Hogan Turns Down NBC/WWE/Iraq Offer, McMahon’s ‘Ban’, New Talent, More

Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter (F4WOnline.com)

» WWE has signed Michael Hutter to a developmental contract. He was in Ohio Valley Wrestling sometime last year, but had to return to his home in Ohio after tearing his ACL. Hutter will be moving to Florida. You can see his photo at http://flickr.com/photos/aaronsalo/2910836314/, which should probably explain this unknown’s signing.

» Before Vince McMahon’s “ban” on anyone associated with the Hogan Celebrity Championship Wrestling show, THQ had cover art designed for the “Legends of WrestleMania” game that featured Hulk Hogan, Jimmy Hart, Steve Austin, The Rock and Bobby Heenan.

» Someone in NBC (possibly Dick Ebersol) contacted Hulk Hogan about doing the WWE Tribute to the Troops show. The feeling at NBC was that the last primetime show, which was the Saturday Night’s Main Event with Jenny McCarthy, did so poorly (1.37 broadcast rating) that they need Hogan. Hogan turned down the trip, saying that he didn’t want to be away from Nick this soon after Nick was released from prison. Also, if he did go on the trip, Nick would not be able to travel on the trip since he’s not allowed to leave the country.

Backstage Fight…….