Query on WWE buying TNA, more between Nash and Warrior (with Hogan weighing in), ECW flashback, Questions on Lesnar-WWE, WWE's dropping ratings, Tebowing, Mid-South, and Finlay, Dreamer talks travel, Angle interview, Morrison Q&A, what Jericho did at the Raw house show and another FCW talent goes on the road

Since I keep getting this query and it's kind of a slow news day, I'll mention it again:
1. I'd put the odds of WWE looking to buy TNA any time soon at very low given that there's been very little in the way of noted interest from either side in doing such a business move. The only times I've seen it mentioned are in responses to fans' questions at WWE conference calls. Vince McMahon wasn't particularly enthusiastic about the idea. Both companies are much more focused on their own interests than a theoretical merger or buyout.

In more concrete news, the former Ultimate Warrior posted a (non-PG) video response to Kevin Nash's challenge. I mostly support his general sentiment about Nash and Triple H (as an active wrestler). The man's got guts and a frankness that feels pretty rare in today's wresting environment. Then again, he's not looking for any kind of payday or comeback.

Update: Nash and Hogan responded to it. This is simultaneously pathetic and entertaining. Everyone involved's over 50 and they're arguing like half that age (or less).

The former Sign Guy Dudley/ Lou E. Dangerously talked a bit about the anniversary of the ending of ECW. Nothing too deep.

After the break, I go into the rest of the day's news, beginning with a look at PWInsider.com's questions. 

1. It looks like it could be all up to Lesnar at this point. I wouldn't get my hopes up for Taker/Lesnar at Mania this year, but things are looking more and more likely that he'll end up appearing in WWE at some point.

2. I share the hope that they keep faith in the new wave of performers. They've been so gun-shy on pushing new talents in the past that they're paying the price to some degree now. I think all in all it's more about them not treating the performers as the big deals that they could be (everyone eventually plays second fiddle to Cena/Orton/the Attitude Era names so why get invested in anyone else? Ask Nexus, Del Rio, Miz, Swagger, etc. how well things go after the company loses focus on you), but everyone has their pet theory. Commentary's a big problem, too. Why they'd paint their performers as people we shouldn't be interested in is beyond me. If the commentators are more concerned with arguing with each other than what's going on in the ring, viewers aren't going to focus as much on the talent in the ring (who are ultimately what the company's going to have to rely on to draw money on PPVs and merch sales and such).

3. It was probably just a fun little reference, but I'm not personally a fan of referring to competition for the company in that way. Why remind viewers there are other things they could be watching with athletes who are more popular? WWE should stay far away from NFL references with Monday night football going up against Raw.

4. Someone should jump on that.

5. Sadly, no. How often do they bring someone back when it would be a smart idea to do so? I can see why he was released, but I hope he gets a second chance to make things up. If the military can forgive Orton, I'd hope they can forgive Finlay in time (provided he doesn't pull that stunt again).

Tommy Dreamer talked about the... joys? of being on the road a lot. Not something you read much about!

Kurt Angle gave an interview ahead of a TNA live event. I wholeheartedly agree about the storytelling part. As much as I love some fast-paced athletic action, it's not necessarily what gets people watching every week. It's interesting that he's concerned about being a highly rated wrestler and putting on the best match given those comments. I also really like the thoughts on the Attitude Era being over, and the ending of "cool bad guys". I've heard the Amazing Red-Rey Mysterio comparisons before, so it'd be interesting to see if he could live up to that in the future. Very good listen from one of my all-time favorite wrestlers. Despite some of his off-the-wall and antics over the years, I'll give him his due here.

The former John Morrison gave answers to fan questions. Good little read. Interesting that he more or less confirmed an eventual WWE return. I agree that we need more promos and interviews from performers we aren't as familiar with yet, so that we can get inside their heads and get behind (or against, depending on the character) who they are.

Chris Jericho was interrupted by David Otunga at a Raw live event before he could speak, then put him in the Walls of Jericho. Other than that, he played to the crowd more and wore the same jacket he had at Raw.

Finally, FCW's Antonio Cesaro, known to the indie audience as former ROH Tag Team Champion Claudio Castagnoli, worked that same house show. He teamed with Michael McGillicutty in a loss to Alex Riley and Mason Ryan. Kind of an odd pairing. He's another performer I've heard very good things about, and the fact that he's only been in FCW for a few months seems to indicate that he could very well be someone to watch out for in 2012.

That's all for Saturday's news. More to come tomorrow, including a preview of TNA Genesis. Thanks for reading!