WWE & THQ Extend Their Agreement To Develop & Publish Video Games

THQ issued the following press release today:
"THQ AND WWE SIGN EIGHT-YEAR DEAL


THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE), leaders in video gaming and sports entertainment, today announced that they have entered into a new eight-year agreement granting THQ the exclusive worldwide rights to develop and publish video games based on WWE®’s content effective January 1, 2010.


WWE grants THQ the exclusive worldwide rights to publish interactive games based on WWE properties across all major gaming platforms and distribution channels.


Since WWE entered the video game market in 1990, it has been a recognized leader and one of the top ten best-selling brands since 1995* according to NPD Group. Through September 30, 2009, THQ has reported net sales of WWE video games in excess of $1.4 billion.


“This agreement ensures that WWE games will continue to be an important cornerstone of THQ’s annual release schedule for the long term,” said Brian Farrell, THQ President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working directly with WWE to expand their brand in the video game space through continued game play innovation and increased online delivery of WWE content.”


“As one of the most successful video game brands, WWE is excited to work directly with THQ to translate WWE’s colorful characters and ever-changing content into exciting and fresh video games for our fans,” said Donna Goldsmith, WWE Chief Operating Officer.


“This year’s highly rated WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 video game demonstrates the innovation and creativity that THQ brings to WWE,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This new licensing agreement will ensure that we continue our tremendous success in the video game industry in the years to come.”


*Based on US Market brand ranking 1995-November 2009


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


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.


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.


Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements about THQ
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 WWE video games, 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.


Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements about WWE
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."

Sheamus Answers Questions on his Relationships within WWE

The Daily Star has a new interview up with WWE Champion Sheamus and here are the highlights from the article:
Sheamus says determination and an unerring self-belief saw him right.

“Here’s the deal – I grew up a red-headed kid and took a lot of abuse. Wrestling was always my dream, and people laughed at me.”


“When I told people what I wanted to do, they laughed. But the lesson that every kid out there should take from me is don’t ever let anyone say you can’t do something.”


“If you want something, if you have a dream, then do whatever it takes, and don’t listen to anyone who tells you can’t do it. I’m from a small country – and I’m WWE Champion.”

In recent times some fans have been right to question the rather tired main event programmes on WWE TV, with the likes of Cena, Orton, Trip, Michaels and Taker seemingly always battling it out for the belts.

Sheamus says it’s not a case of young guys being kept down but merely professional pride.

The veterans want to see the young men want it as much as they once did.

Sheamus says instead of brown-nosing and politicking, a positive and respectful attitude goes a long way.

He adds: “Lots of people complain that the top guys are keeping young wrestlers down.”

“But, you know, in reality the top guys are looking for wrestlers to step up. They want young people to step up to that level – it’s what they’re waiting for. And I’ve worked my arse off.”


“These guys are on top because they are the best. My goal is to be better than all of them. I don’t want to be first Irish champ. I want to be the best ever, the longest reigning champion.”

He revealed that Trip and Regal had been mentoring him.

“Yes, there are a few stories going around about HHH but the deal is that Trip has been fantastic.”


“He’s one of the most successful WWE champions of all time. If you’re going to learn, then learn from the best.”


“He’s been a mentor, but so have a lot of other guys. Arn Anderson and Finlay have been a big help. Regal has been great too – when I first came to ECW, I rode with him and he helped me so much.”

The Irishman is clearly keeping fine company and tells me he plans on walking out of January’s Royal Rumble the champion. Then it will be on to Mania and beyond.

If the fact that he hates Thierry Henry as much as I do isn’t reason enough to like him, the man has taken his chance with both hands.

It’s due reward for his positive attitude on life.

“Since I came here I’ve left my family, my friends, my house – I had to take a chance because it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.”


“I think I work for the best company in the world. Not one day is the same. It’s also the funniest job in the world.”

Royal Rumble airs at 1am on January 31, live and exclusive on Sky Box Office. Go to WWE.com for more details.

Video.dot.Blog - Vladmir Kozlov Becomes a US Citizen

Video.dot.Blog - Santino Marella WWE Debut

Maybe, Just Maybe, The Hitman is Returning to the WWE (Albeit For 4 Months)

Credit: F4WOnline.com:
According to a WWE source who is close to the situation, Bret Hart has signed a short-term talent contract with WWE. Dave Meltzer is reporting that contract runs from January 1st to April 10th 2010. This means Hart could very well end up being the RAW guest host on January 4th.

When asked about the contract, Bret Hart declined to comment since he doesn't want to "lie about anything." According to Meltzer, Hart wanted to keep the signing a surprise but WWE all but confirmed he was coming back with the segment on RAW this week.

Apparently, Hart had been in talks with WWE for several months now. Meltzer is also reporting that Hart will possibly wrestle one more match and has also agreed to do a storyline based on the Montreal Screwjob. For years, Hart had been strongly against doing any type of storyline in WWE based on Montreal.

Wrestling Quote #36: Internet Dating

This from Jerry Lawler on Monday Night, King of the wrestling one liners, during Mark Henry's entrance:
"I've got an interesting fact about Mark Henry, he just tried internet dating and the computer matched him up with Detroit."
Classic.

ECW, Some people need to Shut the Hell up

This is just a short article about ECW, the third brand of WWE. Now lets clear one thing up the last time O'Dea watched ECW George Bush was in the White House, so I would love to know where all his deep insight on the brand is coming from. With regards to me calming down about Regal cause he is English, well if O'Dea thinks that is the only reason I value about the British Brawler then he is very wrong. In all honest the WWE have been under using a very talented Superstar, Regal is one of the best technical wrestler in WWE and that was proved in WCW. Interestingly O'Dea mentioned Drew McIntyre because unlike William Regal Drew McIntyre is being used properly so therefore he would not need to jump up and down about him. Also if you are looking at the Dirty Awards they are meant to cover all of WWE which includes ECW and Kozlov is under-ratted but O'Dea has always hated Kozlov and to be honest he seems to hate all big men: Batista, Kozlov and the Great Khali all fall it to O'Dea's web of hate (although I agree with regards to Khali.) ECW has also got lots of great talented young superstars. What ECW lacks is time, being only a hour show it causes lots of difficulties in making the program fresh. But overall ECW has all the raw potential to be a great third brand if given the chance.

2009 Dirty Awards: Superstar of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- CM Punk
- The Undertaker
- Chris Jericho (Winner)
- Jeff Hardy
- Randy Orton
Chris Jericho is the Dirt Sheet HD Superstar of the Year.

Why I hear you ask? Because between him and Orton, they have put on a display on how to be a heel. Y2J wins it because he is a standalone heel, Orton has his stable and despite Jericho having Big Show, Orton just lacked something this year to give him the award. Hardy did not last the entire year and also because of his drug issue he had I have got to say that tainted any chance he got of winning the award. The Undertaker has had a brilliant half year but his break between Wresltemania and Summerslam/Breaking Point meant that he cannot win the award. Punk has had an epic year as the new straight edge preacher and if he can keep this momentum up he could quite easily win the award next year.

O’Dea Note: To be honest, any of these nominations could have won this Dirty. But Chris Jericho was definitely the right choice for the winner but Orton and Punk would have been fighting it out for a close second place.

That's a Wrap Everyone, Can't Wait Until the 2010 Dirty Awards, Bring on Another Year in the WWE!

2009 Dirty Awards: Personal Note from Methos

This is the work is the best thing I have been involved with on The Dirt Sheet HD. The reason is that it was the first time me and O’Dea really worked together. The categories and the candidate were debated between the two of us but we agreed upon them in the end. The reasoning behind the decisions and the categories were written up by me. Whereas, like always O’Dea found most of and added all of the pictures to the article because I cannot, also all of the dates have been found by O’Dea because he has more patience than I am. We are different types of Wrestling fans but are both equally as dedicated. I do enjoy winding O’Dea up with facts from year before he started watching and I have lots of ammo. But he is one of my best friends because despite all my flaws he hasn’t ditched me, also he is one of my few friends who I can talk about WWE with a get a response other with ‘How old are you?’ or ‘I use to watch wrestling when I was in primary school’ or the most loathed ‘Don’t you know it is fake?’ So This is me saying thank you Duncan (yes I just broke Kayfabe) and the Dirt Sheet HD like our friendship will be still going strong in 2010.

O'Dea Note: This sounds so gay, why did I let him put this on the site?!

NEXT UP: Superstar of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Newcomer of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Sheamus (Winner)
- Drew McIntyre
- Vance Archer
- The Calgary Kid
- Santina Marella
Sheamus the Celtic Warrior and New WWE Champion and he has achieved more than the others in the list however, 2 of them have promise. Drew McIntyre might not be a future World Champion in the opinion of Methos but he might be a future champion. Archer has soon some promise but not enough to win the award. Despite the Calgary Kid’s 100% winning streak his limited appearances mean he cannot win the award. Santina’s firing means that she too cannot win the award.

O'Dea Note: All I have to say is that the WWE will not be the same again with the likes of Sheamus and McIntyre around!

NEXT UP: Personal Note from Methos (Warning: Gay Undertones Throughout)

2009 Dirty Awards: Tag Team of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Legacy (Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes)
- JeriShow (Winner)
- Cryme Tyme
- DX
- The Hart Dynasty (David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd)
Jerishow dominant since their formation at Night of Champions and champions since as well. Unsuccessful in their singles exploit against The Undertaker at Survivor Series, but none the less the Codebreaker and knockout punch has helped these two to Tag Team of the Year. Legacy despite being Orton’s lackeys but when they have matches unrelated to him, they prove their worth.
The Hart Dynasty are emerging stars and next year if they keep up their run they will be the future winners of this award. DX are a good team but it’s the same old same old with them. Cryme Tyme are only there because they were a team of worthwhile mention but really nothing special.

NEXT UP: Newcomer of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best Storyline of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- John Cena Vs The Miz (Anti-Cena campaign) (Winner)
- Rey Mysterio Vs Bastista (Betrayal)
- Jeff Hardy Vs CM Punk (Lifestyle Choices)
- Randy Orton Vs Kofi Kingston ("Costing Title" and a Rising Star)
- Chris Jericho Vs. WWE Legends
This Dirty should not be confused with Best Feud of the Year. This Dirty is looking at everything involved except the matches between the Superstars involved. The reason why Cena vs. The Miz won is that it really helped The Miz get to where he is now a serious rising star. The promos The Miz cut were amazing and to be honest what he was saying about Cena echoed what some of the crowd was thinking. The Batista vs. Mysterio angle is good but I did dislike the use of Eddie Guerrero’s death which mean this storyline could never win the Dirty. Jeff Hardy and CM Punk had brilliant matches but the storyline itself got very repetitive, there is only so many times you can hear about freedom of choice and the evils of drugs before you get bored. Kingston vs. Orton the only thing perhaps stopping this feud winning the Dirty is that it started to late in the year. Y2J vs. Legends feud really got a shot in the arm by the violent assault against Ric Flair which might have been the first blood I had seen before the PG split which made it special. But Mickey Rouke and a lack of development let this feud down and meant it could not win the Dirty.

O’Dea Notes: And the fact that Mickey Rouke randomly calling him out and then being told that because of an insurance policy, he couldn’t fight a fly let alone a Jericho. We don’t care about Ironman 2.

NEXT UP: Tag Team of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Worst Storyline of the Year

Nominations and Winners:
Vickie Guerrero Vs Santina/Santino Marella (Miss Wrestlemania)
Edge, Big Show and Vickie Guerrero (Love Triangle)
Paul Burchill Vs The Hurricane (Mask Vs ECW career)
Matt Hardy Vs Jeff Hardy (brother Vs brother) (Co-Winner)
Montreal Screwjob 4 (Co-Winner)
Now when you take away the matches in Matt vs. Jeff, you get a rather awkward brother vs. brother story that neither man wanted to be in. Also after the storyline ended it was forget and everyone ignored virtually everything that happened within the story. The other co-winning storyline had a similar affected. After Breaking Point we had Hell in a Cell and the entire submission match was forgotten likewise CM Punk vs. Scott Armstrong something that started after that match stopped abruptly as well. The key reason though why Montreal 4 is the co-winner of this Dirty is that it is the 4th time a screwjob has taken place in WWE in Montreal and the 3rd on that has been faked. When will WWE learn it was a shock the first time it is boring now.

If Kozlov vs. Jackson and the Ruthless Roundtable was the best thing to come from ECW this year then Paul Burchill/The Ripper vs. The Hurricane is the worse if anything Burchill Mask is reason enough but if I am honest the whole idea of the story lack one thing, people that care about it! The Vickie – Edge – Big Show love triangle was funny and lead to Vickie having some ‘splaining to do’ but it wasn’t right for a Wrestlemania but still was not as awkward as Hardy vs. Hardy or Montreal 4. To spend more than one sentence on Vickie vs. Santina would be a waste of time so I won’t, so all I will say is that it didn’t win the Dirty as I would rather not remember it.

NEXT UP: Best Storyline of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Worst Gimmick of the Year

Nominations and Winners:
- Cryme Tyme (Street Thugs)
- The Great Khali (Punjabi Playboy)
- Chavo Guerrero (Vicky Guerrero, Hornswoggle and Guest Host Whipping Boy) (Co-Winner)
- Hornswoggle (Leprechaun) (Co-Winner)
- Paul Burchill (The Ripper)
The winner of this Dirty has over stayed his welcome. The gimmick is boring and old. Since Hornswoggle has been split from Finlay it has made the gimmick boring, even worse people like Chavo Guerrero is being used to make Hornswoggle look good this links to why Chavo is the co-winner of this Dirty. Chavo’s gimmick is just insulting to a great wrestler and he should not be disrespected the way he has been. There are not words to express how much of a travesty it is. Hornswoggle’s gimmick is similar to Cryme Tyme’s although Cryme Tyme has been toned down to help them. The Great Khali’s gimmick is awful most because he is an awful wrestler and I use the term loosely. Paul Burchill’s gimmick is neither interesting and the mask is awful and to be honest it ties in to the idea of worst Storyline of the year.

O’Dea Note: Chavo is a great wrestler if WWE stopped crushing him and gave him a real feud, and not against Horny or the freak with bigger tits than most porn stars, Chris Masters, he could get somewhere and actually keep most of his credibility.

NEXT UP: Worst Storyline of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best Gimmick of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
CM Punk (Straight Edge Saviour)
Chris Jericho (Arrogant Sophisticated Heel)
Big Show (Monster Heel)
Randy Orton (The Viper)
The Miz (“I’m Awesome!”) [Winner]
‘I’m the Miz and I’m awesome!’ A simple statement yet it set up a whole new character for The Miz leading him into a whole new career which will lead to great things. The Miz’s new gimmick is unique which is why he also won the Dirty. The only complaint with this new gimmick is the change of attire. Y2J gimmick is amazingly executed but is too similar to Orton’s Viper gimmick and that is why they could not win the Dirty. Big Show’s Monster heel is good but not unique enough to win the Dirty although together Y2J and Big Show’s gimmick combined make then the Best Tag Team this year. CM Punks gimmick is good but I feel that sometimes it put too much of a negative emphasis on straight edge life style.

NEXT UP: Worst Gimmick of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Merchandise of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 (Winner)
- Legends of Wrestlemania
- The Undertaker Christmas hat
- DX Army T-Shirt
- Hornswoggle DX Army T-Shirt
The winner of this is pure and simple because every year WWE out do themselves with their Smackdown/ Smackdown vs. Raw range and this is exactly what has happened. (O’Dea Note: No THQ out do themselves every year, WWE just makes things worse most of the time.) Legends of Wrestlemania was ok and a brilliant concept but the game play was flawed as were the controlled and that’s what let it down. The two DX shirts are great merchandise but I found that the messages on the back are not PG which lets them down because if WWE want to aim at that market then they should do it properly. The Undertaker Christmas hat which you can buy a matching stocking for by the way also you can buy ones for other superstars made this category because I find the idea of mixing The Undertaker and Christmas is brilliant because it doesn’t work yet these do, but due to being only useful for one time of year it cannot win the Dirty.

NEXT UP: Best Gimmick of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Most Over-Rated

Nominations and Winner:
- Primo
- Shane McMahon (Winner)
- Batista
- Mickey Rouke
- Mr. Kennedy
Shane McMahon was an accomplished wrestler about 10 years ago. But he is a part timer wrestler and a business man. So the idea that Randy Orton would be taken to the limit by him is ridiculous hence why at No Way Out Shane McMahon earned the Most Overrated Dirty. Mr. Kennedy likewise became a close contender because after his hyped return this year he lasted one night. Speaking of one hit wonders we have come to perhaps someone who perhaps is in this category unfairly is Mickey Rouke. He has said that his lawyers and insurance company stopped him doing more but even with that being the case his appearance was disappointing. Primo I will not spend too much time on but I didn’t rate him as Carlito’s partner, never thought he should be a tag champion and most importantly never rated him as a single competitor. Batista well, personally this was O’Dea’s choice and I will let him elaborate.

NEXT UP: Merchandise of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Most Under-Rated

Nominations and Winners:
- Evan Bourne
- William Regal (Co-Winner)
- Dolph Ziggler
- Gail Kim (Co-Winner)
- Jack Swagger
The co-winners of this Dirty have been overlooked. Gail Kim was meant to revolutionise WWE Divas division in her second run. William Regal however has had it worse than Kim. Gail Kim is just being ignored but Regal got besmirched at SummerSlam by having the mockery of that was 8 second defeat. To be honest I partially paid to see SummerSlam on the ground that Regal would have a proper match. Likewise Regal should at least be ECW champion or competing for the WWE or World Heavyweight Champion. Swagger was passed over for an US title shot instead of MVP or the Mark Henry, likewise Dolph Ziggler seems to be have lost his shine since John Morrison defeated him in their feud. If Bourne can keep his tag team with Primo then maybe WWE will give him a title run or at least a shot otherwise his talent could be wasted.

O’Dea Note: I know that Methos is English but he needs to calm down about Regal, You don’t hear me get this worked up about Drew McIntyre.

NEXT UP: Most Over-Rated

2009 Dirty Awards: Couple of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
Santina Marella and Jim Ross (Winner)
Vickie Guerrero and Eric Escobar
Eve Torres and Jack Swagger
Maria and Dolph Ziggler
Vickie Guerrero and Big Show
The winners of the Dirty my shock a lot of people, but unlike Vickie and Escobar, Maria and Ziggler and Vickie and Big Show, Santina and Ross did not split up. Torres and Swagger never got together to break up so hence why they did not win the Dirty.

NEXT UP: Most Under-Rated

2009 Dirty Awards: Most Improved

Nominations and Winner:
- Kofi Kingston
- John Morrison
- Dolph Ziggler
- The Miz (Winner)
- David Hart Smith
I defy anybody to disagree with our nomination for most improved. The Miz, A good tag team wrestler became an amazing singles wrestler. Not only that he has won the US title he beat John Cena 5 times this year (sort of.) Most importantly when The Miz and Morrison split The Miz left as the dominate partner, which he proved at Bragging Rights and Survivor Series. John Morrison did not win most improved because he was already amazing and only got slightly better. This is a similar situation to Kofi Kingston. Dolph Ziggler has improved dramatically since he randomly us to introduce himself to people. He just needed a title to improve his chance dramatically of winning this award. DH Smith has improved since join the Hart Dynasty but just not on the same level as The Miz took take the prize. But bright things can be expected from all of these people.

NEXT UP: Couple of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Worst Finisher of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- World’s Strongest Slam (Mark Henry)
- S.O.S (Kofi Kingston)
- The 12 Steps (Luke Gallows) (winner)
- Playmaker (Montel Vontavious Porter)
- Tadpole Splash (Hornswoggle)
The winner of this Dirty is Luke Gallows finishing move the 12 Step. Where to start with why this move is awful? For one thing it leaves the apply open to a head butt which WWE seem to ignore. Also the move looks hideous. The S.O.S by Kingston is just not as good as Trouble in Paradise or the Boom Drop. The World’s Blandest Slam is a more appropriate name for that move. The Playmaker was boring when Randy Orton used it when he first debut and it is just as boring now. The Tadpole splash need I say more.

NEXT UP: Most Improved

2009 Dirty Awards: Finisher of the Year

Nominations and Winners:
- Hell’s Gate (The Undertaker) (Co-Winner)
- Knockout Punch (Big Show)
- Cross Rhodes (Cody Rhodes)
- Starship Pain (John Morrison) (Co-Winner)
- Skull Crushing Finale (The Miz)
The co-winners of this Dirty have got it for different reasons. The Hell’s gate won the award for its dominance and sheer destructive nature. On the other hand Starship Pain won the award for its flamboyancy and sheer athleticism. The Big Show was nominated for the award like the Hell’s Gate for its dominance rather than appearance. The Cross Rhodes and the Skull Crushing Finale were nominated for their aggressiveness and their classy look.

 NEXT UP: Worst Finisher of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Brand of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
Raw
Smackdown (Winner)
ECW
The Best brand of the year award goes to Smackdown because it doesn’t have to deal with plugging guest host or poor viewing times in the UK. RAW obviously has to plug things for the guest host and sometimes that works other times it fail miserably and the wrestling is forgotten. This is why Smackdown is the brand of the year.

NEXT UP: Finisher of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best Superstar Theme

Nominations and Winners:
- "Voices" by Rev Theory Ft Rich Luzzi (Randy Orton)
- "I am Perfection" by Jim Johnson ft Cage 9 (Dolph Ziggler)
- "It’s a New Day" by Jim Johnson ft Adelitas Way (Legacy – Ted Dibiasie and Cody Rhodes)
- "Too many lies" by Jim Johnson ft Sean Jenness (Sheamus) [Co-Winner]
- "Crank the Walls Down" by Maylene and the Sons of Disaster (Jerishow) [Co-Winner]
This Dirty is based on music however the reasons can be explained are not just about preference but more about the impact. The two winning songs were picked for different reasons. Crank the Walls Down is a good song because it matched the contrast of styles of both Jericho and Big Show also it matches their aggression. Too many lies combines Sheamus’ Irish nature with an aggressive sound also to match. I am perfection sums Dolph’s arrogance perfectly. Voices sums Orton’s IED and his vile, vindictive and manipulative nature. It’s a New Day highlights legacy drive and determination to be better than their fathers.


NEXT UP: Brand of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best PPV Theme Song

Nominations and Winner:
Monster by Skillet (Hell in a Cell) [Winner]
Still Unbroken by Lynard Skynard (Breaking Point)
You gotta’ move by Aerosmith (Summerslam)
You going down by Sick Puppies (Extreme Rules)
So Hott by Kidd Rock (Wrestlemania 25)
This Dirty is really down to choice and to explain why we have picked the songs we have would be pointless cause loads of people will disagree with us, so I am moving on.

NEXT UP: Best Superstar Theme

2009 Dirty Awards: The Don't Come Back Award

Nominations and Winners
- Eugene (Co-Winners)
- Kizarny (Co-Winners)
- Santina Marella (Co-Winners)
- The Great Khali (Co-Winners)
- Jeremy Piven (Co-Winners)
Well, Santina was funny for a while but not for after a while it got old. The Great Khali is not a seller and is literally the immoveable object and not in a good way. Eugene was funny the first time but second time round old news and boring. Kizarny had so many promos but was such a disappointment. Jeremy Piven see Worst Guest Host to understand why we NEEEEVVVEEER EVVVVER want him in a WWE ring or backstage again.

NEXT UP: Best PPV Theme Song

2009 Dirty Awards: Least Shocking Moment of the Year

Nominations and Winner:

- Christian returning, 10th February

- Donald Trump ‘selling’ RAW back to Vince McMahon, 22nd June (Winner)

- Santina Marella winning the Diva Battle Royale at Wrestlemania 25, 5th April

- Jeff Hardy Quitting, 28th August

- Montreal Screwjob 4, 13th September

Trump selling RAW backing to Vince was funny because of the impact it had on the stock market. But it was no shock because RAW was Vince’s baby and was never going to let RAW go. Christian return was not a shock because everyone knew he was returning at the Royal Rumble and everyone was expecting him them but after that when he did return it was nothing special. Santina winning the Battle Royale at Wrestlemania 25 was not a shock nor was the fact Santina was Santino despite King, Cole and JR’s best attempt to disguise the fact. Jeff Hardy quitting is similar to Christian arriving everyone knew it was happening just not when. Motreal Screwjob 4, the fact it is the forth Screwjob in Montreal should tell you all why this was no great shock.

NEXT UP: The Don't Come Back Award

2009 Dirty Awards: OMG! Moment of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- The Undertaker’s suicide dive at Wrestlemania 25, 5th April (Winner)
- Edge Blindsiding Kofi at No Way Out, 15th February
- JBL Quitting at Wrestlemania 25, 5th April
- The Miz and Morrison splitting up at WWE Draft, 13th April
- Big Show Chokeslams John Cena through the searchlight at Backlash, 26th April
The Suicide Dive won, because it was one of the few times WWE managed mine and O’Dea’s suspend disbelief. We both genuinely thought Taker had broken his neck. What made the moment better was realising that he was ok because it was still an amazing feat of athleticism. Edge blindsiding Kofi was a contender because after Edge lost it was funny and what made it more shocking is that Edge went on to win the title which was another surprise. JBL quitting was an OMG moment more for the way it happened rather than the event itself. Firstly I thought JBL would retire as champ and secondly I never imagined he would leave after a 30 second speech. (O’Dea Note: I still think it should have been the Jeff Hardy leg drop miss & twist of fate in the chair at WM25.) The splitting of the Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century (arguably ever so far) was a shock because they were such a cohesive unit and they had a very popular internet show, the name of which I forget and yet WWE split them up but looks like they were right to do so because look how successful they are now. Big Show chokeslamming Cena was shocking but it was obviously staged and that is what let it down.

NEXT UP: Least Shocking Moment of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Diva of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Michelle McCool
- Mickie James (Winner)
- Melina
- Beth Phoenix
- Maryse
This Dirty was hard to decide for one simple reason. WWE don’t care about the Divas enough. All of the Divas were at a similar level but Mickie James has been constantly good. I hoped when she arrived Gail Kim would revolutionised the Divas but WWE haven’t allowed that.

NEXT UP: OMG! Moment of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best PPV (Excluding Wrestlemania)

Nominations and Winner:
- Survivors Series, 22nd November (Winner)
- Breaking Point, 13th September
- No Way Out, 15th February
- Night of Champions, 26th July
- Extreme Rules, 7th June
All of the above could have won. But Survivor Series won for one simple reason it was better than expected , even if the people you expected won, the overall show was amazing. Breaking Point was amazing and a brilliant concept, the matched themselves with the exception of Motreal 4 see below. No Way Out was full of shocks and surprises which is why it was a contender. Extreme Rules is often good simple because it is full of all the match types you want to see all year round but maybe it will be replaced because of the rise of gimmick pay per views. Night of Champions is also good most years because of the concept and that is why it is there.

NEXT UP: Diva of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Worst PPV

Nominations and Winner:
- Bragging Rights, 25th October
- Hell in a Cell, 4th October (Winner)
- Judgement Day, 17th May
- The Bash, 28th June
- Summerslam, 23rd August
Where to start with this one? Well SummerSlam is there because it was not a Big Four Pay Per View fact. The problem with the other 4 is that I barely remember then except they sucked. Bragging Rights was a poor concept and despite a few good matches it didn’t have enough. Hell in a Cell however takes the biscuit for being a bad PPV though. Firstly Hell in a Cell matches are special, therefore having 3 in one night was going to be risky. The first Cell match had one positive Taker won. But to be honest the match did not need to be in a Cell as it was not used, nor was the match hardcore. Similar criticisms of Orton vs. Cena. (O’Dea Note: And the fact John Cena dropped a razor blade during the match, plain for everyone to see. Or was just that advertising, hey, Cena does Gillete ads. And considering at Bragging Rights they had an orgasm when John started bleeding I still don’t get it) DX vs. Legacy was good but it was not enough to save the night. Final point on the subject although I am not some blood lusting vampire if you watch Hell in a Cell matches in the past they are bloody affairs and because of PG WWE there was none of that.

NEXT UP: Best PPV (Excluding Wrestlemania)

2009 Dirty Awards: Commentator of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Matt Striker (Winner)
- Jim Ross
- Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler
- Todd Grisham
- Vince McMahon
Matt Striker has to win this award. Why? Because, he is one of the most knowledgeable commentators in WWE with the exception of J.R. But his performance at TLC alone means he should get the award, whilst Cole and King let their bias get in the way, Matt Striker objectively called Sheamus winning the WWE title and pointing out the crushed Cena and crushed children (much to the delight of O’Dea and myself.) Also he comments are a new breath of fresh air in WWE. Vince McMahon’s return to the mic was good but short and therefore he cannot win the Dirty, likewise Todd Grisham although he is a good commentator he does not have the certain something to get him to the standard of Dirty award winning. J.R. of course deserves a special mention and his consistency almost won him this Dirty, however due to illness he has been of our screens and therefore unable to win. (For news on J.R. go to his website http://www.jrsbarbq.com/) The King does not deserve the Dirty award because although a good commentator his need for a cheat sheet as he does not watch ECW or Smackdown left a bad taste in my mouth and stopped him from winning the award.

O'Dea Note: To be honest, there is nothing I need to add to this, Matt seems to get better and better every week and is now again showing off his very nice heel commentary, which at the PPVs, with the 3 man announce team works extremely well with the way he plays off Jerry Lawler. And here is Matt checking over his Slammy from last year:

NEXT UP: Worst PPV

2009 Dirty Awards: Feud of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Legacy vs. DX
- CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy (Winner)
- John Cena vs. Randy Orton
- The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels
- Vladimir Kozlov vs. Ezekiel Jackson
Unlike the best and worst storyline of the year Dirty this award looks at the matches and story combined. Punk vs. Hardy won because it took real life and incorporated it. Disappointingly Punk’s warning of Hardy’s lifestyle costing him seems all too true. Legacy and DX’s feud was born out Triple H’s frustration of being old and needing a partner and it went from there. Cena vs. Orton was a good heel vs. Face feud but it lacked the cutting edge to win the award. Taker vs. HBK was a good match and the build up was amazing starting simply with the line ‘the road to Heaven can be Hell’ but I lacked the longevity to make it the feud of the year. Kozlov vs. Jackson and the Ruthless Roundtable is probably the best thing to come from ECW this year. The one-upmanship led to a stable which now looks like it could be falling apart at the seams but as it has not finished it cannot be feud of the year.

O’Dea Note: I don’t know where this last one has come from Methos has just put this in, that’s rubbish that’s not a feud. I’m Annoyed that Zeke-Vladimir got anywhere near this category, It’s not because I haven’t been watching ECW recently, back when that feud was happening I was watching all of ECW every week and that stuff with those two was stupid and crap and to be honest I think Methos was just looking at the bias article on WWE.com about ECW when he wasn't watching it. They think that one diva slapping another (not very well) is a brutal beat down. But otherwise, thanks to a great heel turn by CM Punk his feud against Jeff Hardy was an odds on favourite and well earned winner of this Dirty. It’s strange really because I put up an article on an interview that talked about Punk going heel and back then, it really felt like a millennium away from it actually happening, but I’m glad it did.

NEXT UP: Commentator of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Best Entrance

Nominations and Winner:
- John Morrison [With Pyro] (Winner)
- The Undertaker
- R-Truth
- Rey Mysterio
- Chris Masters
Although all of these superstars have spectacular entrances but there is on entrance that is simply breath taking. Before the introduction of the pyrotechnic it was great but with the addition of the pyrotechnic it is beyond belief.

O’Dea Note: No Doubt that since Morrison got pyro it was obvious who was going to win this award, unlike when Primo got the Catharine Wheels during his entrance, strange. Personally I would only think that this award could be won by either Rey or John, but you have to be impressed with the, now, former Intercontinental Champion’s entrance definitely the best in the WWE Universe.

NEXT UP: Feud of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Match of the Year

Nominations and Winner:
- Rey Mysterio (c) vs. John Morrison, Intercontinental Title Match, Smackdown, 4th September
- The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels, Wrestlemania 25, 5th August (winner)
- Legacy vs. D-Generation X, Submissions Count Anywhere Match, Breaking Point, 13th Setember
- Randy Orton (c) Vs John Cena, 60-Minute Anything Goes WWE Ironman Match, Bragging Rights, 25th October
- Edge (c) vs Jeff Hardy ladder match, Extreme Rules, 7th June

Do I really need to explain why this match is the winner of this dirty? Shawn Michaels’ entrance was amazing. Even if The Undertaker’s entrance was a Gangrel rip off we can forgive that for what happened next. The match was ‘vintage’ Undertaker and HBK. We saw classic Wrestlemania moments like Takers suicide dive (see dirty award for OMG moment of the year) as well as the finish HBK Moonsault into a Tombstone. The other candidates are their also for obvious reasons. JoMo vs. Mysterio was one of the best matches I have seen on Smackdown but the lack of storyline is what let it down. The Falls count anywhere submission match was good because the ending was a shock and it proved Legacy could work hard. The Iron Man match was a brilliant spectacle but the technical ability of the superstars was lacking. The ladder match between Jeff and Edge was a reminder of so many of their epic battles of the past but still a great match in its own right.

O’Dea Note: Taker-Michaels was arguably the match of the decade. They tore the house down, like everyone knew they would. They went for just under 31 minutes and strangely I thought that they were still limited or not given enough time, probably because Trips wanted 20 minutes at the end, I mean that match really screwed the audience at Reliant Stadium over, it wasn’t Wrestlemania Main Event quality especially after the nearly picture perfect build up. And also Triple H never actually smashed through that glass live, they just saw him stand there for a second then walk down the ramp through a frame, people in the stadium must have gone “What, What on earth was that”. I mean, what happened there surely if Shelton is allowed to jump off that enormous ladder, live, surely Trips can break a bit of glass, live!

I also really liked the Submissions Count Anywhere Match, it was interesting how they were going to do it leading up to the PPV, but they didn’t disappoint, the only disappointment, if any, was you knew that Shawn Michaels would be the one who took the loss. I was the over-riding reason that the Ironmatch was in the nominations just because of the spectacle and in relation to the rest of the PPV, it was miles and miles better than anything else on the card. The only reservation I have with that match was how obvious the ending the was and who was going to win with just under 2 minutes to go.

NEXT UP: Best Entrance

2009 Dirty Awards: Best Guest Host

Nominations and Winners:
- Roddy Piper 16th November (Co-Winner)
- Bob Barker, 7th September (Co-Winner)
- Jesse ‘The Body/Governor’ Ventura, 23rd November (Co-Winner)
- Shaquille O'Neal, 27th July
- Ozzy Osborne, 2nd November
This category was a lot harder to pick that worst guest host and all of the above candidates could have easily one but we at the Dirt Sheet HD have narrowed it down to 3. Again in chronological order, co-winner 1 was Bob Barker who proved that on RAW the Price is right. Roddy Piper provided David O’Dea with one of his favourite RAWs in a long time as well as a memorable moment of the Boom Drop through a table on Orton and cementing him as a star. To sum up why Ventura won the award all I need to say is Breakthrough competition and Vince McMahon on commentary even if Ventura needed a cheat sheet so did King.

O’Dea Note: Bob Barker was just pure gold and really put most other hosts to same. And the two Raws either side of Survivor Series, were some of the best in ages. I think I enjoyed watching nearly every minute of the Raw with Roddy Piper at the MSG, why can’t we get more like this, oh sorry, I forgot that bad guest hosts are our eternal punishment for watching the WWE.

NEXT UP: Match of the Year

2009 Dirty Awards: Worst Guest Host

Nominations and Winners:
- Jeremy Piven, 3rd August (Joint-Winner)
- Floyd ‘Money Mayweather, 24th August (Joint-Winner)
- Batista, 29th June
- Verne Tyroner, 30th November
- Nancy O'Dell and Maria Menounos, 12th October
Where do I start? Let’s do this chronologically. What was wrong with Jeremy Piven? Dr Ken was just an epic failure. Secondly the ultimate sin was committed he called Summerslam ‘Summerfest’ even an avid WWE fan like Methos was confused and thought that it was a beach party or something. Likewise Floyd Mayweather failed as a guest host because he was only on RAW for part of the show and all he did was make an awful match. So this Dirty is being shared.

O’Dea Note: Summerfest is actually a music festival in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. And to add there have been some truly shocking guest hosts since the start, I think that these are true winners with Mayweather being the worst, turning up late because he probably shot someone the night before and then helped a negative stereotype by giving MVP knuckledusters, isn’t he an ex-con?

NEXT UP: Best Guest Host

Welcome to the 2009 Dirty Awards

Welcome to the 2009 Dirty Awards,
Here is a brief explanation of how the Dirties are going to run.
- There are 5 nominations per award these were selected before WWE announce the nominations of the Slammy Awards, likewise the awards may run alongside the Slammy Awards but they are independent to them.
- The awards will (when live) will be released every 5 minutes with the last award being Superstar of the Year, which will be announced at 10:30pm EST/3:30am GMT.
- The awards have critical analysis from Methos and O’Dea so that you know why they were selected. Folks remember tonight there will be winners and there will be losers. Be Jealous! (And Enjoy)

Here is a little Preview (in Images of some of the things to come tonight):

The First Award Will Be For The Worst Guest Host! That Will Be Announced at 8:05pm EST/1:05am GMT.

Yes, TNA Got A Times Square Billboard

From TNAWrestling.com:
SpikeTV and TNA Wrestling have unveiled a huge billboard in New York City's Times Square to promote the upcoming January 4 live Monday Night "iMPACT!" on SpikeTV! The billboard is located at 1500 Broadway in Times Square! If you are visiting NYC in the next few weeks, be sure to check it out!

Vladimir Kozlov Becomes US Citizen

This from Richard Gray at the WrestlingNewsWorld.com:
Vladimir Kolzov is now a United States citizen. The WWE star was part of more than 400 others that took the Oath of Allegiance at the Tampa Convention Center today.

"Oh to be a U.S. citizen has been like a dream for long time. When I was raised and born in Russia, I had [a] dream to come to United States because U.S. [is a] land of big opportunity," Kozlov explained.

He has been a success in the ring and on the big screen.

"If you work hard, you can reach whatever you want," Kozlov said told MyFox Tampa Bay.

Click here to read coverage by MyFox Tampa Bay.

WWE vs TNA January 4th 2010

This is from TNA's Official Site, TNAWrestling.com:
"HULKAMANIA IS COMING BACK TO MONDAY NIGHT ON “TNA iMPACT!” LIVE JANUARY 4 ON SPIKE TV
Hulk Hogan’s First Live Appearance On Spike TV’s “TNA iMPACT” Will Be In A Special 3-Hour Live Episode Monday, January 4 At 8:00 PM ET/PT

The biggest name in professional wrestling history, Hulk Hogan, will make his first live appearance on Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling’s “TNA iMPACT!” in a live 3-hour special on Spike TV Monday, January 4, 2010 at 8:00PM ET/PT. Hogan and TNA President Dixie Carter attended “The Ultimate Fighter Heavyweights” Finale in Las Vegas where Hogan made the announcement in an interview with Joe Rogan.


“TNA iMPACT!” will be going against “WWE Monday Raw” on USA Network, the first time two wrestling companies have broadcast live head-to-head since the “Monday Night Wars” in the late 1990’s between WWE and WCW. This “iMPACT!” special will broadcast live from the TNA iMPACT! Zone at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fl.

Hogan’s first appearance inside the six-sided ring of TNA Wrestling will follow weeks of speculation after Hogan and Carter announced their partnership on October 27 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Hogan has hinted in various media interviews that he’ll have multiple surprises in store for TNA Wrestling fans.

“I knew when I signed with TNA, that it would be important to make a statement with the first episode. Going head-to-head on January 4th, makes the statement loud and clear: Game on!” Hogan said.

“TNA is kicking off 2010 in the biggest way possible with the biggest name in the history of our sport. Hulk Hogan is a pop culture icon, and his arrival will change not only TNA, but the entire professional wrestling landscape. We’re firing that first shot,” Carter said.

Joining Hogan for the three-hour live “iMPACT!” will be TNA World Heavyweight Champion “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles, Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle, Mick Foley, Kevin Nash, “The Samoan Submission Machine” Samoa Joe, “The Boss” Bobby Lashley and “The Blueprint” Matt Morgan.

“TNA iMPACT!” will resume its normal timeslot on Thursday, January 7th at 9:00 PM ET/PT with an encore viewing of the live “iMPACT!” special."

Statement from the Anoa'i Family after the death of Eddie "Umaga" Fatu

The Anoa'i family issued the following statement on Friday night: "Statement from World Xtreme Wrestling C4 & the Anoa'i Family: WXW C4's Statement On The Passing Of Eki "Umaga" Fatu 12/04/09 - On behalf of the Anoa'i Family and front office of WXW C4 it is our sad duty to announce that earlier today, December 4th, we lost another member of not only our wrestling family, but immediate family. Eki "Umaga" Fatu passed away today in Houston at the age of 36. While we mourn the passing of Eki, we also remember all the good times that we were able to share with him and the smiles on the millions of fans faces around the world when he walked to the ring to do what he loved most: wrestle. During this difficult time, we please ask for the fans and the press to respect the privacy of his family during this tough time. When there is more information to be made public, his family will do so. The worst thing that could happen would be to have false information about this horrible situation out there, only to make the situation even worse. We'd like to thank everyone for their sympathy and prayers and ask that everyone celebrate the life of Eki Fatu."

Eddie "Umaga" Fatu Passes Away at the age of 36

It has been confirmed from WWE that former WWE wrestler Eddie Fatu/Umaga has passed away at the age of 36, this was posted on WWE.com:

"WWE would like to express its deepest condolences to Mr. Fatu’s family, friends and fans on his tragic passing. Mr. Fatu was under contract with WWE at various time periods and most recently performed under the name "Umaga." Mr. Fatu's contract was terminated on June 11, 2009."

This from Bill Apter of 1wrestling.com:
"I just received confirmation of the death of Eddie “Umaga” Fatu from his uncle Afa Anoa’i. In his very short email he wrote “We just lost my nephew to a heart attack.”
Our sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of Eddie Fatu."

Jim Ross said this on his Blog before the news of Fatu's death was confirmed:

"Details are very sketchy regarding the condition of Umaga (Eddie Fatu) who, as I write this is in ICU of a Houston hospital. Some say that Umaga may have had a massive heart attack but that has not been confirmed. He fell asleep and his wife apparently was unable to wake him. From all I read about sleep apnea, I have been diagnosed with it myself, it may be possible that Umaga had an undiagnosed case of sleep apnea which puts huge stress on one's heart because one stops breathing many times for several seconds every hour one sleeps. I stopped breathing over 40 times in one hour when I under went my sleep study. Please keep Umaga in your prayers. He was a very skilled, big man but more importantly he is a father and a husband."

This from James Caldwell of PWTorch:
"Former WWE star Umaga (Eddie Fatu) was removed from life support earlier this afternoon, reports WWE announcer Jim Ross, who says he spoke with a friend of Fatu's family.
Fatu's official death is expected to be announced this evening. He was on life support at a North Houston hospital after his wife found him unresponsive this morning at his home in Spring, Texas.
Fatu reportedly suffered a massive heart attack. We reported originally that Fatu was found bleeding from his mouth and nose when he was found in his home."

At this time are thoughts and prayers are with all the friends and family of Eddie Fatu, this is a shocking turn of events for everyone, Fatu had just returned from the Hulkamania Tour in Australia only days earlier. Here is a Picture of him on that very tour:

This will obviously be a very saddening time for everyone in the Wrestling Community and tributes have been coming in from everyone. Please take a moment to read all of these tributes.

WWE Diva Maryse: "prayers for UMAGA and all his family! he would always make me laugh ! so sad! i cant beleive it, omg!"

WWE Superstar Matt Hardy:"I'm gonna miss "Uce"-Eddie "Umaga" Fatu very, very much. He was one of my true friends & an amazing person. May God be with ya-love ya man. http://twitpic.com/s7wrq - In memory of Uce.. A great night out we had in New Orleans with myself, Adam, Eki, & Shane"

Former WWE Diva Torrie Wilson: "http://twitpic.com/s5vns - Much love my friend. Much love"

Jeff Hardys Girlfriend Beth Britt:"Absolutely devastated & heartbroken. We have lost one of the most loving, caring & amazing people. But most of all, we have lost one of our best friends."

TNA Wrestler & Former WWE Superstar Matt Morgan:"Me and my family's condolences to Eckie(Umaga)'s family. This just plain out SUCKS! Yet another great guy taken from us too early."

Former WWE Announcer Lillian Garcia:"Just heard news about Eddie aka Umaga. So sad. Loved him. Prayers 4 him & family. http://twitpic.com/s7bd8"

TNA Announcer Jeremy Borash:"RIP Eddie Fatu"

WWE Superstar Kofi Kingston:"RIP Umaga"

WWE Hall of Famer Howard Finkel: "I am saddened by the passing today of Eddie Fatu, a.k.a. Umaga. My sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Former ECW Owner & WWE Announcer and Manger Paul Heyman: "The world is minus one very cool Samoan tonight. We offer our most profound condolences to the Fatu Family."

Former ECW Wrestler, WWE Superstar and Announcer & Current TNA Announcer Taz(z):"Very sad to hear of the passing of a great performer & super person. R.I.P Eddie, see u down the road brother."

WWE Diva Eve Torres:"Sending my thoughts and prayers out to Umaga's friends, family, & all fans & followers of his career. He will be missed."

WWE Superstar Gregory Shane Helms:"Heartbroken. No words.http://twitpic.com/s5mm7 - Adam, Big Uce, Matt & Shane. What a long, sorrowful and emotionally exhausting day. You never know what's around the next corner. Life is...that's it...it just IS."

WWE Dive Michelle McCool:"My heart & prayers go out to Umaga's family & friends....he was obviously loved by many!"

WWE Superstar Chavo Guerrero:"Hey guys need some prayers for Umaga and his family. Thank u"

Former WWE Superstar Shannon Moore:"R.I.P Ecki....Mad love and respect. We will miss you and I will cherish the times we had togeather."

Former WWE Diva Ashley Massaro:"I just heard about Umaga cuz my friend IM'd me, wow...I'm so sad for his family, I remember them so well, so many lil ones...so fucking sad. Theres just nothing you can say about how much it sux when something like this happens, he was so funny and i have a lot of great mems-so sad. life is way too short, enjoy it while its here :o( I'm gonna go spend a lil time thinkin... FInally the fams home! Just pulled up so happy, were gonna have dinner with the kids and everything, I'm going to make it a gd nite in honor of UCE- aka Eddie And I suggest you do the same! :o)"

Indy & Former TNA/NWA Wrestler Phil Shatter:"PRAYERS! go out to Umaga's family. I didnt know Umaga but had the opp. to meet him and hang once! when one is lost we all show respect....this is a family not a job!"

Indy Wrestler Sean McCulley:"http://twitpic.com/s5q3c - Me with one of the greatest human beings I've ever met, Umaga. R.I.P Eddie Umaga Fatu your gonna be so missed brother i cherish the time i got to hang out and joke with you. i really wish all of you could have met big uce he was so fucking funny and so humble and caring and loved performing for everyone its so. terrible we lost him i think the wrestling world is now a little darker without such a shining star like Uce we love you brother."

WWE Divas The Bella Twins:"RIP Ecki, you will be greatly missed, so many good memories, the family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers, peace and love B&N"

Former WWE Diva Victoria/TNA Knockout Tara:"Rest in Peace Umaga We will love you always and we will all miss you."

Former WWE Superstar Gangrel: "Have a good journey ecki see you soon you where a ray of light in dark time one love uce"

Indy Wrestler "Kimo" David Clutter:"http://twitpic.com/s63pp - Me and Uce even thou I knew him less than the core Im glad to call him friend."

WWE Superstar Chris Jericho:"Eddie Fatu was an awesome guy and one of the brothers. I trusted him and that's a rare thing for me. I am devastated. Safe Travels Oos..."

TNA Wrestler Christopher Daniels:"RIP Eddie Fatu. I'm glad I got to know you in the short time you were here"

Former WWE Superstar & Announcer John "Bradshaw" Layfield:"Had a ball teaming with Eddie Fatu (known as Umaga in WWE) in some of my last house show (non TV) matches, I will miss my friend"

WWE Diva Maria Kanellis:"So sad. Eddie was a friend. He loved wrestling and was a great entertainer. My prayers go out to Eddie's beautiful family. A great loss."

WWE Superstar JTG:"RIP MY FRIEND"

Former WWE Superstar Ken Anderson/Mr Kennedy:"I'm very thankful to have had a private closed-door conversation with Ecki prior to our match a few days ago in Sydney. He insisted that we go out and tear the house down. We both had something to prove that night and in my opinion: Mission Accomplished! Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Fatu family. Ecki absolutely adored his wife and was extremely proud of his children. I have so many amazing, funny, and heartwarming (sometimes gut wrenching belly-laughing) memories."

TNA Wrestler Samoa Joe:"See you when I get there big Uso. "Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed," Cor. 15:51"

I just recieved this message from Ben Kerin, the Director of WrestlingRadio.com on the passing of Eddie Fatu:"I am shocked and sadden to learn of the death of Eddie Fatu, a.k.a. Umaga. I had the opportunity to see him at a live WWE event in London, England and he was one of the most agile wrestlers for his size out there. He had an amazing tenure with World Wrestling Entertainment and carved out a memorable gimmick that will not soon be forgotten. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. R.I.P.

Ben Kerin (Director of Wrestling-Radio.com)"

Here is Fatu with Uncle Afa Anoa’i. RIP Eddie Fatu, another one gone too young.