Back Porch FanHouse

The Rabbi That Made Peace on the Basketball Court

Elie Seckbach — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sports Media, FanHouse Exclusive, Backporch Features

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

It was right before the NBA season kicked off that Rabbi Yitzchak Dovid Grossman gained national attention. During a game between the New York Knicks and Israel's champion Maccabi Tel Aviv, Pini Gershon, Maccabi's coach, got two technical fouls, refused to leave the floor and that's when Rabbi Grossman stepped in. In this exclusive FanHouse video we talk to the Rabbi about that very moment.

Check out the video after the jump.

The Rabbi That Made Peace on the Basketball Court originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nike N7 Fund to Help Native Americans

Elie Seckbach — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: College Sports, Current Events, FanHouse Exclusive, NBA

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

There are close to 4.5 million Native Americans living in about 565 federally recognized communities across the Untied States. Many of these communities have been neglected, and unemployment in some areas is as high as 80 percent. The shortage of funds results in little to no organized youth sports activities. Diabetes and obesity are fast-growing problems.

Check out the video after the jump.

Nike has decided to step in, teaming up with members of the Native American community to create the N7 fund, which will help bring sports to these communities. Nike has released a shoe dedicated to the cause, and it's being worn by such NBA stars as Brandon Roy and Tony Parker. In this video, we were on hand as the new N7 show was unveiled, we also hear from Sam McCracken of the N7 Fund and Andy Miguel of Nike Basketball.

Nike N7 Fund to Help Native Americans originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oscar Nominated Michael Clarke Duncan: I'd Take On Any MMA Fighter

Elie Seckbach — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

At 6-foot-5, Oscar-nominated Michael Clarke Duncan is a pretty big dude, who also happens to be pretty good at Muay Thai. In fact, before starring in such films as the Green Mile and Talladega Nights, Michael used his fighting skills as a bodyguard, working for Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, and the Notorious B.I.G., among others.

In this video we ask Duncan if he would ever get into the octagon to face MMA stars, and we get an interesting answer.

Interview after the jump.

Oscar Nominated Michael Clarke Duncan: I'd Take On Any MMA Fighter originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Borat's Prostitute on Lamar's Wedding

Elie Seckbach — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sports Media, FanHouse Exclusive, NBA

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

In what many people found a surprising move, Lamar Odom recently married Khloe Kardashian after just three weeks of dating. In this video we talk to someone who is an expert on dating, actress comedian Luenell. You may remember her from the movie Borat. She says she knows how Khloe got Lamar.

Check out the video after the jump.

Borat's Prostitute on Lamar's Wedding originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Swift Cars: Pimped Out Rides on the Streets of LA

Elie Seckbach — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

In the hip-hop culture having a cool car is the first step for anyone who wants to be a playa, including rap stars. And that's where the Swift car club comes in. They take regular cars and pimp them out in a very artistic fashion. Their cars appear in music videos (like 50 Cent and 36 Mafia) as well as photo shoots.

After the jump, we check out a Chrysler 300 that its owner turner it into a pimp-mobile.

Swift Cars: Pimped Out Rides on the Streets of LA originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cedric the Entertainer on Doing Vegas with MJ, Tiger and Chuck

Elie Seckbach — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: TV and Movies, Outdoor Sports, FanHouse Exclusive, Golf, NBA

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

Actor and comedian Cedric the Entertainer is a huge sports fan who tells us that he use to be a boxer and these days he enjoys golf. In this FanHouse exclusive we talk to Cedric at the Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California (not to be confused with the Sherwood Forest -- home of Robin Hood). Cedric who hangs out with lots of top athletes tells us about the time he was doing Vegas with Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and Charles Barkley.

Check out the video after the jump.

Cedric the Entertainer on Doing Vegas with MJ, Tiger and Chuck originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tom Arnold Has Some Thoughts on Who Should Start for the Lakers

Elie Seckbach — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive, NBA

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

Actor Tom Arnold has been a longtime NBA fan. In fact, you can say he is far from the fly-by-night Hollywood "fan". In this FanHouse exclusive we talk to Tom about being Shaq's next-door neighbor, who is the best player in NBA history (the answer will surprise you), and who, in his opinion, should start for the Lakers.

Check out the video after the jump.

Tom Arnold Has Some Thoughts on Who Should Start for the Lakers originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Author of Column Ripped as Worst Ever 'Quite Surprised' by Reaction

Michael David Smith — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive, Twitter, Backporch Features

Mark Whicker, a sports columnist for the Orange County Register, has been at the center of a Twitter firestorm Wednesday for a column he wrote about Jaycee Dugard, who was rescued last month after being held for more than 18 years by a couple now charged with kidnapping and abusing her.

The column, which was written as if to inform Dugard about the sports events she's missed over the last 18 years, was decried on Twitter as the "worst sports column ever" and referred to at the Huffington Post as "The Single Most Tasteless Sports Column In The History Of Written Language."

You can read the column and judge for yourself, but this afternoon I e-mailed Whicker to ask him if he came up with the idea for the column or if an editor assigned it, whether he thinks his words run the risk of trivializing the kidnapping of Dugard, and what he thinks about the response.

Whicker's reply to my e-mail is below, in full:

1. It was my concept, which was to (1) celebrate the release of the girl and (2) show just how long 18 years in confinement really is, in the context of sports, which is something sports readers understand, presumably.. If you say "18 years" that's a little abstract and incomprehensible. If you say "Michael Jordan hadn't won an NBA championship yet," that's a little easier to fathom.

2. I don't think writing about something in a sports context "trivializes" it at all. The idea that sports writers should ignore the outside world went out a long time ago.

3. I am quite surprised by the angry tone of the reaction. Some have asked me why I didn't make light of the 9/11 attack or the Holocaust while I was at it, ignoring the fact that this woman is alive. For 18 years the family didn't know if she was or not. Obviously I mis-read the emotional component of this story because the reaction really has been quite extreme. I think the intent of the column was still valid. I could have changed some ways of expressing it to make it more palatable, I suppose.

If there's anything you can give Whicker credit for in this, it's that he takes complete ownership of the idea for the column. When I first read it, it struck me as the kind of piece that was written at an editor's direction, but no: Whicker says it was his idea, from concept to execution.

But if Whicker is surprised by the tone of the reaction, he shouldn't be. The Dugard case is a shocking, horrible story, and it's not at all surprising that people who read Whicker's clumsy attempt to use it as fodder for a sports column are shocked and horrified.

Update: Whicker has published an apology. He also e-mailed me after this post was published, saying, "Thanks for ripping me. I'm really happy I devoted part of this very hectic day responding to someone who had as little interest in my viewpoint as the crazies out there."

What did you think of the column? Tell me on Twitter @MichaelDavSmith.

Author of Column Ripped as Worst Ever 'Quite Surprised' by Reaction originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:59:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Justin Bieber Talks Habs-Leafs Rivalry, Shaq to Cavs, His Dating Life

Ariel Helwani — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:20:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive

Justin Bieber isn't your typical 15-year-old sports fan. The recording artist, who was discovered on YouTube in 2007 and whose videos have now been seen more than 50 million times on the same site, is considered to be one of the rising stars in the world of pop music. So much so that Justin Timberlake and Usher were reportedly engaged in a bidding war to sign him to their respective music labels. The Canadian eventually chose Usher.

FanHouse spoke to Bieber at the 2009 USTA Arthur Ashe Kids Day in Flushing, N.Y., about his love for the Toronto Maple Leafs, why the Cleveland Cavaliers won't do well with Shaquille O'Neal, and the rumors that he is dating 19-year-old pop star, Taylor Swift. Check out the video interview below.

Justin Bieber Talks Habs-Leafs Rivalry, Shaq to Cavs, His Dating Life originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Will Ferrell Talks Brett Favre, USC Football, Michael Vick, More

Ariel Helwani — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:20:00 EST

Filed under: FanHouse Exclusive

When FanHouse spoke to Will Ferrell at the 2009 USTA Arthur Ashe Kids Day on Saturday in Flushing, N.Y., we decided to ask him about some hot-button issues making sports headlines these days. I mean, who wouldn't want to know what Ferrell thinks about Brett Favre or Michael Vick returning to the NFL? Of course, we also discussed the decision to name freshman Matt Barkley the starting quarterback at his alma mater, USC.

Other topics discussed were whether Anchorman 2 will become a reality, his favorite sports broadcaster of all-time, and whatever happened to Pearl. Check out the full video interview below.

Will Ferrell Talks Brett Favre, USC Football, Michael Vick, More originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cody Rhodes No Chip Off the Old Block

Tom Herrera — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Video Games, Pro Wrestling, FanHouse Exclusive

On the surface, WWE's Cody Rhodes doesn't remind you of his father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, and that's a good thing. With interests ranging from video games to superheroes, Cody seems to connect with a young generation of viewers, not just the tradition or "Legacy" in which he follows.

FanHouse recently spoke with the 24-year-old about THQ's WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 game, the honor of wrestling at SummerSlam, and his in-depth thoughts on the professional wrestling industry. Read our complete interview after the jump.

I wanted to ask you an offbeat question to start, because being a huge video game fan I found it fascinating that you actually have a Triforce from The Legend of Zelda on your boot?
Cody Rhodes: The Triforce, man, yeah! I tell people all the time, I was part of The Wizard generation, I love video games. When I was younger, instead of reading books I played video games and one of the things I genuinely thought I could apply towards my life was the meaning of the Triforce -- the power, courage, and wisdom -- so I slapped it on my boots.

Speaking of video games, I wanted to get your take on WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010. What are you looking forward to the most?
I know the game is taking a page out of Madden's book, in terms of going for a hyper-realism. And the gameplay itself might slow down, but the realism and graphics and the collision detection, they're trying to improve it greatly. The game is a real, real fun game, but it hasn't always been a pick-up game. I think this year might be the first time that it's easier to pick up and play, and it's for the casual fan as well.

I heard there's this new paint tool in the game so you can create logos and tattoos for the characters. Would you give yourself a Triforce tattoo? What kind of tattoo do you think Shawn Michaels and Triple H should get?
Well, you know what, I absolutely would give myself a Triforce tattoo if I had the opportunity. Shawn Michaels has that questionable heart on his arm with the sword and all that. If we're going with game references and I'm putting a Triforce on my body, I think maybe a Kirby would be a good fit for them. Shawn could have Kirby on the other arm.

(laughing) That works. You'll also be able to share content like story lines in this year's version. Do you play any fans online generally? And what's the weirdest thing a fan has ever sent or gave you?
On Xbox Live I have an ambiguous gamer tag like anyone else, so no one really knows they're playing me usually. And that's probably a good thing, because I'm a pretty ruthless trash-talker online and my game never follows, ever. I'm never as good as I say I am, in Halo, Madden, especially Madden it's miserable. I'm OK at Fight Night Round 4, I'm picking that one up. I had the chance the other day to redeem my THQ challenge from this past WrestleMania and punked out Kofi Kingston with Mike Tyson, so I feel a little better.

I have to admit I was a little jealous when I found out that you actually have the original X-Men arcade game in your garage? I pumped a lot of quarters into that one back in the day.
(laughing) Yeah man, it's in my garage! It's the original, original. It's all six players. It's unreal. The problem is though, it will stay in my garage, because it is too big to get in the house.

That and WrestleFest were definitely the two best arcade games. So when you're playing wrestling games, who is your favorite character to use other than yourself?
I enjoyed playing as my father on the recent Legends of WrestleMania game, that was unique. I like playing as some of these unsung heroes. I played as Rick Rude a lot in the Legends game, guys like that.

You know, when I think back to wrestlers like Rick Rude, Ultimate Warrior and a lot of the old WWE personalities, they seem straight out of a comic book. Being a big comic book fan yourself, do you think that kind of cartoonish character could get over with fans today?
The WWE universe is very fluid. Once you think you know what they like, they like something else, or they dislike something else. In my opinion, I don't think so. Since the rise of Steve Austin and since a character like John Cena came across, I think wrestling and sports entertainment go in these circles where fans want a little more grit. A little more reality. I actually laughed out loud this week when I looked at a picture of Warrior, "Macho Man" Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan. I loved it, but today I think they'd be perhaps laughed out of an arena just because fans are looking for more of a -- and they always are -- but more of an emotional connection with the different superstars, you know?

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In this image released by the Los Angeles Dodgers, WWE wrester and actor John Cena gestures while attending a Los Angeles Dodgers Major League Baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Los Angeles Dodgers, Juan Ocampo) ** NO SALES **

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In this image released by the Los Angeles Dodgers, WWE wrester and actor John Cena throws out the ceremonial first pitch at a Los Angeles Dodgers Major League Baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Los Angeles Dodgers, Juan Ocampo) ** NO SALES **

LOS ANGELES, CA - AUGUST 20: WWE Superstar John Cena throws the ceremonial first pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers as they play the Chicago Cubs on August 20, 2009 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jacob de Golish/Getty Images)

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LOS ANGELES, CA - AUGUST 20: WWE Superstar John Cena reacts after throwing the ceremonial first pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers as they play the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium on August 20, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jacob de Golish/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** John Cena

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LOS ANGELES - AUGUST 20: WWE Superstar John Cena throws out the first pitch before the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on August 20, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** John Cena

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LOS ANGELES - AUGUST 20: WWE Superstar John Cena smiles after throwing out the first pitch before the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on August 20, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** John Cena

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LOS ANGELES - AUGUST 20: WWE Superstar John Cena smiles before throwing out the first pitch before the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on August 20, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** John Cena

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Yeah, I completely see that. Another one of the differences is I think the heels (aka bad guys) appeared to be bolder types in the '80s and '90s, with fans truly hating these guys. When I spoke to Honky Tonk Man, he said that nobody wants to be a real bad guy anymore. Do you think that's true these days?
It's tough when you classify, but Honky Tonk Man knows what he's talking about. A lot of guys, it's not that they don't wanna be bad or edgy, but there are just a lot of guys who want to be the next Rock. They want to be the next John Cena. And when you attempt to be the next anything, you're going to fall flat on your face. When we walk into an arena, if the fans boo us out of the building, and the fans go ballistic when John Cena gives us an attitude adjustment, or when Triple H tries to give one of us the Pedigree, that's what the experience is about. It's about putting smiles on the fans' faces. In my case, and I can speak for Ted (DiBiase) and Randy (Orton) in this instance, we are three guys who are pretty rough around the edges and genuinely don't mind being bad guys.

You have such a great heritage rooted in wrestling, with your father Dusty and your brother Dustin, and you're even the nephew of Jerry Sags formerly of The Nasty Boys. Is it harder to break out of the mold because of that?
It can be ... You walk in the door and there's a bull's-eye slapped on your back. There's the, of course, readied statement that he or she is only here because of he or she. That's why I get along with Ted DiBiase, because right when we walked in that was just motivating. It wasn't a burden, it was motivation. It was, hey, well there's no shame in saying I wanna be better than "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, and in his case, I wanna be better than "The Million Dollar Man." That's why I think we've gotten this far. Now we're gonna have the opportunity to wrestle D-Generation X at SummerSlam and we're gonna tear the house down. And that opportunity has been given to us because we didn't want to be juniors. I can remember Ted DiBiase's first day. He came in and they announced him as Ted DiBiase, Jr., and he said "No thank you, I'm Ted DiBiase." I was sold on him then.

You mentioned teaming with DiBiase against, I guess what is this, the fourth incarnation of D-X at SummerSlam? Do you think the outcome will be any different now that the playing field is level and Triple H has a partner?
This is my take on D-Generation X. The shtick is as funny as ever. These videos we see backstage, the things they did with the McMahon family the last time, those things are as funny as can be to me. But these two are aging superstars, and they are the tops in their field, but nobody lasts forever. I think the outcome will be different than it has been in the past. We would like to be on the top of the business, and we're willing to do the legwork to be on the top of the business. Their jokes are just as funny, but I'm not sure they can hang in the ring with The Legacy.

I think the age difference between Shawn Michaels and you is almost like two decades. That's pretty unreal, no?
(laughing) All I can say is this: I very much am looking forward to wrestling with Shawn Michaels, whether he likes it or not, because Shawn Michaels was my favorite wrestler growing up. My poor old dad had to hear that countless times. In the ring, to be billed on the same card as him, I could go nuts and be a fan over it, but I'm gonna approach it as a competitor in the game that I'm in.

When do you see a wrestler like Michaels or Triple H retiring? Has it changed these days, where guys have to start thinking about how long they can really do this before their bodies start to break down?
Well, Triple H is just a model of how to take care of yourself. Everything from his diet to his passion for bodybuilding, his lifestyle is the model. Other professional wrestlers in the past may not have taken appropriate care of themselves. That's what is kind of scary about Triple H, and in some respects, Shawn Michaels, even with the injuries he's sustained in his career. Those guys aren't going away until somebody says, "I wanna have your spot." So I don't see it happening anytime soon.

How does it feel to be a part of SummerSlam -- one of the storied, original four WWE pay-per-views?
Ahh, I get angry when young talent doesn't realize how big of a deal that is. When I grew up, SummerSlam 1992, I must've gone to a Blockbuster every week and rented that, and re-rented it. Now I'm on SummerSlam wrestling two guys who have been on countless of the big four shows. You can get as excited or giddy about the match as you want, but all they are for me and for most of the superstars, is they're an opportunity. They're the chance to submit -- and no pun intended -- your legacy ... to say this is what I was capable of on that night.

You rose quickly from your Ohio Valley Wrestling roots to WWE stardom. You were a tag-team champ just months after a TV debut. What or who do you credit the most for that rise?
You mention I rose very quickly from OVW to the Monday Night Raw show, and I'll be the first to state it -- I rose too quickly. In the past year, I've made so many improvements from my physique to my in-ring ability, and sought out the best -- from a strength trainer to some of the best in-ring technicians to teach me. Initially, I didn't have all those tools. I just had the want. I guess if I had to credit somebody, oddly enough, I would credit Vince McMahon. He saw something in me and I won't let him down.

When do you see yourself breaking off the tag-team circuit and establishing yourself as a solo star?
I always get told this from my father, and as much as I don't want him to be, he is right about this ... when it's time. One thing we have been very fortunate of, is we have not been rushed. We have been allowed to grow, and that's a real treat. I know that Ted has ambitions to be a singles superstar and I have ambitions myself. I would say that, perhaps in the year 2010 you might see, not so much a split of The Legacy, but different paths being taken.

Many claim there hasn't been kind of a breakout solo star in a while. Do you think it's tougher to establish stars today? And not naming yourself, who can make that jump in your opinion?
I personally think that when people say stuff like that, when people say there hasn't been a breakout, I ask them if they saw the last breakout coming. Did anyone foresee "Stone Cold" Steve Austin? Did anyone see John Cena coming? If anyone tells you yes, then they're lying to you. Monday Night Raw is like a varsity team. And it's filled with freshmen. Very talented, very young, but it's something the fans are now getting to grow with. It's a cool experience. I can remember watching Michaels go from tag to Intercontinental Champion to taking the longest run possible to the WWE championship. I think it might be a while till somebody becomes that breakout star, but I know that you have a lot of hopefuls. You have a United States Champion who's more talented than most in Kofi Kingston. You have a legit All-American in Jack Swagger. You have a guy who can do things that Cirque du Soleil can't do with wires and walls in Evan Bourne. And you have me and Ted DiBiase, who will spend our dying breath on trying to make sure that we're remembered for something else than being the sons of "The Million Dollar Man" and "The American Dream."

Final question. I read you're a big T.O. fan, but have been committed to the Cowboys. Are you sticking with the Cowboys now that T.O.'s moved on? And give me your Super Bowl pick for this season.
Here's the issue. My sister was a cheerleader for the Cowboys for two seasons. It was her life ambition and she now sits at home and watches that CMT show, and we're still die-hard Cowboys fans. But I have to support who I think is the best player, and just most entertaining player in the NFL, so I have to support Terrell Owens. If I'm giving you my Super Bowl pick ... it's gonna be the Buffalo Bills.

(laughing) Nice.
Yeah, I gotta support him.

Cody Rhodes No Chip Off the Old Block originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FanHouse Live at the ESPYs

FanHouse Newswire — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 20:04:00 EST

Filed under: ESPN, FanHouse Exclusive

As a fitting recap to the 2009 ESPY awards, FanHouse's own Elie Seckbach works with AOL Video to talk to some of the biggest names in sports live from the red carpet in L.A. And as usual, Elie gets some great stuff. From Landon Donovan dishing on the David Beckham situation, to Samuel L. Jackson talking about which athlete he most wants to meet (hint: she's a female golfer), to Tim Tebow talking about what sports means to the kids, to the Texans' Chester Pitts giving his opinion on FanHouse itself, Seckbach scores some quality time with the stars of the sports world. Check out the full video below.

FanHouse Live at the ESPYs originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 20:04:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Week in Review: Conspiracy Theories

David Whitley — Sun, 31 May 2009 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: TV and Movies, Featured Stories, Sports Media, Current Events, Celebrity Boxing, FanHouse Exclusive

It was a bad week if you believe that UFOs exist, the mob killed JFK and the NBA banished Michael Jordan to Area 51 to cure his gambling addiction.

LeBron James did not make the NBA Finals. If that doesn't shoot down the whole notion of conspiracy theories, nothing will.

The paranoids out there were sure David Stern had secretly instructed officials to make it a LeBron vs. Kobe title fight. Just as they are still convinced Dick Cheney rigged the1985 NBA Lottery to make sure the Knicks got Patrick Ewing.

No wait, Cheney set up 9-11 to make sure George W. Bush would get re-elected and marry Lady Di. I'm sorry, but all these theories run together sometimes.

There was never a shred of evidence the NBA had choreographed the Cavaliers to beat Orlando. Well, other than the fact James was averaging approximately 0.4 fouls and 37 free throws a game in the series.

But the lack of evidence is evidence to the conspiracy kooks. Now they'll probably theorize that Stern ordered the Cavs to lose, since that will sour James on Cleveland and spur him to sign with New York or Chicago after next season.

Until that happens, please either shut up or produce photos of Stern standing on the grassy knoll. And don't believe everything you read. Except for the following, of course.

Last Sunday

Alarmed by Orlando's focus through the first two games of the Eastern Conference finals, Stern hacks into Match.com and tries to set Dwight Howard up with Dirk Nowitzki's ex-girlfriend.

Fresh off his court victory over the IRS, Helio Castroneves wins the Indianapolis 500 and asks to be paid in small unmarked bills.

Convinced that the umpires are out get him, Milton Bradley changes his name to LeBron Bradley.

Monday

In observance of Memorial Day, NASCAR briefly stops the Coca Cola 600 at 3 p.m. to honor the memory of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s career.

After North Korea tests an underground nuclear device, the United Nations threatens to kick Kim Jong-il's country out of the U.N. summer softball league.

7-foot-2 Korean Hong Man Choi pummels the daylights out of Jose Canseco in an MMA exhibition, prompting Canseco to sign a three-fight deal with Mary-Kate Olsen.

In the season premiere of "Jon & Kate Plus Eight," Kate moves out after Jon admits he took the SAT test for Derrick Rose.

Tuesday

Manny Ramirez is fourth among National League outfielders in All-Star voting, trailing only Mark McGwire, Tony Mandarich and Ben Johnson.

Saying her Latina heritage will provide unique judicial wisdom, Barack Obama nominates Paula Abdul to the Supreme Court.

Waiving the traditional five-year wait, the Baseball Writers of America vote Hong Man Choi into the Hall of Fame.

LeBron Bradley goes 5-for-5 after the home plate umpire starts tipping pitches for him.

Wednesday

The UEFA Champions League mega-showdown between Manchester United and Barcelona is watched by 18.1 billion worldwide and three Americans stuck in a bar at Frankfurt Airport.

The NBA rescinds a technical foul called on Dwight Howard in Game 4 and every foul called on LeBron James from 2004-2009.

Carlos Zambrano goes nuts after the home plate umpire tells him the post-game buffet has been canceled.

In an attempt to undermine her nomination, Rush Limbaugh claims that Paula Abdul once dated Al Campanis.

A 66-year-old British woman gives birth to a five-pound baby boy. Waiving the traditional five-year wait, she is immediately voted into the NBA Groupie Hall of Fame.

Thursday

Memphis is accused of major violations after a review of Derrick Rose's transcript reveals he was home schooled by Allen Iverson.

Unable to spot Stern in the audience holding up letters, LeBron James is eliminated from the Scripps National Spelling Bee when he can't spell "NBA Championship."

University of Florida President Bernie Machen says Urban Meyer should be the highest-paid performer in the SEC not counting Tim Tebow.

Microsoft unveils its new search engine called Bing. The prototype explodes when a reporter asks Bing to locate one sports story in the past five years that ESPN did not take credit for breaking.

Friday

Michael Vick's father says his son is "a better man" after being in prison. In response, the father of one of Vick's former pit bulls says his son is "a better dog" after escaping from Vick.

Phil Spector is sentenced to life in prison for wearing his hair like Phyllis Diller.

Responding to the Rose fiasco in Memphis, John Calipari says he would never recruit a player who might not meet eligibility requirements. He then announces Kentucky has signed Hong Man Choi.

Rachel Alexandra says she has a headache and is not in the mood to run the Belmont.

Saturday

After finishing second in Britain's Got Talent, Internet sensation Susan Boyle announces she has signed to play guard with the Dallas Cowboys.

Texas beats Boston College 3-2 in 25 innings at the Austin baseball regional. With so little scoring per inning, the NCAA moves the Longhorns to the winner's bracket of the Women's College World Series.

Serena Williams accuses Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez of cheating at the French Open. Martinez Sanchez quickly signs a basketball scholarship with Memphis.

After scoring 40 points in Orlando's series-clinching win, Dwight Howard finds a horse's head in his locker.

This Week's Can't-Miss Predictions:

-- Saying it will eliminate the deficit in two years, the government takes 70 percent ownership in the new "Beat Up Jose Canseco Fantasy Camps."

-- Jay Leno says he is having second thoughts about retiring and might return as Green Bay's quarterback.

-- Hoping nobody will be paying close attention, ABC's announcers are told to pronounce Orlando "Cleveland" and Dwight Howard "LeBron James" during the NBA Finals.

Week in Review: Conspiracy Theories originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Sun, 31 May 2009 17:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FanHouse Talks to Brandon Roy

Will Brinson — Mon, 18 May 2009 14:09:00 EST

Filed under: Blogs, Sports Media, Sports Advertising, Current Events, FanHouse Exclusive

Will Brinson kicked it at The OC for the Nike Global Training Summit.

Even as his team was booted from the playoffs by the Houston Rockets, Brandon Roy recently received high praise from Ron Artest. Artest decided to give him the highest compliment possible, stating that Roy, not Kobe Bryant, was the toughest player he's ever had to guard.

And you best believe FanHouse (specifically my homie Elie Seckbach) was jumping on that question when Roy made an appearance at the Global Training Summit, sporting his customized B-Roy Trainer 1's. We also discuss his offseason plans, what the Blazers' goals are for next year and what he's doing in the offseason.

FanHouse: We gotta ask you -- Ron Artest said you're better than Kobe, what do you think about that?

Brandon Roy: "Nah, he didn't say I was better than Kobe -- he said I was the hardest guy he's ever guarded."

FH: You're the only guy to ever score 40 on him though, right?

Roy: "Yeah, so, for me that was a tremendous compliment. But that has nothing to do with me and Kobe head-to-head. Kobe does his thing, I'm a fan of what Kobe does. So, you know, great compliment by Ron Artest, but you'll have to ask him what he meant by it."

FH: You guys had a tremendous season, you went to the playoffs -- what can we expect from the Portland Trail Blazers next year?

Roy: "Well, our goal is to try and play for a championship next year. We feel like if we can add the right pieces this summer and continue to develop Greg [Oden] -- he's a big part of what we want to do -- and then with the guys that played well this year, to come back even better next year, we feel like we have the pieces to try and make a push for the championship. So we're going to set our goals that high and we're going to try and do everything we can to reach them."

FH: So what are you doing this summer now that you're not playing and not working out?

Roy: "Right now, just relaxing, spending time with family. Spending time with my two little ones and just trying to get as much time as I can because the season is long and you travel a lot, so, just trying to relax as much as possible and just mentally take my mind out of it for a little bit."

FH: Who's tougher to guard -- Kobe or LeBron?

Roy: "Just different ... they're both tough to guard. I can't say who's tougher, because I've had moments where -- Kobe he went for, I think my rookie year, 60-some points against us and LeBron went for 40. So I've had my work cut out for me against both of them, but they're just different. They're both dominant but in different ways."

FH: Channing Frye, Steve Blake and Joel Pryzbilla all practice martial arts in the offseason -- are you planning on joining them?

Roy: [Laughing] "Nah, I'm not going to join them. Maybe in the future, but not this summer."

FanHouse Talks to Brandon Roy originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 18 May 2009 14:09:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FanHouse at the Nike Global Training Summit in Newport Beach

Will Brinson — Mon, 18 May 2009 13:15:00 EST

Filed under: Blogs, Sports Media, Sports Advertising, Current Events, FanHouse Exclusive

Last week, I left the comfort of my ~~mother's basement~~ shoddy little East Coast apartment to rep FanHouse at the 2009 Nike Global Training Summit in Newport Beach, California. The primary reason for convening 50-some media members in sunny SoCal? The introduction of the Nike Trainer 1, the Swoosh's newest crosstraining shoe, which celebrates the 20-year anniversary of the "Bo Knows" campaign, featuring Bo Jackson.

That campaign, of course, was a milestone in athletic advertising as well as shoe design -- not only did Jackson capture the hearts of Americans everywhere, but the wildly popular crosstrainer, "Bo Knows" Trainer I, helped to springboard Nike's shoe sales.

On hand for the celebration were NFL All-Pros Adrian Peterson, Larry Fitzgerald, and Troy Polamalu; NBA All-Stars Amare Stoudemire and Brandon Roy; and Olympic Gold Medalist Bryan Clay.

Plus, you know ... me. Oh, and Elie Seckbach, who created a fantastic mashup video that you can view here.

Part 1: Nike Presents ... the Nike Trainer I (coming shortly, reverse order FTW!)
Part 2: FanHouse Talks to Larry Fitzgerald
Part 3: FanHouse Talks to Amare Stoudemire
Part 4: FanHouse Talks to Brandon Roy
Part 5: FanHouse Talks to Adrian Peterson
Part 6: FanHouse Talks to Troy Polamalu
Part 7: Nike Trainer 1 Shoe Review

FanHouse at the Nike Global Training Summit in Newport Beach originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 18 May 2009 13:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FanHouse Talks to Amare Stoudemire

Will Brinson — Mon, 18 May 2009 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Sports Media, Current Events, FanHouse Exclusive

Will Brinson kicked it at The OC for the Nike Global Training Summit.

Amare Stoudemire is probably desperate to train right now, having just spent some significant time on his back after eye surgery ended his 2008-09 NBA season early. He then watched (no pun intended) his Phoenix Suns just miss the playoffs.

In other words, yeah, he's probably glad that Nike hooked up him with some new shoes for training. Of course, the time off didn't damper Amare's spirits at all -- he's still one of the most personable athletes around. And while at the Nike Global Training Summit, he spoke to FanHouse about the playoffs, trash talk, Shaquille O'Neal's shenanigans, being a spokesman for Nike, and the new Trainer 1.

FanHouse: How do you break down the playoffs?

Amare Stoudemire: "How do you break it down? You break it down in brackets."

[Laughter]

"You go the Lakers-Rockets coming up, I think the Lakers pull out of that one. The Cavs meet the winner of Orlando-Boston and I think the Cavs make it to the finals again. Denver's waiting on the Lakers obviously, and if the Lakers make it, Denver might be able to beat the Lakers -- it's going to be a good series.

FH: What's the funniest thing someone ever told you on the court in terms of trash talk?

Stoudemire: "Well, it happened to come from a fan -- guy was clowning my shoes or something. I was like, 'What do you mean my shoes? My shoes are super hot. My swagger's at an all-time high.' "

FH: What's your favorite moment with Shaq now that you've been a teammate?

Stoudemire: "Aw, man. You kidding me? Shaq has a lot of good moments. My favorite moment with Shaq probably would be, um, well when, let's say Shaq shows up to practice and we ask him why he's late and he says there was a Mexican with a million chickens on the back of his truck and the truck tipped over on the highway ... Shaq basically comes with a joke about everything, so anything's pretty much funny with me about Shaq."

FH: How does it feel, now that you're at this level, to be brought in as a spokesman for Nike?

Stoudemire: "I mean, you know, it's always good when you're looked on as a spokesman for a new shoe that they're coming out with. It says a lot about my athletic ability and what I do on the court. And the respect factor that they have for me and vice versa as well. So it feels good to be a part of it."

FH: How's the Trainer 1 playing into your training -- because you're not full-blown practicing just quite yet, right?

Stoudemire: "No, but I will be soon. And once I try on the shoe, I can easily tell if it's going to be a good shoe from a training aspect. And I think these shoes are going to be perfect for me for training, because the Diamond-Flex sole on the bottom of the shoe is ideal; your stop and go is going to be sharp, your lateral movement is going to be good, so it's going to be a great shoe for me."

FanHouse Talks to Amare Stoudemire originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 18 May 2009 12:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HausCast: Jeremy Schaap Talks Favre, International Incident at Binghamton

Will Brinson — Tue, 12 May 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Blogs, ESPN, Sports Media, Current Events, FanHouse Exclusive, Podcast

The FanHouse Podcast: Because bloggers are much sexier on the phone.

Jeremy Schaap has had a busy past few days -- not only is he preparing for the upcoming E:60 episode (Tuesday at 7 PM ET) with a phenomenal story about a bar brawl at Binghamton University that became an international incident, but he also recently broke the news that Brett Favre would return to the Vikings if their medical team approves his X-rays. Of course, the latter part hasn't been completely confirmed yet, but it did spark a war between ESPN and Yahoo! (Yes, I would have added the exclamation point anyway.) And Schapp was kind enough to speak to me late last week about both reports.

HausCast: Jeremy Schaap Talks Favre, International Incident at Binghamton originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 12 May 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Torrie Wilson, Former WWE Diva, Readies For Reality TV Jungle

Ariel Helwani — Mon, 11 May 2009 05:30:00 EST

Filed under: Pro Wrestling, FanHouse Exclusive

After eight grueling years in the professional wrestling business, Torrie Wilson was forced to end her career after undergoing back surgery last June. It was a small, but serious, price to pay for one of the most popular World Wrestling Entertainment Divas of all time.

Torrie Wilson Photos

PASADENA, CA - APRIL 24: Wrestler Torrie Wilson attends a press conference for 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!' at the Langham Hotel on April 24, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images)

Charley Gallay/Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD, CA - APRIL 22: Wrester Torrie Wilson attends the world premiere of the Lion's Gate film 'Godsend' at the Mann's Chinese Theatre on April 22, 2004 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD - MAY 21: WWE Wrestler Torrie Wilson arrives at Von Dutch Originals head designer Christian Audigier's birthday party on May 21, 2004 at a private residence in Hollywood, California. The event, attended by many hundreds of guests, featured a live performance by The Gypsy Kings. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)

Amanda Edwards, Getty Images

Charley Gallay, Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD - MAY 21: WWE Wrestlers Stacey Keibler and Torrie Wilson (l-r) arrive at Von Dutch Originals head designer Christian Audigier's birthday party on May 21, 2004 at a private residence in Hollywood, California. The event, attended by many hundreds of guests, featured a live performance by The Gypsy Kings. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)

Amanda Edwards, Getty Images

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 10: WWE Diva wrestler Torrie Wilson poses backstage at the Nickelodeon Australian Kids' Choice Awards 2007 at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on October 10, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Kristian Dowling/Getty Images)

Kristian Dowling, Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD, CA - APRIL 22: Wrestlers Torrie Wilson and Stacey Keibler attends the world premiere of the Lion's Gate film 'Godsend' at the Mann's Chinese Theatre on April 22, 2004 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JUNE 11: Wrestler Torrie Wilson attends the premiere of the MGM film 'De-Lovely' at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences June 11, 2004 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Mark Mainz/Getty Images)

Mark Mainz, Getty Images

Amanda Edwards, Getty Images

Wilson made a brief return to the WWE spotlight at last month's WrestleMania 25 event in Houston, but is now looking to introduce herself to a new set of viewers on NBC's 'I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!' The reality show, which features 10 celebrities living in a Costa Rican jungle, premieres on Monday, June 1. Viewers will be able to vote for their favorite celebrity, a list which includes former NBA star John Salley and actor Stephen Baldwin, until only one remains at the end of the month.

FanHouse spoke to Wilson about gearing up for the show and her memorable career as a professional wrestler. In the full interview below, find out what she had to say about the wrestling scene, backstage politics, and one "crazy awkward" kiss during her WWE debut.

Ariel Helwani: How did you get involved with 'I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!'?
Torrie Wilson: My agent gave me a call and asked if I would be interested in this show. He kind of gave me the outline of it, and to me, it just sounded like something I would be good at -- surviving in the jungle. I'm very athletic and not a lot grosses me out. Plus, the thought of going to Costa Rica, and hopefully, being there for the entire month with no cell phone, no e-mail and really nobody bugging me, I thought that I would probably never have this opportunity again, so why not?

So, the show hasn't been taped yet, right?
Yeah, it starts June 1 and it will be airing four days a week. Portions of each show will actually be live.

And you will have to rough it in the woods like on 'Survivor'?
Yeah, definitely. I have had a lot of people ask me, 'Well, if there's supposed to be ten celebrities (on the show), are you guys really going to be staying in a hotel?' The answer is no. We really are roughing it. We're going to be doing challenges for extra food, and the viewers are the ones that are going to be voting us off or keeping us on and actually will be voting for us to do certain challenges, as well.

WWE Diva Photos

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Actress Sherri Shepherd poses with WWE divas Maria (L) and Eve prior to WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sherri Shepherd;Maria;Eve

Getty Images

NEW YORK - MARCH 31: WWE Divas Kelly Kelly (L) and Eve (R) with Ric "Nature Boy" Flair (M) attend the WrestleMania 25th anniversary press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe on March 31, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Kelly Kelly;Ric "Nature Boy" Flair;Eve

Getty Images

NEW YORK - MARCH 31: WWE Divas Eve (L) and Kelly Kelly (R) attend the WrestleMania 25th anniversary press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe on March 31, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Eve;Kelly Kelly

Getty Images

NEW YORK - MARCH 31: WWE Divas Eve (L) and Kelly Kelly (R)attend the WrestleMania 25th anniversary press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe on March 31, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Eve;Kelly Kelly

Getty Images

NEW YORK - MARCH 31: WWE Diva Eve attends the WrestleMania 25th anniversary press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe on March 31, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Eve

Getty Images

I'm sure you are heavily counting on your devoted wrestling fans to vote for
you often.
I have faith in wrestling fans and my fans. People underestimate how huge of a fan base wrestling has, and I have no doubt in my mind that my fans will keep me on, hopefully until the very end. You know, I'm really just going in there with the mindset that I'm going to be myself. I think, for my fans, it's a great way to get to know me better and see a much truer side of me.

What do you think of sharing the spotlight with the infamous Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt from MTV's 'The Hills'?
I really don't know much about them. I know that they are in the tabloids all the time, but that's about all I know. I've had a lot of people tell me that they feel like they won't last very long, and all I gotta say to that is that you can't judge a book by its cover. They could really be down and dirty there in the jungle. So, I'll wait and see myself.

Have you officially retired from professional wrestling despite your brief appearance at last month's WrestleMania 25?
That was just a one-shot deal. I actually had back surgery last summer, and the thought of wrestling again on a full-time schedule is not appealing.

Were you ready to end your wrestling career before having back surgery, or did that force the issue?
I was getting to the point where I was ready. I did it for eight years, and that's a lot of travel. We travel for close to 300 days a year, and I was getting to the point where I was really tired of being on the road. So, it kind of just gave me the nudge that I needed.

How did it feel to work at a WWE event after being gone for almost a year?
It was an awesome experience. It's like going back to a family reunion; it was so great to see everybody. But there are so many new faces that I did feel a little out of place. It wasn't really my home anymore, but all in all, it was a great experience and a great way for me to have a little bit of closure.

Snapshots of WWE Stars

Actress Sherri Shepherd smacks WWE wrestler Dolph Ziggler during a match between Ziggler and M.V.P at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (George Napolitano, Getty Images)

George Napolitano, Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Sherri Shepherd holds up the U.S. title belt after M.V.P. defeated Dolph Ziggler during a match at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** M.V.P.;Sherri Shepherd.

Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Actress Sherri Shepherd walks with M.V.P. to the ring prior to his match with Dolph Ziggler at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** M.V.P.;Sherri Shepherd

Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Actress Sherri Shepherd bends Eve's fingers backstage at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sherri Shepherd;Eve

Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Actress Sherri Shepherd smacks WWE wrestler dolph Ziggler during a match between Ziggler and M.V.P at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sherri Shepherd;Dolph Ziggler

Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 28: Actress Sherri Shepherd cheers for M.V.P. during his match against Dolph Ziggler at WWE SmackDown at Madison Square Garden on April 28, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by George Napolitano/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sherri Shepherd

Getty Images

We often hear about the backstage politics with the male wrestlers. How much politics exists between the WWE Divas?
It's hard to say. I know that there are girls that did, you know, live or die by what TV exposure they got that night. I just never really fell for any of that, and kind of did my own thing. I just always had that mindset that if I was going to be used it's great, and if I wasn't, it's not going to affect the way I feel about myself when I look in the mirror.

You were first introduced to professional wrestling when you attended a World Championship Wrestling event with your boyfriend in 1999 and were promptly asked to be Scott Steiner's valet that night. Did you ever think that you would actually make a name for yourself in the wrestling business?
(Laughs) Oh gosh, never in a million years. Even as far as wrestling the first few years with WCW, I watched some of the girls wrestling, and I was like, 'Oh my gosh, are you kidding me? I'm never going to wrestle.' Then, the more I was into it, the more I just loved learning and actually getting out there and having matches.

The backstage scene at a wrestling event is a very bizarre one. I mean, you are surrounded by a plethora of huge guys dressed up in various costumes. How long did it take for you to get used to that?
It took me quite some time. When I was in WCW, it was definitely foreign. I mean, I have three brothers, but that's as close as I got to being in this locker room atmosphere. It was just crazy with guys walking around, yelling at each other backstage. It was like being smack-dab in the middle of a men's locker room. When I went to WWF, at the time, it still took me a good two years to actually start feeling comfortable there, just because I was kind of the new kid on the block for a while.

Did you find yourself getting hit on a lot backstage by the other male wrestlers?
I guess I could say that I've always been well respected by the wrestlers. I've always had a boyfriend or something going on. I just never really felt like anybody was hitting on me all the time or felt uncomfortable by any means. I probably felt more like they were a bunch of big brothers.

Your WWE debut was a very memorable one because you had to make out with your boss, WWE chairman, Vince McMahon, on camera in front of his wife. That must have been terribly awkward.
(Laughs) To say the least. It was crazy, crazy awkward. I was so intimidated by Vince. Having that being my first experience really around him, it was just really, really nerve-wracking. But after that, everything kind of went downhill, so it felt easy.

Downhill in a good or bad way?
(Laughs) As far as being nervous.

Naturally, I feel compelled to ask whether Vince McMahon was a good kisser?
(Laughs) No, I don't think so. Sorry, Vince.

At some point, did you wonder whether having to kiss him was really necessary?
Well, I have to say that there were times where I was like, 'Okay c'mon, this is ridiculous and this is stupid.' But that was basically what they asked for at the time. There were lots of bikini contests that I was in and bra and panties matches that I just rolled my eyes and thought, 'I wish I could just prove that I'm a good athlete.' But as far as Vince, I really didn't feel like it was out of hand in any way, mostly because his wife was there the entire day directing the whole thing.

She was a big part of it? That seems weird.
She was. Actually, when I finally kissed Vince, she was the one that pulled me aside and said, 'Kiss him like you mean it and rip his clothes off.' I was like, 'Whoa.'

Wow. That's very strange. Did you ever turn down an angle?
Not that I can think of. I mean, there's always going to be those times, like I said, where you're in a bikini in front of thousands of people, and you're not feeling bikini-worthy, but other than that, nothing too bad. I just took it for what it was: good entertainment.

What about when they killed your father off the show?
Well, I do have to say that my dad getting married in his underwear was a little embarrassing, especially when all my brothers were calling me up saying, 'What are you doing to dad?' But you know, it was kind of out of my hands as soon as I said, 'Sure, use my real father in this storyline.' I kind of knew what I was getting myself into.

How did your real father even end up in a storyline?
Well, (former WWE writer) Paul Heyman actually pitched the storyline to me, and I thought it sounded like a fun storyline. He said, 'Well, we can hire an actor or we can use your real dad.' And I was like, 'Oh, totally use my real dad. This is going to be a life experience for him.' I have to say that there were multiple times where I thought to myself that maybe that wasn't the smartest decision, just because family at work sometimes gets to be a little too much, but all in all, I thought it was a great experience.

What's it like working for Vince McMahon? Is he the same person behind the scenes as the one the public knows about?
Well, how do you think of him?

From what I have heard and read, he sounds like a very demanding guy to work for, and to be honest, pretty cold-hearted.
Well, I can only speak from my own personal experiences with him, and I definitely think that he is compassionate. He was always compassionate with me, whether it was an injury or personal problems that I had at home. You know, of course, he is a workaholic, and I think it's very hard for any workaholic to look at other people and not expect the same from them, and that's the way he runs his company. So, he just expects that from everybody else. But I really do think that he's a personable guy. He's definitely intimidating at times, but he's not nearly as horrible as everyone thinks.

How prevalent is the use of performance-enhancement drugs with the WWE Divas? Is that a big problem?
No, not at all. I never once in my eight years in wrestling felt any pressure to use drugs at all.

I have read that it was an issue only because you are expected to look just as good as the men, yet you are always wearing very little and being judged mainly on your looks.
I honestly don't know. I wouldn't know, personally, if any of the other women used drugs. I can only speak for myself in saying that I am a very anti-steroids and anti whatever agents that you need to look the way you want to look. I believe in the old adage of eating well and working out. I'm a big runner, so as long as you're running, you can get in your bikini.

Do you think WWE is doing a good enough of job of trying to clean up the drug problem in wrestling?
I think that they are doing what they can do. As far as the wrestlers using drugs or abusing drugs, just like any athlete in the world, you have to look at the person. The only person that can be blamed is the person that is actually taking the pill.

Do you hope that your involvement on this reality show will lead to other opportunities in Hollywood?
It would be great, but to me, it's not do or die. I have a lot of happiness with everything that I've done so far. I have a great clothing store in Houston, and I'm planning to start franchising soon. I love the entertainment history, so we'll see how it goes.

How do you predict you will fare on the show?
My prediction is that it it's going to come down to myself and Stephen Baldwin.

Why him?
I just really feel like he is going to do good on this show. I think he is going to surprise a lot of people, and I just feel like he has probably got a very good plan outlined.

Torrie Wilson, Former WWE Diva, Readies For Reality TV Jungle originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 11 May 2009 05:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HausCast 20: Jay Mariotti Talks Manny, Favre, Dirk's Ladyfriend and Tiger

Will Brinson — Fri, 08 May 2009 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: PEDs, TV and Movies, Sports Media, FanHouse Exclusive, Podcast

The FanHouse Podcast: Because bloggers are much sexier on the phone.

We get to celebrate our 20th HausCast by welcoming FanHouse's own Jay Mariotti, whom you've likely heard of, due to his presence on your tee-vee screens every day at 5 on "Around the Horn", not to mention his work here at the 'Haus. Fortunately, there's plenty of heavy news to choose from: Manny Ramirez suspended for 50 games, Brett Favre deciding he won't come back to football after all, and Dirk Nowitzki getting busted in a very weird relationship. Ryan and I discuss this super-trifecta of sports news with Jay and then bounce around the idea of golfers on steroids, just for shiggles. Enjoy.

HausCast 20: Jay Mariotti Talks Manny, Favre, Dirk's Ladyfriend and Tiger originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Fri, 08 May 2009 09:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HausCast 19: Bruce Ciskie on Brett Favre Midwestern Torture, Hockey

Will Brinson — Thu, 07 May 2009 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: ESPN, NFL Network, FanHouse Exclusive, Podcast

The FanHouse Podcast: Because bloggers are much sexier on the phone.

Brett Favre is beyond played out at this point. We get it: he's probably going to the Vikings. And in doing so, he's tearing apart two fan bases and dividing the entire Midwest in half. What are we gonna do?

Call FanHouse writer, lifelong Packers fan and Minnesota resident Bruce Ciskie for answers, that's what. Besides Favre, somehow the miraculous happens and we ask him about hockey ~~matches~~ games. Bruce is so persuasive that I get talked into watching the Pens-Caps game on Versus. Awesomeness ensues. (Also: Subscribe via iTunes. Because you love us.)

HausCast 19: Bruce Ciskie on Brett Favre Midwestern Torture, Hockey originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Thu, 07 May 2009 09:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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