– According to Fast National ratings, UPN tied The WB for fifth place amongst the major networks last night, scoring a mere 1.3/2 rating. While wrestling fans will likely jump at the fact that SmackDown’s viewership was more than double that number, it should be noted that UPN’s lineup only featured re-runs of “Eve” and “Cuts.” The actual comparison will not be available until 9/22, when UPN officially debuts its new Thursday schedule (including the heavily-hyped “Everybody Hates Chris”).
– Because Hardcore Homecoming has been careful not to mention ECW, WrestlingObserver.com reports that WWE’s strategy in targeting the show revolves around The Dudleys (Hardcore Homecoming apparently used a photo from their ECW days in its advertising) and Justin Credible (even though the trademark expired, WWE still claims ownership of his name). WWE reportedly contacted venues hosting the events to let them know that Hardcore Homecoming was a “fly-by-night” promotion guilty of violating WWE’s trademarks and intellectual property.
