Friday, December 14, 2012

Bodypainted tuxedo suits hits the mark for Momentum Worldwide Australia advertising agency client Christmas party - 14th December 2012

Human Statue Bodyart bodypainted tuxedo suits popular for Australian advertising and creative agencies; Bodypaint hits the target at Momentum Worldwide Australia advertising agency client Christmas party; Corporate marketing, media and event planners take note...
Profiles

Human Statue Bodyart Brands Entertainment Australia Body Painting Body Art Promotions Publicity



The Human Statue Bodyart creative arts agency continues to be extremely busy of late as Australia heads towards a sizzling hot Christmas.

Tonight the Sydney - Australia based creative arts and entertainment agency, Human Statue Bodyart, bodypainted tuxedos and showcased corporate logos on 3 senior creative directors from the Momentum Worldwide Australia agency at their impressive Pyrmont, Sydney head office. For what you ask? Their Christmas party of course. 'Mad Men' (the hit TV show) - eat your heart out baby.

The gig follows a long list of corporate Christmas parties and festive season events that the Human Statue team has been called upon to add a point of difference and wow factor.

We suspect that Momentum Worldwide Australia may have a plan to generate some extra media buzz for themselves and their clients, and we won't be surprised if they become the subject of a few more news stories before year end.


Self promotion, creative flair and standing out from the pack are all signs of great promoters, and to this end it appears that today's collaboration between Human Statue Bodyart and Momentum Worldwide Australia looks to have hit the mark. And - it all comes on the heels of Human Statue ramping up their agency focus.

The bodypainted tuxedos delighted guests, staff, the directors, and anyone else who encountered the impressive artwork creations.

Don't be surprised when Human Statue Bodyart, Momentum Worldwide Australia, and some of their top clients make the news again really soon.

Clients of Momentum Worldwide Australia include Heineken, Durex (condoms), and Listerine.

Like to see your name or client name up in lights?

Pick up the phone or send an e-mail to Human Statue Bodyart and / or Momentum and tell them you read all about the campaign on Google News, Media Man and Street Corner, and we're sure you will be well attended to.

Seasons Greetings from Human Statue, Momentum and friends.

PROMO...

PRODUCT LAUNCHES, FASHION PARADES & EVENTS

Body art - bodypaint can be used in many forms for events.

Entertainers and entertainment - 100s of entertainers ready for your special event.

Please visit: www.humanstatuebodyart.com.au or telephone head office: (02) 9713 8933


Promo...


Tell us that you heard about Human Statue Bodyart from Street Corner and Google News for a special discount! Don't forget about Christmas and New Years Eve parties coming up. From small events to major events, functions and festivals, the team at Human Statue Bodyart is here to help you see your creative arts and marketing ideas coming to reality.



Websites

Human Statue Bodyart

Human Statue Bodyart Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Media Man Int

Momentum Worldwide Australia

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

James Packer going to Hollywood to help make movies; Big money still talks in showbiz

James Packer going to Hollywood to help make movies; Big money still talks in showbiz...

Profiles

Movies Hollywood James Packer Crown Limited Entertainment



Casino and gambling tsar James Packer is heading for Hollywood, establishing up a production company with blockbuster director Brett Ratner.

The billionaire is joining forces with Ratner to form RatPac Entertainment, which will make independent films.

A spokesman for Mr Packer confirmed the partnership with the 43-year-old director and producer, describing it as "a small private investment".

Mr Ratner, who directed Rush Hour, Red Dragon and X-Men: The Last Stand, told the Hollywood Reporter Ratpac will develop, produce and finance films on its own and in partnership with Hollywood studios.

‘‘We intend to build a major independent film company which not only has the ability to fully finance its films but which also offers creative independence for its filmmakers,’’ Mr Ratner said in a statement.

Fusion Strategy managing director Steve Allen advised Mr Packer’s move into the film world was unexpected but not overly surprising considering that his family, particularly his father Kerry Packer, had previously been involved in the industry.

‘‘The Packers do have a long history, his father more than he, of getting into the film, mini series and television production business because it was, at least, very attractive from an investment and tax point of view,’’ he said.

The Packers have also invested in Hollywood studios, such as Lionsgate, in the past but that may have been to align supply contracts with the Nine Network when they owned it, Mr Allen said.

He said it was highly likely that Mr Packer had received some recommendation from one of his Hollywood friends, such as Tom Cruise, about Mr Ratner before deciding to go into business with him.

‘‘There would have had to be some connection,’’ Mr Allen said. ‘‘He would have known the people or liked them or Tom Cruise, his supposed mate, would have said these are good people to get into business with.

‘‘There has to be a reason. He doesn’t do things on whims. He’s not like his father.’’

While the film industry would appear an odd fit with Mr Packer’s main business interest, Crown Casino, Mr Allen said they were both essentially in the entertainment industry.

‘‘It’s an odd fit but I guess drawing a long string to the bow it’s all entertainment,’’ he said.

But he said the film industry was always risky as bankable stars and high profile directors do not guarantee hits.‘‘It’s a high risk, but can be a high profit, business,’’ he said.

‘‘There’s nothing certain in show business.’’

Oh, don't be surprised to see Packer push forward with Hollywood themed slot games - both landline and online. A Media Man spokesman said "Rest assured Packer will find a ways to tie in gambling with movies and you can bet it will make sense financially as well as have artistic merits. Make no mistake - money still talks in Hollywood, and with Brett Ratner being his partner, this new venture is tipped for mega success, even in a volatile industry such as movie making."

Stay tuned for more Packer action in Hollywood right here with Media Man.


News Update...

GAMBLING and media tycoon James Packer has turned his sights to the film industry, throwing his dollars behind Hollywood mover n shaker director Brett Ratner...

The Crown chairman has teamed up with Rush Hour director Brett Ratner to form RatPac Entertainment, a company that will produce and finance blockbuster films. The pair reportedly have already two films in production.

A spokesman for Mr Packer, who was unavailable for comment yesterday, confirmed the partnership, noting it was a "small private investment". It is understood Ratner and Mr Packer have struck up a friendship in recent times.

The move comes just months after Mr Packer sold his remaining stake in his family business Consolidated Media Holdings and amid Crown's campaign to build a hotel and casino development at Sydney's Barangaroo.

In a statement, Ratner said he and Mr Packer "intend to build a major independent film company which not only has the ability to fully finance its films, but which also offers creative independence for its filmmakers".

It's not the first time the Packer name -- synonymous with TV and media ownership -- has been linked to the film industry. Kerry Packer, James's father, bought a stake in film studio New Regency Productions in the mid-1990s. In 2008, three years after his father's death, James is reported to have sold the 25 per cent share for $348 million.

Don't know about you, but wouldn't it be something to see a gambling themed movie put together by Packer and Ratner. Can you imagine the merchandise spin offs like movie themed slot games. Who wouldn't pay for that.

Plus, with Packer involved any Hollywood projects are going to get news media coverage, and at this stage of the game it's likely going to be positive.

Watch out Hollywood - there's a few new kings in town... gives new meaning to the term "Gumleaf Mafia", which the Media Man agency has been pitching around for a few years now.

Might be time for Media Man and friends to start being more pro active in Hollywood again. Watch this space.

*the writer owns shares in Crown Limited

Websites

Media Man Int www.mediamanint.com

Media Man www.mediaman.com.au

Crown Limited www.crownlimited.com

Skyfall James Bond movie teams up with Heineken

Skyfall James Bond movie teams up with Heineken; Producers of the 23rd Bond movie have exploited every possible brand connection...

Profiles

Movies Hollywood Skyfall James Bond Daniel Craig Heineken Entertainment Sydney Australia



The world's most successful movie franchise - James Bond, has been continuing its winning ways in strategic and intelligent product placement, and popular beer Heineken, appears to be one of the real winners in the latest Bond flick - Skyfall.

Bond (and Heineken) lovers - check out this multimedia promo... Heineken profile

Make no mistake - product placement helps funds great flicks and the switched on folks at James Bond HQ (and their advertising agency friends) are well aware of this... so are we.

Some news outlets have claimed that without the reported £45 million revenue Heineken poured into the film, Skyfall would not have gone ahead, but we don't have any way to get an accurate figure, so let's just continue shall we Bond fans.

We understand that with the the Dutch beer having forked out over £28m for the privilege of seeing Bond sip from a green bottle in an early scene helped cover almost a third of the film's estimated £93.7m ($150m) production budget in the process.

Bond (Daniel Craig) is a diplomatic spokesman and pitch-man of sorts on the issue of product placement, acknowledging that their reliance on brand associations is "unfortunate," before countering: "This movie costs a lot of money to make (and) nearly as much again to promote, so we go where we can."

That line is about as close as we're going to get to learning the film's actual marketing budget, given Sony Pictures International's track record is being reluctant to divulge details on such matters.

Fun financial fact: In 2006 it was reported that product placement across all media was worth over £3.3 billion.


Beer not your thing? According to Brandchannel, the most important "Skyfall" product placement isn't the beer Bond drinks but the gun he shoots!


Movie Plot Outline: Daniel Craig is back as Ian Fleming's James Bond 007 in Skyfall, the 23rd adventure in the longest-running film franchise of all time. In Skyfall, Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

Promo...

Bond's loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

Director: Sam Mendes Writers: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and John Logan Stars: Daniel Craig, Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Bérénice Marlohe, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, Helen McCrory, Rory Kinear, with Albert Finney and Judi Dench as "M" Produced By: Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli

*Sponsored by Heineken


News...

Craig is the best Bond: Moore...




Bond legend Roger Moore, enthralled with ‘Skyfall,’ now thinks Daniel Craig is the best actor to play the legendary spy...

Moore, who began his stint as the action hound in the ’70s, once gave that honor to Sean Connery. ‘They’ve guaranteed Bond another 50 years of life,’ he said of the new film.

Bond alum Roger Moore used to think Sean Connery was the best James Bond, but now thinks that designation belongs to Daniel Craig.

"I went to a screening of ‘Skyfall,’ and I’ve changed my opinion. I think that he (Daniel Craig) is the Bond. He’s quite brilliant," Moore told TIME magazine.

Moore has been a fan of Craig’s ever since the opening scene of 2006’s “Casino Royale,” Craig’s first time in the role.


James Bond's world of movie intrigue explored in 'The Untold Story Of 007'...

“I thought ‘Casino Royale’ was tremendous,” Moore said. “I thought his action was quite extraordinary — he did more action in the first 30 seconds of the film than I did in 14 years of playing Bond. To me, he looks like a killer. He looks as though he knows what he’s doing. I look as though I might cheat at backgammon.”

Craig put his own spin on the iconic spy, just as Moore did when he first took over the role of 007 with 1973’s “Live and Let Die.”

On playing a role already associated with Connery, he said, “You don’t really think about that. How many millions of actors during the last 400 years have played Hamlet? They don’t worry about how the other fella did it — they just get on with doing it their way.”

Moore’s own way endeared his Bond to the public for seven consecutive films by Eon Productions. His third Bond film, “The Spy Who Loved Me,” is often considered his best, just as Connery’s third, “Goldfinger,” is often considered his.

Now Moore thinks Craig’s third performance is the best of the franchise.

"I wrote to Barbara (Broccoli) and Michael (Wilson) and said…they’ve guaranteed Bond another 50 years of life," he said.


Websites

Skyfall official website

James Bond 007 official website

Heineken official website

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

Media Man News

Media Man



Skyfall James Bond Sydney, Australia red carpet movie premiere; Daniel Craig, Bond girls...


Profiles

Movies Hollywood Skyfall James Bond Daniel Craig Entertainment Sydney Australia



Australia paid tribute to Skyfall with rain coming down on the red carpet outside Sydney's State Theatre last night.

The parallel was picked up by new Bond girl Berenice Marlohe.

"It is Skyfall," she said on Friday night, gesturing at the rain.

"I remember on set it was raining before a scene I had to do. And it is like an homage to Skyfall."

The weather did not put off hundreds of the Bond franchise's fans.

They jammed in like cattle or sardines if you prefer, behind barriers on the sidewalk to get pictures and autographs from Craig, Marlohe and fellow Bond girl Naomie Harris, who's on her first trip to Australia and said, "The reception makes it sunny".

"It's been a two month whirlwind of going all around the world promoting the movie, but it ends in Australia, so I finally have some free time on my hands and I'm going to spend it in Byron Bay," Harris said.

Craig, who visited Australia for Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, said he won't be doing any sightseeing this time around.

"This is the final leg," he said earlier.

"I spent like a week here the first time I came, so I've seen quite a lot.

"I always try and do something when I go to a new city."

Skyfall hasn't been released yet in Australia, but elsewhere in the world it's already grossed $446.5 million and is being pitched by critics as one of the very best Bond films.

Craig, who has admitted 2008's Quantum of Solace suffered from the writer's strike, was determined Skyfall, the 23rd film and released in Bond's 50th anniversary year, would be a step up.

"Just to be better," he said, about how he had wanted it to be different.

"So we kind of had a plan and Sam (Mendes, the director) and I had it from very early on that we wanted to make the best Bond movie we could, obviously, but to try and get some of ... the old style of it."

* Skyfall will be released in Australian cinemas on November 22.

News...


Skyfall is record breaking Bond movie...

The movie has broken records wherever it has been released.

It snatched the biggest US opening ever for a 007 movie at the weekend with a whopping $87.8 million in ticket sales.

Quantum of Solace debuted to a series-best $67.5 million in mid-November 2008, and Casino Royale - marking Craig's first turn as 007 - opened to $40.8 million in November 2006.

In the UK, the Sam Mendes-directed film has passed Titanic as the highest-grossing 2D film. The film opens Australia next Thursday.

The secret to Skyfall's success, according to exhibitors, is Craig's universal appeal.

"Women love him. Men love the action," said Samantha Philp, national film promotions and partnership manager at Event Cinemas.

Even seven-time Bond Roger Moore has given Craig the official stamp of approval, calling him the best Bond ever.

"To me, he looks like a killer. He looks as though he knows what he's doing. I look as though I might cheat at backgammon," he said.


Plot Outline: Daniel Craig is back as Ian Fleming's James Bond 007 in Skyfall, the 23rd adventure in the longest-running film franchise of all time. In Skyfall, Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

Promo...

Bond's loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

Director: Sam Mendes Writers: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and John Logan Stars: Daniel Craig, Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Bérénice Marlohe, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, Helen McCrory, Rory Kinear, with Albert Finney and Judi Dench as "M" Produced By: Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli


News...

Craig is the best Bond: Moore...




Bond legend Roger Moore, enthralled with ‘Skyfall,’ now thinks Daniel Craig is the best actor to play the legendary spy...

Moore, who began his stint as the action hound in the ’70s, once gave that honor to Sean Connery. ‘They’ve guaranteed Bond another 50 years of life,’ he said of the new film.

Bond alum Roger Moore used to think Sean Connery was the best James Bond, but now thinks that designation belongs to Daniel Craig.

"I went to a screening of ‘Skyfall,’ and I’ve changed my opinion. I think that he (Daniel Craig) is the Bond. He’s quite brilliant," Moore told TIME magazine.

Moore has been a fan of Craig’s ever since the opening scene of 2006’s “Casino Royale,” Craig’s first time in the role.


James Bond's world of movie intrigue explored in 'The Untold Story Of 007'...

“I thought ‘Casino Royale’ was tremendous,” Moore said. “I thought his action was quite extraordinary — he did more action in the first 30 seconds of the film than I did in 14 years of playing Bond. To me, he looks like a killer. He looks as though he knows what he’s doing. I look as though I might cheat at backgammon.”

Craig put his own spin on the iconic spy, just as Moore did when he first took over the role of 007 with 1973’s “Live and Let Die.”

On playing a role already associated with Connery, he said, “You don’t really think about that. How many millions of actors during the last 400 years have played Hamlet? They don’t worry about how the other fella did it — they just get on with doing it their way.”

Moore’s own way endeared his Bond to the public for seven consecutive films by Eon Productions. His third Bond film, “The Spy Who Loved Me,” is often considered his best, just as Connery’s third, “Goldfinger,” is often considered his.

Now Moore thinks Craig’s third performance is the best of the franchise.

"I wrote to Barbara (Broccoli) and Michael (Wilson) and said…they’ve guaranteed Bond another 50 years of life," he said.


Websites

Skyfall official website

James Bond 007 official website

Ian Fleming official website

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Music News Australia

Media Man News

Media Man

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Media Man entertainment, Hollywood, gaming, sports and wrestling news

Entertainment, Hollywood, gaming, sports and wrestling news; WWE, boxing, UFC..

Profiles

WWE Wrestling WWE Studios Movies Hollywood John Cena Dwayne Johnson Steve Austin The Miz Advertising Promotions Publicity Brands Television DVD Sports Entertainment



Rock's 2013 schedule...



Pro wrestling and movie fans - add yet another production shoot to The Rock's commitments in First Quarter 2013. Rock noted Sunday during a "Rock Talk" Twitter Q&A that filming begins in February on his new TNT show, "The Hero."

"I wanted to create @TheHeroTNT to entertain millions & give people a shot at personal greatness. We shoot in FEB!" Rock tweeted. "My schedule is hellacious & my goals I've chosen to achieve are HARD. So, my daily focus on training is my anchor."

As for the first month of 2013, Rock reinforced that he's anticipating facing C.M. Punk, who is currently injured, for the WWE Title at the Royal Rumble.

"I can't wait to face @CMPunk for the @WWE Championship at Royal Rumble. Been training for months for this moment," Rock tweeted.

His favorite artist: “Sam Cooke is my fav artist. #Soul I love ALL genres of music – from hip hop to orchestral to traditional country..”

If he would post for Playgirl: “I’d pose for Playgirl, but there just ain’t enough pages to showcase me baby! << TONS of cheese on that answer.;).”

His upcoming movies: “Im excited for all my 2013 movies: SNITCH, GI JOE, PAIN & GAIN & FAST 6. Tons of hard work & eager for you to see… FAST 6 is gonna be killer. Stakes are higher, cars are cooler and Im tougher than a 2 dollar steak well done. Michael Bay’s PAIN & GAIN is a very unique & cool movie. The most challenging role I’ve ever played. April 2013.”

His new show on TNT, The Hero: “I wanted to create @TheHeroTNT to entertain millions & give people a shot at personal greatness. We shoot in FEB!”

His favorite co-star: “In Hollywood, I’ve been lucky to work w/ so many talented & beautiful leading ladies, but #JulieAndrewsIsQueen”

Future plans: “As an actor, producer or even in @WWE – the goal is to be a positive force & entertain the world. And keep growin!”

In addition to filming new movies and squeezing in WWE appearances to hype the Rumble and WrestleMania 29, Rock will also be promoting movies scheduled for theatrical release.


The Rock comments on heat with CM Punk...

When quizzed on Twitter if he has heat with Punk - Rock replied, "Of course not my friend. I love Phillip & he loves me."


WWE announcer Jim Ross blogs on The Rock and CM Punk...

What will close the Royal Rumble: "Already getting questions about what attraction will close the show at WWE Royal Rumble, @CMPunk vs. @TheRock or the Rumble match? I haven't a clue nor do I care as either choice would be fine with me but if I had to guess I'd guess it would be the WWE Title bout. Again, don't know and don't care as I will be watching one of my favorite PPV events of the year.

"My guess is that Punk will push Rock inside the ring from bell to bell unlike Rock has been pushed since, arguably, the @steveaustinBSR days. That's not taking any thing away from @JohnCena who wrestles at a different pace that Austin did or Punk likes to. How does even an athlete as gifted as @TheRock prepare for what awaits inside the 20 foot ring? Cardio is great but nothing replicates wrestling long matches better than wrestling long matches."


Mark Wahlberg and The Rock pump iron for Michael Bay's 'Pain & Gain'...



Based on a 1999 Miami New Times story, Pain & Gain is an action comedy that follows a pair of bodybuilders who turn to extortion, kidnapping, and murder. The film has long been the Transformers director’s passion project. In 2007, Bay told media that he became attached to the movie because he loved the characters, promising there wouldn’t be too many explosions. “It’s like a mixture of Fargo and Pulp Fiction and it’s all true,” he said. “And they’re all knuckleheads. It’s a fun character piece. No action. One car crash.” The movie tag-line - "Their American Dream is Bigger than yours".


50 Cent says boxing should be more like WWE...

World famous music rapper 50 Cent has an idea to make professional boxing regain some of its past popularity. That suggestion is to become more like WWE. In a news article with USA today, the rapper turned boxing promoter suggested the sport entwine some WWE like theatrics to spice up the struggling sport. 50 Cent went on to state that the mainstream public doesn't question the validity of boxing like they do professional wrestling. The statements made by 50 Cent are somewhat valid.

It's true that boxing may need to step up their overall game if they want to compete with the combative, circus like World Wrestling Entertainment and Ultimate Fighting Championship. Vince McMahon transformed pro wrestling in the mid eighties and revolutionized the sport that was formerly held in smoky bingo halls across the country. The Ultimate Fighting Championship league followed suite several years later. The flashier more pronounced representation led to a lucrative television series, engrossing merchandise deals and high pay per view buy rates. Professional boxing has been dragging its feet and hasn't hoped onto the sports entertainment bandwagon. If history is any indication, what worked for WWE and UFC, could also work for boxing.

50 Cent also mentions that pro boxing will not suffer from a more sports entertainment atmosphere because the public does not question the validity of professional boxing. This statement is untrue. For too many decades to list there has been reports of pro boxers taking a dive and mysterious phantom punches. If boxing does add more entertainment to their pay-per-views and programming, they do run a risk of being lumped into the predetermined world of pro wrestling.

If you need proof of this possibility, one needs to look no further than Vince McMahon's foray into football. His XFL league took a more sports entertainment approach to pro ball. Despite being legitimate, the American public found the XFL to be somewhat tainted because of its new approach. The XFL didn't last more than one season and is widely considered a flop. WWE's Vince McMahon cut his losses and run - returning focus to pro wrestling WWE style.

50 Cent is on the money when he says boxing needs to add some entertainment to make it more hip and relevant. But they have to be cautious - it could make or break the already damaged sport which continues to take a weekly and monthly but kicking from the WWE and UFC in ratings, advertising rates, viewership, and just about any other sector you want to take a jab at.


Garry Cook to Expand UFC in the UK...

Global Director of UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), Marshall Zelaznik, advised that the hand over to the UK under former Man City CEO Garry Cook will break new boundaries.

Cook has recently spent some time in Las Vegas, USA, to plan his strategy.

The UFC has already announced an event that will take place at Wembley Area on Feb 16th.

Cook said that “While we are working on finalising the fight card, UFC and fight fans can rest assured that we will bring another compelling card. You can bet that with us returning to London we will bring top fighters from the UK and around the world”.

Cook elaborated saying that there is a high demand for UFC events in London, the last event was wold-out (Bisping vs. Akiyama) and Cook believes they’ll have no problem selling tickets for future events.

Zelaznik recently said that the UFC has “a very good foothold in England” but he thinks that due to Cook’s insights into the England’s sporting culture he will take the UFC to “even greater heights.” Zelaznik went on to say that he believes under Cook the popularity of UFC will continue to grow in England and that more events will take place in the future.


2012 WWE Slammy Awards Taking Place On Next Week's RAW...

WWE has announced that the 2012 Slammy Awards will take place during next week's show from the the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA.

WWE will be using their RAWactive features and the WWE App for fan interaction during the Awards.

Sting Potentially Negotiating With WWE...

Is there anything happening?

- There has been speculation that WWE has been pursuing Sting for the WWE Hall of Fame and even a possible match at WrestleMania XXIX. This was due to Triple H recently mentioning him in interviews, WWE.com mentioning Sting more often than usual, and the fact that Sting's yearly TNA deal ends at the end of 2012. According to a source in the writing team, there is no truth to the rumors that he is coming in. A source stated the following…

"The current TNA lawsuit has everything frozen for the moment. WWE will not even internally discuss Sting. That just won't happen. Until this lawsuit settles, finishes or is dismissed, there's no way any discussion about Sting is going to happen. His name has never come up, and I can practically guarantee you that it won't."

The source also added the following…

"The idea of Sting vs. Undertaker, Sting vs. Punk, or Sting vs. Cena was something a lot of the young writers were dreaming about until a senior member reminded them there's not a chance of it happening this year."


2013 WWE Studios movie releases; Wrestling and movie connection; Dwayne Johnson thoughts...




WWE Studios has released the full line-up of their 2013 movie releases, some of which will be theatrical releases and others will be straight-to-DVD.

If the last few years of WWE Studios flicks are anything to go by, it will be a mixed bag, but the good news is that there should be one or two gems and pleasant surprises in there... not just B and C grade stuff. Wrestling fans... you got to wonder what it would take for 'The Rock' to sign up to Vince McMahon's WWE Studios - even for 1 or 2 films. Maybe the answer is more money than McMahon is currently willing to offer 'The Great One'. Speaking of The Rock, be sure to check out 'The Hero' when it finally hits television. Time will tell if it finally makes it to Rupert Murdoch influenced Foxtel, but it stands to reason if the public let Foxtel know they want more of 'The Rock', it may help achieve the positive result that fans are looking for.

The following is the 2013 WWE Studios movie schedule:

- "No One Lives" (Jan. 2013): WWE star in supporting role is Brodus Clay. - "Dead Man Down": WWE star in supporting role is Wade Barrett. - "Marine 3: Homefront": WWE star in the leading role is The Miz. - "12 Rounds 2: Reloaded": WWE star in the leading role is Randy Orton. - "The Hive": WWE star in a supporting role is David Otunga, plus Halle Berry in a leading role. - "Leprechaun: Origins": WWE star in the leading role is Hornswoggle. - 2014: Scooby-Doo themed movie when "Scooby Do and the Gang go to WrestleMania."

Keep checking the WWE Studios Facebook and Media Man network www.mediamanint.com for updates.


WWE World RAW Tour: Tours Australia in July 2013...



Presented by: WWE & Dainty Group

WWE’s unique brand of action packed entertainment is returning to Australia with WWE RAW.

Fans will be able to see all their favorite WWE Superstars and Divas including John Cena®, CM Punk™, Ryback™, Rey Mysterio®, The Miz™, Dolph Ziggler™, Kofi Kingston™, Zack Ryder™, Eve™, R-Truth™, AJ™ and many more*. * Line-up subject to change

TOUR DATES*: Friday 26 July - Rod Laver Arena Melbourne Saturday 27 July - Allphones Arena Sydney Sunday 28 July - Brisbane Entertainment Centre Monday 29 July - Adelaide Entertainment Centre Tuesday 30 July - Perth Arena


Foxtel to launch a new movie service...



Foxtel will launch a simplified movie service for its subscribers from next year.

The new Movies & Premium Drama package will replace the Showtime and Movie Network services, Foxtel announced on Sunday.

It will offer high definition ad-break free movies as well an increased On Demand offering.

Those who subscribe for the package will have access to seven Foxtel movie channels and the dedicated premium drama channel, showcase, which will screen award-winning drama series, many of which will be broadcast express from the US.

Foxtel chief executive Richard Freudenstein says this will change the way Australians will be able to experience movies.

"Our research told us customers want one destination for their movies, as well as simple navigation to find the movie they feel like watching. The seven dedicated and intuitively themed movie channels will ensure we make it as easy as possible for people to find and watch the movie they feel like watching," Freudenstein said in a statement.

Current subscribers to both movie packages will automatically receive all seven new Foxtel movie channels as well as showcase, World Movies and the two +2 channels (Premiere and showcase).

The new package will be available from January 1.


Richard Branson's £1 Million Wager on Virgin...

Billionaire Richard Branson is willing to bet that his flagship airline has a future—at least until 2018.

In a web blog post Monday, Branson proposed a £1 million ($1.6 million) wager with the chief executive of British Airways’ parent company (IAG), Willie Walsh, after Walsh said that Delta Air Lines (DAL) would likely acquire control of Branson’s Virgin Atlantic “and suggested the deal could ultimately see the end of the Virgin Atlantic brand,” the Guardian reported Dec. 9.

“This is wishful thinking and totally misguided,” Branson wrote on his company’s website, referring to the airline as “my baby.” “Will BA never learn? Let’s see how much they believe this. Let them put their money where their mouth is.” The Virgin Group founder is offering to pay the money to British Airways if the Virgin Atlantic name disappears within five years. If not, Branson proposed that BA pay Virgin employees the same amount. A British Airways’ representative in New York did not immediately return a call or e-mail seeking comment.

Delta is negotiating with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to acquire that carrier’s stake in Virgin Atlantic, according to media reports. On Monday, Bloomberg News reported that Delta is close to a deal and would pay $300 million to $500 million for Singapore’s 49 percent stake. Such a move would help Atlanta-based Delta bolster its presence at London Heathrow, one of the world’s most congested airports. In his comments to the newspaper, Walsh said, “I can’t see Delta operating the Virgin brand—Delta believe they are the No. 1 airline in the world.”

Walsh’s comments came as Virgin Atlantic announced plans to begin offering its first domestic service next spring, with as many as two dozen daily flights among Manchester, London Heathrow, and Scotland. The new flights, operated by Aer Lingus (AERL), would help to feed domestic traffic to Virgin’s long-haul service from London, which suffered a blow when British Airways’ parent, International Consolidated Airlines Group, acquired British Midland International.


*Special thank you to WWE, Pro Wrestling Torch, Wrestling Inc, Jim Ross and Google News for assistance and references in compiling this news report.

Websites

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Monday, December 10, 2012

Media Man Promotions Blog: bet365 & Incentive Games unveil a daily score predictor game for the World Cup

bet365 & Incentive Games unveil a daily score predictor game for the World Cup

World’s largest online betting brand launches ‘4 Scores’ for the world’s biggest sporting event

Profiles

Sports News Sports Betting Sports World Advertising Promotions News Media





UK: 18 November 2022 – With the World Cup just around the corner, bet365 have ramped up the excitement by launching a daily predictor game for the tournament, called ‘4 Scores Challenge’.


This is yet another collaboration with long-term partners Incentive Games – the industry’s leader in premium free-to-play games.


‘4 Scores Challenge’ does exactly what it says on the tin: offering users prizes for predicting four scores. bet365 successfully launched the ‘6 Scores Challenge’ at the start of the 2022/23 Premier League season, with hundreds of thousands of players taking on the prediction challenge each weekend.


During the World Cup, prizes of up to £250 are on offer each day, but users don’t have to get every prediction right to win – with three correct predictions earning £10, and £2.50 awarded to those with two correct forecasts.


The innovative new game offers football fans a brilliant, free game to play each day of the World Cup, with generous cash prizes available.

  

John Gordon, CEO and Co-Founder of Incentive Games said: “We are privileged to roll out this incredible title across the bet365 app and website – we're so proud of it.


“Here’s a prediction from us: with its generous cash prizes, despite being free, 4 Scores will become a real fans’ favourite during the World Cup.”

 

A spokesperson from bet365 said: “We’re thrilled to announce the launch of ‘4 Scores’, in association with our partners at Incentive Games. At bet365 we love to enhance the enjoyment of live sporting events for our customers, and there are none bigger than the World Cup. Good luck to all players with their predictions!”





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Casino News Media

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Tuesday, December 4, 2012

'Wolverine' Actor Hugh Jackman to be Honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; The Wolverine, X-Men, Marvel Entertainment

'Wolverine' Actor Hugh Jackman to be Honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; The Wolverine, X-Men, Marvel Entertainment news...

Profiles

Movies Hollywood The Wolverine X-Men Marvel Comics Marvel Entertainment Hugh Jackman Entertainment



'Wolverine' Actor Hugh Jackman Honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame...

His hard work in the movie industry for years paid off. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce made an announcement on Friday that Australian actor Hugh Jackman will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

"Fans from around the world have been consistently asking when this star will be dedicated. We are happy to say that now is the time. Hugh is one of the world's most popular actors and we are excited that he is joining our Walk of Fame family," Ana Martinez, Walk of Fame producer, stated.

In 2000, the 44-year-old actor debuted on the US big screen as mutant Wolverine in film director Bryan Singer's "X-Men" movie. Afterwards, Hugh Jackman kept reprising the role of this famous character in the succeeding "X-Men" films.

Jackman has been busy filming the upcoming James Mangold's "The Wolverine" in Sydney. The actor is currently in talks to reappear once again with director Bryan Singer in "X-Men: Days of Future Past." However, Hugh Jackman declared that he has not yet officially signed on or read the movie script.

Aside from the successful "X-Men" films under his belt, the Tony Award-winning actor also has other movie projects like "Rise of The Guardians" where Jackman provided his voice to the Easter Bunny character and the upcoming "Les Miserables" with actor Russell Crowe that will officially hit Australian cinemas on December 26.

Meanwhile, Hugh Jackman has already marked his hand and footprints outside of the Grauman's Chinese Theatre back in 2009 next to famous Hollywood celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, Frank Sinatra, Clark Gable and Bing Crosby. The area is approximately 20 meters far from where Hugh Jackman's star will be placed on the scheduled December 13 ceremony.


Hugh Jackman: Wolverine promoting own non-profit coffee brand...

Actor Hugh Jackman is following the lead of movie star Paul Newman. Not only is he super talented and a hunk, his heart is in the right place when it comes to doing good for charity and social causes. Aside from starring in the new cinematic exploration of "Les Miserables", Jackman's latest venture is selling coffee. Yes, its been in the works over over a year we understand. Wolverine is promoting Java... and apparently many of those lucky folks who had a chance to taste test the product on Dec. 2 thought his brand was tasty.

The Hollywood movie star has an upstart company entitled Laughing Man Coffee & Tea. His commitment and dedication to the brand promotion is no laughing matter though. Jackman started the company with one clear idea in mind - to donate all the sales proceeds to charity. Following in the footsteps of Paul Newman's food line, he hopes to use java sales to give back to the community.

Hugh Jackman is a green celebrity. The famous humanitarian has launched his own product line. He will be selling coffee and tea. All the proceeds go to charity.

Making a smart marketing choise, the actor set up a coffee bar near where reporters were apparently staying in a hospitality suite waiting to share news about the Oscars nominations the first weekend of Dec. Giving them taste tests of his new coffee seemed to be his pleasure - but then again, who would have the guts to tell Wolverine they did not like the taste of his non-profit hot and cold beverages?

Jackman also brought free samples of his new brew to the New York set of the movie "Noah" back in Nov. The biblical flick he's working on with actor Russell Crowe. Crowe praised the "Flat White" espresso blend as the best cup of coffee he'd had in hand since visiting his native Australian home.

Can't wait till Jackman opens up a coffee shop or two here in Sydney, Australia.


Hugh Jackman Confirms Wolverine Talks for Days of Future Past...

Not that there was any doubt, but X-Men star Hugh Jackman has confirmed that he’s in talks with Bryan Singer to return as Wolverine in X-Men: Days of Future Past. During an interview with Access Hollywood promoting Les Miserables, he touched briefly on the story that Russell Crowe had turned down Wolverine and then recommended Jackman to Singer; after that, the conversation spiraled into his thoughts on the future of Wolverine. Besides joking that he was tired of three claws and needed to add some more, Jackman confirmed rumors that he’s in talks for the next film.

“I have been talking to Bryan about doing something in [X-Men: Days of Future Past],” the actor told Access Hollywood.

Websites

Media Man Int www.mediamanint.com

Marvel Entertainment www.marvel.com

Laughing Man Coffee & Tea www.livelaughingman.com

The Wolverine official website www.thewolverinemovie.com

Media Man www.mediaman.com.au

Monday, December 3, 2012

Lucha VaVOOM to headline the ‘El Jimador Mexican Wrestling Bar' At Big Day Out 2013

LUCHA VaVOOM TO HEADLINE THE ‘EL JIMADOR MEXICAN WRESTLING BAR’ AT BIG DAY OUT 2013...

Profiles

Wrestling Big Day Out Mexico Lucha Libre Entertainment Burlesque Comedy Events Sydney Australia




LUCHA VAVOOM HEADED TO BIG DAY OUT 2013...

Direct from the US, the Lucha VaVOOM troupe will be putting on a show quite unlike any other at BIG DAY OUT 2013. Lucha VaVOOM is non-stop, action-packed surrealism where Mexican masked wrestlers perform breathtaking acrobatic feats in a fast-paced, fun-filled, character-driven style. Known for their far-out flamboyance, its quick, exhibition-style, one-fall Lucha Libre matches designed for maximum enjoyment and action.

The ultimate distraction, Lucha VaVOOM like a little sexo with their violencia; in between matches the finest handpicked burlesque acts from around the world wow the crowds with their unique striptease skills including raucous aerial acts, pogo-stick peelers and hula-hoop hotties. Their insane antics have Jack Black proclaiming “Lucha VaVOOM is the shit!” and it’s easy to see why.

Celebrating their tenth anniversary, Lucha VaVOOM have only got crazier over time. Rooted in history, they draw inspiration from the bizarre world of sixties Mexican Lucha Cinema. The troupe has been considered one of the most outrageous shows on earth having performed sold-out shows all around the world, they have taken to the stage alongside the likes of legends such as Jon Stewart and Dave Chappelle, as well as appearances on Jimmy Kimmel, Attack of the Show, Carson Daly and A Current Affair. Los Angeles Times said the Lucha VaVOOM show “has the pacing of a prison break” and BIG DAY OUT 2013 punters are set for something spectacular with the crew perform in a dedicated area. Here’s what the press have had to say:

“Lucha VaVOOM has a big future.” TIME MAGAZINE

“… It’s enough to make even the most jaded Hollywood insider jump up and yell ‘Smackdown.” ROLLING STONE

“…a raucous and irreverent extravaganza of burlesque, comedy and classic Mexican luchadore wrestling.” THE HUFFINGTON POST.

“Lucha VaVoom is the most exciting, bonkers show I’ve seen in ages.” THE FACE (UK)

“A madcap mix of Mexican wrestling, comedy, and vintage burlesque. I love, love, love it.” VANITY FAIR

“…a weird mix of cabaret, burlesque, Mexican Luchador wrestling with a live DJ, crowd interaction and commentary…depending on the night, people like Drew Carey turn up to do commentary for it. It is the most bizarre experience. The entire audience is dressed up and it’s like Halloween, everyone is in some weird costume. It was the greatest night of entertainment I have probably seen in my entire life.” ROVE MCMANUS

Lucha VaVOOM will be appearing at the El Jimador Mexican Wrestling Bar at all 2013 Big Day Out dates.


Mexican Masked Wrestling + Burlesque + Comedy = Lucha VaVOOM...

Lucha VaVOOM is a non-stop, action-packed scream-a-thon, where Mexican Masked wrestlers flip and fly, performing breathtaking acrobatic feats while battling evil luchadores. Historically speaking, Lucha VaVOOM brings the bizarre world of 60’s Mexican Lucha Cinema to life. Brave, masked wrestling crime fighters save the world from evil brains, vampires, the Bermuda Triangle etc; always with an obligatory stop at the local go-go club.

In-between matches, the finest, handpicked burlesque acts from around the world astound; at Lucha VaVOOM, we like a little sexo with our violencia. Raucous aerial acts, Pogo-stick peelers, hula-hoop hotties; we’ve got it all!

But wait there’s more! Our color commentary is handled by comedians Tom Kenny, Dana Gould and Blaine Capatch. Other guest commentators include Fred Armisen, Brian Poussein, Patton Oswalt, Greg Proops, Jeffrey Ross and Bobcat Goldthwait. Even Jack Black sat in, proclaiming “Lucha VaVOOM is the sh*t!

It all began in August 2003 as a one off event. The overwhelming crowd response convinced Rita & Liz to do it again, and as soon as possible.

Ever since, Lucha VaVOOM has played at the Mayan Theater in Los Angeles three times a year -- Valentines Day, Mid-summer, and Halloween. From there, Lucha brought it’s circus to Toronto, where they did two nights at the Koolhaus and made every newspaper and TV news program, including Much Music.

In 2005, Lucha VaVOOM was asked to be a part of the first HBO Las Vegas Comedy Festival, where they performed alongside Jon Stewart, Lewis Black and Dave Chapelle. That same year they performed at the famous Sony E3 party at Dodger Stadium, where they took the spotlight away from the Pussycat Dolls.

Lucha VaVOOM has gone on to perform in Chicago, San Francisco and Amsterdam, with more cities on the way.

They’ve also appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, CBS National News, G4's Attack of the Show, Channel X in Britain and A Current Affair just to name a few.



Websites

Big Day Out www.bigdayout.com

Lucha VaVOOM www.luchavavoom.com

Big Day Out - Mexican Wrestling Bar www.bigdayout.com/mexican-wrestling-bar

Lucha VaVoom YouTube www.youtube.com/LuchaVaVoomVideo

Media Man Int www.mediamanint.com

Media Man www.mediaman.com.au

Wrestling News Media www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Human Statue Bodyart creates statues for Chimmichurri Bar & Grill, Darlinghurst, Sydney

Human Statue Bodyart creates statues for Chimmichurri Bar & Grill, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia; "Mid Summer Nights' Dream', Corporate entertainers once again prove popular with marketing heads and general public

Profiles

Human Statue Bodyart Brands Sydney Entertainment Australia Body Painting Body Art Promotions Publicity



Human Statue Bodyart was once again called upon by an ultra successful theatrical entertainment company, in collaboration with a major Australian dining destination, to help make them stand out from the pack and create a magical evening's entertainment, and once again Human Statue delivered with spades (and fairy statues).

Artists Eva Rinaldi, Vince Cantali and Andrew made up the two models, Phylicia and Daniel, who became unrecognisable once they were fully made out as fairies.

The fairies complimented the Christmas elves and the overall complete entertainment package which was the 'Mid Summer Nights' Dream', South American style, one the first night of Summer in Australia, and what a hot night of entertainment it was. Promo...

About Chimmichurri...

It’s quite simple. Chimmichurri is about sharing great food and drink with friends.

This may or may not include dancing on tables, joyful gluttony, excessive indulgence and just plain old good times. It's spacious kitchen is staffed by some of the best! chef's in Sydney.

When asked about the cuisine and style of this venture the chefs' were unable to define it or give it a name. They did comment that a portion of the menu is a result of the South American heritage and a consequence of a culture dominated by BBQ style cooking using natural wood fire and charcoal.

So how do they get it so right and so good? Easy, they like to keep things simple in the kitchen!!! Although the menu may appear complex and lengthy, the secrets are in the marinades. Basic simple but tasty natural ingredients. Sauces should mainly be used to experience new flavours and textures, not to better flavour meat and that is why Chimmichurri has created it's own line of marinades and sauces (find them on the menu) to complement the Churrasco or your favourite steak or burger!

Recommendations? The Salt & Pepper Prawns served by the Kilo, the 8 hour slow cooked Lamb, the burger 750 (3 paddies of 250 gram Australian pure beef) and ribs, ribs, ribs - enjoy them sweet, basted in Chimmi's own BBQ sauce [up to 1.5Kg] or slow cooked to perfection over the in-ground wood fire BBQ Pit 'Assado style'. And of course the 20 plus skewered varieties of meat, poultry and seafood 'all you can eat' Brazilian BBQ Churrasco!

Just like the eponymous South American marinade it's named after, Chimmichurri promises a bit of spice and a lot of flavour to the dining experience. The name is fun and quirky, definitely not something you're going to forget in a hurry, just like the cocktail trolley that wanders through the tables in the evening offering you a choice of exotic Caipiroskas, Caipirinhas and Mojitos.... See you there!

Contact Eva and her team at Human Statue Bodyart to see how they can help make you stand out from the pack and make your vision a reality.


Promo...


Tell us that you heard about Human Statue Bodyart from Street Corner and Google News for a special discount! Don't forget about New Years Eve parties coming up. From small events to major events, functions and festivals, the team at Human Statue Bodyart is here to help you see your creative arts and marketing ideas coming to reality.




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Tuesday, November 27, 2012

WWE News: CM Punk passes “Macho Man” Randy Savage WWE Title reign

Wrestling News Media: CM Punk passes "Macho Man" Randy Savage WWE Title reign; Pro Wrestling legend news update; The Shield, new WWE faction; Sports Entertainment news...

Profiles

WWE Wrestling CM Punk Randy "Macho Man" Savage Bruno Sammartino Hulk Hogan Advertising Promotions Publicity Television



CM Punk passes "Macho Man" Randy Savage WWE Title reign...

On Nov. 20, 2011, CM Punk emerged with his hands raised in victory after a hard-fought Survivor Series battle against Alberto Del Rio. That match, which was contested with the WWE Championship on the line, marked day one of what would become one of WWE’s most memorable and controversial title reigns. Now, 372 days later, The Voice of the Voiceless remains at the top of the mountain.

Since that Sunday night more than one year ago, Punk has successfully defended his title against all comers, most recently escaping Ryback and John Cena in a Triple Threat WWE Title Match at 2012’s Survivor Series.

Sunday, Nov. 25, marked the 371st day of The Second City Saint’s Championship reign. For the old-school stat hounds out there, that number should ring a bell — a historic one, in fact. From March 27, 1988, to April 2, 1989, “Macho Man” Randy Savage held the highest prize in all of WWE, claiming the title for exactly 371 days. It’s a number that becomes even more meaningful as CM Punk reaches day No. 372 today.

Punk, a noted Savage fan, has paid tribute to the late, great “Macho Man” many times over the past year, from striking a familiar pose on the top rope before nailing an opponent with an elbow drop, to donning pink tights in tribute to the WWE icon.

Today, as Punk passes Savage, The Second City Saint becomes the second-longest reigning titleholder in the past 25 years, behind only John Cena. While “Macho Man’s” legacy as one of the most beloved Superstars of all time is already etched in stone, Punk’s legacy is still being written and only time will tell when this particular chapter will close on the WWE Champion.


WWE Title reigns...

Wrestler - days holding title * Diesel - 358 * Hulk Hogan - 364 * Randy Savage - 371 * CM Punk – 372 * John Cena - 380 * Pedro Morales – 1,027 * Bruno Sammartino – 1,237 * Hulk Hogan – 1,474 * Bob Backlund – 2,135 * Bruno Sammartino – 2,809


CM Punk bio...

It’s not surprising that CM Punk cites the radical “Rowdy” Roddy Piper as a childhood influence. After all, Punk is the embodiment of the anti-establishment, whose skill at igniting verbal “pipe bombs” is rivaled only by “Hot Rod” himself.

Punk even looks the part of rebel with his too-numerous-to-count tattoos and body piercings. Yet, he waxes way more philosophical than his exterior might suggest, and has shown a diverse set of interests that include ghost hunting, G.I. Joe and the “Straight Edge” movement, a subculture that rejects the use of drugs, alcohol and a dependency lifestyle.

His in-ring repertoire is an assimilation of fighting styles, all of which were put on full display during his debut in The Land of the Extreme in 2006. Since then, Punk has added many accomplishments to his considerable résumé, including the ECW, WWE, World Heavyweight, World Tag Team and Intercontinental Championships.

Today, Punk is headlining pay-per-views — and he’s doing so in spite of the events of 2011, when he assailed Mr. McMahon with his blunt opinions about the business and made a bold promise not to renew his contract with the company. Punk’s criticism struck a nerve with The Chairman who, against his better judgment, granted The Second City Saint a WWE Championship Match at WWE Money in the Bank in the Superstar’s native city, Chicago. Punk not only beat John Cena to win that match, but he also absconded with the WWE Championship as the seconds on his WWE contract ticked down.

Fortunately for WWE fans everywhere, Punk agreed to re-sign with WWE weeks later, compelled to return to the ring to prove that he’s the undisputed “Best in the World.” The Voice of the Voiceless advocated on behalf of disenchanted WWE fans who felt the WWE product was in need of a good (roundhouse) kick in the teeth. He became two-time WWE Champion, proving his mettle by defeating the likes of Chris Jericho, Alberto Del Rio, Daniel Bryan and other elite Superstars.

At Raw’s historic 1,000th episode, CM Punk retained the WWE Championship against John Cena, but refused to save his opponent from an attack by Big Show. Instead, The Rock ran to ringside to save Cena, with the champion slowly retreating to the backstage area. But as soon as The Great One was about to deliver a colossal People’s Elbow to a fallen Show, Punk returned and nailed The Brahma Bull with a clothesline and Go to Sleep.

Following his indelible impact at Raw 1,000, a bitter Punk made it known he felt slighted by the WWE Universe as well as his peers in the locker room, including John Cena. Punk found an ally on his mission for respect in Paul Heyman, the founder of the original ECW who is credited with jump-starting The Second City Saint’s WWE career back in 2006. When asked about the nature of his new association with Heyman, Punk’s reply echoed one of the most quoted portions of his infamous first “pipe bomb” in July 2011: “I’m a Paul Heyman guy.”

The Straight Edge Superstar then defended the WWE Title against not one, but two worthy challengers at Survivor Series 2012. Per Mr. McMahon, Punk competed against both Cena and Ryback at WWE’s fall classic. With Punk’s defeat to Cena on the Nov. 12, 2012, edition of Raw, and with Ryback as ravenous as ever, it appeared as though Punk’s impressive WWE Championship reign was in peril like never before. But after a vicious assault onto Ryback by WWE NXT standouts Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns, Punk once again managed to sneak a pin on John Cena to retain his prize. Whether or not Punk and Heyman orchestrated the attack was ultimately irrelevant. The fact remained that the victory allowed the champion to enter day 365 of his title reign, a distinction that would be celebrated in grandiose fashion on Raw the following night. As Ryback attempted to crash Punk’s party, the WWE NXT rogues once again leveled the juggernaut. What’s their connection, if any, to the WWE Champion?

Love him or loathe him, Punk ranks himself high among WWE’s most iconic Superstars ... and the calculating ring general isn’t planning on loosening his grip on the illustrious WWE Title anytime soon.


Randy "Macho Man" Savage bio...

Few Superstars were as dynamic as "Macho Man" Randy Savage. His style — perfectly punctuated by his entrance music, "Pomp and Circumstance" — was only outshined by his performances in the ring, which led him to two WWE Championships, four WCW World Championships and a 14-month reign as Intercontinental Champion.

Born Randy Poffo, son of wrestling Legend, Angelo Poffo, Macho Man almost chose Major League Baseball over World Wrestling Entertainment. Poffo was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as a catcher upon graduating high school. After years developing in the minor leagues, a home plate collision causes an injury to his throwing arm, ending his baseball career.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Randy Poffo debuted as a wrestler in 1973 as a character named “The Spider” who looked like Spider-Man. This was prophetic as Randy Savage scored a role as wrestler “Bone Saw” McGraw in the 2002 motion picture, Spider-Man. It wasn’t until Georgia Championship Wrestling matchmaker; Ole Anderson told Poffo that his name didn’t resemble his savage wrestling style that the name Randy Savage became known to fans.

Joining WWE in June of 1985, Macho Man's impact was such that his services were in demand by the various managers in WWE at that time. But Savage introduced a young woman named Elizabeth to accompany him to the ring and manage him. With the First Lady of Wrestling as his manager, the Superstar’s first major achievement was reaching the finals of a one-night tournament, as part of the Wrestling Classic pay-per-view event in November of 1985. The following February, after a lengthy rivalry with then-Intercontinental Champion Tito Santana, Macho Man defeated the WWE Hall of Famer to earn his first WWE title.

Savage became a WrestleMania staple early on, making his debut on The Grandest Stage of Them All at WrestleMania 2 where he defended the Intercontinental Championship against the intimidating and unpredictable George "The Animal" Steele. From there, he defended the title all the way until WrestleMania III, when he fell short to Ricky Steamboat in what is considered by many to be one of the greatest matches of all time.

Success continued to coincide with Macho Man in 1988, when he won a huge tournament at WrestleMania IV to earn his first WWE Championship. During his reign as champion, he and Hulk Hogan formed one of the most formidable tandems to ever step foot in a ring. The Mega Powers were virtually unstoppable by anyone — except for themselves. A misunderstanding and a touch of jealousy sent Savage into a rage at NBC's The Main Event, leading him to attack his tag team partner. The two took their differences to the ring at WrestleMania V, when Hogan won back the WWE Championship.

Savage went on to dub himself "Macho King" after defeating "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan for the King of the Ring title in 1989. Carrying a scepter and crown, he called on Sensational Sherri to replace Elizabeth as his manager. Savage targeted then-WWE Champion Ultimate Warrior with a series of attacks in response to being denied a title opportunity, which led to a Career-Ending Match at WrestleMania VII. When Savage was pinned, Sherri attacked him as he lay helpless. Fortunately, Elizabeth was in the audience and rushed to his aid, sparking arguably the most romantic moment the WWE Universe had ever witnessed. The sight of Miss Elizabeth and Macho Man embarking in the center of the ring after all those years was one of the fans would not soon forget..

WrestleMania VII's romance may have been topped at SummerSlam 1991. That was when WWE’s favorite couple was married in a special ceremony dubbed the "Match Made in Heaven.”

Macho Man returned to the ring shortly after and eventually earned an opportunity for a second reign as WWE Champion at WrestleMania VIII against Ric Flair. Savage was successful in earning the perfect accessory to match his golden attire, and he also put to rest Flair’s false claims that he and Elizabeth were having an affair. After his run as champion, Macho Man sat next to Mr. McMahon and served as color commentator for the premiere season of Monday Night Raw in 1993.

After defecting to WCW during the infamous Monday Night War, Savage won his first WCW World Championship, winning WCW's first-ever 60-Man Three-Ring Battle Royal in 1995. He would lose the title a month later to his rival, Flair, only to win it back from him for a second reign in early 1996.

Four years later, after a ring career that spanned back to 1973, Savage left the squared circle and left a style, a staggering list of accomplishments and a legacy, which can only be described in two words: "Oooh, yeah!"

Following his untimely passing in 2011, Time Magazine named Macho Man one of their People of the Year. (WWE)


Pro Wrestling legendary announcer Jim Ross Blogs On Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins And Roman Reigns...

Jim Ross posted his latest blog at www.JRSBBQ.com and discussed Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns appearing on RAW tonight. Here is what he wrote about the NXT talents:

Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns on RAW tonight: "Apparently the three men in black, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns will be interviewed by @MichaelCole tonight on Raw. I hope that we get some revealing info but not too much as I feel these three can be significant contributors on RAW but I also feel that this info needs to come over time especially with WWE doing tons of episodic TV. As a fan, I don't need every question answered tonight and, hopefully, their comments will elict even more interest/questions.

"Count on this...no matter what the three, NXT talents have to say, it will be dissected and thoroughly analyzed. In today's social media crazed, info heavy world of sports entertainment, everything is under a microscope and there are more 'experts' sounding off than ever before. Don't take that as a knock and if you do... Lighten Up Francis."

Dean Ambrose: "Ambrose has a little Roddy Piper and Brian Pillman traits in him or so it seems to me. His FCW/NXT bout a few months ago with @RealKingRegal was stellar. I called it with Dusty Rhodes and we had a blast. Ambrose is a blue chip stock and is arguably the most 'unpredictable' of the three. Perhaps 'complex' is an adequate word to describe Ambrose at this point in time."

Seth Rollins: "Rollins reminds me of @CMPunk in some areas of Rollins' game or at least the formative CM Punk of a few years ago. I perceive that as a good thing. Rollins is an Iowa kid who has a sound, skill set, confidence, toughness and is the current NXT Champion. He has a natural swagger and wrestles with a chip on his shoulder which I embrace."

Roman Reigns: "Reigns is a former Georgia Tech nose tackle and has reshaped his body from 300+ to 260ish and is of Samoan decent, father is WWE HOFer Sika, and at times has reminded me of @TheRock when I first inked 'The Great One' to his WWE contract. In that I mean the obvious heritage matter but also the physical frame, intellect, and overall, natural athleticism. We can only hope that Roman Reigns can approach The Rock's accomplishments inside the squared circle some day. Only time will tell if that lofty goal can be reached but Reigns can be special. Watch someone interpret what I just said as being that JR is predicting Roman to be the next Rock. Hey, I wish."

Much more info at Ross' latest blog http://www.jrsbarbq.com including who he'd like to see inducted in the 2013 Hall of Fame, tonight's RAW and more on Reigns, Ambrose and Rollins.


WWE 'The Shield' speaks on record...

"It's not about benefitting Punk. It's about right and wrong. CM Punk, the WWE champion, was forced to defend his title in a triple threat match against two guys he had already defeated. That's wrong. So we stepped in. If it had been Ryback or Cena, we would have done the same thing. If Ryback was champion for 365 days and Punk tried to ruin his party, we would have intervened on Ryback's behalf. 365 days as champion in this era, that's a huge milestone. That should be celebrated, right?"

"Look Cole, we see where you're getting at. We hear everything you guys are saying, we read everything that's being written, okay? We know what you guys are thinking. But we're not renegades, we're not mercanaries, we're not the Nexus; if you're looking for the nWo, go buy the DVD. We're about principles. We're about honor. Where honor no long exists, we're going to step in. It's like he said, we're a shield from injustice. We're a shield from injustice. ... We are The Shield."


*Special thank you to WWE, Pro Wrestling Torch, Wrestling Inc, Jim Ross and Google News for assistance and references in compiling this news report.

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