The Saturday Gossip

Ashley Cole to Barcelona, Juventus want RVP, Liverpool and Newcastle duke it out for Seydou Keita and more...

COLE TO BARCELONAWe'll begin with a slice of balderdash from The Daily Star, who claim Ashley Cole could be set to leave Chelsea for Barcelona in the summer.

It's been widely reported that Cole and Andre Villas-Boas aren't BFFs, with the pair reportedly having an argument before the Champions League match with Napoli. Indeed, Jose Bosingwa was preferred to Cole at left-back in Italy (!) and the England international looked pretty smug when AVB was forced to bring him on.

It seems possible that Cole will look to leave Stamford Bridge if AVB remains in charge, but deducing that the left-back will move to Barcelona is a bit far-fetched, especially when you consider that Eric Abidal is just a year older than him.


RVP CHASE HEATS UP
Surely every European giant is going to be sniffing around Robin van Persie this summer, encouraged by the knowledge that he has just one year left on his contract.

According to SHOUTsport, Juventus - who are still unbeaten in Serie A this season - are the latest club to declare an interest in the prolific striker as he weighs up his options.

Arsenal are keen to open talks over a new deal with RVP but the Dutchman would prefer to wait and see where things lie at the end of the season. It could give the Gunners a tricky decision to make - if Van Persie wants to go should they sell in the summer or spend the next year trying to convince him to change his mind?

LIVERPOOL AND NEWCASTLE IN FOR KEITA
One of Barcelona's unsung heroes, Seydou Keita, is reportedly ready to quit the Nou Camp for a new challenge in the Premier League.

Keita has made over 100 appearances for the reigning European champions since his £12million move from Sevilla in 2008, totting up 14 trophies in that time. However, Pep Guardiola has indicated that he wants to promote several younger squad players - including Cristian Tello, Jonathan dos Santos and Sergi Roberto - for next season, which would limit Keita's opportunities.

The Metro are saying that both Liverpool and Newcastle are interested in the 32-year-old Mali international, who will command wages of around £80,000 a week but cost less than an Andy Carroll goal.

WEST BROM WANT GARDNER
The Mirror are talking-up a Baggies bid for Craig Gardner in the summer after they failed to sign the midfielder on loan in January.

Gardner's form has seen him become an important first-team player at Sunderland under Martin O'Neill, but there are still rumours that he's homesick in the north east.

To add to the speculation, Roy Hodgson has confirmed his interest if Gardner is available. The West Brom manager said, "The idea was first mooted because he was homesick."

"I don't know whether he still wants to come back to the Midlands.

"If he does, I'm sure we'll be interested in him."


AND THE REST
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that he could have signed Gareth Bale...Steven Gerrard is desperate for Wembley glory tomorrow, after his last League Cup final date left him "suicidal"...Arsene Wenger snubbed the chance to make a deadline-day swoop for Louis Saha...Liverpool midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is poised to join Middlesbrough on loan after tomorrow's Carling Cup final...Andre Villas-Boas faces Bolton Wanderers today knowing that it could be his last match as Chelsea manager...Steve Morgan has defended his decision to appoint Terry Connor as Wolves manager for the final 13 games of the season - only 11 days after insisting it was not a job for a novice.

Dalglish feeling calm ahead of Liverpool's League Cup final against Cardiff

Reds' manager is looking forward to his visit to Wembley and urges his players to adopt a 'winning mentality' as the favourites seek to avoid an upset

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has insisted that he is not feeling the pressure ahead of the League Cup final against Cardiff on Sunday.

The Merseyside club have failed to win any major silverware since the FA Cup in 2006, with their last final, in the Champions League in 2007, ending in defeat to AC Milan.

The Reds' manager enjoyed a glittering career as a player and manager, making 27 appearances at Wembley and admitted he was hoping to enjoy his day out at Wembley.

"I'm not very emotional. I suppose like everything else in life every person is not going to act the same to situations," he told reporters.

"Emotion and nerves will be helpful to some and detrimental to others but is part and parcel of football and it is how you handle it.

"There are a lot of people with different personalities who will handle it totally differently.

"But if you are not going to enjoy getting to Wembley you have a bit of a problem. It didn't affect us [the Liverpool side he won trophies with] too badly I don't think.

"We had our share of victories, and we also lost, but I don't think we won because the other people were more affected by emotions than we were and I don't think we lost because we were more affected then them."

The Scot then revealed that he will not be preparing for the final in any special way, looking at it as just another match and denied that his experience would help his team too much.

"A final is not really different from any other matches. Character and luck play a huge part in every game," he added.

"You wouldn't say a final is just another game because it is a final at Wembley but all the other ingredients which go into getting the result are exactly the same.

"Whether you have experience of being somewhere [Wembley] before doesn't mean it is going to be helpful."

Liverpool are strong favourites for the clash against Championship side Cardiff, with Malky MacKay's men not in the best of form at the moment losing three out of four games in February.

Despite their run of results, the Bluebirds still occupy the play-off places and will pose a tough a test with Dalglish talking down their role of favourites in the final.

"It's not necessarily more pressure. There is always going to have to be a favourite but you only get out of the match what you put in," he explained.

"Favourites have lost before, although not too often, but we have to overcome Cardiff on the day.

"We will go there best prepared and see what happens. We won't jump ahead. We've got the final, which is one step, now let's see what we do when we get there."

The League Cup is not seen as the most prestigious competition by all and the former Newcastle manager seemed to agree with that view.

"Who is going to decide whether this cup is important or not?" he said.

"I think we just need to have a winning mentality."

Cena Expects Rock To Bury Him, Foley Wants To Work 'Mania, More On Cena - Rock Special

- John Cena tweeted the following earlier regarding his weekend and RAW on Monday: "Flying to LA for fri night at staples (Raw house show). Then back to Daytona for green flag @ 500. Then off to Portland just in time for Dwayne to bury me... Sounds like a fun few days. Giddy up."
- SkySportsNews in the UK interviewed Mick Foley earlier today. When asked what involvement he'd like to have at WrestleMania 28, Foley said that he would like to referee the Triple H - Undertaker Hell In A Cell match. You can check out Foley's appearance by clicking here.


- As noted earlier, the USA Network will air a program profiling the rivalry between The Rock and John Cena on March 26 at 8:00 p.m, right before the final RAW before WrestleMania. The special is currently listed as "Rock / Cena." A replay of the special will air again on March 31, the day before WrestleMania.

CM Punk calls out Chris Brown

CM Punk tells HLN's A.J. Hammer why he released a video message to Chris Brown after their Twitter battle.

Brodus Clay Returns

- Brodus Clay returns to action tonight at tonight's Raw live event at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. Clay's dancer Cameron Lynn tweeted, "Who is gonna b at the staple center tonight to see some WWE action ? Best part is u get to see yours truly...me and the funkasaurus."

Clay last competed at the February 7th SmackDown taping, in a match that was later edited off the broadcast. Regarding reports that Clay was removed from television because Vince McMahon feels that he is "unsafe and reckless" in the ring, WWE.com writer Kevin Eck tweeted, "I have not seen the real reason reported anywhere."

The Rock to Play Hercules in Upcoming Movie

According to Punkdrunkcritics.com, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson will play the lead role in "Hercules: The Thracian War." The movie will be directed by Brett Ratner.


The Rock continues to land high profile movie roles. Whatever concern there may have been from people within his camp about returning to WWE appears to have been for nothing.

Higuain: Real Madrid cannot afford to ease up

Los Blancos have the luxury of a 10-point lead over nearest rivals Barcelona but the Argentina international believes they must keep treating every game like a cup final

Gonzalo Higuain believes that Real Madrid simply cannot afford to allow their intensity level to drop if they are to win La Liga.

Los Blancos have built up a commanding ten-point over second-placed Barcelona, prompting many to conclude that the title is bound for the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, Higuain is taking nothing for granted and believes that it is imperative that Jose Mourinho's men continue to play with the same drive and determination they have exhibited so far this season.

"We cannot yet be calm and we must push harder than ever before to win this league," he is quoted as saying by Sport.

Indeed, Higuain believes that Madrid must embrace the tried-and-trusted approach of treating every game like a cup final, starting with Sunday's trip to Rayo Vallecano.

"It will be a tough game against a team that is struggling but that has good players," he claimed.

"For a newly-promoted side, their position speaks well of them. But we are doing things pretty well ourselves and must try to continue like this."

Madrid's clash with Vallecano kicks off at 16:00CET, presenting them with the opportunity to stretch their lead at the summit of the standings to 13 points ahead of Barca's clash with Atletico Madrid later that evening.

Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin joins Zenit on loan

The 30-year-old returns to his former club on the final day of the Russian transfer window after struggling for form under Arsene Wenger at the Emirates

Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin has completed a loan move to his former club Zenit St Petersburg until July.

The 30-year-old has struggled for form in the 27 appearances he has made this season and has returned to Zenit on the final day of the Russian transfer window.

Arshavin posted on his official website: "I've moved to "Zenit". On loan, will play under number 29."

With Gervinho returning from the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this month, Arshavin's chances of securing a regular first-team role ahead of Russia's Euro 2012 campaign this summer looked limited.

Arsenal confirmed the reason behind the midfielder's move to Zenit was so that he could "maximise his opportunities for regular first-team football ahead of Euro 2012 in June".

Arshavin joined Arsenal in February 2009 from Zenit for a reported £15 million fee.

Here is the best game of Arshavin with Arsenal vs Liverpool scoring 4 goals:

CM Punk Talks Feud With Jericho, Relationship With HHH, Brodus Clay's Disappearance + More

C.M. Punk was interviewed by Peter Rosenberg over at Hot97. During the interview, Punk discussed the changing point in his WWE career, his feud with Chris Jericho and his relationship with Triple amongst other topics. Here are the highlights:
On the legendary promo he cut on June 27th, 2011: "[I]t wasn't my design to have this as a platform to even continue my career. I was done. That was my second-to-last Monday Night Raw. You know? I was going overseas the next day -- we were doing a tour of Australia and New Zealand -- and then we were doing some TV in Boston and then the pay-per-view.


"So, to me, I was like, 'I'm already on the pay-per-view. What are they going to fire me two weeks before I do it?' I figured they were going to take me off the international tour and there was nothing they could do. There was no repercussion for my actions. So I just went out there and spoke from the heart."


On doing what you feel vs. doing what they write for you: "I don't have to do anything that's written. Here's the funny thing; I don't think anybody has to do what's written. Everybody is so petrified to rock the boat or they're not skilled enough to do their own stuff. People get handed stuff and I truly thunk that across the board, it's a suggestion. It's up to you to put it in your words. It's up to you to do what you want.


"There's been times when I get handed stuff and I say, 'I can't do this,' and it changes the entire show. I say, 'Let's do this,' and they listen to me."


On how he views his feud with Chris Jericho: I think it could be very special. If we handle it the right way. Everybody is so fickle, though. I read online somewhere that someone said they're sick of Punk and Jericho already and the genius about that is that we have done anything yet. It's brilliant that [this fan] is already so mad so over this.


On smart/internet fans: "More power to them but you can take any one of those people and give them the position of booker and they would lose their mind. They don't realize the intricate little things that go into putting stuff together.


"On top of that, we worry about ratings in this company which, to me, is madness at this point. Ratings don't mean anything except to the sponsors. Which is why we do it because we want to keep sponsors happy. ... I just think everyone loves being negative. 'Ah! Punk came back too soon. They did this,' and it's like, 'Shut up and enjoy it.' Yeah. I know that sometimes it gets really, really bad. You can be vocal about that. But they don't let anything play out. They almost forget that there's going to be a Raw next week."


On his relationship with Triple H: "It's pretty good, I think. [Laughs.] I mean, you know, honestly, I guess I'll never really, truly know. We have a good, open relationship, I guess. We talk. He's very knowledgeable about the business and he's in a spot that he knows about a lot of the behind-the-scenes stuff that fascinates me. I pick his brain about that stuff."


On Brodus Clay getting on TV only to be taken off shortly thereafter: "[Triple H] is in a position and now I'm in a position where I can ask him, 'OK. I don't understand why we put a guy like Brodus on TV and then he's off TV for two weeks. Explain that to me, Hunter.' Then he tells me, and I get it.


"We're not just catering to the people that are probably watching this. [Waves to the camera.] We're catering to a much wider audience."


You can check out the entire interview below:

Z! True Long Island Story Episode # 54

Sheamus Explains Why He Selected Daniel Bryan

Recently, during a WWE.com Exclusive, the winner of the 2012 Royal Rumble, Sheamus, discussed why he chose to face Daniel Bryan at this year's WrestleMania for the World Heavyweight championship.
"Why Daniel Bryan? Why the World Heavyweight title? It's simply really. I've already been a two-time WWE champion, so the next logical step for me is to become World Heavyweight champion," an in-character Sheamus stated.


"Like I said when I came to Smackdown!; Smackdown! belongs to me. April 1st in Miami, Florida, WrestleMania -- those words are going to become a reality," Sheamus continued. "Because I guarantee you, fella: I'm going to walk out the new World Heavyweight champion."

WWE.com Exclusive: Shawn Michaels loses his composure during a phone interview

Shawn Michaels loses his composure during a phone interview regarding Triple H and The Undertaker's Hell in a Cell Match at WrestleMania XXVIII

What was Randy Orton doing in an abandoned warehouse? - "Outside the Ring" Episode 2

Find out why Randy Orton spent his day in an abandoned warehouse and how he felt about the creepy crawlers there with him

PAOK 0-3 Udinese (Agg 0-3): Italians clinical in front of goal to clinch resounding away victory

An incisive performance from Francesco Guidolin's men saw them go two goals up within 15 minutes, leaving the Greek outfit floundering throughout the encounter

Udinese motored into the last 16 of the Europa League courtesy of a 3-0 victory over PAOK in Greece.

Danilo gave the visitors the lead after a matter of minutes, before Antonio Floro Flores doubled his side's advantage. Mauizio Domizzi added a third from the spot just after half-time to give his side a handsome victory.

The first-leg of this encounter had finished goalless at Stadio Friuli, but from the outset, it was obvious that both sides were intent on opening the scoring early.

Kwadwo Asamoah fired wide within a minute of kick-off, before a defensive lapse allowed Dimitris Salpingidis a shot on goal, but one that was quickly snuffed out by the Udinese back line.

Apostolos Giannou forced a credible save from Samir Handanovic before the deadlock was finally broken by the visitors.

Giovanni Pasquale put a corner in from the left, and Danilo was there to nod the ball past a flat-footed Dario Kresic.

The onus was now on the hosts to attack, but on the quarter-hour mark, Udinese extended their lead. Domizzi slid the ball to Floro Flores, who smashed into the top corner from 25 yards.

Despite the volley of away goals leaving the Greeks in dire straights, they continued to pepper the Udinese goal. Pablo Garcia swung in a corner that Bruno Cirillo sent onto the post, before another of the Urguayan's deliveries was nodded over by Stelios Malezas.

Stefanos Athanasiadis screwed a right-footed shot narrowly wide of the target with the break approaching, before Giannou sent a lovely effort from the edge of the area inches off target.

In the end, they were unable to produce a goal that would give them a way back into the tie before the break.

PAOK came out after the interval with renewed vigour, however moments into second period, they were dealt a killer blow.

Miroslaw Sznaucner tugged back Floro Flores as the Italian looked to get past the Polish defender. The referee pointed to the spot and Domizzi made no mistake, putting his side into a 3-0 lead.

The third goal deflated the hosts. Diego Fabbrini forced a great save from Kresic, with Floro Flores sending the rebound into the side-netting from a tight angle.

The Greeks rallied in search of a consolation goal, and had muted appeals for a penalty of their own ignored by the officials, before Salpingidis forced a save from Handanovic from the edge of the area.

They remained vulnerable at the back as they poured bodies forward, though, with Cristian Battocchio fired wide from 18 yards after some cunning work from Floro Flores down the left.

There was to be no reward for PAOK's brave efforts, while three goals was more than enough for the Serie A outfit to set up a tie with AZ or Anderlecht.
 

Manchester United 1-2 Ajax (Agg: 3-2): Hosts progress to Round of 16 despite defeat after Chicharito opener

Red Devils progress to the last 16 of the Europa League with Atheltic Bilbao up next, despite seeing the Eredivisie side snatch victory and set up a nervy ending at Old Trafford

Manchester United are through to the last-16 of the Europa League, despite falling to a 2-1 defeat against Ajax at Old Trafford on Thursday, as they progress with an aggregate win of 3-2.

Ajax often had long periods of pressure and possession, but it was the hosts who took the lead, with Javier Hernandez producing a calm finish to open the scoring.

Aras Ozbiliz equalised for the Dutch side with a well taken half-volley and Toby Alderweireld scored the late winner with the match coming to a close, although the hosts managed to hold on.

Sir Alex Ferguson made four changes from the side that won in Amsterdam a week ago, with Rafael da Silva and Chris Smalling coming in for Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand, while in midfield, Park Ji-Sung replaced Michael Carrick in the centre.

Up front, Dimitar Berbatov replaced the ill Wayne Rooney as the Bulgarian started alongside Hernandez, with Danny Welbeck providing cover from the bench.

The visitors played a very similar team to the one that lost last week. Ricardo van Rhijn came into the side for Ismael Aissatti, while Nicolas Lodeiro started as part of the front three with Dmitry Bulykin missing out through injury.

After an energetic start from both sides, the hosts took the lead after just five minutes as Berbatov slipped through an impressive forward pass which Hernandez controlled, before skipping past the attentions of Alderweireld and finding the back of the net with confidence.

The two sides continued to knock the ball around comfortably, but every time United advanced they looked like scoring, and Hernandez very nearly returned the favour to Berbatov with 13 minutes played.

Fabio da Silva surged forward through the middle before playing an excellent pass through to Hernandez, and despite being pushed out wider than he would have liked, the Mexican slid the ball towards the far post with his Bulgarian strike-partner arriving late, but Jan Vertonghen stretched and conceded a corner.

However, Ajax were proving they weren’t just there to make up the numbers as they looked to grab a lifeline. Ozbiliz acquired possession in the United area after good work from van Rhijn and tricked his way past two defenders before shooting, but David de Gea was equal to the Armenian’s effort.

By now United were showcasing some increasingly sloppy passing, inviting pressure on to themselves, with the likes of Christian Eriksen, Lodeiro and Ozbiliz looking very dangerous for the visitors.

Following a period of Ajax pressure, the hosts went close to doubling their lead on the night. Nani played a clever disguised pass down the left channel into the penalty area for Berbatov, but the striker’s ball into the goalmouth was deflected ever so slightly out of the path of Hernandez, and Ajax soon made them pay.

The United defence failed to clear their lines properly after breaking down an attack and the ball fell kindly to Ozbiliz on the edge of the area, with the right-winger lashing a low, left-footed half-volley into De Gea’s bottom right corner.

Although Ferguson’s team ended the half with some considerable dominance over their visitors, Ajax held on to the 1-1 score at half-time after a battling 45 minutes.

The start of the second period followed a similar pattern to the first, with both sides committing plenty of players forward, but it was Ajax who continued to look the more dangerous.

First, Lodeiro went close, blasting an effort over from the centre of the penalty area following a cut-back from Eriksen, then moments later Siem De Jong’s header from a corner was denied by a brilliant save from De Gea.

Without creating an awful lot, Ajax continued to see more of the possession, troubling United with their quick passing and impressive movement, but two substitutions from Ferguson saw the hosts calm the contest down a little.

Jonny Evans took to the field in place of Tom Cleverley, while Paul Scholes replaced Ashley Young, and the midfielder’s impact was immediate as he spread the ball around as well as ever.

Minutes later, Nani was inches from getting his name on the scoresheet as the Portuguese winger cut inside from the right and let rip a thunderous effort with his left-foot, but the shot crashed off the crossbar and went behind.

With just over quarter-of-an-hour to go the hosts had another chance to put the tie beyond all doubt. Danny Welbeck, who replaced Berbatov, stormed down the left after a clever interchange with Park, but when he approached the goal, his attempted pass into the danger area was intercepted and United had to settle for a corner.

The visitors ensured the final moments would be nervy for United with Alderweireld finding the net following a free-kick conceded by Scholes, but they held on to progress, despite making the match a lot harder than they should have.

Fernando Torres left out of Spain squad for Venezuela friendly

The former Atletico Madrid and Liverpool frontman has been in disappointing form at Stamford Bridge and it has now cost him a place in the national team set-up

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has been dropped by Spain coach Vicente del Bosque for Wednesday's friendly against Venezuela at La Rosaleda.

The 27-year-old has been unable to hit top form since joining Chelsea from Liverpol in January 2011 in a reported €58.5 million deal.

He scored two goals during Spain's Euro 2012 qualifying campaign, and Del Bosque explained that the former Atletico man needs to improve his game.

"This is a break for him, no doubt, but it should serve as encouragement," Del Bosque told reporters at a press conference. "Players should not get relaxed. This is not a final list for Euro 2012."

Real Madrid defender Raul Albiol and Barcelona attacker Pedro are also among the names to miss out on the latest Spain call-up as preparations begin for the final squad list ahead of the summer tournament in Poland and Ukraine.

Barca dominate the list with eight players, followed by Madrid and Athletic Bilbao, who each have four men in the squad.

Spain have been drawn with Italy, Republic of Ireland and Croatia in the Euro 2012 group stage.

The squad in full:

Name	Club
Goalkeepers:
Iker Casillas	Real Madrid
Victor Valdes	Barcelona
Pepe Reina	Liverpool
Defenders:
Alvaro Arbeloa	Real Madrid
Sergio Ramos	Real Madrid
Carles Puyol	Barcelona
Gerard Pique	Barcelona
Andoni Iraola	Athletic Bilbao
Javi Martinez	Athletic Bilbao
Jordi Alba	Valencia
Midfielders:
Xavi	Barcelona
Andres Iniesta	Barcelona
Cesc Fabregas	Barcelona
Sergio Busquets	Barcelona
Thiago Alcantara	Barcelona
Xabi Alonso	Real Madrid
David Silva	Manchester City
Santiago Cazorla	Malaga
Jesus Navas	Sevilla
Juan Mata	Chelsea
Attackers:
Iker Muniain	Athletic Bilbao
Roberto Soldado	Valencia
Fernando Llorente	Athletic Bilbao
Alvaro Negredo	Sevilla

 

John Cena Shoot On The Rock

Best Cena promo ever? Probably...

WWE Releasing Biggest Matches in ECW History DVD

- WWEDVDNews reports that WWE will be releasing a new ECW DVD this year as Shock Entertainment, the official WWE distributor for Australia, has the set on their list of DVD's scheduled to be released later this year.


"WWE: Biggest Matches in ECW History" looks to be released in Australia on June 6th, which means it would hit other locations worldwide around the same time. It's scheduled to be released as a three-disc DVD and a two-disc Blu-ray. Here's the synopsis from Shock:


"All new 3 DVD set, collecting The 25 greatest matches in ECW History! Extreme Championship Wrestling ran from 1992 to 2001, founded in Philadelphia. Their weekly TV show ‘Hardcore TV’, ran from 1993-2000, and they also ran 21 Pay-Per-View events from 1997-2001.


ECW was known for its hardcore and irreverent style, and it’s rowdy and raucous audiences. It launched Sports Entertainment legends such as Paul Heyman, Tommy Dreamer, The Sandman, Taz, Terry Funk, Sabu, Rob Van Dam, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero, Cactus Jack, Raven and more."

"WWE Download" with Dolph Ziggler - Episode 4

Dolph Ziggler shares his hilarious insight on YouTube's finest videos. Picking apart the digital disasters from an array of tools and fools who provide countless head-spinning moments for the world to share. #WWEDownload @HEELZiggler

Brodus Clay Labeled Unsafe and Reckless

It was reported last week that Brodus Clay was removed from television due to Vince McMahon's unhappiness with the voluminous grappler's ring work. To add further detail, the WWE head believes he's unsafe and reckless in the ring; he doesn't want him competing until his ring work is brought up to par.

Eyebrows were raised backstage about McMahon pushing forth talent safety since Mark Henry and Cody Rhodes competed on this week's Raw SuperShow hurt.

Clay dismissed last week's negative report via Twitter, writing, "Don't believe the hater hype plant funk still in orbit ya dig!"

CM Punk talks to the media about the Chris Brown Twitter war

Αfter the CM Punk-Chris Brown Twitter war took over the internet on Tuesday, the WWE Champion received support from late night talk show host Conan O'Brien and made the media rounds, speaking to TMZ, Hot 97 and HLN. 

During the opening monologue of O'Brien's show "Conan," the late night funnyman weighed in on the Punk-Brown Twitter beef. 

CM Punk's first stop on Tuesday was an in-studio interview with Hot 97 morning hosts Cipha Sounds, Rosenberg and K. Foxx. During the interview, fans both of CM Punk and Chris Brown called in to voice their opinion of the situation. After K. Foxx asked the WWE Champion why he chose now to speak out about Brown, Punk replied, "He's acted as if winning a Grammy has granted him immunity and erased his mistakes, somebody needs to take Twitter away from him."

The WWE Champion next called in to TMZ's live show with Harvey Levin, where he reiterated his position on the Twitter back-and-forth with Brown and wanting to take on the Grammy winner in a match where all the proceeds would go to charity. Punk ended the night on HLN as the "Showbiz Newsmaker," telling host AJ Hammer the origin of the tweet to Chris Brown. "I was responding to my followers about who I should face at WrestleMania," Punk said. "One of my followers had mentioned Chris Brown, and I thought 'Yeah, that would be a good idea.''

Shaq Says He'll Wrestle At WrestleMania 28, USA To Air Rock/Cena Special, Alex Koslov

- Although WWE.com stated Tuesday that Shaquille O'Neal would not be competing at WrestleMania XXVIII, the 15-time NBA All-Star appeared on ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike in the Morning Wednesday stating that he would.
- The USA Network will air a program profiling the rivalry between The Rock and John Cena on March 26 at 8:00 p.m. It will air again on March 31.


- Alex Koslov, who was released by WWE earlier this month, is available for bookings and appearances through Bill Behrens at showbis@aol.com. He is currently based in Tampa, Florida but expects to move to Los Angeles, California soon.

C.M. Punk Discusses His First Time Wrestling In Milwaukee & More

WWE champion C.M. Punk was interviewed recently in Milwaukee on Kramp & Adler and discussed a number of topics leading up to last Sunday's Elimination Chamber. One of the more interesting moments was when Punk was asked about wrestling in Milwaukee for the very first time.
"I remember it well. I actually started pretty regularly. The whole C.M. Punk character -- the whole staight edge bad guy -- came from working for Carmine Despierto's Mid-American Wrestling. I wrestled once a month at Knights Of Columbus," Punk stated. "A lot of fantastic memories. If anybody is listening that went to those shows, I think they could tell you how absolutely wild and crazy and lawless it was. Because I was in a room or a building or whatever you want to call it with 400 stinking, drunk people and the stuff -- I mean -- it was insane.


"It got pretty crazy. No guardrails. ... [I never took] showers after the Knights shows, either. I'd have to drive home covered in beer," said Punk.


Also, Punk discussed how he's stopped drinking Pepsi, shaving his trademark facial hair and more.

Exclusive backstage interviews from SmackDown - "Backstage Fallout" SmackDown February 21, 2012

WWE Superstars and Divas answer your questions - "WWE Inbox" Episode 4

Watch Today's Champions League Matches LIVE!!

Olympique Marseille vs Inter

Watch Live: http://www.firstrowsports.eu/watch/109150/1/watch-olympique-marseille-vs-inter-milan.html

and...
FC Basel vs Bayern Munchen

Watch Live:  http://www.firstrowsports.eu/watch/109151/1/watch-fc-basel-vs-bayern-munchen.html

That's it folks!Enjoy today's Matches!!

Napoli's Cavani: We have beaten a major world power in Chelsea

Walter Mazzarri's men have put themselves in a great position to progress to the last eight of Europe's premier club competition on the back of a thrilling win at the San Paolo

Edinson Cavani was in good spirits after Napoli's 3-1 Champions League victory over Chelsea on Tuesday night, claiming that the Partenopei had overcome a major power in world football.


The Blues had gone into the game without a win in five games in all competitions, but the Uruguay international felt that Walter Mazzarri's men had made a real statement of intent during the last-16 first-leg clash at the San Paolo.
"Napoli have beaten a powerhouse of world football," Cavani declared on Sky Sport Italia after the game. "Now we have an additional awareness of our strength."

The forward played a key role in his side's triumph, scoring one goal before then setting Ezequiel Lavezzi up for his second, and Napoli's third.

However, the South American hitman was reluctant to accept too much praise for his performance.

"It was an extraordinary match by all [of us], not just me," Cavani argued. "We prepared to perfection and we saw the results tonight."

As for the unorthodox finish which put Napoli 2-1 up right on half-time, Cavani explained: "[Branislav] Ivanovic pushed me, the [Chelsea] defence wanted to run the ball out and then they realised that I was there. I scored with my shoulder!"

Napoli will now take a two-goal advantage into the second leg at Stamford Bridge on March 14.

Napoli's Lavezzi makes light of Maradona comparisons after Chelsea heroics

The Argentine attacker drew high praise after scoring two goals during a dynamic display against the Premier League outfit at the San Paolo.

Ezequiel Lavezzi has laughed off comparisons with Diego Maradona after inspiring Napoli to a stirring 3-1 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday night.

After seeing the Partenopei fall behind to a 28th-minute goal from Juan Mata, the Argentine hauled his side level with a lovely 25-yard curler into the bottom corner ten minutes before the break. Edinson Cavani then edged Napoli ahead right on half time before then teeing Lavezzi up for Napoli's third midway through the second half.

Lavezzi drew high praise for his performance but he was taken aback by fresh comparisons with his compatriot and Napoli legend Maradona.

"Don't call me Diego - I am 'El Pocho'," the forward told Sky Sport Italia with a wry smile on his face.

"I was expecting a victory for the team. I was confident that we would do well. It was important to win, playing a beautiful game."

Lavezzi was quick to point out that the tie is far from over, but he did admit that Napoli are now in an excellent position ahead of the second leg at Stamford Bridge.

"Qualification is not finished," he warned. "But we have a nice advantage. We can go there and look for a goal that might seal our qualification."

Napoli managed to prevail at the San Paolo in spite of the fact that coach Walter Mazzarri had been consigned to the stands for the game and Lavezzi joked afterwards: "It is better if the boss does not come back on the bench, so that we'll always win!

"No, the coach prepared us well for the game and told us that we should also help out in defence. I think that he have done that as well as we possibly could."

The eagerly-awaited second leg of this Anglo-Italian affair will take place in London on March 14.

De Sanctis: Napoli could have won by more

Keeper Morgan De Sanctis was frustrated SSC Napoli's 3-1 win against Chelsea FC was not more convincing but goalscorer Edinson Cavani said their display was "extraordinary".

Despite the euphoria surrounding SSC Napoli after the 3-1 home win against Chelsea FC in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie, goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis told UEFA.com: "It is a good result but we are not fully happy because we could have added a fourth."

Juan Mata gave Chelsea a 27th-minute lead at a packed Stadio San Paolo but Napoli responded with two goals from Ezequiel Lavezzi and one from Edinson Cavani. They could have had a bigger cushion to take to London on 14 March had Ashley Cole not cleared Christian Maggio's 80th-minute shot off the line.

"Three-nil or 4-1 would have been a perfect result," De Sanctis said. "We will travel to London with confidence but we know that, by then, players like Frank Lampard and Michael Essien could be in a better physical condition than today. However, Chelsea will certainly need to attack and will be forced to leave us openings. We will have to exploit them with the pace of our forwards."

De Sanctis also acknowledged that Chelsea had opportunities to score more than one away goal. "They are a great side," the 34-year-old continued. "It was important not to concede but I think that until Mata's goal Napoli were clearly the better side. That goal was just an incident but fortunately this team proved once again we have great character. How far can we go in the competition? For the moment we are only going to Stamford Bridge to give our best and try to reach the quarter-finals."

That Napoli have every chance of doing so is down to the two goalscorers. De Sanctis added: "'Il Pocho' [Lavezzi] knows he has to take that final step and become a player who can score 15 or 20 goals a season, but he is training hard every day to become more clinical in front of goal. We can count on him and we count on Edinson Cavani, on Marek Hamšík and Goran Pandev because we know that our attackers can take us a long way."

Chelsea have learned that the hard way, yet Lavezzi also considers the tie far from over. "Chelsea are very strong and it's not over yet but we have a good advantage now I have to admit," explained the 26-year-old Argentinian international, who had never scored in the UEFA Champions League before. "Now we have to go there and have another great match, try to score some goals and close the tie."

Meanwhile, it was a fifth goal in seven UEFA Champions League outings for Cavani, who said: "The whole team played an extraordinary game. When we entered the dressing room afterwards we realised we had just beaten one of the powerhouses of Europe. We are all happy and proud."

WWE Elimination Chamber 2012 Highlights

Updated WWE WrestleMania 28 Card

John Cena vs. The Rock

WWE Title Match 
Chris Jericho vs. CM Punk

World Heavyweight Title Match
Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan

Hell in a Cell
Triple H vs. The Undertaker

2012: WWE The Undertaker 40th Official Theme "The Memory Remains" by Metallica

WWE Raw 2/20/12 Results

 Tonight's WWE RAW Supershow opens up with a look back at the John Cena and Kane feud including Cena's kiss with Eve Torres last week. Eve is backstage talking about the weather with The Bella Twins. They ask how Zack Ryder is. She laughs when they say he's a good guy. She thinks they were telling a joke. Eve says she isn't friends with Ryder, he just thought they were friends. Eve says she just used Ryder and everyone is talking about her now. She says Ryder didn't even get to first base and he's just a child. Eve says that's what people do - use each other. She says she has the big fish hooked now and like she used Ryder, she's going to use Cena. Eve has a plan for the Bellas to film her walking into Cena's locker room. She turns around and there Cena is.


Cena just looks disappointed and walks off as Eve panics. We go to the normal RAW opening video.


- We're live from the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota as Michael Cole welcomes us to RAW.


- We go right to the ring and out comes John Cena.


Before Cena can speak, Eve Torres comes down the ramp. She just wants a minute to explain. Eve says everything was taken out of context. Eve keeps asking for a minute to explain. Cena says Eve has been sipping the skank juice and plans to use her assets to further her career. Eve says they are friends. Cena says he lost a very good friend in Zack Ryder because of her. Eve says she was just joking around with the Bellas. Cena says The Rock and Eve are perfect for each other - they're both scandalous bitches. Eve drops to her knees and starts crying.


Cena goes to try and help her up. Eve attacks him with a hug and tries to kiss him as she's still crying. Cena gets away from her and says he'd like to stay disease-free. Eve starts crying in the ring as officials come in and check on her. After Eve cries for a few minutes, officials finally help her to the back as the crowd boos her.


- They air another Undertaker vignette before going back to commercial.


Sheamus vs. Mark Henry


We go to the ring and out comes Sheamus. His opponent Mark Henry is out next. The storyline is that John Laurinaitis has let Henry come back to work after Teddy Long suspended him.


The bell rings and they go to the corner. Henry with right hands and a headbutt. Sheamus fights out of the corner but Henry takes back control. Sheamus ducks a clothesline and takes out Henry's knee. Henry runs into a boot in the corner. Sheamus goes to the top for the big shoulder block but Henry kicks out at 2.


Henry turns things around. They go at it and the end comes when Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick for the win.


Winner: Sheamus


- Backstage segment with John Laurinaitis and David Otunga. Teddy Long comes walking in and Laurinaitis welcomes him, tells him to make himself at home. Teddy says he's here on business. Teddy agrees, one of them should be running both brands. Teddy wants to see what the fans in the arena think. Laurinaitis announces a 10-man battle royal with the winner facing CM Punk at WrestleMania 28. Otunga is also put in a match against anyone Teddy chooses tonight. Teddy disses Otunga's walk before leaving.


- Still to come tonight, The Undertaker. Back to commercial.


Kofi Kingston and R-Truth vs. Epico and Primo


We go to the ring and out comes R-Truth followed by his partner Kofi Kingston. Out next comes the WWE Tag Team Champions Epico and Primo with Rosa Mendes.


Truth starts things out with Epico and they go at it. Primo gets a tag and comes in with right hands on Truth. More offense by Primo and a 2 count. Truth fights back but Primo stops him from tagging and knocks Kofi off the apron. Truth finally tags in Kofi, who springboards in with offense. Kofi unloads on Primo and hits a big dropkick followed by a big chop. Kofi hits the Boom Drop on Primo but gets into an argument with Rosa. Epico charges and drops Kofi over the ropes. Truth takes out Epico. Kofi blocks the Backstabber from Primo and hits Trouble in Paradise for the non-title win.


Winners: Kofi Kingston and R-Truth


- Still to come tonight, the big battle royal and another Hall of Fame announcement. Back to commercial.


- We get a video announcing former WCW World Champion Ron Simmons into the 2012 Hall of Fame class.


- Josh Mathews is backstage with Chris Jericho. Jericho says he wasn't eliminated last night. He took a cheap shot from CM Punk and then woke up in the trainers room. Jericho wonders what kind of champion Punk is. Jericho says tonight is the end of the world as we know it and everyone in the battle royal will realize it. Back to commercial.


David Otunga vs. Ezekiel Jackson


Back from the break and out comes David Otunga with John Laurinaitis. Ezekiel Jackson and Teddy Long are out next. The bell rings and Zeke gets in the most offense early on. Zeke beats Otunga down in the corner but Otunga clotheslines him for a 2 count. Otunga goes to a headlock now.


Zeke comes back and splashes Otunga twice in the corner. Zeke goes for another and Otunga moves. Otunga hits his finisher on Zeke out of nowhere for the win.


Winner: David Otunga


- We get a look back at last week where Shawn Michaels and Triple H had their confrontation in the ring.


- Back from the break and out comes The Undertaker. Taker says he has relived the fight with Triple H every day in his head. Taker says it has been a living hell - not a physical hell but a hell of uncertainty. Taker says he can no longer bear this uncertainty. Taker didn't expect Triple H to turn down his challenge.


Taker says Triple H missed the point - the choice was not his to make. Taker says this has to end. They are at the end of a wrestling era. Taker says they are the last of their kind. Taker says the suits and ties and everything are just layers to cover up who Triple H is. Taker says they have to end the uncertainty. He says Triple H cannot lie to him. Taker says Triple H will come out, look him in the eyes. Taker says it's far bigger than he and Triple H. He says it is the Apocalypse. Triple H's music hits and out he comes.


Triple H talks but Taker tells him to shut up. Taker says Triple H's excuses are pitiful. Triple H says he's right, it is the end of an era but their fate isn't to end it, it's to ensure that it carries on. Triple H says his fate is to see that WWE exists in the future and Taker's fate is to be a leader and carry the torch for the next generation. Triple H says he won't be the one to extinguish that flame because it's bad for business. Taker asks if it's bad for business if he's gone or if Triple H will be gone. Triple H says it's just plain bad for business.


Triple H says he has never been so certain of anything in his life. Triple H says deep down, Taker is certain of it also. He says Taker isn't asking for redemption, salvation or a shot at vengeance. He's asking for an end. Triple H says he has to finish Taker to beat him and deep inside, that's what Taker really wants - to be finished. Triple H says he's not going to be the one to do it. Triple H goes to leave and Taker says he will see a coward when he looks in the mirror. Triple H stops and comes back in the ring. He gets in Taker's face and says he's tired of the coward stuff. Triple H calms down and says he sees what Taker's trying to do and it won't work. Triple H says his answer is still no and leaves the ring.


Taker says he just figured it out. He says Triple H knows he can't do what his buddy Shawn Michaels couldn't do because Triple H knows Shawn was always the better one. Triple H has stopped on the ramp with his back turned listening. He takes off his jacket now and his tie. Triple H heads back to the ring and they stare each other down. Triple H says this has nothing to do with Shawn and who's better. He says Shawn couldn't get the job done and he knows he can. Triple H says he can finish the job and Taker knows it. The crowd chants "prove it." Triple H says the layers are gone - he's standing before Taker looking him in the eye and is more certain than ever before. Triple H accepts the challenge for WrestleMania 28. Triple H says if they do this, they go all the way. Triple H will face him under one condition - Hell in a Cell. Taker walks off and Triple H watches him head up the ramp as different music plays. Back to commercial.


Daniel Bryan vs. Santino Marella


Back from the break and World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan comes out and brags about winning at Elimination Chamber and bring a role model. His opponent Santino Marella is out next.


Santino gets in all his moves early on and goes for the Cobra but Bryan drops ihm. Santino rolls Bryan up for 2 count. Bryan breaks out and applies the LaBell Lock to make Santino tap out for the quick win.


Winner: Daniel Bryan


Aksana and Kelly Kelly vs. The Bella Twins


Back form the break and the Divas are waiting in the ring. Kelly and Aksana do some double teaming on one of the Bellas early on. Bella comes back and takes control of Aksana. Aksana fights back with kicks and a scoop slam. Aksana drops a bad elbow drop for a 2 count. Kelly gets involved as does the other Bella for the switch and Aksana gets pinned.


Winners: The Bella Twins


- Still to come tonight, the #1 contender's battle royal and John Cena will address the WWE Universe. Back to commercial.


- Back from the break and John Cena is in the ring. Cena says it's about to get hot in here. He's here to talk about WrestleMania and The Rock. Cena runs down The Rock and says pretty much the same stuff he's said about The Rock never being here. Cena says Rock just came back so he could promote Fast 5 and launch his Twitter account. Cena says he's fighting for everyone in the back and everyone who wants to be a professional wrestler. Cena talks about April 9th when he's back on RAW and The Rock is back on a movie set. Cena says Rock will have to kill him to beat him. Cena declares that he will defeat The Rock at WrestleMania 28 and tells The Rock he will see him next week.


#1 Contender's Battle Royal: Big Show, Cody Rhodes, R-Truth, Wade Barrett, The Great Khali, The Miz, Kofi Kingston, Santino Marella, Chris Jericho, Dolph Ziggler


We go to the ring and out comes WWE Champion CM Punk for commentary. Out comes Big Show, WWE Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, R-Truth, Wade Barrett, The Great Khali, The Miz, Kofi Kingston, Santino Marella, Chris Jericho and Dolph Ziggler. The bell rings and everyone goes at it. Khali and Show in the corner while Cody stomps on Santino. Jericho and Ziggler trade shots.


Everyone teams up together and eliminates The Great Khali as we go back to commercial.


Back from the break and Cody is working on Santino while Show works on Truth. Miz works on Kofi on the apron but Kofi hangs on. Jericho works on eliminating Ziggler but he hangs on. Barrett and Cody team up to try and eliminate Big Show but they can't. Show fights Jericho, Cody and Barrett off. He stands on Ziggler's back now. Kofi tosses Miz over but he hangs on. Kofi and Truth double dropkick Miz and he is eliminated.


Show grabs Truth and Kofi for a double chokeslam. Jericho runs over and hits a Codebreaker on Show. Ziggler with the Zig Zag on Jericho. Cody with Cross Rhodes on Ziggler. Barrett takes out Cody with a big sideslam. Barrett goes to Wasteland Santino over the top but Santino counters and eliminates him. Santino eliminates Truth next but Ziggler takes him down. Show grabs Ziggler and throws him over the top. Ziggler is eliminated and smacks his jaw hard on the announcers table. Show fights off everyone in the ring now. Kofi goes at it with Jericho. Kofi goes to the top and Jericho shoves him off to the floor. Kofi is eliminated. It's down to Show, Jericho, Santino and Cody now.


Officials are out checking on Wade Barrett who may be legitimately hurt and a stretcher is brought out. Cody hits the Beautiful Disaster on Show. Jericho with the Lionsault on Show and Cody gets a shot in. Jericho grabs Santino but he hangs on to avoid elimination. Santino pulls out the Cobra and decks Jericho with it. Cody runs over and eliminates Santino. Cody and Jericho work on Show now. They try for a double suplex but he counters and suplexes them both at once. Show grabs Cody and eliminates him. Show drops Jericho with a big chop to the chest. Cody grabs Show's leg. Show grabs Cody from the floor and turns around to grab Jericho. He shoves Cody down. Show grabs Jericho but Jericho fights ihm. Show puts Jericho over the top but he hangs on. Cody runs over and pulls Show down, eliminating him.


Winner and New #1 Contender: Chris Jericho


- Chris Jericho is going to WrestleMania to face Punk for the WWE Title. Punk enters the ring with the WWE Title and they have a staredown to end the show.

JR Gives His Chamber Thoughts, Talks Chris Brown / CM Punk

Jim Ross is back with his latest blog, which once again is a must read. Here are some highlights:
Phoenix vs. Snuka at the PPV: "Thought the Beth Phoenix vs. Tamina Snuka bout was one of the better Diva bouts that I've seen in a while. Beth is positioned well as WWE Divas Champion while no Diva that I can recall has improved more rapidly than Tamina. We get lots of emails regarding a potential Beth vs. Kharma bout. I hope that one happens."


Santino Marella's performance in the Chamber: "Santino Marella seemed to be the standout at the end of the Smackdown Elimination Chamber match while watching from my La-Z-Boy. Santino is entertaining and has been around long enough that he has developed a following as evidenced by the reaction that he received from the live audience in Milwaukee. I'll be anxious to see how Santino's role on the PPV will be addressed on Smackdown.


"I still vividly remember calling Santino's Intercontinental Title victory a few years ago in Milan, Italy that I promptly dubbed the 'Milan Miracle.' The post match celebration at the hotel was also memorable and it was a 'miracle' that I made my plane to London."


If WWE would make a match between CM Punk and Chris Brown: "I'd suggest that would be a classic, Gorilla Monsoon reply of 'HIGHLY UNLIKELY.' Chris Brown couldn't be melted and poured on the WWE Champion plus I've never heard of Brown physically engaging any male."

Wade Barrett Injured On Tonight's Episode Of RAW

Wade Barrett suffered an injury during tonight's 10-man battle royal on RAW. Barrett apparently injured his left arm while catching Dolph Ziggler outside of the ring, who was thrown over the top by the Big Show.
Barrett immediately grabbed his arm and yelled "F--k" a couple of times, the second of which was bleeped on the air. Medics put his arm in an air cast and walked him to the back.
Stay tuned for more updates