Backstage News on When Mickie James’ WWE Deal Came Together
As noted, WWE announced that former Women’s Champion Mickie James will be returning to the company to face Asuka for the NXT Women’s Title at NXT Takeover Toronto on November 19th.
Dave Meltzer noted on Wrestling Observer Radio that the deal between James and WWE was just put together in the last few days. James was not present at last night’s NXT TV tapings, but a taped video message from James announcing her return and Takeover match is expected to air on NXT TV in the coming weeks.
Stephanie McMahon in Power of Women Report
Stephanie McMahon is featured in Variety’s new “Power of Women” report, and the following was written about the Raw Commissioner:
As a member of the first family of Wrestling — she is the daughter of chairman & CEO Vince McMahon — one would expect showmanship to be in McMahon’s blood. But it was her business savvy that made her a true superstar for WWE. The exec credits her experience with WWE as a valuable teaching tool for her success behind the desk.”Live television, in front of an arena filled with thousands of people teaches you a lot about psychology, poise, and thinking on your feet,” she says.
McMahon went on to head WWE’s creative writing team. Now as the WWE’s first-ever chief brand officer, McMahon is a key figure for the organization, a global brand ambassador and spokesperson who builds partnerships and growth opportunities for the group. “[I became] responsible for generating awareness and positive brand perception for WWE,” she says. “In this role I have the ability to contribute in a bigger way than I ever have before; educating consumers and the marketplace on the true value of fulfilling our mission of putting smiles on people’s faces.” In addition to her pivotal role within the WWE, McMahon, along with husband Triple H, helped create Connor’s Cure, a campaign designed to fund pediatric cancer research named for an 8-year-old fan who died of medulloblastoma cancer. The effort leverages the popularity of the WWE by using its audience to raise awareness. “Connor’s Cure began at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where Connor was treated, and we have now expanded our efforts nationally by partnering with The V Foundation. To date, we have raised more than $1 million and helped more than 100 families.”
Honored to be included in @Variety #PowerOfWomen issue! Congratulations to all of the inspiring women on this list! https://t.co/W260sOD8qd https://t.co/vfhEK2DvJ6
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) October 13, 2016
James Ellsworth Video
Below is WWE’s latest Network pick of the week video featuring the #1 contender to the WWE World Title (yes, you read that correctly) James Ellsworth:
Ellsworth appeared in an exclusive interview on this week’s edition of WZ Weekly, and you can check that out in the audio player below:
Nick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and lived there until the age of 18, when he decided to pack his flack jacket and move to New York City.
