WWE news and notes: 27th August, 2013

Hulk Hogan

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has some heat on him right now with his current company, TNA. The heat stems from the fact that Hogan has a deal with 2K Games, the new publishers of WWE’s video game line, and will in fact appear in WWE 2K14. Although it seems that those in power in TNA are fine with Hogan’s contract, many of the roster see his deal with 2K as a slap in the face, due to WWE being the competition. On this same note, Hogan’s contract with TNA is reportedly expiring in a couple of months, and it is unknown if he is going to re-sign. All signs point to yes, but that is no guarantee at the moment.
One of the big stories out of WWE today is the the impending departure of Ted DiBiase, Jr., who is voluntarily leaving WWE. The feeling backstage is fairly indifferent, with most of his co-workers not even remotely surprised. DiBiase made the announcement over YouTube, and has said the reason he wants to leave is because he realizes he’s stuck in a position in the company that doesn’t have much of a future. By leaving on his own, DiBiase is hoping that WWE will respect him more and potentially have a higher interest in bringing him back in the future. A while ago, DiBiase discussed leaving wrestling to pursue an acting career. That may still be something he is interested in, and could help improve him in the charisma/mic skills department, an area he is notorious for struggling in.
WWE diva Rosa Mendes, who hasn’t been seen on WWE TV in a long time, made her return earlier tonight on RAW, appearing in a skit with The Miz, where they mocked Fandango and Summer Rae.
The promo WWE Divas Champion AJ Lee cut earlier tonight on RAW is receiving a lot of praise by fans and peers alike. Fellow divas the Bella Twins responded with a kayfabe tweet on their official Twitter account, saying, “AJ remember you would be nothing if WWE didn’t partner you up with every top guy. Try being a diva that makes it on your own. #RAW” Former diva Maria Kanellis, who legitimately hates the Bella Twins in real life, responded with a very angry (albeit deserved) tweet: “@nicoleandbri really on your own? You 2 are the ‘fluffers’ of the locker room. And you held back 3 other girls from getting contracts. learn a little bit about professionalism. The universe will take care of you. God Bless.” Hall of Famer Mick Foley, on the other hand, disagreed, stating that the Bellas have earned their spot and anyone who says they haven’t worked hard to get where they are is wrong. Currently, many wrestlers and a majority of the fans disagree with “The Hardcore Legend”.
Two more matches have been added to Night of Champions coming out of RAW. Rob Van Dam will face Alberto Del Rio for the World title, a result of defeating ADR in a non-title match on the show. Also added is CM Punk vs. Curtis Axel and Paul Heyman in a Handicap Elimination Match. Axel’s Intercontinental Championship will likely be on the line, but one stipulation that has for sure been added is that, if Heyman tries to get out of participating in this match, he will be fired from WWE.