And why did Captain Lou Albano wear rubber bands?
Wow. I'm almost speechless.
I woke up to news Friday that Shane McMahon announced he has tendered his resignation as WWE's Executive Vice President, Global Media. It will take effect Jan. 1, 2010.
Shane's statement can be found here: http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/shanemcmahonresigns
Vince McMahon responded: "Even though I am personally saddened by Shane's decision to leave the company, I am proud of the enormous contributions he has made. He will unquestionably bring passion, commitment and extensive business experience to any endeavor he pursues."
While this resignation comes as a complete shocker to me, as I figured Shane would one day take over the business, there has been some hinting of this happening for a few years.
Shane is only 39, and Triple H and Stephanie have been rumored to take over WWE one day when Vince calls it quits. Now, that's almost a certainty.
Shane has been huge for WWE. There are way too many things to list here, but in addition to Shane's microphone and visual presence for WWE, he pulled off some insane moves in the ring. Specifically, his leaps off the top rope into another top-rope corner were inspiring and impressive.
I think we'll see Shane going into his own private business, and maybe even start an MMA promotion of some kind -- although I see that indirectly competing against WWE.
Shane, as I've said, has always had a passion for WWE -- especially when he's been on-screen.
Simply put, it's obvious he's lost his passion and is ready for a new challenge. We can't fault him for that.
WHY DID ALBANO WEAR RUBBER BANDS?
I had some readers ask me, so here's this from The New York Times:
"I decided to wear the rubber bands just to be different," he said. "Calling myself the Captain came right along with it. I yell and holler a lot. But in real life? Basically a regular guy who, like everybody else, is trying to make a dollar and enjoy life."
LATEST HEADLINES AND MY REACTS
Maryse taking acting classes while on rehab. REACT: Good idea. She needs to do so.
Ted DiBiase responds to Paul Roma, explaining WWE's changes. REACT: Good for DiBiase to defend himself. He has a right to make a living, and the business isn't like it was pre-2000.
Torrie Wilson said she almost died after a bad reaction to medicine given to her for thyroid problems. REACT: I'm glad Torrie is OK. She's a class act.
Ric Flair engaged reports false. REACT: WOOOOO!!!
Rhaka Kahn no-shows Kurt Angle's hearing. REACT: Wow. And to think I bashed Angle when he remained TNA Wrestling champion the week of the alleged incident. My sincere apologies.
WWE pleased with Maria Menounos and may bring her back. REACT: Well, she wrestled better than Jillian on Monday, that's for sure.
Rumor of a New York Yankees player guest-hosting the Nov. 16 Raw from Madison Square Garden. REACT: This would be awesome publicity. It looks like New Smyrna Beach's own Johnny Damon is the leader in the clubhouse (pun intended), although WWE would love to get someone like Derek Jeter or Alex Rodriguez.
WWE reportedly down on Mickie James' weight gain and work rate. REACT: James is still one of the more entertaining Divas on the roster, so we'll see what's next for her.
Jody Hamilton lawsuit claims John Laurinaitis threatend to blackball any talent that continued to do business with Hamilton or Deep South Wrestling. REACT: Wrestling politics can be nasty. Who knows what's true here.
Carlito off WWE TV because creative has nothing for him. REACT: Sad. He is entertaining and a good wrestler.
Vince McMahon wants to lauch his own cable network. REACT: I see this happening, but let us hope WWE stays on other channels as not all cable systems may carry a WWE channel.
Mexican star Blue Demon Jr. said WWE expanding into Mexico is killing the business. REACT: WWE is the top dog. I can see how it can hurt other promotions, but it should help them some also.
Bret Hart said, "Someone should take Vince Russo and hang him by the neck in the back of the parking lot." REACT: As I've previously said, people either love Russo or hate him.
Jim Ross hopeful Vader's son Jesse White is WWE-bound. REACT: I'm all for second-generation talents, if they are worthy.
Nick Bollea cast in a horror film called Kill Katie Malone. REACT: Who said Hulk movies were bad?
Mini Me rumored to guest host a future Raw. REACT: Comedy hosts like this might work.
Jerry Lawler finishes fifth in the Memphis mayoral elections at 4 percent. REACT: I'm sad to hear that, but I didn't expect him to win.
