE World Champion only to sell the gold minutes later to Ted DiBiase. 3) It's one thing to get your head shaved but to have it done by a longtime 80's midcarder is another story(that's right Ken Patera we are calling you out).
From Perks Unknown...
Here's a regular feature that ran on thecheappop.com last year...
FROM PERKS UNKNOWN...
"Best of" Times, Worst of Times
ByGary Perkowitz
"Best of" Times, Worst of Times
ByGary Perkowitz
As a wrestling fan, I've enjoyed these "Best of" DVDs that the WWE has been putting together for their loyal fans over the past year or so. "The Self Destruction of The Ultimate Warrior" is classic and a must have for anyone who worshiped bodyslams and biceps during the '80s. I am looking forward to watching the just released Jake "the Snake" Roberts as well as the best of Bret "The Hitman" Hart. But, there is a problem with all of these dvds...they make me realize that the state of wrestling today sucks!!!
Since the jump back to USA Network, the WWE has not given the attention and detail to today's talent that they put into making these fantastic DVDs. Sadly, the best thing I've seen on WWE programing in about two years was at the "Homecoming" when Rob Conway (formerly of La Resistance) decided to "crack whip" with "The American Dream.." In honor of that moment as well as my salute to Steve Austin for sticking it once again to the boys in Stamford (apparently refusing to lay down for Jonathan Coachman) here is my top ten reasons on why Monday Night's Suck, and it's got nothing to do with "Everybody Loves Raymond" leaving the airwaves...
10. KANE: How many times are they gonna push this guy? I say his final push should be back on the shelf between Isaac Yankem and the new Diesel. RIP!
9.Chris Masters: Someone tell this guy the Lex Express derailed at least 11 years ago.
8. Eric Bischoff: Awesome moment when he came out and hugged Vince McMahon on the Raw ramp, but come on ... three years later, it's time for a new face in the GM role!
7.No tag teams: I've got three letters for ya: TLC. Bring back the Dudley-Hardy-Edge-Christian highlight reel!
6. HBK: Not even gonna go there!
5. No Y2J: Raw lost its top heel when Chris Jericho decided to become a full-time rockstar.
4. Mis-use of Kurt Angle: He should have been given the gold his first night back on RAW instead he's jobbing to Eugene.
3. Carlito: I'd rather see re-runs of Adrian Ddonis' Flower Shop on WWE 24/7 before I tune into the Cabana.
2. Cena as Champion: Before I waste another second on a guy who should be feuding with Viscera on Velocity, let me just say how great it is to see Goldust back on TV!
1. Competition: The option to flip the station to watch Riki Rachtman and the Nitro Girls at a frat house party isn't looking so bad these days!
Since the jump back to USA Network, the WWE has not given the attention and detail to today's talent that they put into making these fantastic DVDs. Sadly, the best thing I've seen on WWE programing in about two years was at the "Homecoming" when Rob Conway (formerly of La Resistance) decided to "crack whip" with "The American Dream.." In honor of that moment as well as my salute to Steve Austin for sticking it once again to the boys in Stamford (apparently refusing to lay down for Jonathan Coachman) here is my top ten reasons on why Monday Night's Suck, and it's got nothing to do with "Everybody Loves Raymond" leaving the airwaves...
10. KANE: How many times are they gonna push this guy? I say his final push should be back on the shelf between Isaac Yankem and the new Diesel. RIP!
9.Chris Masters: Someone tell this guy the Lex Express derailed at least 11 years ago.
8. Eric Bischoff: Awesome moment when he came out and hugged Vince McMahon on the Raw ramp, but come on ... three years later, it's time for a new face in the GM role!
7.No tag teams: I've got three letters for ya: TLC. Bring back the Dudley-Hardy-Edge-Christian highlight reel!
6. HBK: Not even gonna go there!
5. No Y2J: Raw lost its top heel when Chris Jericho decided to become a full-time rockstar.
4. Mis-use of Kurt Angle: He should have been given the gold his first night back on RAW instead he's jobbing to Eugene.
3. Carlito: I'd rather see re-runs of Adrian Ddonis' Flower Shop on WWE 24/7 before I tune into the Cabana.
2. Cena as Champion: Before I waste another second on a guy who should be feuding with Viscera on Velocity, let me just say how great it is to see Goldust back on TV!
1. Competition: The option to flip the station to watch Riki Rachtman and the Nitro Girls at a frat house party isn't looking so bad these days!
Scott Steiner retro review... holla
Booty Daddy joins TNA By Jon Chattman, for thecheappop.com - April 2006
Big Poppa Pump. Freakzilla. The Genetic Freak. The Big Bad Booty Daddy. Scott Steiner goes by a lot of names in the wrestling business, but perhaps the best moniker he should go by is "legs." Steiner's entering his 20th year in the wrestling business, and has no intentions of slowing down.
On Sunday, Steiner will make his in-ring debut this Sunday, April 23, with TNA Wrestling as part of the "Lockdown" Pay-Per-View. That night, the grappler will team up with longtime friend (on and off camera) Jeff Jarrett and America's Most Wanted against Sting, AJ Styles, Rhino, and Ron "The Truth" Killings in a cage match. We recently spoke to Steiner, who's been a prominent member of the NWA, ECW, WCW, and WWE, and asked him about his upcoming match, his career, his "freaks," and how TNA's treated him so far. We also asked him about his rocky experience with the WWE a few years back.
SS on why he joined TNA:
Timing. Jeff [Jarrett] called me up. [He] wanted me to take care of Sting. The main reason I came in was to beat up Sting... to make Sting's return to the ring as short as possible.
SS on whether he'd re-team with brother Rick:
We destroyed everybody we wrestled, but never say never.
SS on the state of tag teams in wrestling:
I don't pay attention to that much. I think tag teams are the same. There are not as many good [ones] as there were back then like The Road Warriors, Skyscrapers.... the quality has gone down other that that, it's still pretty much the same.
SS on what went wrong in WWE:
Same thing that happens with everybody...Same thing with Goldberg and Kevin Nash: HHH. What can you do? The guy's a very insecure man. Realistically speaking, if he wasn't banging the boss' daughter he wouldn't have a job there. He's never been an athlete in his life.
SS on whether TNA can compete with the WWE: Back in '96, [WCW was] basically doing the same thing as TNA's doing now. Everyone has noticed, Vince [McMahon] didn't pick up the WCW audience and it's still out there. If everything falls into place, we can pick it up because not everyone wants to watch the trash on WWE.
SS on whether he ever pondered retirement:
Pretty much, I was done after WCW, but WWE actually offered more money then I was asking for. It was hard to turn down.
SS on whether he'd accept an induction into the WWE Hall of Fame:
What's the Hall of Fame. It's Vince McMahon picking who he wants in the Hall of Fame. It's just a storyline.
SS on what's freakier: David Arquette trying to wrestle or Mike Awesome cutting a promo:
Pretty much equal...
SS on if I holla, if he'd hear me:Depends what your woman looks like...
Goldberg's Next
Here's our interview with former wrestling star Goldberg
...
... WHAT'S NEXT FOR GOLDBERG?
Martial arts and Steven Seagel for starters
By Jon Chattman, for thecheappop.com
July 2006
Apparently mixed martial arts (MMA) is next for former wrestling World Heavyweight Champion Bill Goldberg. The former WCW and WWE grappler will serve as a color commentator for the recently launched World Fighting Alliance's (WFA) upcoming pay-per-view event "King of the Streets," which airs live from the Forum in Los Angeles on July 22. While his career has been dominated by wrestling, Goldberg said he's always been a fan of martial arts and the MMA style and grapplers like Bas Rutten and Ron Waterman.
Goldberg said he's also psyched to join a broadcasting team led by boxing play-by-play man Barry Tompkins. The move behind the booth is just another example of how the former Atlanta Falcon is taking his career well beyond the wrestling ring. Since leaving the WWE two years ago, he's focused on film work, family (who recently became a father for the first time), and involvement in various charities. He's been featured in such films as "Santa's Slay," and last spring's Adam Sandler hit comedy "The Longest Yard," and is set to begin filming a remake of the martial arts film, "Half Past Dead," which originally starred Steven Seagal.
We recently chatted with "The Man" and asked him about the WFA, his movie career, and whether or not he'd ever jump in the ring again beit with WFA or another wrestling organization. Taking a page from the wrestling cliche book, Goldberg told us, "never say never." Having said that, one thing's clear, you won't ever see him get in a WWE ring again.
Q) Why'd you decide to get involved with the WFA?
A) My interest in the martial arts has run pretty deep for a long period of time. I own a martial arts school in Oceanside, CA. called Extreme Power. I've trained throughout my football career, wrestling career, and my normal human existence just for entertainment value of it. I find it's an area you can never have all of the knowledge. It was a no brainer. It's about time there was a viable competitor to the UFC in the states.
Q) True, but you're getting into the broadcast booth instead of competing. Why'd you decide to commentate rather than kicking ass?
A) First and foremost, I think I'm too old to be a participant. We all know I had an affiliation with the Pride organization in Japan. I did a little bit of color with them.
For me, I'm learning to reinvent myself a little more. I have a relationship with 90 percent of these guys already. Whether it be WFA guys or MMA guys around the world. I have been a fan since the inception of my wrestling career. For me to be part of the color commentary, it's the next best thing than being in there.
Q) What can you bring to the table as an announcer?
A) I can bring my insights on what I think as an objective observer. I can bring my relationship with all the fighters to forefront and give these guys some shit. Not too many other guys can do that.
Q) These days, the wrestling industry has been dubbed as stale. Do you think you can help lure wrestling fans away from the WWE and TNA?
A) I do believe my presence will not hurt by any stretch of the imagination. We are definitely looking for the crossover from the wrestling fan. I would think it's the same fan base.These guys really know what they're doing. The card that WFA has come up with for its inaugural fight is an unbelievable break out card. Any organization in the world would love to have the list of fighters they have on this card.
Q) There were rumors that you'd be joining TNA Wrestling. Will that ever come into fruition?
A) I would love to be part of somebody competing against the tyrant. There are many other business deals that have to be made for Spike TV prior to me even considering stepping in the ring for TNA. I really don't have plans to do it anytime in the near future. [But] who knows. You look at Sting, [and] he went over there. He's the one that opened my eyes to the possibility of me coming out of retirement.
Q) What do you think of the product over there?
A) I've stomached a little bit of it. They definitely need some help whether its production, whether it's talent, or a [new] timeslot.
Q) Your last wrestling match (against Brock Lesner at Wrestlemania XX) didn't go that well. Were you surprised by the fans reaction?
A) It was tough for the fans. It wasn't fair to the fans. It wasn't fair to us. Truthfully,I really didn't hear it (fans booing). I was so disappointed with what was going on...I pretty much zoned everything out. I could tell in [Lesner's] eyes as the bell rang, it was going to be a long night [and] we just kind of wanted to get out of the ring. The match definitely was not booked and publicized like it should have been. That could have been the match of the century. Obviously, we were both leaving, but you would've thought they would've put a little bit more into it seeing as how it equated to money in their pocket.
Q) Brock's a free agent now, what are the chances you could face him again in the WFA?
A) Brock is a terrific friend of mine. For me to be able to get in the ring with somebody, I'm going to have to dislike the human being as much as possible. He's too good of a guy. He really is a good friend of mine. Let's get Vince McMahon in there. You'd have to tie both hands behind my back. Guys like that are all show and no go.
Q) When asked if you'd come out of retirement, you say "never say never," but is it safe to assume you'll never wrestle in a WWE ring ever again?
A) That's a fact. I wont say never say never there. There's no question that I would never step foot in that ring again.
Q) Were there any positives in the WWE?
A) Yeah. It thought me there was good and bad in the wrestling business. The good was in WCW. The bad was my entire tenure in WWE.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Sunday, February 11, 2007
OH YEAH!
One quick and simple suggestion for the latest WWE stink-fest: Snap out of it and Snap into a Slim-Jim!!!
Brutus!
Let me get this right, We buy the doll and we get the real Beefcake to come over the house...Count us in!!!
While my guitar gently weeps..
Sunday Night Steam is proud to announce the Top Ten List of Wrestling Props:
- Mr Fuji's Salt
- Jimmy Hart's Megaphone
- Lanny Poffo's Frisbee
- The Mountie's shock stick
- Jim Cornette's Tennis Racket
- Abdullah The Butcher's Fork
- The Islander's Invisible Dog Leash
- Honkytonk Man's guitar
- George Steele's Mine Doll
- Al Snow's head
This week in Howard Finkel history
In 198
6, we're guessing he attempted the combover, and failed miserably.
Tune in next time for the next installment of Howard Finkel's House of Tinkle
6, we're guessing he attempted the combover, and failed miserably.Tune in next time for the next installment of Howard Finkel's House of Tinkle
Road to Wrestlemania
Hey Bernie, skip spring training this year and head to Motor City. We hear there's plenty of room for washed-up veterans on the WrestleMania lineup card.
Everybody Loves Raymond
Sunday Night Steam is reporting that these guys will not be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2007.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
From Berts Unknown
Wrestlemania Moments come and go but these Wrestlemania Mustaches will never be forgotten:
SD Jones- Wrestlemania I
William "The Fridge" Perry- Wrestlemania II
Koko B. Ware- Wrestlemania III
Ron Bass- Wrestlemania IV
Raymond Rougeau- Wrestlemania V
Rick Rude- Wrestlemania VI
General Adnan- Wrestlemania VII
Jake "The Snake" Roberts- Wrestlemania VIII
Rick Steiner- Wrestlemania IX
Adam Bomb- Wrestlemania X
Bart Gunn- Wrestlemania XI
Paul Bearer- Wrestlemania XII
Doug Furnas- Wrestlemania XIII
Marc Mero- Wrestlemania XIV
Al Snow- Wrestlemania XV
D-Lo Brown- Wrestlemania XVI
Iron Sheik- Wrestlemania X7
Hulk Hogan- Wrestlemania X8
Howard Finkel- Wrestlemania XIX
Sgt Slaughter- Wrestlemania XX
Shelton Benjamin- Wrestlemania 21
"Mean" Gene Okerlund- Wrestlemania 22
William "The Fridge" Perry- Wrestlemania II
Koko B. Ware- Wrestlemania III
Ron Bass- Wrestlemania IV
Raymond Rougeau- Wrestlemania V
Rick Rude- Wrestlemania VI
General Adnan- Wrestlemania VII
Jake "The Snake" Roberts- Wrestlemania VIII
Rick Steiner- Wrestlemania IX
Adam Bomb- Wrestlemania X
Bart Gunn- Wrestlemania XI
Paul Bearer- Wrestlemania XII
Doug Furnas- Wrestlemania XIII
Marc Mero- Wrestlemania XIV
Al Snow- Wrestlemania XV
D-Lo Brown- Wrestlemania XVI
Iron Sheik- Wrestlemania X7
Hulk Hogan- Wrestlemania X8
Howard Finkel- Wrestlemania XIX
Sgt Slaughter- Wrestlemania XX
Shelton Benjamin- Wrestlemania 21
"Mean" Gene Okerlund- Wrestlemania 22
Friday, February 9, 2007
Bend it like Basham
We'd buy this shirt today over any of the other so-called scrubby tag teams that are currently out there. How many of you at home have Basham shirts?
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Stinger
Here's an original Sting interview that appeared last year on thecheappop.com
Born again
Hiatus over, it's 'Showtime' for Sting and TNA
By Jon Chattman
He's well into his '40s, and hasn't wrestling on a consistent basis since Clinton was in office, but this Sunday, Steve Borden AKA Sting will return to the ring as part of Total Nonstop Action's (TNA) Final Resolution Pay-Per-View. The Stinger, a seven-time World Championship Wrestling champion and arguably that now defunct organization's franchise player, is set to tag with recent TNA acquisition Christian Cage against the "The Alpha Male" Monty Brown and former WCW nemesis Jeff Jarrett.
On Jan. 11, Sting spoke to us about the upcoming PPV, and more importantly, the new one-year contract he signed with TNA. As we found out, the grappler is eager to get back into the ring, put TNA on the map (he wants to see it go head-to-head against WWE on Monday Nights) and end his career on his terms - something he was unable to do when Vince McMahon purchased WCW. And speaking of Mr. McMahon, Sting also revealed that he had ongoing talks with the WWE before signing with TNA, but ultimately declined their offer due to personal reasons (traveling restraints and his own values among them - he's openly Born Again.) With that said, It's showtime...
On the PPV:
I'm going to go into the ring and I'm just hoping the rust kicks off really quick, and I believe that it will. I've been in the gym, working out, and I got myself in pretty good physical condition. I'm looking forward to it. [Christian] is a very talented guy.
On why he's returning now:
There are some pretty big names older than I am [that] are still out there... Ric Flair... Why now? It's now or never. The way I left wrestling was not the way I wanted to leave. I know this year, this is it. If I don't do something now at my age, then it's just never going to happen and I think what a great opportunity with TNA full circle with Jeff Jarrett. His dad (Jerry) hired me originally in 1985 so it is coming full circle. I want to give back in some way. I want be able to say goodbye to wrestling in a better way. Now's just a good time.
On WWE negotiations and why he chose TNA:
I talked to them recently just before I signed a contract with TNA. They contacted me, and we had conversations. I can say they were willing to work with me on my schedule, but in 2006 they're leaving the country more times than I believe they ever have. Whether you're on the Raw schedule or the Smackdown schedule, you're 12 to 15 days a month, and that does not include your travel days and dark days. I spent too many years running at that pace, and I don't want to leave my family again like that. I've made a choice, and I'm focused now on just TNA. I almost feel like it's the same brand... like I'm coming back home almost. With the WWE, the commitment that I would have had to make would've been more than I'm willing to make. TNA seems like the natural route for me. I was a second class citizen with WCW until we launched our Monday Nitro show, so I know what it's like to try to build an organization. And, I'm up for the challenge and see potential here with TNA.
On how often he'll be used on TNA and what he brings to the table:
This isn't a part-time thing that I signed up for. It's not a lot of travel time as it stands now, but I'm going to be pretty involved. I am going to be pretty consistent...I know there are critics out there. Some of the guys probably thinking Sting is going to come in and just push everybody aside. That won't work. One of the ways to give back is to give back, and elevate some of the guys you're working with. I remember when Hulk came into WCW in the mid-90s and when he came in, wrestling fans, people everywhere, constantly ask the questions 'does it bother you that Hulk Hogan has just come in here, and they sort of pushed you aside?' And I said no. Doesn't bother me at all. As a matter of fact, I welcome him coming in. It takes away some of the burden from me, and elevates the whole company. In the long run, it's going to be a pay off for everyone. I'm not coming in to push people aside. I know what its like. 10 years ago, when I was still in there, and you'd just go 'man, some of these guys have been around forever and ever, and it's just like they never let us run with the ball. I know what it's like. But, I want to add to the whole thing. I don't want to take.
On fitting in with TNA:
I am going to figure out a way to plug myself in and find my niche. I'm not going to be doing some of the high flying stuff that you see those guys do now. I've seen some moves with some of those guys on TV that I've never seen before, but I've also seen some guys who wrestle my style also. There's still guys who tell the same story in the same way. Whatever I can add, I'm going to add.
On who'd he like to work with:
I've always had good matches with the big guys. Years ago with Vader and Paul Wight. Abyss, I love his work. There's some kind of little chemistry there that I think we have.
On whether he's been watching wrestling since he left:
[Early on], I would tune in quite a bit to see what they were doing with the WCW guys. Then, it just got to the point where there was nothing that interested me at all. It was just like 'wow, man.' It just doesn't make sense anymore. Recently, I started watching again just to get back in the swing.
On the reaction he's received thus far:
I've had some guys come to me, and say, 'man, when I was little I watched you and that's the reason I'm in wrestling. I took this and that from you, my style is from watching you all those years.' That's pretty humbling. It's kind of cool. You kind of left your stamp wrestling.
On religious beliefs and watching wrestling:
You have to be grounded in the Lord. It's the old saying 'when the crap goes in, it's eventually going to come out too. ' If you're watching the stuff on WWE, and I heard what happened on Monday (Edge and Lita's simulated sex) ... if you're allowing yourself to watch it over and over again, how will it benefit you? If you can just tune it off when you have to tune it in, when you want to watch wrestling action... there's nothing wrong with that.
On acquisitions he'd like TNA to make:
I'd like to see The Rock come here. I don't want to say too many names. Some of the biggest names, you know who they are, I'd like to see him [here.]
On what happens when his contract expires:
We'll see how my body holds out. I don't want to be the old dinosaur in the corner, who's not able even to get back up. I want to be able to deliver the goods. If I'm doing that at the end of the year, and everyone's happy, and everyone wants me back, then I might consider it.
Hiatus over, it's 'Showtime' for Sting and TNA
By Jon Chattman
He's well into his '40s, and hasn't wrestling on a consistent basis since Clinton was in office, but this Sunday, Steve Borden AKA Sting will return to the ring as part of Total Nonstop Action's (TNA) Final Resolution Pay-Per-View. The Stinger, a seven-time World Championship Wrestling champion and arguably that now defunct organization's franchise player, is set to tag with recent TNA acquisition Christian Cage against the "The Alpha Male" Monty Brown and former WCW nemesis Jeff Jarrett.
On Jan. 11, Sting spoke to us about the upcoming PPV, and more importantly, the new one-year contract he signed with TNA. As we found out, the grappler is eager to get back into the ring, put TNA on the map (he wants to see it go head-to-head against WWE on Monday Nights) and end his career on his terms - something he was unable to do when Vince McMahon purchased WCW. And speaking of Mr. McMahon, Sting also revealed that he had ongoing talks with the WWE before signing with TNA, but ultimately declined their offer due to personal reasons (traveling restraints and his own values among them - he's openly Born Again.) With that said, It's showtime...
On the PPV:
I'm going to go into the ring and I'm just hoping the rust kicks off really quick, and I believe that it will. I've been in the gym, working out, and I got myself in pretty good physical condition. I'm looking forward to it. [Christian] is a very talented guy.
On why he's returning now:
There are some pretty big names older than I am [that] are still out there... Ric Flair... Why now? It's now or never. The way I left wrestling was not the way I wanted to leave. I know this year, this is it. If I don't do something now at my age, then it's just never going to happen and I think what a great opportunity with TNA full circle with Jeff Jarrett. His dad (Jerry) hired me originally in 1985 so it is coming full circle. I want to give back in some way. I want be able to say goodbye to wrestling in a better way. Now's just a good time.
On WWE negotiations and why he chose TNA:
I talked to them recently just before I signed a contract with TNA. They contacted me, and we had conversations. I can say they were willing to work with me on my schedule, but in 2006 they're leaving the country more times than I believe they ever have. Whether you're on the Raw schedule or the Smackdown schedule, you're 12 to 15 days a month, and that does not include your travel days and dark days. I spent too many years running at that pace, and I don't want to leave my family again like that. I've made a choice, and I'm focused now on just TNA. I almost feel like it's the same brand... like I'm coming back home almost. With the WWE, the commitment that I would have had to make would've been more than I'm willing to make. TNA seems like the natural route for me. I was a second class citizen with WCW until we launched our Monday Nitro show, so I know what it's like to try to build an organization. And, I'm up for the challenge and see potential here with TNA.
On how often he'll be used on TNA and what he brings to the table:
This isn't a part-time thing that I signed up for. It's not a lot of travel time as it stands now, but I'm going to be pretty involved. I am going to be pretty consistent...I know there are critics out there. Some of the guys probably thinking Sting is going to come in and just push everybody aside. That won't work. One of the ways to give back is to give back, and elevate some of the guys you're working with. I remember when Hulk came into WCW in the mid-90s and when he came in, wrestling fans, people everywhere, constantly ask the questions 'does it bother you that Hulk Hogan has just come in here, and they sort of pushed you aside?' And I said no. Doesn't bother me at all. As a matter of fact, I welcome him coming in. It takes away some of the burden from me, and elevates the whole company. In the long run, it's going to be a pay off for everyone. I'm not coming in to push people aside. I know what its like. 10 years ago, when I was still in there, and you'd just go 'man, some of these guys have been around forever and ever, and it's just like they never let us run with the ball. I know what it's like. But, I want to add to the whole thing. I don't want to take.
On fitting in with TNA:
I am going to figure out a way to plug myself in and find my niche. I'm not going to be doing some of the high flying stuff that you see those guys do now. I've seen some moves with some of those guys on TV that I've never seen before, but I've also seen some guys who wrestle my style also. There's still guys who tell the same story in the same way. Whatever I can add, I'm going to add.
On who'd he like to work with:
I've always had good matches with the big guys. Years ago with Vader and Paul Wight. Abyss, I love his work. There's some kind of little chemistry there that I think we have.
On whether he's been watching wrestling since he left:
[Early on], I would tune in quite a bit to see what they were doing with the WCW guys. Then, it just got to the point where there was nothing that interested me at all. It was just like 'wow, man.' It just doesn't make sense anymore. Recently, I started watching again just to get back in the swing.
On the reaction he's received thus far:
I've had some guys come to me, and say, 'man, when I was little I watched you and that's the reason I'm in wrestling. I took this and that from you, my style is from watching you all those years.' That's pretty humbling. It's kind of cool. You kind of left your stamp wrestling.
On religious beliefs and watching wrestling:
You have to be grounded in the Lord. It's the old saying 'when the crap goes in, it's eventually going to come out too. ' If you're watching the stuff on WWE, and I heard what happened on Monday (Edge and Lita's simulated sex) ... if you're allowing yourself to watch it over and over again, how will it benefit you? If you can just tune it off when you have to tune it in, when you want to watch wrestling action... there's nothing wrong with that.
On acquisitions he'd like TNA to make:
I'd like to see The Rock come here. I don't want to say too many names. Some of the biggest names, you know who they are, I'd like to see him [here.]
On what happens when his contract expires:
We'll see how my body holds out. I don't want to be the old dinosaur in the corner, who's not able even to get back up. I want to be able to deliver the goods. If I'm doing that at the end of the year, and everyone's happy, and everyone wants me back, then I might consider it.
This Just In...
James Hellwig has just been re-elected Mayor of Parts Unknown. In honor of this Sunday Night Steam is proud to announce The Top 10 Wrestlers from Parts Unknown: The Missing Link, Kane, Abyss, Demolition Smash, Mr. X., The Warlord, The Zodiac (we know thats you Beefcake), The Black Scorpion, The Ultimate Warrior, and Kamala
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