Next ECW PPV update!

Here is an update of transactions and possibilities for the next show:

It is penciled in for June 11, and will either take place at the Hammerstein Ballroom again in New York City, or Philadelphia, but NOT at the old ECW arena.

One match that is almost a sure thing to take place is Chris Benoit vs. Dean Malenko. This would be done as an Eddie Guerrero Tribute Match.

As for other talent (both within and outside WWE) and possible matches, here what is known as well as what is going around the circles:

WWE has already been in contact with Terry Funk about appearing, though he has neither confirmed or declined the invitation. This is WWE's way of getting him on board before he could commit to another Hardcore Homecoming show.

Rob Van Dam was recently on WWE Byte This and was asked who he would like to wrestle at the next ECW PPV. He stated that he would love to wrestle either Jerry Lynn or Rhino. What is interesting here is that RVD alluded to Rhino having a TNA contract and basically scratched him off the list, however, he made no mention of Jerry Lynn having a TNA contract and basically implied that if Jerry is interested and is physically capable of putting on the type of match that they used to have, then he'll be there. So that is definitely something to keep an eye on.

Another thing to keep an eye on is the status of Raven. The word going around is that Raven will not be on any type of TNA programming for the next four months and will not be paid at all for that time period as he is paid by appearance. Whether this means he does not have a TNA contract is unknown, but again it’s something to look out for, and the idea of him appearing at the next ECW PPV doesn’t seem too far-fetched.

Finally, The Sandman did an interview recently and was asked if he had been contacted by WWE for the PPV and would he be a part of it. He made no mention of being contacted yet, but did state that WWE would have to have him there, not only for it to be successful but also because of the amount of former ECW talent signed by TNA. He went through the list (The Dudley Boyz and Rhino in particular) and in doing so he stated that Sabu DOES NOT have a TNA contract so he’s not prohibited from appearing.

Well, anyway, just something to think about.