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Movie
Box Office (North America)
September
7, 2025
1.
The Conjuring: Last Rites - $83m
2. Hamilton - $10m
3. Weapons - $5.4m
4. Freakier Friday - $3.8m
5. Caught Stealing - $3.2m
6. The Roses - $2.8m
7. The Fantastic Four: First Steps - $2.8m
8. The Bad Guys 2 - $2.5m
9. Light of the World - $2.4m
10. Superman - $1m
Markets,
Crypto and Culture
August
13, 2025
Sydney,
Australia
Markets
ASX
futures up 20 points/0.2% to 8858
Australian
dollar -0.1% to 65.27 US cents
Wall
Street:
S&P 500 +1.1%
Dow Jones +1.1%
Nasdaq +1.4%
Europe:
Stoxx 50 +0.1%
FTSE +0.2%
DAX -0.2%
CAC +0.7%
Bitcoin
+1% to $US120,008
Gold
+0.2% to $US3348.26 per ounce
US
oil -1.3% to $US63.11 a barrel
Brent
crude oil -0.8% to $US66.12 a barrel
Iron
ore +0.9% to $US104.40 per ton
10-year
yield:
US 4.29%
Australia 4.24%
Germany 2.74%
News
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
Bitcoin
$119,583.76 USD +0.87%
Ethereum $4,564.07 USD +8.51%
Tether $0.9993 USD -0.03%
XRP $3.26 USD +4.27%
BNB $832.17 USD +4.08%
News
Summer
Break for the Crypto Market
Market
Overview
The
cryptocurrency market began August with a relatively
narrow range of $3.6-3.8 trillion, ending Wednesday
at $3.72 trillion. The support received in the area
of previous peaks set in December and January suggests
that this is a temporary pause to lock in profits
and gain liquidity before a new surge. At the same
time, however, such sluggishness is turning away the
most active traders, who are used to seeing multiple
rallies. Now they have moved on to very small projects.
On
Tuesday, Bitcoin was again approaching its 50-day
moving average. Such frequent testing of the medium-term
trend signal line indicates accumulated fatigue in
the first cryptocurrency. For comparison, the crypto
market's total capitalisation is still moving significantly
above its 50-day average, which is currently around
$3.57 trillion.
News
Background
Institutional
investors are actively buying up Ethereum, while retail
traders remain on the sidelines. SharpLink bought
83,561 ETH ($264.5 million) last week at an average
price of $3,634. The company's reserves amount to
almost 522,000 ETH (~$1.9 billion). However, Bitmine
Immersion Tech remains the leader, with 833 coins
worth over $3 billion. A total of 64 corporations
now own 2.96 million ETH ($10.81 billion) or 2.45%
of the total Ethereum supply.
Large
companies continue to buy Bitcoin, adding 26,700 BTC
to their reserves in July. Strategy bought 21,021
BTC for $2.46 billion last week. According to BitcoinTreasuries,
public and private companies now hold 1.35 million
BTC ($155 billion) on their balance sheets —
more than 6% of the total digital gold supply.
US
regulators have proposed new rules for the crypto
industry. The CFTC has launched an initiative to legalise
spot trading of cryptocurrencies on registered exchanges,
and the SEC has updated its guidance on stablecoin
accounting rules.
USDe
from Ethena Labs has become the third-largest stablecoin.
Since mid-July, its capitalisation has grown by 75%
to $9.5 billion. Demand for the asset may have been
spurred by high yields ranging from 10% to 19% per
annum. The total capitalisation of all stablecoins
has been growing for the seventh month in a row and
is approaching $275 billion. (FxPro)
News
S&P500’s
buy-the-dip sentiment helped Bitcoin
The
sell-off of Bitcoin following Congress's passage of
a law regulating the circulation of stablecoins and
the retreat of US stock indices from record highs
allowed Bitcoin bears to push prices below the lower
boundary of the $116k—$120k consolidation range.
When it looked like a severe correction was coming,
US stocks stepped in again. Investors bought up the
S&P 500 dip, and Bitcoin immediately bounced back.
Changes
in global risk appetite continue to be the main driver
of cryptocurrency prices. July saw a series of record
highs for the S&P 500, making it a successful
month for Bitcoin. Meanwhile, Bitcoin-focused ETFs
attracted $6 billion, the third-best result in the
history of specialised exchange-traded funds. Ether
ETFs were not far behind, with a record inflow of
$5.4 billion.
The
situation changed dramatically at the turn of July
and August. Interest in digital assets began to cool.
Coinbase's Bitcoin premium fell into the red for the
first time since May, indicating a decline in demand
from US investors. Open interest in Bitcoin and Ether
futures contracts fell by 13% and 21%, respectively,
compared to Bitcoin's record high. According to Coinglass,
on the last day of July, $800 million in long positions
across all cryptocurrencies were liquidated.
Speculators
doubt the rally's continuation, while crypto treasuries
are buying Bitcoin under any conditions. On pullbacks
or at market prices, ‘Strategy’ acquired
more than 21,000 coins worth $2.46 billion during
the week of July 28th to August 3rd. This is the third-largest
cryptocurrency purchase by Michael Saylor's company
since records began. The average price is the second
highest in history. As a result, Strategy's reserves
have grown to more than $71 billion.
The
future dynamics of Bitcoin will depend on the fate
of US stock indices and capital flows into ETFs. If
the S&P 500's successes are temporary, Bitcoin
will be forced to undergo a deep correction. If its
quotes remain below the middle of the previous consolidation
range of $116k—$120k, the bears are in control.
News
Bitcoin
tests support at 50-day MA
Market
Picture
The
crypto market rolled back at the end of last week
following a reduction in risk appetite in the financial
markets. However, on Sunday, sentiment changed with
the return of active buyers near the total capitalisation
of $3.60 trillion. At the time of writing, the market
is at $3.73 trillion (+3.6%). Less than 10% of the
top 100 coins show gains over 7 days, among which
the largest are TRON (+2.2%) and TON (+4.5%).
The
crypto market sentiment index fell to 53 by Sunday
morning, a six-week low, but recovered to 64 on Monday,
reflecting a resurgence of bullish sentiment. However,
another impressive upward move will be needed to confirm
a local victory for the bulls.
On
Saturday and Sunday, Bitcoin received support from
buyers on declines below $112K near the 50-day moving
average - the fourth touch of this curve since April.
On the “buy the dip” sentiment, the first
cryptocurrency recovered to $115K on Monday morning.
The rebound from support is a bullish signal for the
next couple of days, but the fact that it has been
tested frequently raises concerns for the medium term.
News Background
According
to SoSoValue, net outflows from spot Bitcoin ETFs
in the US amounted to $812.3 million on August 1,
the highest since February 25. As a result, the weekly
outflow from BTC ETFs amounted to $643 million, a
record high for the past 16 weeks.
The
net outflow from spot Ethereum ETFs in the US on Friday
amounted to $152.3 million. However, inflows in the
previous days of the week managed to keep the indicator
in positive territory (+$154.3 million). The positive
trend has continued for 12 consecutive weeks.
Analyst
Ali Martinez says that over the past two days, Bitcoin
whales have bought 30,000 BTC. According to Santiment,
over the past four months, whales with balances ranging
from 10 to 10,000 BTC have accumulated 0.9% of the
total coin supply.
According
to The Block, trading volume on centralised crypto
exchanges exceeded $1.7 trillion in July (the highest
since February 2025), and trading volume on decentralised
exchanges (DEX) also reached its highest level since
January.
Galaxy
Digital warned of risks in the public company sector,
which accumulates cryptocurrencies by issuing shares.
The model creates systemic vulnerability and could
lead to a cascade collapse.
US
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins announced Project Crypto.
The project’s key objective is to establish clear
rules for cryptocurrencies and turn the US into the
“world’s crypto capital.” (FxPro)
News
Flashback
Three
blows to oil in three days
Oil
has been under triple pressure since the end of last
week, losing more than 7% per barrel of WTI since
31 July, reaching the important psychological level
of $65.
The
latest wave of oil sell-offs began with the realisation
that US trade tariffs from August will be higher than
initially expected, as higher tariffs are associated
with an economic slowdown and weaker demand for energy.
Fears of an economic slowdown intensified after the
release of unexpectedly weak US employment data on
Friday. Over the weekend, concerns were heightened
by OPEC+'s increase in production quotas, which was
reflected in the markets on Monday.
After
its latest meeting, OPEC+ announced that it would
increase production quotas for eight countries by
547,000 barrels per day starting in September.
Considering
the quota increases since April, the entire voluntarily
reduced volume of 2.2 million barrels per day will
return to the market. This is a rather bold decision,
given the growing fear that the global economy is
slowing down.
Some
link such steps by the cartel to the risks of supply
disruptions due to potential sanctions from the US
and the EU. In our opinion, it is also worth considering
the cartel's intention to regain its market share
from the US in this way.
Oil
producers in the US are very sensitive to price, sharply
cutting investment when prices fall. At the beginning
of April, there were 489 oil rigs in operation, but
according to data published on Friday, this number
has fallen to 410. In the long term, a gradual increase
in production efficiency should be considered, but
at intervals of six months, it is unlikely that there
will be any sharp progress. Therefore, we can expect
some US production reduction and a gradual recovery
in the share of traditional oil producers such as
Saudi Arabia, Russia and the UAE.
The
price of WTI crude oil, which rose to close to $70
at its peak last week, has returned to the lower end
of the range since early June at $65. Closing the
day below 66 will mark a failure below the 200- and
50-day moving averages, increasing the potential for
further declines.
If
OPEC+ really plans to increase its share of the oil
market, it may not oppose further price declines.
The intensification of negative trends in the global
and US economies could bring the price back to this
year's lows of $55 by the end of September and to
the lower end of the downward corridor of $50 by the
end of the year. However, further trends will depend
heavily on the reaction of monetary authorities and
oil producers. (FxPro)
News
Flashback
July
29, 2025
Ethereum
continues attempt to climb above $4,000
Market
Picture
The
crypto market lost 1%, falling back to a capitalisation
of $3.9 trillion. This was a natural pullback against
the backdrop of the dollar's impressive strengthening
the day before. However, on Tuesday, the bulls were
back in charge, bringing the market back to a level
above Monday's opening but not yet reaching its peak.
Bitcoin
is trading near $118.7K, unable to break through the
resistance at $120K. This indecision to break out
of the range is likely to continue until the market
sees the Fed's key rate decision on Wednesday evening.
Ethereum
rose to $3,930 at the end of the day, fell back to
$3,700 on Monday, where it found interest from new
buyers and rose to $3,830 at the time of writing.
The last seven days have seen a fairly sharp upward
trend, and if this trend continues, the price will
rise above 4,000 by the end of this week.
News
Background
According
to CoinShares, global investment inflows into crypto
funds last week amounted to $1.908 billion. Investments
in Ethereum increased by $1.595 billion, Solana by
a significant $312 million, XRP by $190 million, and
Sui by $8 million. Investments in Bitcoin decreased
by $175 million.
Japan's
Metaplanet announced the acquisition of 780 BTC ($92.5
million) at an average price of $118,600. The company's
total reserves now amount to 17,132 BTC, worth over
$2 billion.
According
to Blockware, Bitcoin will no longer show ‘parabolic’
rallies or ‘devastating’ bear cycles, as
institutional investors have changed the market dynamics
and reduced volatility.
According
to Strategic ETH Reserve, the volume of the second
cryptocurrency on the balance sheets of public companies
has reached 2.32 million ETH (~$9.11 billion) —
1.92% of the total Ethereum supply. Bitmine Immersion
Tech, associated with Fundstrat founder Tom Lee, pursues
the most aggressive strategy. The company has ~566,800
ETH ($2.23 billion) on its balance sheet.
BNB,
the fifth-largest cryptocurrency by capitalisation,
updated its historical high above $860 on Monday.
Against this background, Binance founder Changpeng
Zhao's estimated fortune exceeded $76 billion. According
to Forbes, Zhao owns 64% of the BNB supply —
about 89.1 million tokens. (FxPro)
News
Pop
Culture News
Dream
Matches: Fantasy Booking/Sports; Media Man Group Dream
Match Series
Million
Dollar Man vs IRS
Michael Wall Street vs Billionaire Ted
Mr X vs Mr BTC
Mr Green vs Mr Cash
VKM vs Easy E
Vinnie Vegas vs Mr Corbin
Mr Corp Merch vs Mr Freelance
Masked Superstar vs John McAfee
Sid Justice vs Mr Blood Diamond
Mr Bluey Chipper vs Street Fighter - King Of The Streets
Stipulation
Mr Dotcom vs Mr Wiki
Mr Gold vs Mr Green - Money In The Bank Ladder Match
Khan vs Khan - Winner Take All Match
Mr Wolff vs The Cleaner
Mr News vs Mr Vice - U.S Market Footprint Stipulation
Mr Paramount vs Mr Netflix
Mr ESPN vs Mr Fox
Mr Kross vs Mr H
News
Newsfeed
Entertainment
News
Business
News
News
Streaming
TV
Streaming
Entertainment
Streaming
News
James
Bond: News
The
Matrix
Flashback
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
Bitcoin
$107,414.36 USD-0.25%
Ethereum $2,424.39 USD -0.60%
Tether $1.00 USD -0.04%
XRP $2.12 USD -3.32%
BNB $644.25 USD -0.61%
Solana $141.41 USD -2.13%
USD Coin $1.00 USD +0.02%
Dogecoin $0.161 USD -3.01%
TRON $0.2711 USD -0.80%
Cardano $0.557 USD -2.59%
Wrapped Bitcoin $107,341.94 USD -0.25%
News
Bitcoin
News
Price
and Market Trends: Bitcoin is trading around $95,000-$97,000,
with recent volatility after hitting $100,000 in December
2024. Analysts predict a potential rally to $120,000
by Q3 2025, driven by institutional adoption and ETF
inflows, though short-term corrections are expected
due to profit-taking.
Mining
Developments: Bitcoin’s hashrate dropped 15%
in mid-June due to heatwaves spiking energy costs,
leading to a 9% mining difficulty reduction, the largest
since 2021. U.S. miners now control 31.6% of global
hashrate, up 50% since April 2024. Chinese manufacturers
are shifting production to the U.S. to bypass tariffs
and sanctions.
Regulatory
Updates: Norway’s planned ban on new crypto mining
data centers starts autumn 2025 to prioritize energy
allocation. France scrapped a study on using surplus
energy for mining, citing climate goals. U.S. tax
policies remain a hurdle, taxing mined coins immediately,
pressuring miners to sell.
Institutional
and ETF Growth: BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF (IBIT)
saw $1 billion in inflows last week, pushing global
Bitcoin ETF AUM to $110 billion. Institutional custody
solutions, like Fidelity’s, are expanding, signaling
mainstream adoption.
Technological
Shifts: Bitcoin.?, a greener, quantum-resistant fork,
is gaining attention as an alternative to Bitcoin’s
energy-intensive mining, which emits 65 megatonnes
of carbon yearly. Miners like MARA are integrating
renewables, with MARA acquiring a Texas wind farm.
X
Sentiment: Posts highlight Bitcoin’s 93% mined
supply, fueling scarcity-driven bullishness. However,
debates persist over energy consumption and regulatory
risks. Some users speculate on Bitcoin’s role
in a potential BRICS-backed currency shift, though
unconfirmed.
Cryptocurrency
News
The
crypto market is on the verge of previous extremes
Market
Picture
The
crypto market cap increased by another 1% to $3.31
trillion, reaching the threshold of increased volatility.
Just above that, in the $3.40–3.55 trillion range,
is a turning point, which has activated sellers and
prevented the market from consolidating higher.
The
cryptocurrency sentiment index is at 74, just 1 point
below the ‘extreme greed’ zone and in the
range of the highs of the second half of May. At that
time, the market capitalisation was at approximately
the same level.
Since
the end of Wednesday, Bitcoin has been testing the
$108K mark, but it will sell off when it touches this
level. Over the past couple of days, we have seen
a smooth but steady intraday uptrend, accompanied
by heavy buying from medium—and long-term investors.
We see this as a sign of buying by professional market
participants and link it to strengthening stocks,
which increases the likelihood of reaching $110K or
even $112K as early as this week.
News
Background
Inflows
into Bitcoin ETFs continue to influence the price
of the first cryptocurrency, while companies' purchases
for their Bitcoin reserves have virtually no impact,
according to K33. Experts warn of likely high volatility
in the crypto market due to Trump's upcoming budget
bill and the 9 July tariff deadline.
According
to The Block, the Bitcoin dominance index, which reflects
its market share compared to other crypto assets,
rose to 62% after falling to 59% in May. This raises
questions about the onset of the altcoin season.
Fed
Chair Jerome Powell said the US needs a regulatory
framework for stablecoins. The GENIUS Act, passed
by the Senate last week, is awaiting consideration
in the House of Representatives.
Barclays,
one of the UK's largest banks, has banned its customers
from buying cryptocurrency with Barclaycard credit
cards. The bank said that falling cryptocurrency prices
could lead to debts that customers would be unable
to repay.
Tether
CEO Paolo Ardoino said the company could become the
largest Bitcoin miner by the end of 2025. According
to him, the company's goal is not commercial gain
but protecting its assets. The company owns more than
100,000 BTC and wants to participate in securing the
network to protect these investments. (FxPro)
News
Blockchain
News
Institutional
Adoption: Franklin Templeton’s CEO, Jenny Johnson,
emphasized blockchain’s compelling advantages,
predicting a rapid shift to digital asset technology
in traditional finance. The firm launched a Bitcoin
and Ether ETF and expanded its tokenized US government
money market fund to Solana and Base blockchains.
Stablecoin
Developments: The US Senate passed a stablecoin bill,
establishing a regulatory framework for the first
time, signaling a milestone for the crypto sector.
Wyoming’s Stable Token Commission selected Aptos
and Sei for its state-backed stablecoin pilot, WYST,
pegged to the USD.
Corporate
Investments: The Blockchain Group, a Paris-listed
firm, acquired 182 BTC for $20M, bringing its total
holdings to 1,653 BTC, valued at over $170M, with
a reported 1,173% BTC yield in 2025. Everything Blockchain
Inc. committed $10M to a multi-token crypto treasury,
including SOL, XRP, SUI, TAO, and HYPE, aiming for
$1M in annual staking rewards.
Regulatory
Moves: Vietnam legalized crypto under a new digital
technology law, aiming to position itself as a global
tech leader. Meanwhile, Norway plans a temporary ban
on new crypto mining data centers starting August
2025 to curb energy use.
Innovations
and Partnerships: Coinbase introduced a stablecoin
payment infrastructure for Shopify merchants to accept
USDC. Project Eleven raised $6M to protect the Bitcoin
blockchain from quantum computing threats with a quantum-safe
cryptographic registry. Kaia joined the Japan Blockchain
Association as the first Layer 1 blockchain, focusing
on adoption via mini DApps on LINE.
Security
and Fraud: Hackers, possibly linked to Israel, drained
$90M from Iran’s largest crypto exchange, Nobitex,
with funds transferred to addresses criticizing Iran’s
Revolutionary Guard. The US DOJ filed a $225.3M civil
forfeiture complaint against a blockchain-based money
laundering network tied to crypto investment fraud.
Market
and IPO Activity: Plasma, a stablecoin-focused blockchain,
raised $500M in a five-minute ICO, with 10 wallets
securing 40% of tokens. MEXC’s COO highlighted
a surge in crypto IPOs, with firms like Circle and
Gemini capitalizing on regulatory clarity.
Gaming
and Analytics: PENGU Game launched on the TON blockchain
as part of Pudgy Penguins’ gaming strategy. Bubblemaps
V2 also launched on TON, enhancing real-time token
activity tracking.
These
updates reflect blockchain’s growing integration
into finance, regulatory progress, and ongoing challenges
like security and energy concerns. (Grok)
News
Criminal
use of stablecoins continues to rise: report
Most
illegal activity happening on cryptocurrency ledgers
now involves the tokens known as stablecoins, according
to a report released on Thursday (Friday AEST) by
an intergovernmental body that develops policies to
protect the global financial system against money
laundering and terrorist financing. The findings in
the new report from the Financial Action Task Force
land just as US lawmakers and businesses are pushing
for the wider distribution of stablecoins, crypto
tokens that are pegged to the US dollar or some other
national currency. The task force, which brings together
officials from most of the biggest countries in the
world, found that a wide array of illicit actors —
including terrorists, drug traffickers and North Korean
hackers — have stepped up their use of stablecoins
since the group’s last report on digital assets
in 2024.The so-called “Genius Act” that
was recently passed by the US Senate aims to normalise
stablecoins by bringing them under a more standardised
and rigorous regulatory regime than they have faced
until now. This has led numerous companies to push
forward with initiatives that would give consumers
access to stablecoins and knit them into the traditional
financial industry. The issuer of the USDC token,
Circle Internet Group, went public in early June and
its share price has risen more than sixfold since
then. A company tied to President Donald Trump’s
family, World Liberty Financial, has released its
own stablecoin project.
Combat
Sports News
X
Delivers KO News For Fight Fans And Media On Deadlines
Worldwide: Media Man Group
June
20, 2025
News
UFC
Updates: The UFC 317 fight card featuring Ilia Topuria
vs. Charles Oliveira has been finalized with two new
bouts added, as reported on X. Meanwhile, Curtis Blaydes
expressed frustration over his upcoming UFC Baku fight
against newcomer Rizvan Kuniev, stating it doesn’t
advance his career. UFC veteran Paul Craig mentioned
he’d consider retirement if not re-signed after
fulfilling his contract.
PFL
World Tournament: Jena Bishop showcased her BJJ skills,
securing a tap-out victory over Ekaterina Shakalova
at the 2025 PFL World Tournament 6, highlighting the
growing prominence of grappling in MMA.
Vince
McMahon’s Combat Sports Venture: Former WWE CEO
Vince McMahon reportedly explored acquiring a controlling
stake in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC)
through his new investment firm, 14TH & I, but
discussions with BKFC founder David Feldman fell through.
Combate
Female Event: Combate Global hosted an all-women’s
MMA event, “Combate Female,” on June 19,
2025, streamed live on YouTube. The main event featured
undefeated strawweight Melissa Amaya against Bruna
Ellen, emphasizing the rising popularity of women’s
MMA.
Conor
McGregor Controversy: Conor McGregor is back in the
headlines for allegedly striking someone at a nightclub
in Ibiza, drawing criticism from fans disappointed
by his off-cage behavior.
Boxing
Highlights: Jai Opetaia delivered a brutal KO victory
over Claudio Squeo on June 8, 2025, likely breaking
Squeo’s jaw, retaining his IBF and Ring cruiserweight
titles. Separately, Manny Pacquiao is set to end his
four-year retirement to join Tim Tszyu’s WBC
title fight card in July.
Bare
Knuckle Fighting Denied in Perth: The WA Combat Sports
Commission rejected an application for Australia’s
first bare-knuckle fighting event in Perth, citing
concerns over safety and long-term brain damage risks,
despite protests from fighters like Bec Rawlings.
Social
Impact of Combat Sports: Research from the University
of Wolverhampton suggests combat sports can reduce
youth violence by teaching discipline and emotional
control, presenting a counterintuitive approach to
intervention programs.
These
updates reflect the dynamic nature of combat sports,
from high-profile fights and controversies to regulatory
and societal discussions.
News
X
wins Media Man 'Social Media Platform Of The Month'
award; Runner-up: YouTube
WWE
wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Month'
UFC
wins Media Man 'MMA Promotion Of The Month' award
Lucha
Libre AAA Worldwide wins Media Man 'Lucha Libre' Promotion
Of The Month' award; Runner-up: CMLL
Everlast
wins Media Man 'Sports gear Brand Of The Month'
The
Sports Prophets wins Media Man 'Sports Betting Brand
Of The Month' award
World
Surfing League wins Media Man 'Sports Lifestyle Brand
Of The Month' award
NRL
wins Media Man 'Australian Sports Brand Of The Month'
award; Runner-up: AFL
Pop
Culture
Media
Man Watercooler
Amendment
And Update To Prior Report Conducted In Field Conditions!
Don't mention The War! Double Meaning! Combat sports
"wars" and real world situations!
"Make
Peace, Not War" John Lennon
News
Movies:
Box Office
1.
How To Train Your Dragon - $37m
2. 28 Years Later - $30m
3. Elio - $21m
News
Pro
Wrestling
WWE
NXT About To Start: Trouble In The D'Angelo (Crime?)
Family
WWE
- AEW Promotion Connection: John Cena Extends Olive
Branch Mentioning Numerous Pro Wrestlers From Other
Promotions! CSRO From AEW Acknowledges Again via News
Media/Media Man Int X ! Cheers Claudio. Love Coffee.
Love Wrestling!
Streaming
Wars Netflix vs YouTube vs MAX/HBO and the others!
Combat
Sports Weekend Plus; Pro Wrestling Week!
WWE
Friday Night SmackDown
WWE
Speed On Wednesday/Thursday via X
El Grande Americano is your Speed Champion (Men's
Division);
Sol Ruca is your WWE Speed Champion (Women's Division)
Pro
Wrestling Uncrowned Champions!
Karrion Kross is our Uncrowned Champion Of The World!
Will take on all comers! . Pro wrestling and Sambo
master + !
AEW
Dynamite On Thursday as a general rule. Day/times
can vary depending on part of the world!
WWE
Night Of Champions:
John Cena vs CM Punk. Fans buzzing for Karrion Kross
vs Sami Zayn says "Kross Kult" Australian
Chapter! aka Media Man Group! Don't sleep on Kross
vs Zayn!
MMA
News
UFC
317. Vegas Baby!
News
MMA/UFC
Tom
Aspinall, formally UFC Interim Champion is now the
official UFC Heavyweight Champion. News broke approx
24 hours ago. Media Man Int X and Instagram channels
roared and 10 times as much web traffic than usual!
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones "retired"
and out of ratings for first time in many, many years!
Legal situations for Jones being reported by numerous
mainstream media and MMA media. Not a good situation
for Jones legacy.
News
Cafe
Culture
Coffee
Prices set to rise in numerous counties; Cappuccino's
in Sydney, Australia heading towards $7AUD for quality!
News
Claudio's
Cafe wins Media Man 'Coffee/Cafe Brand Of The Month'!
Markets
and Cryptos
June
16, 2025
Sydney,
Australia
Markets
ASX
futures down 20 points/0.2% to 8532
AUD -0.1% at US64.81¢
Bitcoin +0.6% to $US105,292
Dow -1.8%
S&P -1.1%
Nasdaq -1.3%
Gold +1.4% to $US3432.34 an ounce
Brent oil +7.0% at $US74.23 a barrel
Iron ore -0.7% at $US93.85 a ton
News
Cryptos
Bitcoin
$105,646.18 USD +0.49%
Ethereum $2,549.30 USD +1.19%
Tether $1.00 USD -0.08%
XRP $2.17 USD +1.48%
BNB $648.26 USD +0.76%
Solana $153.19 USD +5.96%
USD Coin $1.00 USD -0.06%
Dogecoin $$0.1752 USD -1.00%
TRON $0.2734 USD +0.70%
Cardano $0.6329 USD +1.50%
Wrapped Bitcoin $105,633.91 USD +0.49%
News
Gold
2nd Ranked To USD In Global Reserves
Gold
has firmly reasserted itself as a strategic anchor
in the global financial system, now ranking second
only to the US dollar—and ahead of the euro—in
terms of official reserve holdings measured at market
value. This structural shift, outlined in the European
Central Bank’s latest report on the international
role of the euro, underscores how price dynamics,
central bank behavior, and geopolitical realignment
have collectively elevated gold’s monetary relevance.
From
Inflation Hedge to Geopolitical Barometer
In
2024, gold prices surged by 30%, followed by another
30% year-to-date in 2025, briefly reaching an all-time
nominal high of $3,500 per troy ounce in April. This
sharp rally signals more than just a technical or
inflation-driven cycle—it reflects a broader
revaluation of gold’s role amid rising global
uncertainty.
Conclusion:
Gold’s Strategic Repricing
The
ECB’s findings reflect a broader paradigm shift
in the logic of reserve accumulation. Gold has not
only appreciated in nominal terms—it has been
reconceptualized as a core asset for monetary sovereignty
and geopolitical insulation.
Its
elevation to second place in global reserves is more
than symbolic. It signals a growing distrust in traditional
reserve currencies and a collective desire among central
banks—particularly outside the Western alliance—to
build resilience against political and financial coercion.
In
this new global context, gold is no longer a passive
relic of the past. It is increasingly being recognized
as an active pillar of reserve strategy, with implications
that stretch far beyond price charts and interest
rate models.
News
Market
Background
Australian
dollar -0.1% to 64.84 US cents
Wall Street:
S&P 500 -1.1%, Dow Jones -1.8%, Nasdaq -1.3%
Europe: Stoxx 50 -1.3%
FTSE -0.4%
DAX -1.1%
CAC -1%
Bitcoin -0.3% to $US104,682
Spot gold +1.4% to $US3432.34 per ounce on Saturday
US oil +7.3% to $US72.98 a barrel on Saturday
Brent crude +7% to $US74.23 a barrel on Saturday
Iron ore -0.7% to $US93.85 per tonne
10-year yield: US 4.40% Australia 4.15% Germany 2.53%
News
Gold
News
Recent
gold news highlights a surge in prices driven by geopolitical
tensions and economic factors. Gold prices in Dubai
spiked to near-record highs, with 24-karat gold reaching
Dh412.75 per gram (approximately $112.84), following
Israel’s military strikes on Iran, boosting demand
for safe-haven assets. Globally, spot gold hit a one-week
peak at around $3,424.6 per ounce, up 1.2%, fueled
by Middle East conflicts and expectations of Federal
Reserve rate cuts. In India, gold prices crossed Rs
1,01,540 per 10 grams, a Rs 2,200 surge, driven by
safe-haven buying amid the Israel-Iran conflict. Analysts
note gold’s appeal as a hedge against market
volatility, with prices up 29% in 2025, though jewelry
demand has weakened due to high costs. Central banks
are on track to buy 1,000 metric tons of gold in 2025,
marking a fourth year of significant purchases to
diversify reserves. Posts on X also reflect bullish
sentiment, with some predicting gold could reach $4,000
per ounce, though such claims are speculative.
For
investors, gold remains attractive but experts caution
against over-allocation due to its volatility. Always
verify market trends with trusted financial sources
before making investment decisions. (Grok)
News
Best
Quotes
“Gold
is the money of kings.” – Anonymous.
“He
who has the gold makes the rules.” – Unknown.
“Gold
is a living god and rules in scorn, all earthly things
but virtue.” – Percy Bysshe Shelley.
“Gold
is a deep and liquid subject.” – Anonymous.
“Gold
is forever.” – Anonymous
News
Best
Quotes
"Journalism
allows its readers to witness history; fiction gives
its readers an opportunity to live it." - John
Hersey
"In
America, the president reigns for four years, and
journalism governs forever and ever." - Oscar
Wilde
"The
world is changing very fast. Big will not beat small
anymore. It will be the fast beating the slow"
Rupert Murdoch
Pop
Culture/Entertainment
Under
The Media Man Watercooler
June
2025
Movie
Box Office (U.S)
1.
Lilo & Stitch - $32.5m
2. From The World of John Wick: Ballerina - $25m
3. Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning - $15m
News
Netflix
Media
Man Buzz
Fubar
The Expendables
WWE NXT - In ring debut of "The Glamour* Blake
Howard! Blonde Bombshell of pro wrestling!
Lucha Libre AAA buzz!
TNA Wrestling - Trick Williams aka Trick TNA buzz
(Netflix
in selected international markets).
Boxing
- Alvarez vs Crawford - Sept 13. Las Vegas, Nevada.
Streaming live on Netflix!
Netflix
Games Expands Library!
News
WWE
SmackDown
Rupp Arena
Lexington, Kentucky
June 13, 2025
Road To King Of The Ring
Road To WWE Evolve
WWE
WrestleMania 42
April 18 and 19, 2026
Allegiant Stadium
Las Vegas, Nevada
News
June
13, 2025
UFC Fight Night
Usman vs Buckley
Atlanta, Georgia
News
UFC
BJJ: MMA buzz
'Brawler'
Movie buzz - in production!
News
RAF
- Real American Freestyle Wrestling In Negotiations
With 2 Major Broadcasting Platforms; Eric Bischoff,
Hulk Hogan and Izzy connection! Freestyle Wrestling!
Movies,
Pop Culture, Streaming and More
June
2025
Movie
Box Office (North America)
June
1, 2025
1.
Lilo & Stitch - $63m
2. Mission Impossible: The Last Reckoning - $27.3m
3. Karate Kid: Legends - $21m
4. Final Destination: Bloodlines at No. 4 with $10.8m
5. Bring Her Back - $7.1m
6. Sinners - $5.2m
7. Thunderbolts* - $4.8m
8. Friendship - $2.6m
9. The Last Rodeo - $2.1m
10. j-hope Tour Hope on the Stage in Japan - $940,000
others
...
A
Minecraft Movie
The Accountant 2
Hurry Up Tomorrow
Clown in a Cornfield
Shadow Force
Flight or Fight
Until Dawn
The Amateur
The King of Kings
HIT: The 3rd Case
Guru Nanak Jahaz
*correct
at time of publication to best of knowledge
News
Box
Office Movie News via Grok
Lilo
& Stitch continues to dominate, earning $63 million
domestically in its second weekend, pushing its global
total to $610 million. It’s on track to potentially
become the first Hollywood movie of 2025 to hit the
billion-dollar mark. The film’s success, alongside
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, contributed
to a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend with $326.7
million in U.S. and Canada ticket sales, surpassing
the 2013 record set by Fast & Furious 6.
Mission:
Impossible – The Final Reckoning, starring Tom
Cruise, grossed $27.3 million domestically in its
second weekend and crossed $100 million in North America,
with a global total nearing $250 million. In China,
it scored a $25.5 million opening weekend, outperforming
its predecessor Dead Reckoning Part One ($24.8 million)
and becoming the top-grossing imported title of 2025
there. The film earned a 9.4/10 rating on Maoyan,
equivalent to an A on CinemaScore.
Karate
Kid: Legends, featuring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio,
opened softer than expected with $2.3 million in previews
and a projected $21–25 million for its opening
weekend. Despite the franchise’s legacy and Cobra
Kai’s popularity, it’s struggling against
Lilo & Stitch and Mission: Impossible.
Bhairavam,
a Telugu action drama, debuted with Rs 2.75 crore
($330,000 USD) in India on its first day, with a 26.7%
theater occupancy. It’s off to a solid start
for a regional release.
Bhool
Chuk Maaf, a Bollywood comedy-drama starring Rajkummar
Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, has earned Rs 48.41 crore ($5.8
million USD) in India after nine days, surpassing
bigger-budget films like Sikandar and Sky Force. However,
reviews cite poor execution as a factor limiting its
potential.
Tom
Cruise vs. Jason Statham: Cruise’s Mission: Impossible
– The Final Reckoning has outperformed Statham’s
latest efforts in 2025, continuing a decade-long box
office rivalry. Cruise’s films have grossed over
$12.9 billion globally since 1981, while Statham’s
action franchises like The Meg remain strong but haven’t
matched Cruise this year.
MCU
Struggles: Marvel’s Thunderbolts* and Captain
America: Brave New World have underperformed, with
a combined $357.4 million globally, 42% less than
Deadpool & Wolverine’s $1.3 billion. Thunderbolts*
barely broke even on its $180 million budget, marking
it among the MCU’s lowest earners alongside The
Marvels and The Incredible Hulk.
Final
Destination: Bloodlines set a franchise record with
a $46–48 million opening weekend globally, including
$5.5 million in U.S. previews. It’s received
strong reviews, with critics calling it a confident
revival of the horror series.
Sinners,
directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan,
is gaining attention, with its Clarksdale, Mississippi
setting spotlighting local culture. It’s performing
well but trails behind the top earners.
Memorial
Day Weekend Surge: The $329 million haul over the
four-day holiday, driven by Lilo & Stitch ($182
million) and Mission: Impossible, signals a strong
summer season, with analysts predicting a $4 billion
summer box office.
The
box office is showing signs of recovery after a slow
start to 2025, with family-friendly and action films
leading the charge. However, some anticipated releases
like Karate Kid: Legends and MCU titles are facing
challenges amidst fierce competition.
News
Famous
Movie Quotes
“I
have always depended on the kindness of strangers.”
—Vivien Leigh as Blanche in A Streetcar Named
Desire
“Elementary,
my dear Watson.” —Basil Rathbone as Sherlock
Holmes in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
“Go
ahead, make my day.” —Clint Eastwood as
Harry Callahan in Sudden Impact
“You
complete me.” —Tom Cruise as Jerry Maguire
in Jerry Maguire
“You
is kind. You is smart. You is important.” —Viola
Davis as Aibileen Clark in The Help
“Yo,
Adrian!” —Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa
in Rocky
“Just
keep swimming.” —Ellen DeGeneres as Dory
in Finding Nemo
“I
am serious. And don’t call me Shirley.”
—Leslie Nielsen as Dr. Rumack in Airplane!
“Every
time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.”
—Karolyn Grimes as Zuzu in It’s a Wonderful
Life
“I’m
the king of the world!” —Leonardo DiCaprio
as Jack Dawson in Titanic
“Houston,
we have a problem.” —Tom Hanks as Jim Lovell
in Apollo 13
“To
infinity and beyond!” —Tim Allen as Buzz
Lightyear in Toy Story
“As
if!” —Alicia Silverstone as Cher in Clueless
“I’m
just one stomach flu away from my goal weight.”
—Emily Blunt as Emily Charlton in The Devil Wears
Prada
“Magic
Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all?”
—The Evil Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
“If
you let my daughter go now, that’ll be the end
of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue
you. But if you don’t, I will look for you, I
will find you and I will kill you.” —Liam
Neeson as Bryan Mills in Taken
“Wax
on, wax off.” —Pat Morita as Mr. Miyagi
in The Karate Kid
“If
you build it, he will come.” —Unknown, said
to Kevin Costner as Ray Kinsella in Field of Dreams
“I’m
also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking
him to love her.” —Julia Roberts as Anna
Scott in Notting Hill
“You
make me want to be a better man.” —Jack
Nicholson as Melvin Udall in As Good as It Gets
“I
wish I knew how to quit you.” —Jake Gyllenhaal
as Jack Twist in Brokeback Mountain
“Carpe
diem. Seize the day, boys.” —Robin Williams
as John Keating in Dead Poets Society
“That’ll
do, pig. That’ll do.” —James Cromwell
as Arthur Hoggett in Babe
“Where
we’re going, we don’t need roads.”
—Christopher Lloyd as Dr. Emmett Brown in Back
to the Future
“Well,
it’s not the men in your life that counts, it’s
the life in your men.” —Mae West as Tira
in I’m No Angel
“Oh,
no, it wasn’t the airplanes. It was Beauty killed
the Beast.” —Robert Armstrong as Carl Denham
in King Kong
“My
Mama always said, ‘Life was like a box of chocolates;
you never know what you’re gonna get.'”
—Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump in Forrest Gump
“I
don’t want to survive. I want to live.”
—Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup in 12 Years
a Slave
“Badges?
We ain’t got no badges! We don’t need no
badges! I don’t have to show you any stinking
badges!” —Alfonso Bedoya as Gold Hat in
The Treasure of the Sierra Madre
“It’s
not the years, honey. It’s the mileage.”
—Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in Raiders of
the Lost Ark
“There’s
no place like home.” —Judy Garland as Dorothy
Gale in The Wizard of Oz
“Life
moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look
around once in a while, you could miss it.” —Matthew
Broderick as Ferris Bueller in Ferris Bueller’s
Day Off
“We’ll
always have Paris.” —Humphrey Bogart as
Rick Blaine in Casablanca
“It’s
not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines
me.” —Christian Bale as Batman in Batman
Begins
“Get
busy living, or get busy dying.” —Tim Robbins
as Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption
“The
greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing
the world he didn’t exist.” —Kevin
Spacey as Roger “Verbal” Kint in The Usual
Suspects
“Only
one thing counts in this life—get them to sign
on the line which is dotted.” —Alec Baldwin
as Blake in Glengarry Glen Ross
“They
may take our lives, but they’ll never take our
freedom!” —Mel Gibson as William Wallace
in Braveheart
“There’s
no crying in baseball!” —Tom Hanks as Jimmy
Dugan in A League of Their Own
News
Pop
Culture News
Hailey
Bieber’s Career Milestone: Hailey Bieber secured
a billion-dollar deal to sell her skincare company
and landed a Vogue cover, marking a significant career
high. However, public attention has shifted to her
husband, Justin Bieber, whose erratic behavior and
concerning online activity have fueled rumors about
his health and their marriage. The couple has denied
marital issues, but speculation persists due to Justin’s
past struggles with drug use and his step back from
music since 2019.
Broadway’s
Pop Culture Impact: Director Jamie Lloyd’s productions,
like the reimagined “Sunset Blvd.” starring
Nicole Scherzinger, have gained significant social
media traction, turning Broadway shows into pop culture
events. His upcoming “Evita” with Rachel
Zegler is described as a pop concert-political rally
hybrid, reflecting his knack for blending theater
with contemporary cultural trends.
Media
Literacy Concerns: NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour
highlighted a “bean soup problem” in online
discourse, questioning if there’s a media literacy
crisis. Commentary around Ryan Coogler’s film
Sinners suggests some audiences are misinterpreting
key elements, pointing to broader issues in how pop
culture is consumed and discussed online.
Pornification
of Pop Culture: Sophie Gilbert’s book Girl on
Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Women
Against Themselves argues that entertainment industries,
including music and movies, have normalized the objectification
of women, influenced heavily by pornography. This
has sparked discussions about its impact on societal
views of women.
Kim
Kardashian’s Legal Milestone: Kim Kardashian
completed a six-year law program, celebrating with
a small ceremony. She recently passed the Multistate
Professional Responsibility Exam, a step toward California
bar admission, marking a significant shift from her
reality TV persona.
Menendez
Brothers’ Cultural Resurgence: The Menendez brothers’
case has regained attention due to shifting cultural
attitudes post-MeToo and evolving views on criminal
justice. Their fate now lies with California’s
Parole Board and Governor Gavin Newsom, reflecting
how pop culture can influence legal narratives.
Pedro
Pascal on Immigration: At Cannes, Pedro Pascal addressed
U.S. deportations, emphasizing his support for immigration
protections as a Chilean-American. His cautious comments
reflect the delicate balance celebrities navigate
in addressing political issues.
Ms.
Rachel’s Advocacy: Children’s content creator
Ms. Rachel faced backlash for advocating for Palestinian
children but doubled down, stating compassion for
kids has no borders. Her stance has sparked debates
about celebrity activism in pop culture.
Meghan
Trainor’s Lyric Change: Meghan Trainor altered
lyrics in her 2014 hit “All About That Bass”
during a performance, reflecting her recent weight
loss. This move has prompted discussions about body
positivity in pop culture.
Labubu
Craze: The plush doll Labubu has become a status symbol,
with Pop Mart’s blind box series generating over
$419 million in 2024. The craze, marked by sellouts
and counterfeit “lafufus,” highlights the
power of collectible trends in pop culture.
Recession
Pop Resurgence:
Artists
like Kesha and Lady Gaga are leading a revival of
“recession pop,” upbeat music from the late
2000s/early 2010s, seen as a response to economic
downturns. Tracks like Kesha’s “Tik ToK”
and Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA”
are cited as prime examples.
K-Pop’s
Mixed Fortunes:
While
K-pop group Seventeen sold out UK shows and Aespa
filled Wembley Arena, the genre faces challenges in
the U.S. Blackpink members’ solo projects have
underperformed, and NewJeans is caught in legal dramas,
raising questions about K-pop’s global trajectory.
Celebrity
Clapbacks:
Celebrities
like Halsey and Spencer Pratt made headlines with
sharp responses to critics. Halsey defended her bold
social media posts, while Pratt supported Mandy Moore
against backlash over a GoFundMe plea, showing how
stars engage with online discourse.
These
stories reflect the dynamic interplay of celebrity,
media, and societal trends shaping pop culture in
early June 2025. (Grok)
News
Entertainment
News
Streaming
Releases:
June
is packed with new content across major platforms.
Netflix is dropping Squid Game Season 2, Ginny &
Georgia Season 3, Criminal Code Season 2, and the
OceanGate documentary Titan. Other highlights include
Grey’s Anatomy’s latest season and all seven
seasons of Scandal. Disney+ features Ironheart, a
Marvel series following Riri Williams, premiering
June 24, and Frozen: The Musical on June 23. Hulu’s
big draw is The Bear Season 4, premiering June 25,
while Apple TV+ brings Echo Valley with Julianne Moore
and Sydney Sweeney on June 13, and Stick, a sports
comedy with Owen Wilson, on June 4.
Paramount+
offers Love Me with Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun,
and Tubi adds classics like Independence Day and Jaws
starting June 1.
Film
and TV Premieres:
Hallmark
is releasing five new movies, including Mystery Island
on June 5, where a corporate retreat turns deadly.
The Tony Awards air live on CBS June 8, with a preshow
on Pluto TV. On broadcast, The Quiz with Balls Season
2, Below Deck Season 12, and new series like Iggy
and Mr. Kirk (Great American Family) and Relative
Secrets (BBC America/Acorn TV) premiered June 2.
Box
Office:
Karate
Kid: Legends opened to $17 million domestically, underperforming
expectations, while Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician
Scheme scored a strong $95,000 per screen in limited
release, the best screen average of 2025 so far. Lilo
& Stitch continues to perform well at the box
office.
Celebrity
News: Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt’s daughter
Shiloh has officially dropped “Pitt” from
her name, now going by Shiloh Jolie. Taylor Swift
and Travis Kelce updates are circulating, with fans
buzzing about changes in their personal and professional
lives.
Tragic
Losses: Hollywood is mourning the death of Jonathan
Joss, known for voicing John Redcorn in King of the
Hill and roles in Parks and Recreation. Joss was fatally
shot on June 1 in San Antonio during a dispute with
a neighbor, who has been charged with murder.
Industry
Layoffs: Disney is undergoing another round of layoffs,
impacting hundreds in its TV, film, and corporate
finance divisions, following 200 cuts three months
ago. The broader industry, including Warner Bros.
Discovery, Paramount Global, and NBCUniversal, is
also facing workforce reductions amid a challenging
landscape for traditional media.
International
Highlights: In India, Prabhas’ horror-comedy
The Raja Saab is set for a December 5, 2025, release,
with a teaser dropping June 16. Directed by Maruthi,
it stars Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Ridhi Kumar,
and Sanjay Dutt. In K-pop, Tencent Music is becoming
the second-largest shareholder in SM Entertainment,
and SM artists celebrated 30 years with SMTown Live
in L.A.
Trending
on X: KCON LA 2025 is generating buzz with its “Lucky
Artist Polaroid Event,” where fans share past
convention memories for a chance to win artist Polaroids.
Thai actor Phuwin Tangsakyuen is also trending as
Harper’s Bazaar Singapore’s June cover star,
celebrated for his acting, singing, and fashion endorsements.
For
more details on streaming schedules or specific releases,
check sources like Netflix, Disney+, or Deadline.
If you’re looking for something specific—like
a particular show, movie, or celebrity update—let
me know, and I can dive deeper. (Grok)
News
Netflix
Top 10
Netflix
US Top 10 TV Shows
June
2, 2025
Sirens
Cold
Case: The Tylenol Murders
Dept.
Q
American
Manhunt: Osama Bin Laden
The
Four Seasons
She
The People
Netflix
Tudum 2025
Forever
Secrets
We Keep
Mike
Birbiglia: The Good Life
News
Netflix
Top 10: Movies
June
2025
A
Widow's Game
The
Wild Robot
The
Heart Knows
Nonnas
Instant
Family
Pig
Despicable
Me 4
Home
Fear
Street: Prom Queen
Trolls
Markets,
Cryptos and News Culture
Thank
God It's Friday Edition
May
30, 2025
Markets
ASX
futures down 23 points/0.3% to 8398
AUD +0.3% at US64.47¢
BTC -1.0% to $US105,880
Dow +0.3% S&P +0.3% NAS +0.4%
Gold +0.9% to $US3316.21 an ounce
Oil -1.1% at $US64.19 a barl
Iron ore +1.0% at $US97.05 a ton
News
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
Bitcoin
$106,376.59 USD -1.06%
Ethereum $2,656.66 USD +0.12%
Tether $0.9993 USD -0.18%
XRP $2.28 USD +0.59%
BNB $678.10 USD -1.57%
Solana $168.21 USD -2.02%
USD Coin$1.00 USD +0.01%
Dogecoin $0.219 USD -0.49%
Cardano $0.7335 USD -1.33%
TRON $0.2752 USD +0.41%
Wrapped Bitcoin $106,188.60 USD -1.12%
Sui $3.58 USD +0.03%
Chainlink $15.24 USD -2.09%
Avalanche $22.70 USD -2.33%
News
Ethereum
Accelerates as Bitcoin Consolidates
Market
Picture
Market capitalisation has changed little over the
last day, hovering around the $3.42 trillion mark.
Cryptocurrencies
prefer not to notice positive stock market movements
as they are related to tariffs and company reports,
not money supply. In addition, the dollar's exchange
rate is rising for the third day.
The
day before, Bitcoin retreated from the trading range's
upper boundary at 110k to its lower boundary at 107k.
This rest at previous highs effectively removes the
local overheating of the market. As the institutional
presence in Bitcoin expands, its dynamics are becoming
more similar to the behaviour of stock and commodity
market instruments, with less pronounced FOMO periods.
Ethereum
was briefly above $2780 on Thursday morning, hitting
new highs from February and the 200-day moving average.
A consolidation above $2700 has the potential to attract
the attention of broader traders, kick-starting momentum
to $3300 or even $4000.
News
Background
Bitcoin options maturing in June-July have been dominated
by activity in calls with strikes of $115,000 and
$120,000, Kaiko notes. The highest turnover was in
contracts with expiry at $110,000, suggesting consolidation
at established levels in the coming weeks.
Trump
Media, a company linked to US President Donald Trump's
family, will raise $2.5bn through the sale of stocks
and bonds to build a bitcoin reserve. The company
has signed private placement agreements with about
50 institutional investors to raise the funds.
Circle,
which issues the USDC stablecoin, has updated documents
for an IPO on the NYSE. The goal is to raise about
$600m with the firm’s valuation of $5.4bn.
Cardano
founder Charles Hoskinson announced a willingness
to integrate Ripple's stablecoin RLUSD into its blockchain
without charging fees, as a gesture of support for
the XRP community.
News
Cryptocurrency
News
Market
Trends: Bitcoin (BTC) has been consolidating around
$108,500-$109,700 after hitting a record high near
$112,000, driven by institutional interest and optimism
around U.S. regulatory developments like the GENIUS
Act for stablecoins. However, analysts note signs
of exhaustion in BTC, Ethereum (ETH), and Ripple (XRP),
with ETH at $2,657.56 and XRP at $2.33. The market
saw a dip on May 28, attributed to short-term corrections
after rallies, but Bitcoin’s long-term strength
remains firm, with predictions suggesting BTC could
hit $175,000 in 2025 or even $900,000 by 2030.
Regulatory
and Political Developments: The Trump administration’s
pro-crypto stance has boosted market sentiment. Vice
President JD Vance, speaking at the Bitcoin 2025 Conference
in Las Vegas (May 27-29), called the administration
a “champion” for crypto. Trump’s family
is heavily involved, with ventures like the $TRUMP
memecoin and World Liberty Financial’s USD1 stablecoin,
raising ethical concerns due to potential conflicts
of interest. The U.S. Senate’s advancement of
the GENIUS Act signals potential regulatory clarity
for stablecoins. Meanwhile, former CFTC Chair Rostin
Behnam noted on May 28 that crypto markets remain
unregulated without expanded agency authority.
Corporate
Moves: Trump Media & Technology Group plans to
raise $2.5-$3 billion to invest in Bitcoin, aiming
to diversify its assets and support a Truth Social
utility token. GameStop purchased $513 million in
Bitcoin, reflecting a trend of public companies adding
crypto to their balance sheets. Bybit established
its European headquarters in Vienna, Austria, on May
29, signaling global exchange expansion.
Crime
and Legal Issues: A cryptocurrency investor,:J ohn
Woeltz, was charged in New York on May 24 with kidnapping
and torturing a man to extract Bitcoin passwords,
highlighting security risks in the crypto space.
Other
Developments: Pakistan allocated 2,000 megawatts to
support Bitcoin mining and AI data centers, aiming
to legalize crypto and attract foreign investment.
Binance’s Alpha program is reportedly impacting
airdrops, and classic game MapleStory launched a blockchain
version with $NXPC cryptocurrency.
Critical
Note: While the crypto market shows bullish trends,
the volatility of assets like $TRUMP memecoin (with
43% of top holders losing money) and ethical concerns
around political involvement warrant caution. Always
conduct thorough research before investing, as prices
are highly volatile and regulatory landscapes are
evolving. (Grok)
News
Blockchain
News
Bitcoin
2025 Conference Highlights: The Bitcoin 2025 conference
in Las Vegas drew significant attention, with U.S.
Vice President JD Vance delivering a keynote, stating
that stablecoins do not threaten the U.S. dollar and
emphasizing the Trump administration’s support
for crypto, calling it a “champion” for
the industry. Jack Dorsey’s Block also piloted
real-time bitcoin payments using the Lightning Network
at a merch truck, marking a step toward mainstream
adoption.
Bitcoin
Price Surge: Bitcoin hit a record high near $112,000,
with a 60% surge since Trump’s re-election in
November 2024. Standard Chartered predicts Bitcoin
could reach $200,000 by the end of 2025, driven by
regulatory support and market momentum.
U.S.
Banks and Crypto: Major U.S. banks are cautiously
exploring cryptocurrencies, focusing on pilot programs
and partnerships as regulators signal stronger endorsements.
This reflects a shift toward integrating digital assets
into traditional finance.
Global
Blockchain Developments: Pakistan appointed Bilal
bin Saqib as a special assistant on blockchain and
cryptocurrency, signaling a push toward a digital
economy.
Blockchain.com,
a UK-based crypto exchange, plans expansion in Nigeria,
Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, targeting regulated
African markets.
Webus
International announced a $300 million financing plan
for XRP blockchain integration, renewing a partnership
with Toncheng Travel.
FIFA
partnered with Avalanche to launch a custom Layer-1
blockchain for digital collectibles and ticketing.
Other
Crypto News:
Solana is projected to reach $275 by year-end but
may underperform Ethereum, which is forecast to hit
$4,000.
XRP
is expected to reach $27 by July 2025, following a
600% surge post-U.S. elections.
Tether
plans to focus on non-U.S. markets while aligning
with potential U.S. regulations.
Controversies:
President
Trump’s involvement with the $TRUMP memecoin,
including a $148 million gala, has raised ethical
concerns about potential influence-buying.
A
crypto investor in New York was charged with kidnapping
and torture over a Bitcoin password dispute. (Grok)
News
ASX
at three-month high; oil stocks rally
The
Australian sharemarket posted a small gain on Thursday,
with the S&P/ASX 200 adding 0.2 per cent to close
at 8,409.8 points. Woodside Energy rose 2.8 per cent
to $22.73, Capstone Copper was up 4.7 per cent at
$8.69 and Megaport ended the session three per cent
higher at $13.95. However, BHP was down 0.8 per cent
at $38.15 and Resolute Mining fell 2.4 per cent to
$0.61.
News
News
Culture: Australia
Sports
NSW
Origin win draws biggest audience in years
Data
from OzTAM shows that the first match in the annual
State of Origin rugby league series had an average
national audience of 3.8 million people. This makes
it the most-watched TV event so far in 2025, and compares
with an average audience of 3.4 million for the corresponding
match in 2024. The figures also show that 963,000
people watched the match via the Nine Network's 9Now
streaming app, compared with 760,000 in 2024. Ben
Willee from media agency Spinach notes that State
of Origin has been a ratings winner for more than
30 years; he adds that great-quality live sport will
always rate well. (RMS)
News
Real
Estate
ACCC
confirms investigation into REA Group
The
Australian Competition & Consumer Commission has
formally confirmed that it is undertaking an investigation
into REA Group. A spokeswoman for the ACCC has stated
that the investigation is in its early stages, adding
that it cannot comment any further because the probe
is ongoing. REA Group has attracted scrutiny after
some real estate agents complained of large increases
in their monthly subscription fees for the realestate.com.au
portal, as well as the cost of listing a property
on the site. REA Group is majority-owned by News Corp.
(RMS)
News
Last
of the Mad Men steps away
Australian
advertising industry veteran David Droga will step
down as the global CEO of Accenture Song in September,
after four years in the role. However, he intends
to stay on at Accenture as its vice-chairman; Droga
has ruled out starting another new advertising agency,
having founded Droga5 in 2006. He joined Accenture
Interactive when it acquired Droga5 in 2019, and the
creative arm of the professional services firm was
subsequently rebranded as Accenture Song. Its revenue
has increased from $US12.5bn in 2021 to $US19bn in
2024. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Mining
Glencore
moves $30b to Australia in restructure
Anglo-Swiss
multinational Glencore has undertaken a restructuring
in which more than $30bn worth of global assets were
transferred to an Australian subsidiary, Glencore
Investment Pty Ltd. These assets include coal mines
in several countries and a manganese and vanadium
business in South Africa. Glencore Investments already
holds the group's coal mines in NSW and Queensland,
and the subsidiary now has assets of about $US42bn
($65bn). Ben Cleary from Tribeca Investment Partners
says the restructure suggests that Glencore is preparing
for a transaction; he notes that none of its potential
merger partners want the group's coal mines or its
South African assets. (RMS)
News
Ellison
on MinRes haul road show
Mineral
Resources MD Chris Ellison and Malcolm Bundey have
personally accompanied analysts and investors on a
site tour of its Onslow Iron project. The tour included
Mineral Resources' trouble-plagued 147-kilometre haulage
road, which is used to transport iron ore from the
Ken's Bore mine to a port near Onslow. The site visit
took place just days after Mineral Resources issued
a production downgrade for the Onslow Iron project,
which prompted a sharp fall in its share price. (Roy
Morgan Summary)
News
Roy
Morgan wins Media Man 'Media Services Of The Month'
award
Media
Man
UFC
wins Media Man 'MMA Promotion Of The Month' award
WWE
wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Month'
award; Runner-ups: NXT, TNA Wrestling, AEW, NWA
WSL
wins Media Man 'Surfing Promotion/Brand Of The Month'
award
Netflix
wins Media Man 'Streaming Service Of The Month' award;
Runner-ups: YouTube and MAX
News
Best
Quotes Of The Day
"Bitcoin
is a tool for freeing humanity from oligarchs and
tyrants, dressed up as a get-rich-quick scheme."
— Naval Ravikant
"We
have elected to put our money and faith in a mathematical
framework that is free of politics and human error."
— Tyler Winklevoss
"You
can't stop things like Bitcoin. It will be everywhere,
and the world will have to readjust. World governments
will have to readjust." — John McAfee
"Bitcoin
is the most important invention in the history of
the world since the Internet." — Roger Ver
"Cryptocurrency
is such a powerful concept that it can almost overturn
governments." — Charles Lee
"In
the future, national currencies will become obsolete.
Bitcoin will become the single global currency."
— Jack Dorsey
"The
future of finance is crypto, whether it’s in
payments, contracts, or savings." — Changpeng
Zhao
"Crypto
offers freedom to the unbanked and hope to the underprivileged."
— Elizabeth Stark
"The
new frontier of innovation is in decentralization.
Blockchain leads the charge." — Don Tapscott
"Digital
currency is here to stay, and it’s only a matter
of how long before governments embrace it." —
Brad Garlinghouse
Markets
and Cryptos
Markets:
May
29, 2025
ASX
futures down 1 point/0.01% to 8416
AUD -0.3% at US64.25¢
Bitcoin -2.5% to $US107,232
Dow -0.5% S&P -0.3% NAS 0.2%
Gold -0.1% to $US3296.72 an ounce
Oil +0.7% at $US64.56 a barrel
Iron ore -0.2% at $US95.00 a ton
Cryptos:
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
Bitcoin
$107,432.57 USD -2.07%
Ethereum $2,639.78 USD -1.39%
Tether $1.00 USD +0.03%
XRP $2.26 USD -3.27%
BNB $688.30 USD -0.43%
Solana $171.06 USD -4.13%
USD Coin $1.00 USD +0.01%
Dogecoin $0.2192 USD
Cardano $0.7386 USD -3.52%
TRON $0.275 USD -0.73%
Wrapped Bitcoin $107,313.67 USD -2.02%
Sui $3.56 USD -3.87%
Chainlink $15.45 USD -3.62%
Avalanche $23.25 USD -1.55%
News
Bitcoin
News
Market
Performance: The cryptocurrency market has seen a
2.2% decrease in total market capitalization, now
standing at $3.55 trillion, with trading volume at
$116 billion. Bitcoin (BTC) has consolidated after
hitting a record high of $111,814 last week, currently
trading around $108,897. Solana ranks among the lowest
funding rates, indicating market dynamics.
Bitcoin
2025 Conference: The Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las
Vegas, starting May 27, has drawn attention with high-profile
attendees. Vice President JD Vance spoke, emphasizing
the Trump administration's pro-crypto stance, stating,
"crypto finally has a champion" in the White
House.
Corporate
Adoption:
GameStop
confirmed its first Bitcoin investment, acquiring
4,710 BTC.
Trump
Media and Technology Group plans to raise $2.5 billion
to invest in Bitcoin, with CEO Devin Nunes calling
it an "apex instrument of financial freedom."
This follows speculation about a $3 billion raise,
which the company denied.
Regulatory
Developments:
Republican
Representative Bryan Steil, at the Bitcoin 2025 conference,
urged lawmakers to avoid adding non-relevant clauses
to two key crypto bills (Stablecoin and Market Structure
legislation), which he believes could unlock a "golden
age" for digital assets.
The
U.S. Senate advanced the GENIUS Act, a stablecoin
regulatory framework, boosting Bitcoin to a high of
$109,730. However, concerns about conflicts of interest
persist due to President Trump's involvement in crypto
ventures like the $TRUMP memecoin and a family-backed
stablecoin, USD1.
Ethical
Concerns:
Trump’s
$TRUMP memecoin has raised ethical issues, with 43%
of top investors (95 of 220) losing a combined $8.95
million. Trump hosted a gala for top holders, sparking
criticism over potential "pay-for-play"
schemes.
Watchdog
groups and some lawmakers have criticized Trump’s
push to ease crypto oversight while his family’s
ventures, including a $2 billion deal with Binance
and an Abu Dhabi fund, raise conflict-of-interest
concerns.
Crime
and Security:
A crypto investor, John Woeltz, was charged in New
York with kidnapping and torturing a man to extract
Bitcoin passwords, highlighting rising crypto-related
crimes.
Posts
on X mention a wave of crypto-related kidnappings
in France linked to rising prices.
Other
Developments:
Circle, the issuer of the $61 billion USDC stablecoin,
rejected a $4-5 billion acquisition offer from Ripple,
filing for an IPO instead.
Pakistan
allocated 2,000 megawatts to support Bitcoin mining
and AI data centers, aiming to legalize crypto and
attract investment.
The
U.S. Department of Labor rescinded 2022 guidance on
cryptocurrency in 401(k) plans, signaling a shift
in policy.
Price
Predictions:
ARK
Invest’s Cathie Wood predicts Bitcoin could reach
$2.4 million, implying a $50.4 trillion market cap,
though some view this as ambitious.
Bitcoin’s
rally is supported by institutional ownership and
ETF inflows, with $40 billion in Bitcoin ETF inflows
in May alone.
Note:
Cryptocurrency prices are volatile, and regulatory
developments can shift rapidly.
News
Bitcoin
Movies
Money
Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery (2024, HBO Documentary)
- Directed by Cullen Hoback, this documentary investigates
the origins of Bitcoin and the identity of its creator,
Satoshi Nakamoto. It offers a thrilling, globe-spanning
exploration with new clues about Bitcoin’s rise
and its mysterious founder. Available on HBO and streaming
on Max.
Bitcoin:
The End of Money as We Know It (2015) - Directed by
Torsten Hoffmann and Michael Watchulonis, this documentary
provides a concise crash course on money and cryptocurrencies.
It traces the history of money from barter to Bitcoin,
highlighting its potential to disrupt traditional
financial systems. Features experts like Andreas M.
Antonopoulos and Jeffrey A. Tucker. Available on platforms
like Prime Video. IMDb rating: 6.9/10.
The
Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014) - Directed by Nicholas
Mross, this documentary follows computer programmer
Daniel Mross, an early Bitcoin enthusiast, exploring
Bitcoin’s evolution and its volatile nature.
It includes interviews with key figures like Gavin
Andresen and Charlie Shrem. Great for beginners, available
on iTunes and Prime Video.
Banking
on Bitcoin (2016) - Directed by Christopher Cannucciari,
this documentary dives into Bitcoin’s early days
and its potential to disrupt traditional banking.
It features interviews with blockchain experts and
pioneers, emphasizing the philosophical and economic
impact of decentralized currencies. Available on platforms
like Prime Video.
Bitconned
(2024, Netflix) - A true-crime documentary exploring
the Centra Tech crypto scam, where three individuals
exploited the unregulated crypto market to scam millions.
It highlights the darker side of cryptocurrency. Available
on Netflix. IMDb rating: 6.5/10.
Crypto
(2019) - A fictional crime thriller directed by John
Stalberg Jr., starring Beau Knapp, Alexis Bledel,
and Kurt Russell. It follows an anti-money laundering
agent uncovering a cryptocurrency-related scheme in
a small town. Mixed reviews, with a "rotten"
rating on Rotten Tomatoes but praised for its convoluted
plot. Available on platforms like Prime Video.
Trust
Machine: The Story of Blockchain (2018) - Directed
by Alex Winter, this documentary explores blockchain
technology’s broader impact beyond cryptocurrency,
addressing privacy, security, and societal implications.
Available on various streaming platforms.
Cryptopia:
Bitcoin, Blockchains and the Future of the Internet
(2020) - Directed by Torsten Hoffmann, this follow-up
to his 2015 film examines the evolution of blockchain
and its societal impact, featuring interviews with
experts in finance and technology. Available on platforms
like Prime Video.
Life
on Bitcoin (2014) - A documentary following newlyweds
Austin and Beccy Craig as they attempt to live for
100 days using only Bitcoin, showcasing its practical
challenges and adoption in its early days.
Bitcoin
Heist (2016) - A Vietnamese action-comedy directed
by Ham Tran, this fictional film follows a group of
hackers attempting a high-stakes Bitcoin heist. It
blends humor, action, and tech-savvy thrills.
These
films span documentaries and fictional narratives,
offering educational insights, thrilling stories,
and perspectives on Bitcoin’s cultural and economic
impact. For the latest releases, check streaming platforms
like Netflix, HBO Max, or Prime Video, as the crypto
space evolves rapidly, and new films may emerge.
News
Pop
Culture News
Sharemarket
Movies
The
Wolf of Wall Street (2013) - Directed by Martin Scorsese,
this film depicts the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort,
a stockbroker involved in fraudulent schemes. It remains
a cultural touchstone for depicting the excesses of
Wall Street.
The
Big Short (2015) - Directed by Adam McKay, this movie
explains the 2008 financial crisis through the lens
of investors who bet against the housing market. It’s
lauded for making complex financial concepts accessible.
Wall
Street (1987) - Oliver Stone’s classic follows
Gordon Gekko, a ruthless corporate raider, and his
influence on a young stockbroker. Its iconic "greed
is good" line still resonates.
Margin
Call (2011) - A fictional take on the 2008 financial
crisis, focusing on a 24-hour period at an investment
bank. It’s praised for its tense portrayal of
financial decision-making.
Too
Big to Fail (2011) - An HBO film about the 2008 financial
crisis, focusing on key players like Treasury Secretary
Hank Paulson and the collapse of Lehman Brothers.
These
films are often recommended for their dramatic portrayals
of financial markets and their impact on society.
A 2017 post on X also highlighted Gafla (about the
Harshad Mehta scam), Too Big to Fail, and Margin Call
as must-watch stock market movies, showing ongoing
interest in this genre.
News
Recent
News Related to Movies and Markets
While
there’s no direct news about new share market-themed
movies in the provided sources, several recent developments
in the movie industry intersect with market dynamics:
Impact
of Trump’s Proposed 100% Tariff on Foreign Films:
On
May 5, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced
a 100% tariff on movies produced outside the U.S.,
citing the decline of Hollywood due to foreign incentives
luring filmmakers. This led to a drop in media stocks,
including Netflix (down significantly due to its 75%
international content production), Disney, Warner
Bros. Discovery, and Paramount. The tariffs aim to
boost U.S. film production but have sparked concerns
about higher costs, fewer films, and potential retaliatory
measures from foreign governments. Industry experts
are skeptical about implementation, as movies are
intellectual property, not typical goods subject to
tariffs.
Actor
Jon Voight supported the tariff, framing "runaway
production" (filming abroad for tax benefits)
as a threat to U.S. jobs, while SAG-AFTRA endorsed
efforts to increase domestic production. However,
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office stated
Trump lacks authority to impose such tariffs.
This
could indirectly affect share market-themed movies,
as many are produced internationally (e.g., Mission:
Impossible – The Final Reckoning filmed in the
UK). Higher costs might limit budgets for complex
financial dramas.
Box
Office Performance of Recent Films:
Recent
box office successes like Final Destination Bloodlines
($51.7M opening weekend) and A Minecraft Movie (nearing
$1B globally) show strong audience demand for genre
films, which could encourage studios to greenlight
more niche projects like financial dramas if they
see market potential.
However,
Hurry Up Tomorrow flopped ($3.3M opening), indicating
that audience taste is selective, which might make
studios cautious about risky share market stories
without broad appeal.
Market
Trends and Film Industry:
The
Australian share market rose recently due to expectations
of Reserve Bank of Australia interest rate cuts, boosting
sectors like technology and finance. This positive
sentiment could indirectly support investment in entertainment,
including films about financial markets.
In
India, PVR INOX reported optimism about increased
cinema footfall by May 2025, driven by a strong Hollywood
and Bollywood lineup, which could include financial
thrillers if they gain traction.
Google’s
entry into film production with Range Media Partners
aims to back movies that align with its worldview,
potentially opening avenues for tech-finance crossover
stories.
Critical
Perspective
The
lack of recent news about new share market-themed
movies suggests the genre isn’t currently a priority
for studios, possibly due to its niche appeal compared
to blockbusters like superhero or horror films. Trump’s
tariff proposal introduces uncertainty, as it could
raise costs for international productions, potentially
stifling creative projects. However, the tariff’s
feasibility is questionable—movies as intellectual
property don’t fit neatly into tariff frameworks,
and global production is deeply integrated (e.g.,
visual effects in Canada, filming in the UK). If implemented,
it might paradoxically hurt Hollywood by limiting
access to cost-effective locations, reducing the likelihood
of high-budget financial epics. Meanwhile, positive
market sentiment in places like Australia could support
cinema attendance, creating opportunities for niche
genres if studios take the risk.
News
Pop
Culture
Landman:
TV Series
Landman
is a TV drama series created by Taylor Sheridan and
Christian Wallace, inspired by the 2019 Texas Monthly
article “The Great American Fracking Boom”
by Wallace. It premiered on Paramount+ on November
17, 2024, and is set in the oilfields of West Texas,
exploring the modern-day oil boom through the lens
of roughnecks, landmen, and billionaires. The show
blends high-stakes drama, workplace dynamics, and
socio-economic commentary, reflecting Sheridan’s
signature gritty storytelling seen in Yellowstone
and Mayor of Kingstown.
Key
Details:
Genre:
Drama
Seasons:
1 (10 episodes, renewed for Season 2)
Episode
Runtime: Approximately 40–60 minutes
Rating:
TV-MA (mature audiences, contains strong language,
violence, and adult themes)
Cast:
Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, a seasoned landman
navigating crises for an oil company
Demi
Moore as Cami Miller, Tommy’s ex-wife and a key
figure in the oil industry
Ali
Larter as Angela Norris, Tommy’s ex-wife
Jon
Hamm as Monty Miller, a powerful oil titan and Cami’s
husband
Supporting
cast: Jacob Lofland (Cooper Norris), Kayla Wallace
(Rebecca Savage), James Jordan (Dale Bradley), Mark
Collie (Sheriff Joeberg), and others
Creators:
Taylor Sheridan, Christian Wallace
Executive
Producers: Taylor Sheridan, David C. Glasser, David
Hutkin, Ron Burkle, Bob Yari, Christian Wallace, Billy
Bob Thornton, and others
Production
Companies: MTV Entertainment Studios, 101 Studios,
Bosque Ranch Productions
Filming
Locations: Fort Worth, Weatherford, and other Texas
locations
Plot
Summary:
Set
in the fictional town of Midland, Texas, Landman follows
Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton), a crisis manager
and landman for an oil company. His job involves securing
land leases, negotiating with landowners, and managing
chaotic oilfield operations while balancing personal
struggles, including a strained relationship with
his son, Cooper (Jacob Lofland), who joins the roughneck
crew. The series dives into the high-stakes world
of oil speculation, exploring themes of greed, family,
ambition, and the environmental and social impacts
of the oil industry. It portrays the gritty lives
of roughnecks and the opulent world of oil tycoons,
with Tommy caught between both.
Streaming
and Availability:
Primary
Platform: Paramount+ (exclusive streaming in the US,
UK, Canada, Australia, and other regions) Premiere:
November 17, 2024 (US), November 18, 2024 (UK, Australia)
Release
Schedule: First two episodes dropped on premiere,
followed by weekly releases (finale on January 12,
2025)
Subscription:
Starts at $7.99/month (US, Essential with ads), £6.99/month
(UK), CA$6.99/month (Canada), $6.99/month (Australia).
Offers a 7-day free trial.
Other
Platforms:
Purchase options: Apple TV, Prime Video, Fandango
At Home, Sky Store (UK), Fetch TV (Australia) Available
via Paramount+ integrations (e.g., Amazon Channel,
Roku, Apple TV Channel)
International
Access: Use a VPN (e.g., NordVPN) to access Paramount+
from unsupported regions.
Free
Options: No free streaming options; use Paramount+’s
7-day trial for temporary access.
Reception:
Critical
Response: Mixed to positive reviews. Critics praise
Thornton’s charismatic performance and Sheridan’s
authentic depiction of the oil industry but note the
show’s dense jargon and sprawling narrative can
feel overwhelming. It holds a 79% approval rating
on Rotten Tomatoes (as of April 2025) based on critic
reviews, with an average audience score of 85%.
Viewership:
Strong streaming numbers on Paramount+, reportedly
among the platform’s top-performing originals
in 2024, contributing to the Season 2 renewal.
Notable
Praise: Thornton’s nuanced portrayal and the
show’s cinematic visuals are highlights, though
some find the pacing uneven compared to Sheridan’s
other works.
Season
2 and Future:
Renewal:
Paramount+ renewed Landman for Season 2 in December
2024, with production slated to begin in early 2025.
Expected
Release: Likely late 2025 or early 2026, based on
typical production timelines.
Story
Direction: While specifics are under wraps, Season
2 is expected to deepen Tommy’s personal and
professional conflicts, potentially exploring new
oilfield challenges and character arcs for Cooper
and Cami.
Where
to Watch (as of April 24, 2025):
Paramount+:
Full Season 1 available (all 10 episodes). Best option
for streaming.
Purchase:
Apple TV, Prime Video, Fandango At Home for digital
ownership.
Not
Available: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or Hotstar.
Additional
Notes:
Content
Warning: Contains explicit language, violence, and
mature themes (e.g., drug use, workplace accidents),
unsuitable for younger viewers.
Cultural
Impact: The series has sparked discussions on X about
the oil industry’s environmental and economic
effects, with some praising its realism and others
critiquing its portrayal of industry ethics.
Merchandise/Related
Media: No official merchandise yet, but the original
Texas Monthly article is available online for deeper
context. (Grok)
News
Gold:
Movie
Gold
(2016) is a crime drama inspired by the 1990s Bre-X
mining scandal. Matthew McConaughey stars as Kenny
Wells, a prospector who partners with geologist Michael
Acosta (Édgar Ramírez) to find gold
in Indonesia. After striking it rich, their success
unravels amid fraud and betrayal. Directed by Stephen
Gaghan, the film explores greed and ambition but received
mixed reviews for its uneven tone and pacing. It grossed
$14.8 million against a $20 million budget. Available
on platforms like Hulu or Amazon Prime (check current
listings). (Grok)
News/Profile
Gold
(1974)
Gold
(1974) is a British thriller directed by Peter R.
Hunt, based on Wilbur Smith's novel Gold Mine. Set
in South Africa, it follows Rod Slater (Roger Moore),
a mining engineer, who uncovers a conspiracy to flood
a gold mine to manipulate global gold prices. The
plot involves corporate greed, sabotage, and high-stakes
action, with Slater racing to stop the scheme.
Cast:
Roger Moore, Susannah York, Ray Milland, Bradford
Dillman.
Key
Details: 120 min, rated PG, released August 1974 (UK).
Filmed on location in Johannesburg, featuring intense
mining scenes.
Reception:
Mixed reviews; praised for action and Moore’s
charisma, criticized for pacing and dated elements.
IMDb rating: 5.7/10.
Availability:
Limited streaming; available for rent/purchase on
platforms like Amazon or on DVD. (Grok)
News
Best
Quotes Of The Day
"Bitcoin
is a tool for freeing humanity from oligarchs and
tyrants, dressed up as a get-rich-quick scheme."
— Naval Ravikant
"We
have elected to put our money and faith in a mathematical
framework that is free of politics and human error."
— Tyler Winklevoss
"You
can't stop things like Bitcoin. It will be everywhere,
and the world will have to readjust. World governments
will have to readjust." — John McAfee
"Bitcoin
is the most important invention in the history of
the world since the Internet." — Roger Ver
"Cryptocurrency
is such a powerful concept that it can almost overturn
governments." — Charles Lee
"In
the future, national currencies will become obsolete.
Bitcoin will become the single global currency."
— Jack Dorsey
"The
future of finance is crypto, whether it’s in
payments, contracts, or savings." — Changpeng
Zhao
"Crypto
offers freedom to the unbanked and hope to the underprivileged."
— Elizabeth Stark
"The
new frontier of innovation is in decentralization.
Blockchain leads the charge." — Don Tapscott
"Digital
currency is here to stay, and it’s only a matter
of how long before governments embrace it." —
Brad Garlinghouse
Media
Man Watercooler
May
2025
News
Movie
Box Office
Lilo
& Stitch at $145.5m in first week; Mission Impossible
follows on $63m
News
Wrestlers
Of The Month: WWE/NXT
Men's
1.
Karrion Kross
2. Bron Breakker
3. Bronson Reed
4. Seth Rollins
5. Logan Paul
6. Jey Uso
7. Jacob Fatu
8. Penta
9. Rey Fenix
10. Dirty Dominik Mysterio
11. John Cena
12. Cody Rhodes
13. Aleister Black
14. Santos Escobar
15. Rusev
16. LA Knight
17. Tony D'Angelo
18. Trick Williams
19. Joe Hendry
20. Lexis King
*Subjective
in nature
Women's
1.
Rhea Ripley
2. Tiffany Stratton
3. IVY SKY
4. Stephanie Vaquer
5. Giulia
6. Charlotte Flair
7. Lyra Valkyria
8. Liv Morgan
9. Roxanne Perez
10. Natalya
*Subjective
in nature
News:
Wrestling Big Event Of The Month
1.
Saturday Night's Main Event
2. WWE Backlash
3. AEW Double Or Nothing
4. NXT Battleground
5. TNA Under Siege
News
Streaming:
Netflix
Media
Man Favs
WWE
RAW On Netflix
WWE SmackDown
NXT
Ransom
Canyon
Rotten Legacy
Netflix TUDUM 2025 - May 31
Bet - May 15
Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 - July 11
Fubar - June 12
Quarterback
News
Movie
Box Office: Most Anticipated
Superman
F1
Karate Kid: Legends
The Naked Gun
News
'Entertainment
Promoter Of The Month' TKO Group
Movie
Box Office (North America)
May
24, 2025
1.
Lilo & Stitch - $145.5m
2. Mission Impossible: The Last Reckoning - $63m
3. Final Destination: Bloodlines - $19.7m
4. Thunderbolts* - $9.2m
5. Sinners - $8.8m
6. The Last Rodeo - $5.3m
7. Friendship - $4.6m
8. A Minecraft Movie - $2.2m
9. The Accountant 2 - $2m
10. Hurry Up Tomorrow - $740,000
others:
Clown
in a Cornfield
Shadow Force
Flight or Fight
Until Dawn
The Amateur
The King of Kings
HIT: The 3rd Case
Guru Nanak Jahaz
*correct
at time of publication to best of knowledge
News
Box
Office Movie News via Grok
Memorial
Day Weekend Record:
The
2025 Memorial Day weekend is shaping up to be a historic
one for the box office, driven by Disney’s live-action
Lilo & Stitch and Paramount’s Mission: Impossible
– The Final Reckoning. Lilo & Stitch led
with a massive $145.5 million domestic opening and
$341.7 million globally, while Mission: Impossible
8 grossed $63 million domestically and $204 million
worldwide, marking the franchise’s best opening.
This combo, dubbed “Mission: Stitchpossible,”
fueled the largest Memorial Day box office on record,
signalling a strong start to the summer movie season,
which historically accounts for 40% of annual ticket
sales.
Horror’s
Strong Showing: Horror films are making a significant
comeback in 2025. Final Destination: Bloodlines opened
with a franchise-best $51.7 million domestically and
$105.8 million globally, surpassing $100 million in
its debut weekend and nearing the $200 million mark
worldwide. It’s now among the top 45 highest-grossing
horror films ever. Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, starring
Michael B. Jordan, has also been a standout, crossing
$322 million globally and retaking the #1 domestic
spot on May 15 with $2.2 million, outperforming Marvel’s
Thunderbolts. It’s close to breaking into the
top 10 R-rated movies domestically.
Other
Notable Performances: A Minecraft Movie continues
its impressive run, nearing $1 billion globally with
$928 million to date, making it the second-best video
game adaptation ever. Meanwhile, The Weeknd’s
Hurry Up Tomorrow flopped, earning just $3.3 million
domestically. Disney’s Snow White remake underperformed
earlier this year with $204 million globally against
a $250 million budget, but Lilo & Stitch’s
success signals a rebound for Disney’s live-action
remakes.
Bollywood
and International Markets: In India, Mission: Impossible
– The Final Reckoning scored the biggest Hollywood
opening of 2025 with ?33 crore in two days. In Korea,
it debuted with $5.4 million, capturing 66.63% of
the weekend’s box office revenue. Bollywood box
office updates for 2025 are also being tracked, with
detailed collections available for Hindi films.
Looking
Ahead: The summer of 2025 is projected to potentially
reach $4 billion in ticket sales, rivalling the “Barbenheimer”
summer of 2023. Upcoming releases, including comic
book films and James Cameron epics, are expected to
sustain this momentum. Posts on X highlight strong
presales for Lilo & Stitch, with some predicting
it could be the year’s biggest domestic grosser.
The
box office is showing robust recovery after a slow
start to 2025, with horror and big-budget franchises
leading the charge. (Grok)
Media
Man
For
more details, check sources like Variety, The Hollywood
Reporter, IMDb or Netflix Tudum.
Cryptocurrency
News
Cryptos
(Near live)
Bitcoin
$109,704.32 USD +2.504%
ETH $2,558.37 USD +1.27%
Tether $0.9999 USD -0.11%
XRP $2.39 USD +1.66%
BNB $673.18 USD +3.52%
Solana $173.67 USD +3.43%
USD Coin $164.36 USD -0.05%
Dogecoin $0.2364 USD +4.67%
Cardano $0.7729 USD +3.94%
TRON $0.2678 USD -0.57%
Wrapped Bitcoin $109,317.98 USD +2.46%
News
Bitcoin
close to the top
Market
Picture
Market
capitalisation has risen 2% in the last 24 hours to
$3.37 trillion, 8.5% below January's all-time peaks.
However, Bitcoin buyers are showing more confidence,
trading above the $107k area (+2.9%). Ethereum and
many other altcoins saw stronger intraday gains but
still have a lot to recover after retreating significantly
following the broader market pullback after Trump’s
inauguration.
Bitcoin
is forming its fourth consecutive daily growth candle.
Bulls continue their attempts to secure a foothold
above the $107K level. While the first cryptocurrency
has briefly reached higher levels, it has yet to establish
a sustained hold above them.
Last
week, there was a stabilisation around $103k, which
now looks like a foundation for further growth. The
realistic near-term target for the bulls looks to
be the area of $113K, which would be an extension
to 161.8% of the growth impulse from early May and
the subsequent mini correction at the beginning of
last week.
Bitcoin's
upward move is gradually waking up altcoins, although
they still have considerable room to rise to previous
highs, making them increasingly attractive to retail
traders. The trend of a weakening dollar can also
be seen as a breeding ground for growth.
News
Background
On-chain
signals and market data for Bitcoin remain constructive.
Buying sentiment continues to support further growth,
indicating that it may not yet be time to cash in,
according to CryptoQuant.
Strategy
bought an additional 7,390 BTC ($764.9 million) last
week at an average price of $103,498 per coin. The
company now owns 576,230 BTC bought at an average
price of $69,726. The total investment is valued at
$40.18 billion.
Major
players via options have bet on Ethereum's significant
growth, said CoinDesk analyst Omkar Godbole. The strategy
will yield the biggest profits if ETH rises to $6,000
or higher by 26 December.
The
Binance exchange has filed a motion to dismiss FTX's
$1.76 bn lawsuit. The company's lawyers called the
claims ‘legally untenable’ and asked for
the case to be dismissed.
According
to Fortune, Circle's IPO may not take place as the
USDC issuer is in talks with Coinbase and Ripple to
sell the business for at least $5bn. (FxPro)
News
Cryptocurrency
News
Bitcoin
Price Surge: Bitcoin has risen from $94,000 to over
$106,000 in May, a 13% increase, driven by strong
institutional interest and ETF inflows ($3.3 billion
this month). Analysts predict it could hit $110,000
by month's end, with some forecasting $220,000-$250,000
by year-end due to regulatory tailwinds and reduced
volatility.
Regulatory
Developments: The U.S. Senate advanced the GENIUS
Act on May 20 with a 66-32 vote, aiming to regulate
stablecoins and establish a federal framework for
digital currencies. A final vote is pending post the
May 26 holiday. Texas may become the second U.S. state
to allow a Bitcoin reserve if SB 21 is signed, following
New Hampshire’s lead.
XRP
Momentum: XRP briefly overtook Tether as the third-largest
cryptocurrency. Its price surged 15% in 2025, trading
at $2.40, with South Korean investors driving demand.
The launch of XRP futures ETFs by CME Group on May
19 is seen as a pivotal moment. Predictions suggest
XRP could reach $3-$20 by 2030.
Cybersecurity
Concerns: Coinbase reported a cyberattack costing
$180-$400 million, affecting a small subset of users’
data. Bybit faced a $1.5 billion heist in February,
the largest ever. In France, crypto-related kidnappings
targeting wealthy investors have raised alarms.
Institutional
Adoption: Blackstone disclosed holding 23,094 shares
of the iShares Bitcoin Trust, marking its first public
bitcoin position. JPMorgan, Ondo, and Chainlink announced
a $100 billion blockchain platform for tokenizing
real-world assets.
Market
Trends: The crypto market cap rose 1.2% to $3.46 trillion,
with $124 billion in trading volume. However, concerns
about overconfidence and potential corrections persist.
Galaxy’s Nasdaq listing ($GLXY) has sparked enthusiasm,
with potential to rival other crypto stocks. (Grok)
News
Blockchain
News
Regulatory
Moves in the U.S.: The U.S. Senate advanced the GENIUS
Act, a bipartisan bill to regulate stablecoins, with
new consumer protections and limits on tech companies
issuing them. This follows a previous Democratic block,
signaling growing acceptance of blockchain’s
role in finance, though concerns about oversight and
corruption persist.
Coinbase
Joins S&P 500: Crypto exchange Coinbase was added
to the S&P 500, a milestone for the crypto industry,
though it faced a cyberattack compromising customer
data, with remediation costs estimated at $180–400
million.
New
Hampshire’s Crypto Push: New Hampshire became
the first U.S. state to allow its treasury to invest
in cryptocurrency. Proposed bills aim to prevent discrimination
against digital assets and establish blockchain-specific
legal frameworks, though their fate remains uncertain.
Cardano
Embezzlement Allegations: Cardano faces claims of
$600 million in ADA embezzlement. Founder Charles
Hoskinson promised an audit to restore trust, potentially
setting a precedent for blockchain self-governance.
Ripple
and XRP Developments: Ripple warned XRP holders about
scams amid a market uptick. XRP is expanding into
multichain interoperability with Cosmos and EVM sidechains,
positioning it as a key player in blockchain connectivity.
Chainlink
and Stablecoin Integration: World Liberty Financial’s
USD1 stablecoin, backed by U.S. treasuries, hit $2
billion in market cap and is now cross-chain with
Chainlink’s CCIP, enabling secure transfers across
Ethereum and BNB Chain.
Security
Concerns: French crypto entrepreneurs, including Paymium’s
CEO, face rising targeted attacks, prompting enhanced
security measures. Global threats to crypto executives
are increasing, with organized crime targeting digital
wealth.
Blockchain
in Gaming: Blockchain gaming saw a 10% drop in user
activity in April, but the ecosystem is maturing.
Mainstream companies like Ubisoft and Sega are experimenting
with NFTs and play-to-earn mechanics.
JP
Morgan’s Blockchain Milestone: JP Morgan used
Ondo and Chainlink for its first public blockchain
deal, a historic step for institutional crypto adoption.
Ethereum
Node Storage Solution: Vitalik Buterin proposed a
local-first design to reduce Ethereum node storage
requirements from 1.3TB, aiming to lower barriers
for users. (Grok)
News
XRP
News
Latest
XRP News Summary (as of May 22, 2025)
Price
Movement: XRP is currently trading around $2.31-$2.55,
experiencing a 4% weekly drop but holding key support
levels. Analysts suggest a potential rebound to $3.40,
with some optimistic predictions targeting $11.34
by year-end or even $123 based on historical patterns,
though short-term forecasts indicate limited gains
until October 2025. A critical support level is at
$2.30; a drop below could lead to a crash to $2.00.
SEC
Lawsuit Developments: Ripple and the SEC are nearing
a settlement in their long-standing legal battle,
with the SEC filing a motion to lift the injunction
on XRP sales to institutional investors and reduce
a $125 million penalty. A recent court ruling on May
18 rejected the SEC’s request for an indicative
ruling, but Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer downplayed
it as procedural. The outcome could clear the path
for XRP-spot ETF approval, a significant bullish catalyst.
XRP
Futures and ETF Speculation: The CME Group launched
cash-settled XRP futures on May 19, boosting institutional
interest and speculation about spot ETF approvals.
Firms like 21Shares, Bitwise, and Grayscale have filed
for XRP ETFs, with Polymarket bettors giving an 83%
chance of approval. However, BlackRock’s silence
and a recent court decision have delayed ETF momentum,
causing some bearish pressure.
Technological
Advancements: Ripple is integrating XRP with Cosmos
and developing EVM sidechains for better blockchain
interoperability. Its custody service now supports
shared MPC wallets, and the XRP Ledger is seeing growth
in tokenization and DeFi, with rising Total Value
Locked (TVL). StraitsX launched a Singapore-dollar
stablecoin (XSGD) on the XRP Ledger, enhancing its
utility.
Market
Sentiment and Political Support: XRP sentiment remains
mixed but leans bullish due to legal optimism and
endorsements, notably from President Donald Trump,
who suggested XRP as a potential strategic reserve
currency. Posts on X highlight community excitement,
with Ripple announcing an XRP Rewards Event to engage
holders. However, some analysts warn of regulatory
scrutiny and market volatility impacting short-term
performance.
Ripple
IPO Speculation: Market speculation suggests a Ripple
IPO could value the company at over $100 billion,
potentially boosting XRP’s price, though XRP
in Ripple’s escrow won’t count toward valuation
until the IPO.
Critical
Note: While bullish catalysts like ETF prospects and
legal clarity exist, ongoing regulatory uncertainty
and market dynamics could pose risks. Some community
predictions (e.g., $250 by 2026) appear speculative
and lack robust evidence. Always conduct thorough
research before making investment decisions, as market
conditions are volatile. (Grok)
News
Best
Quotes Of The Day
"Banking
now is like sending a letter: you send it, you don't
know if it reached there. Ripple is more like sending
an iMessage: you send it, and you immediately know"
Chris Larsen
"Bitcoin
is a swarm of cyber hornets serving the goddess of
wisdom, feeding on the fire of truth, exponentially
growing ever smarter, faster, and stronger behind
a wall of encrypted energy" Michael J. Saylor
News
Elon
Musk quotes
“Fundamentally,
bitcoin is not a good substitute for transactional
currency,” Musk told Time Magazine after being
named Time’s 2021 Person of the Year. “Even
though it was created as a silly joke, dogecoin is
better suited for transactions.”
"The
transaction volume of bitcoin is low, and the cost
per transaction is high,” he said. Musk added
that bitcoin is more suitable as a store of value,
which is why its investors want to hold onto it and
not sell it or use it for transactions.
Dogecoin,
on the other hand, is a currency that “encourages
people to spend, rather than sort of hoard as a store
of value” Elon Musk
News/Intel
What
Is A Cryptocurrency ETF? A Guide For Crypto Investors
Looking To Diversify
A
cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) is an investment
vehicle that allows investors to gain exposure to
digital assets without directly holding them. Crypto
ETFs can be a simpler, highly regulated way to invest
in the volatile crypto world, offering diversification
and ease of trading.
This
guide will explain what crypto ETFs are, how they
work, their advantages and the potential risks investors
should consider.
What
Is A Crypto ETF?
A
crypto ETF is a financial product that provides investors
with indirect exposure to digital assets like bitcoin
and ether. Instead of directly purchasing and storing
these cryptos, investors can buy shares of a crypto
ETF, which tracks the value of one or more digital
currencies. These ETFs trade on traditional stock
exchanges, making them accessible through regular
brokerage accounts.
Crypto
ETFs are available in two main forms: spot ETFs and
futures ETFs.
Spot
ETFs directly hold the underlying crypto, while futures
ETFs rely on contracts that speculate on future crypto
prices. This difference can impact an ETF’s performance,
with spot ETFs offering more direct price exposure
and futures ETFs providing a way to trade on expected
price movements.
Investing
in crypto ETFs offers simplified access to digital
assets. However, these funds are not without risks.
Investors should know potential issues, including
counterparty risks, management fees and limited control
over the underlying digital assets. Understanding
these factors can help investors make informed decisions.
How
Does A Cryptocurrency ETF Work?
A cryptocurrency ETF functions like a traditional
exchange-traded fund, trading on major stock exchanges.
Investors can buy and sell shares of a crypto ETF
throughout the trading day, with prices fluctuating
based on the value of the underlying crypto it tracks.
Crypto ETFs offer real-time pricing, which provides
greater flexibility for investors.
Crypto
ETFs are structured to hold either the actual crypto
in the case of spot ETFs or derivative contracts,
as in futures ETFs, that reflect crypto prices. The
fund’s manager ensures the ETF maintains its
target exposure by buying or selling assets as needed.
This allows investors to gain exposure to digital
assets without directly managing crypto wallets or
navigating complex exchanges.
Types
Of Cryptocurrency ETFs
Crypto ETFs come in several forms, offering different
ways to invest in the digital asset market. Bitcoin
ETFs focus solely on bitcoin, providing direct exposure
to its price. Ethereum ETFs are dedicated to tracking
the value of Ethereum. Blockchain ETFs invest in companies
involved in blockchain technology rather than holding
crypto directly. Multi-Crypto ETFs provide access
to a mix of several cryptos within a single fund.
These
options allow investors to choose between a single-asset
focus or a diversified approach that reduces the risk
of relying on one asset.
Bitcoin
ETFs: Spot Vs. Futures
There are two kinds of Bitcoin ETFs, spot and futures.
Spot bitcoin ETFs hold actual bitcoin reserves, with
each share backed by actual crypto. This means investors
gain direct exposure to bitcoin’s price movements
without needing to manage or store bitcoin themselves.
Spot ETFs are regulated financial instruments, with
custodians securely storing the underlying bitcoin
to protect against risks like hacking or theft.
In
contrast, bitcoin futures ETFs do not hold actual
bitcoin. Instead, they invest in futures contracts
speculating on bitcoin’s future price. These
contracts are agreements to buy or sell bitcoin at
a set price on a future date. While this approach
offers bitcoin exposure, it introduces added complexity.
Costs like roll premiums – expenses an ETF is
required to pay when replacing expiring futures contracts
with new ones – can reduce investor returns.
Futures contracts may not perfectly track bitcoin’s
spot price, causing price differences between the
ETF and the actual bitcoin market.
Ethereum
ETFs
Similar to bitcoin ETFs, ether ETFs come in two main
types, spot and futures-based. Spot ether ETFs hold
actual ETH in a secure, regulated custody account,
giving investors direct exposure to the cryptocurrency's
price. When purchasing ether ETFs, investors buy shares
representing a portion of the ETF's Ethereum holdings.
Futures-based
ether ETFs do not hold ETH directly. Instead, they
invest in futures contracts speculating on Ethereum's
future price. These ETFs are easier to regulate and
avoid custody risks, but may experience tracking errors
and higher costs due to frequent contract rollovers.
Blockchain
ETFs
Blockchain ETFs invest in companies using blockchain
technology instead of holding cryptocurrencies directly.
These funds provide exposure to industries like supply
chain management, cybersecurity and digital identity.
Unlike crypto ETFs, which focus on digital assets
like bitcoin or ether, blockchain ETFs diversify across
multiple sectors.
Examples
include Robinhood, which offers crypto trading and
blockchain services; Metaplanet, an investor in blockchain
startups; and Cleanspark, a bitcoin mining company
operating energy-efficient mining facilities. Blockchain
ETFs let investors benefit from blockchain’s
growth without direct ownership.
Multi-Crypto
ETFs
Multi-Crypto ETFs expose a range of digital assets
rather than focusing on a single one. These funds
offer investors a balanced approach, allowing them
to invest in multiple coins, such as bitcoin, ethereum,
and solana, all within one investment product.
Grayscale's
Digital Large Cap Fund is a notable example, holding
a mix of major digital assets. Roughly 75% of the
fund is allocated to bitcoin, 19% to ether, and the
remainder to solana, ripple and avalanche. This approach
helps spread risk and gives investors broader exposure
to the evolving crypto market.
Why
Are Investors Interested In Crypto ETFs?
Investors are drawn to crypto ETFs because they provide
a straightforward method to gain exposure to digital
assets without directly owning them. Through crypto
ETFs, investors can access crypto through traditional
brokerage accounts, avoiding the complexities of managing
digital wallets, private keys or secure storage. Crypto
ETFs also offer the security of institutional-grade
funds, which are managed by professional fund managers
and operate under regulatory guidance.
One
of crypto ETFs' most appealing aspects is their portfolio
diversification. Instead of investing in a single
cryptocurrency, investors can choose multi-asset ETFs
that spread risk across the crypto market.
Pros
And Cons Of Crypto ETFs
Crypto ETFs offer a convenient way to gain exposure
to digital assets without directly managing cryptocurrency.
However, like any investment, they come with benefits
and drawbacks. Understanding these pros and cons can
help investors make informed decisions.
Pros
Of Cryptocurrency ETFs
Accessibility: Crypto ETFs can be traded through traditional
brokerage accounts, making it easy for investors to
gain exposure without using crypto exchanges.
Diversification:
Investors can choose multi-crypto ETFs, spreading
their risk across multiple digital assets instead
of relying on a single cryptocurrency.
Regulatory
Oversight: Crypto ETFs are managed by regulated financial
institutions, providing regulated security compared
to direct crypto ownership, which can be challenging.
Cons
Of Cryptocurrency ETFs
Limited Control: Investors do not own actual crypto,
meaning they cannot use it for transactions or transfer
it to a private wallet.
Management
Fees: Crypto ETFs often have management fees that
can reduce returns over time, especially futures-based
ETFs with frequent contract rollovers.
Tracking
Errors: Futures-based crypto ETFs may not perfectly
mirror the spot price of cryptocurrencies due to price
differences between futures and actual assets.
Cryptocurrency
ETFs Vs. Direct Crypto Investments
Crypto ETFs offer investors a way to gain exposure
to digital assets without direct ownership. Investors
do not need to manage private keys or secure digital
wallets, making ETFs a simpler option for those who
want crypto exposure without the technical complexities.
In
contrast, direct crypto investments allow investors
to buy, hold and control actual digital assets. This
approach provides complete ownership, enabling investors
to transfer, spend or stake their crypto as they see
fit. Direct investments also avoid management fees
but come with responsibilities like wallet security,
exposure to hacking risks and the need to manage transactions
on crypto exchanges.
Who
Are Crypto ETFs Right For?
Crypto ETFs are ideal for beginner investors who want
exposure to digital assets without the complexity
of directly buying, storing or managing cryptocurrencies.
These funds offer a simple, regulated way to invest,
making them suitable for those new to the crypto market
who are more comfortable with traditional financial
products.
They
are also well-suited for traditional investors familiar
with stock markets but wanting to explore crypto.
By trading on exchanges like the NYSE or Nasdaq, crypto
ETFs provide a convenient option for those who prefer
to avoid the security risks of crypto exchanges.
The
Future Outlook Of Cryptocurrency ETFs
The future of cryptocurrency ETFs looks bright, with
BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF posting $356 million
in inflows, the longest streak of 2025, and bitcoin
flirting with new highs. As regulatory clarity improves,
driven by bullish sentiment from SEC Commissioner
Paul Atkins, more funds are launching, providing investors
with greater choice and confidence.
Bottom
Line
Crypto
ETFs make it easier to invest in digital assets without
directly buying and managing cryptocurrencies. They
are a good option for beginners, traditional investors
and those looking for diversified exposure. With choices
like bitcoin, ether, multi-crypto and blockchain ETFs,
investors can find a fund that fits their goals while
reducing some risks of direct ownership.
The
future of crypto ETFs looks promising as more funds
emerge and regulatory clarity improves. BlackRock’s
Bitcoin ETF is seeing record inflows, showing strong
investor interest. As the market grows, crypto ETFs
offer a straightforward way to participate in the
digital asset space.
News,
Markets, Energy, Politics and Culture - Australia,
US and World
Markets
May
20, 2025
Australian
Dollar: $0.6456 USD (up $0.0060 USD)
Iron Ore June Spot Price (SGX): $99.45 USD (down $0.25)
Oil Price (WTI): $62.71 USD (up $0.22)
Gold Price: $3,230.61 USD (up $29.39)
Copper Price (CME): $4.6640 USD (up $0.0725)
Bitcoin: $105,357.30 USD (up 1.04%)
Dow Jones: 42,792.07 (up 137.33 points)
News
Big
tech is back after a brutal reality check, but will
the rally last?
Wall
Street's so called magnificent seven tech companies
have recovered strongly from the hit they took when
US President Donald Trump annnounced his 'Liberation
Day' tariff splurge on 2 April. They are now up 28
per cent on their April lows, beating the S&P
500 Index, which has returned 19 per cent in the same
period. Nick Griffin from Munro Partners is one investor
that is confident that US big tech will continue its
recovery in the second half of the year, with Griffin
claiming that companies like Amazon and Meta are a
safer investment than US Treasuries. (RMR)
News
Judge
queries Qantas outsourcing 'remorse'
The
Federal Court has commenced a hearing to determine
the financial penalty Qantas will pay for illegally
outsourcing the jobs of ground-handling workers in
October 2020. The Transport Workers' Union wants the
court to impose the maximum fine of $121m; the union's
barrister, Noel Hutley SC, told the court that the
outsourcing was the "largest ever" breach
of the general protection provisions of the Fair Work
and previous industrial relations legislation. Qantas's
chief people officer Catherine Walsh told the court
that she was "deeply sorry" about the outsourcing,
even though it occurred before she joined the airline;
Justice Michael Lee responded by noting that Qantas
had argued that the affected workers should not be
entitled to compensation. (RMR)
News
Telstra's
Brady to face grilling over returns
Telstra
will hold its investor day in Sydney on 27 May, with
its shareholders wanting to see evidence that the
telco is increasing returns on invested capital (ROIC).
Telstra has conceded it needs to improve ROIC and
is investing in artificial intelligence to become
more efficient; its ROIC was at eight cent in the
six months to December 31, up from 6.8 per cent in
the same period a year earlier. Hugh Giddy from Investors
Mutual, which owns around $200 million worth of Telstra
shares, says that to improve its returns, the telco
must raise the prices it charges its wholesale customers
– and ensure the increases are passed onto
consumer. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Gaming
M&A
deals on the cards for Light & Wonder
Light
& Wonder CEO Matt Wilson says the gaming group
is looking at more acquisitions at a time when it
is considering if its future lies as a company listed
solely on the ASX, or on both the Nasdaq and the ASX.
Light & Wonder acquired the charitable gaming
assets of Grover Gaming and G2 Gaming in February
under a deal worth $US850 million ($1.3 billion),
while Wilson says it is looking at possible acquisitions
in class II gaming, a term used to refer to games
such as Bingo that are played for prizes. (RMS)
News
Personal
motive for Ainsworth family's $50m gift
Roy
Morgan Summary
The
Ainsworth family has donated $50 million to the University
of NSW to establish the Ainsworth Endometriosis Research
Centre; endometriosis is a chronic disease that impacts
up to one in seven women. Lily Ainsworth, the granddaughter
of Aristocrat Leisure founder Len Ainsworth, suffers
from the condition, as does her mother Anna; Lily
Ainsworth says she has endured endometriosis pain
since she was 15. Endometriosis occurs when tissue
that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus
grows outside the uterus, and it causes pain, inflammation
and scarring, and can impact fertility. (RMS)
News
Lachlan
Murdoch's Nova under scrutiny for not lodging accounts
Owned
by billionaire media mogul Lachlan Murdoch for more
than a decade, Nova Entertainment owns the Australian
radio brands Smooth FM and Nova. It has been under
scrutiny from the Australian Taxation Office for more
than a year, while earlier this year, it admitted
it had failed to file more than 40 annual account
statements with the Australian Securities & Investments
Commission over 15 years. Nova's latest accounts reveal
that it had revenue of $187.8 million in 2024, up
from $185.9 million the year before; it posted a profit
of $24.1 million, down from $27.9 million. (RMS)
News
MinRes
lands new chair with $8.3m carrot
Iron
ore and lithium producer Mineral Resources has appointed
Malcolm Bundey to succeed executive chairman James
McClements. Bundey's remuneration will include an
annual salary of $750,000 in cash and shares, plus
780,000 stock options that will vest over three years;
Bundey could potentially gain about $8.3m over this
period if he succeeds in turning around the company.
Jeffrey Jackson from shareholder advisory group Open
Engagement has questioned the options component, noting
that stock-based remuneration is usually reserved
for a company's executives rather than directors.
Bundey's lack of experience in the mining sector may
also attract scrutiny. (RMS)
News
New
Hope's boom over as coal price slump hits sales
New
Hope Corporation's shares fell 7.1 per cent to $3.65
on Monday, after the coal miner posted underlying
earnings of $155.2m for the three months to 30 April;
this is 27 per cent lower than previously. New Hope
received an average of $US147.50 per tonne for its
thermal coal during the quarter, compared with $US159
per tonne in the previous quarter; the price of thermal
coal had peaked at $US432.45 per tonne in 2022. Meanwhile,
the company expects full-year production to be within
the range of 15.93 million to 17.45 million tonnes,
which is three per cent higher than previously. (RMS)
News
Perenti's
Barminco inks $500m Agnew underground contract renewal
with Gold Fields
Barminco
has secured a $500 million contract renewal with Gold
Fields to continue its underground mining work at
Gold Field's Agnew mine near Leinster in Western Australia.
Barminco, which is the underground mining services
division of Perenti, has been working underground
at Agnew since 2010, and currently employs around
300 people there. Barminco's new contract with Gold
Fields will run for three years, with the option of
an additional year, while Agnew produced 229,500 ounces
of gold in 2024, compared to 244,900oz. (Roy Morgan
Research)
News
World
Headline News
Gaza
Crisis: The first aid trucks have entered Gaza after
nearly three months of Israel’s blockade, but
allies are threatening sanctions and urging more aid.
Israel announced "Operation Gideon's Chariots,"
a new ground offensive, while stating it will allow
a "basic amount of food" to prevent a hunger
crisis.
Ukraine-Russia
Conflict: Russia launched its largest drone attack
on Ukraine, deploying 273 drones, ahead of a call
between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President
Vladimir Putin aimed at stopping the "bloodbath."
Trump later backed off a direct meeting with Putin,
pushing for Ukraine-Russia talks, but peace negotiations
show little progress.
UK-EU
Relations: The UK and EU struck a post-Brexit "reset"
deal, including a defense partnership and reduced
trade barriers. Discussions also cover fishing rights,
youth schemes, and UK access to EU passport e-gates.
Romanian
Election: Liberal mayor Nicusor Dan won Romania’s
presidency, defeating a right-wing nationalist in
a tense race amid political turbulence.
Papal
Inauguration: Pope Leo XIV called for unity at his
inaugural Mass, attended by world leaders including
Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky. He offered to host
peace talks for Ukraine.
Mexican
Navy Incident: A Mexican navy ship crashed into the
Brooklyn Bridge during a celebration of Mexico’s
independence, killing two sailors and injuring 22.
U.S.
Terrorism Incident: A bombing at a Palm Springs fertility
clinic, deemed an "intentional act of terrorism,"
killed one person. The FBI has a person of interest,
possibly the deceased.
These
stories reflect major global events as of May 20,
2025. (Grok)
News
Pop
Culture/Pro Wrestling: WWE
May
19, 2025 (South Carolina, USA)
Red
Hot WWE RAW On Netflix
Paul
Heyman Guys aka 'Trifecta Of Terror'
Jey Uso vs Bron Breakker; Warm Up For Uso To Face
Lon Paul at Saturday Night's Main Event This Weekend!
Phenomenal
Penta Tag Team Match - Penta and Styles vs Judgement
Day
Australia's
Rhea Ripley Progresses In Women's Money In The Bank
Qualifiers; Stark gets legit injury off missile dropkick
attempt
Judgment
Day: Rozanne Perez Gifts Chicken Tenders For Dom and
Apples For Carlito!
Aussie
Grayson Waller Cops Beating By Sheamus, Waller's tagteam
partner Austin Theory Laughs And Grin To Grin at Waller's
fall!
Aussie
Tsunami Bronson Reed Continues To Post On X With Rehab
Of Leg And Foot Recovery re leap of top of cage month
ago at Survivor Series: WarGames.
News
Movie
Box Office (US)
May
18, 2025
1.
Final Destination: Bloodlines - $51m
2. Thunderbolts* - $16.5m
3. Sinners - $15.4m
4. A Minecraft Movie - $5.9m
5. The Accountant 2 - $5m
6. Hurry Up Tomorrow - $3.3m
7. Friendship - $1.4m
8. Clown in a Cornfield $1.3m
9. Until Dawn - $800,000
10. The Amateur - $712,000
*correct
at time of publication to best of knowledge
News
Best
Quotes
Mining
Mining
is the art of exploiting mineral deposits at a profit.
An unprofitable mine is fit only for the sepulcher
of a dead mule.
Don't
die without mining the gold in your mind.
Anyone
can find the dirt in someone. Be the one that finds
the gold.
Praise
like gold and diamonds, owes its value only to its
scarcity.
Make
new friends, but keep the old; Those are silver, these
are gold.
Everything
has its limit - iron ore cannot be educated into gold.
The
desire of gold is not for gold. It is for the means
of freedom and benefit.
Best
Quotes
News
News
from afar is seldom sooth."
"A
reporter is always concerned with tomorrow. There's
nothing tangible of yesterday."
"If
you don't read the newspaper, you're uninformed."
"News
is something somebody doesn't want printed; all else
is advertising."
"TV
news has no intention of suggesting that any story
has any implications, for that would require viewers
to continue to think about it when it is done and
therefore obstruct their attending to the next story."
News,
Markets, Comms and Culture
May
15, 2025
Sydney,
Australia
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6420 USD (down $0.0050 USD)
Iron Ore June Spot Price (SGX): $101.70 USD (up $2.10
)
Oil Price (WTI): $62.89 USD (down $0.74)
Gold Price: $3,179.41 USD (down $72.13)
Copper Price (CME): $4.6435 USD (down $0.0650)
Bitcoin: $103,541.08 USD (down 0.93%)
Dow Jones: 42,051.06 (down 89.37 points)
News
Australia
Miners,
energy help ASX to sixth day of gains
The
Australian sharemarket posted a modest gain on Wednesday,
with the S&P/ASX 200 adding 0.1 per cent to close
at 8,279.6 points. Fortescue was up 2.2 per cent at
$16.97, Woodside Energy rose 3.4 per cent to $22.31
and the Commonwealth Bank firmed 0.8 per cent to end
the session at $167.50. However, Insignia Financial
shed 15.8 per cent to finish at $3.37 and Aristocrat
Leisure was down 8.9 per cent at $62.10. (Roy Morgan
Summary)
News
Media
CNN
and Fox take on their own legacies with new streaming
services
Fox
Corporation is set to launch its third streaming service
in the US. Fox One will feature content from across
the media group's operations, including news, sport
and entertainment. It will complement Fox Corp's existing
Fox Nation streaming news channel and Tubi, a free
advertising supported general entertainment streaming
platform. Meanwhile, Warner Bros Discovery-owned CNN
plans to launch a news streaming service that will
be bundled with subscriptions to http://cnn.com. Fox
Corp and CNN are both confident that their new streaming
products will not cannabilise the customer base for
their cable TV services. (RMS)
News
Rio
shows we must invest in green iron: Fortescue boss
Rio
Tinto recently advised that the iron content of its
flagship 'Pilbara Blend Fines' product will be downgraded
by nearly one percentage point, to 60.8 per cent;
BHP had previously reduced the iron content of two
iron ore products in 2024. Fortescue CEO Dino Otranto
says the trend underlines the need for Australia to
invest in more domestic refining, in order to produce
higher-grade iron ore. Otranto has indicated that
Fortescue is on track to finish construction of a
green iron plant at its Christmas Creek iron ore hub
and produce commercial quantities of green iron by
the end of 2025. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Beware
the rally in iron ore above $US100, it might not last
The
iron ore price has peaked at more than $US101 per
tonne in Singapore trading on Wednesday, which is
its highest level in about six weeks. Factors such
as the easing of trade tensions between the US and
China have bolstered the price of the steel input,
although market watchers say the rebound is unlikely
to be sustained. Headwinds include steel production
cutbacks in China and a looming increase in global
iron ore supply as new projects in Africa start to
commence shipments. (RMS)
News
Core
Lithium plan to revive mothballed Finniss
Perth-based
Core Lithium has advised that it may resume operations
at its Finniss mine in the Northern Territory. The
mine was placed in 'care and maintenance' mode in
2024, in response to a sharp downturn in the price
of lithium. Core hopes a plan to significantly reduce
mining and processing costs at Finniss, while also
boosting productivity, will enable the mine to reopen.
CEO Paul Brown says the quality of the Finniss deposit
and its proximity to the Port of Darwin gives it an
advantage over rival lithium mines in Western Australia.
(RMS)
News
Australian
Mining News
WA
Mining Conference and Exhibition: Scheduled for October
8–9, 2025, in Perth, this event will focus on
critical minerals, mine waste management, and innovative
technologies shaping the industry’s future. It
aims to be a key platform for networking and industry
insights.
Global
Resources Innovation Expo (GRX25): Set for May 20–22,
2025, in Brisbane, GRX25 will feature industry leaders
like Owen Hegarty, discussing transformation and sustainability
in mining.
Carbine
Resources: The company secured a 21-year mining lease
for its Muchea West silica sand project in Western
Australia, marking a significant milestone.
Federal
Government Cabinet: Following the re-election of Prime
Minister Anthony Albanese, the new cabinet has been
welcomed by mining bodies. The government is pushing
the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive (10%
refundable tax offset for processing 31 critical minerals)
and a Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive ($2/kg for
renewable hydrogen).
Prospect
Awards 2025: Nominations are open for the Australian
Mining Prospect Awards, recognizing excellence in
safety, occupational health, and industry leadership.
Legacy
Minerals: The company is advancing the Nico Young
nickel-cobalt project in New South Wales, leveraging
prior work by Jervois Global to reduce costs and accelerate
development.
Rio
Tinto’s Winu Project: Rio Tinto and Sumitomo
Metal Mining signed final joint venture agreements
for the Winu copper-gold project in Western Australia’s
Great Sandy Desert.
Sibanye-Stillwater:
The company reported a 92% increase in zinc production
(25,000 tonnes) at its Century zinc retreatment operation
in Queensland for the March 2025 quarter, with a feasibility
study for the Mt Lyell copper mine in Tasmania due
by late 2025.
Tivan’s
Speewah Fluorite Project: Tivan formed a joint venture
with Sumitomo Corporation, supported by a $5.3 million
investment and government funding, to develop Australia’s
first fluorite operation in Western Australia.
Hillgrove
Resources: The Kanmantoo copper mine in South Australia
produced 811 tonnes of copper in April, with annual
guidance set at 12,000–14,000 tonnes for 2025.
Critical
Minerals and Sustainability: Australia’s mining
sector is poised to lead in the global energy transition,
with growing demand for critical minerals and a focus
on innovation and sustainable practices.
Queensland
Mining Coroner: Wayne Pennell was appointed Queensland’s
first mining and resources coroner to investigate
fatalities and address a backlog of inquests, enhancing
safety accountability.
Social
Media Sentiment: Posts on X highlight ongoing exploration
(e.g., Verity Resources’ Monument Gold Project)
and acquisitions (e.g., Terra Metals’ Dante Project
expansion), reflecting active industry momentum. However,
a 119% mining rate hike by a Goldfields council has
sparked concern among local explorers. (Grok)
News
Pop
Culture/Entertainment
Media
Movies
Network
(1976) - Directed by Sidney Lumet, this satirical
drama follows a TV network exploiting a deranged anchor’s
rants for profit, highlighting media sensationalism.
Stars Faye Dunaway and Peter Finch.
Nightcrawler
(2014) - A thriller by Dan Gilroy about a drifter
(Jake Gyllenhaal) who becomes a freelance crime journalist,
blurring ethical lines for fame. It’s a sharp
critique of modern media’s vulture-like tendencies.
Zodiac
(2007) - Directed by David Fincher, this film chronicles
a cartoonist-turned-detective’s obsession with
the Zodiac Killer, exploring media’s role in
public fear and fascination.
Citizen
Kane (1941) - Orson Welles’ classic traces the
life of a newspaper magnate, loosely based on William
Randolph Hearst, examining media power and personal
ambition.
Sweet
Smell of Success (1957) - A biting satire about a
ruthless press agent and a powerful columnist, showcasing
media manipulation with sharp dialogue.
News
Gold:
Movie
Gold
(2016) is a crime drama inspired by the 1990s Bre-X
mining scandal. Matthew McConaughey stars as Kenny
Wells, a prospector who partners with geologist Michael
Acosta (Édgar Ramírez) to find gold
in Indonesia. After striking it rich, their success
unravels amid fraud and betrayal. Directed by Stephen
Gaghan, the film explores greed and ambition but received
mixed reviews for its uneven tone and pacing. It grossed
$14.8 million against a $20 million budget. Available
on platforms like Hulu or Amazon Prime (check current
listings). (Grok)
News/Profile
Gold
(1974)
Gold
(1974) is a British thriller directed by Peter R.
Hunt, based on Wilbur Smith's novel Gold Mine. Set
in South Africa, it follows Rod Slater (Roger Moore),
a mining engineer, who uncovers a conspiracy to flood
a gold mine to manipulate global gold prices. The
plot involves corporate greed, sabotage, and high-stakes
action, with Slater racing to stop the scheme.
Cast:
Roger Moore, Susannah York, Ray Milland, Bradford
Dillman.
Key
Details: 120 min, rated PG, released August 1974 (UK).
Filmed on location in Johannesburg, featuring intense
mining scenes.
Reception:
Mixed reviews; praised for action and Moore’s
charisma, criticized for pacing and dated elements.
IMDb rating: 5.7/10.
Availability:
Limited streaming; available for rent/purchase on
platforms like Amazon or on DVD.
News
Bitcoin
Movies Streaming
Money
Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery (2024, HBO)
A
documentary by Cullen Hoback exploring Bitcoin’s
origins and the identity of Satoshi Nakamoto. It’s
a thrilling investigation into Bitcoin’s rise
and its potential impact on global finance.
Streaming:
Available on HBO’s streaming platform, Max. Check
JustWatch for additional services or free options
like Apple TV+ trials.
Bitconned
(2024, Netflix) A true-crime documentary about three
individuals who scammed millions in the unregulated
crypto market to fund lavish lifestyles. Streaming:
Exclusively on Netflix.
Banking
on Bitcoin (2016)
A
popular documentary diving into Bitcoin’s impact,
its challenge to centralized banking, and its early
history. It’s a great pick for understanding
Bitcoin’s ethos. Streaming: Available on Amazon
Prime Video (free for subscribers), Fandango at Home,
and for purchase/rent on Amazon, YouTube Primetime,
or Apple TV.
The
Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014)
Follows
programmer Daniel Mross and early Bitcoin adopters,
offering insights into Bitcoin’s volatile early
days. Ideal for beginners.
Streaming: Available on Prime Video, Fandango at Home,
and for purchase on iTunes or Amazon.
Bitcoin:
The End of Money as We Know It (2015)
A
concise documentary tracing the history of money and
Bitcoin’s potential to disrupt fiat systems.
Features experts like Andreas Antonopoulos.
Streaming:
Available on Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Fandango at
Home. Free on YouTube in some regions (e.g., Ulterior
States).
Notes
on Streaming with Bitcoin:
Major
platforms like Netflix and HBO Max don’t directly
accept Bitcoin payments. However, you can use crypto
via gift cards purchased from platforms like Bitrefill,
Coinsbee, or eGifter, which offer cards for services
like Amazon, Fandango, or Rakuten, usable for streaming
or movie tickets.
For
example, Bitrefill sells Showtime or Rakuten gift
cards (for US, Spain, Portugal, Italy) payable with
Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Dogecoin.
Crypto
debit cards from providers like http://Crypto.com
or Coinbase can also convert Bitcoin to fiat for subscriptions
or purchases at non-crypto-accepting platforms.
Additional
Tips:
Check
platforms like JustWatch or IMDb for real-time streaming
availability, as services change frequently.
Some
older documentaries, like Ulterior States (2014),
are freely available on YouTube, offering ideological
perspectives on Bitcoin’s early days.
Be
cautious with free streaming sites; some, like Openload
or Streamango, have been linked to crypto-jacking
schemes that mine Monero using your device’s
CPU. (Grok)
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
May
13, 2025
Sydney, Australia
Bitcoin
$102,452.96 USD -1.57%
ETH $2,473.59 USD -1.39%
Tether $0.9993 USD -0.10%
XRP $2.53 USD +7.21%
BNB $662.27 USD +1.78%
Solana $172.50 USD -0.12%
USD Coin $0.9993 USD -0.07%
Dogecoin $0.2295 USD -1.04%
Cardano $0.8162 USD +0.72%
TRON $0.2732 USD +3.10%
Wrapped Bitcoin $102,406.50 USD -1.66%
News
Cryptocurrency
News
Bitcoin
Price Surge: Bitcoin has surpassed $100,000, briefly
touching $105,000, driven by optimism around global
trade deals, particularly U.S.-U.K. agreements and
ongoing U.S.-China talks. Analysts warn of a potential
short-term sell-off ahead of the May 13 CPI print,
with BlackRock noting quantum computing as a risk
for Bitcoin ETFs.
Ethereum
Rally: Ethereum (ETH) has surged over 44% in three
days, reaching $2,600, fueled by the Pectra network
upgrade and declining Bitcoin dominance. Analysts
speculate ETH could hit $10,000 or even $12,000 in
2025 due to institutional adoption, DeFi growth, and
a high ETH burn rate.
Altcoin
Momentum: Altcoins like Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA),
and Dogecoin (DOGE) are rallying, with DOGE up 27%
and ETH leading with a 32% weekly gain. Bitcoin’s
dominance has dropped to 63.89%, signaling a potential
altcoin season.
Meta’s
Crypto Plans: Leaked reports suggest Meta is exploring
cryptocurrency support for its 3 billion users, potentially
integrating stablecoins for creator payments, which
could boost market sentiment.
Regulatory
Developments: SEC Chairman Paul Atkins is prioritizing
a rational crypto regulatory framework, with XRP noted
as the only regulated cryptocurrency in the U.S. However,
a bipartisan stablecoin bill (GENIUS Act) stalled
due to concerns over Trump’s personal crypto
ventures, raising conflict-of-interest issues.
Market
Inflows: Crypto investment products saw $882 million
in inflows last week, with U.S. crypto ETFs hitting
a record $62.9 billion in cumulative net inflows since
January 2024. BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF recorded
a 19th consecutive day of inflows on May 9.
Other
News: Coinbase acquired Deribit for $2.9 billion,
expanding its derivatives offerings. New Hampshire
passed a law allowing state investment in cryptocurrencies.
France’s rumored crypto ban was mentioned on
X but lacks credible confirmation and should be treated
as speculative. (Grok)
Blockchain
News
Meta’s
Blockchain Push: Meta is reportedly exploring a blockchain-based
payment system, potentially offering low-cost digital
transfers. This follows their unsuccessful Diem project,
signaling renewed interest in blockchain integration.
Crypto
in Education: Animoca Brands’ Yat Siu highlights
blockchain’s potential in education, particularly
through DeFi student loan financing. Ripple’s
$25 million donation to a crypto education fund underscores
growing academic influence.
XRP
and Interoperability: XRP is expanding into multichain
interoperability, connecting with Cosmos and EVM sidechains.
With 200+ financial partners, it aims to bridge traditional
finance and crypto ecosystems.
Avalanche
and Web3 Gaming: Avalanche’s John Nahas emphasizes
blockchain as seamless backend infrastructure for
gaming, citing examples like Gunzilla Games’
“Off the Grid,” which leverages blockchain
for user ownership.
Policy
Shifts: The Trump administration is driving a pro-crypto
agenda, with plans to integrate blockchain into financial
systems. Bank regulators are exploring blockchain-based
payment systems, a stark contrast to previous skepticism.
Robinhood’s
Blockchain Platform: Robinhood is developing a blockchain-based
platform for trading tokenized US securities in Europe,
potentially partnering with Arbitrum or Solana.
Ethereum’s
Pectra Upgrade: Ethereum’s latest upgrade introduces
features like smart wallets and lower fees but has
raised concerns about a new attack vector that could
allow hackers to drain funds.
Other
Developments: Brave is integrating Cardano into its
browser wallet, and MBS Global plans a $9 billion
blockchain financial hub in the Maldives.
For
real-time updates, platforms like Cointelegraph or
CryptoSlate on X are active sources,
News
Crypto
market slows down, nearing a top
Market
Picture
The
crypto market slowed down but continued to move upwards
over the weekend, reaching $3.35 trillion. For the
past few days, it has been trading in the region of
the highs since early February. Ethereum and Dogecoin
have been the stars of this movement, adding around
40% in seven days, although the former's contribution
is certainly more significant.
The
crypto market's sentiment is consolidating in the
greed zone, leaving the corresponding index at 70
for the last three days. This is a good basis for
continued gains: not too hot to take profits and not
too cold to leave traders on the sidelines.
Bitcoin
rallied above $105.5k on Monday morning, entering
the area of highs where it has twice failed to hold
over the past six months. The impressive corrective
pullback from late January to early April, in our
opinion, created substantial margin for a new wave
of growth. Therefore, we will not be surprised if,
along with the positive dynamics of stocks, BTCUSD
will move to the renewal of historical highs already
this week.
News
Background
On
the weekly bitcoin chart, after the upward breakout
of the ‘bull flag’ pattern, a further rise
to $182,000 is possible, given the growth before the
downward consolidation. Cointelegraph presented such
a scenario.
Significant
inflows into spot bitcoin ETFS in the US continued
for the third week in a row. According to SoSoValue
data, weekly net inflows into spot BTC-ETFS totalled
$921 million, bringing the total to $41.16 billion
since bitcoin-ETFS were approved in January 2024.
Inflows into spot Ethereum-ETFS in the US broke after
two weeks, recording a small net outflow of $38.2
million to $2.47 billion since last July.
Cryptoquant
noted that the strategy firm's pace of bitcoin purchases
exceeds the rate at which miners are issuing new coins.
The firm's holdings alone imply an annual deflation
of the asset of 2.23%.
Public
mining companies sold about 70% of mined bitcoins
in April against a falling mining profitability, TheMinerMag
calculated. Since March, miners seemed to be moving
away from the HOLDing strategy that had prevailed
last year.
Over
the years, Coinbase has considered investing a significant
portion of its savings in bitcoin, following the example
of Strategy, but abandoned the idea because of the
risks, said Brian Armstrong, head of the exchange.
(FxPro)
News
Markets
ASX
futures are pointing up 97 points/1.2% to 8364
AUD
-0.0% to US63.70¢
Bitcoin
-1.6% to $US102,525
Wall St:
Dow +2.8% S&P +3.3% Nasdaq +4.4%
VIX -3.51 to 16.03
Gold -0.03% to $US3235.57 an ounce
Brent oil +1.8% to $US65.03 a barrel
Iron ore +3.2% to $US100.00 a ton
10-year yield: US 4.47% Australia 4.36%
News
May
12, 2025
Investors
ramp up crypto spree as bitcoin nears record high
Australian
investors have pounced on the plunge in bitcoin earlier
this year and have been ramping up exposure to the
cryptocurrency in a bold bet that could pay off handsomely,
with analysts tipping prices to hit $US200,000 this
year.
The
world’s largest digital asset crossed the key
$US100,000 level last week for the first time since
February. Bitcoin extended that rally on Monday to
trade near $US105,000, just shy of its record of around
$US109,000 on January 20 – the day US President
Donald Trump was inaugurated.
It
represents a stunning turnaround for the cryptocurrency,
which traded as low as $US74,000 in early April amid
Trump’s escalating trade war. But sentiment started
to shift as traders hunted for alternatives to US
assets as they questioned the stability of the world’s
largest economy.
“Bitcoin
appeared to benefit from capital rotation associated
with ‘sell-America’ positioning and growing
scepticism around US monetary dominance,” Global
X investment analyst Justin Lin told The Australian
Financial Review after upgrading his year-end price
target to $US200,000.
The
trend was reinforced by a resurgence in global bitcoin
exchange-traded funds in April, with investors adding
$US2.9 billion ($4.5 billion) to those vehicles. That
marked a sharp reversal from February and March, when
more than $US5 billion in total was pulled from the
space.
A
further $US1.58 billion of flows moved into global
bitcoin ETFs in the first eight days of May, according
to US-listed crypto exchange Coinbase.
In
Australia, local ETFs have attracted $148 million
in inflows so far this year – more than double
compared to the same period in 2024.
And
unlike the US, Australian investors have been consistent
buyers throughout this year. Local bitcoin ETFs experienced
$6.9 million of inflows in March and $20.5 million
in new flows in April, according to Global X.
Trump
gala
The
second-largest digital token, ethereum, has also been
swept up in last week’s rally, surging as much
as 33 per cent in its steepest weekly gain since 2021,
when low interest rates fuelled the pandemic-era crypto
boom.
While
ether has benefited from easing global trade tensions,
the token was boosted by a network upgrade designed
to reduce fees, improve network efficiency and enable
more complex wallet functionalities – moves seen
as necessary to fend off competition from faster-growing
rivals like solana.
Trump
has become an advocate of digital assets during his
second term by rolling back legal actions against
many companies in the sector, establishing a bitcoin
reserve, easing regulation and even launching his
own memecoin.
The
president is due to host a private gala dinner on
May 22 with the top 220 holders of the Trump memecoin,
an event that could mark a “turning point”
for the broader cryptocurrency market, according to
Global X’s Lin.
“[The
event’s] symbolic value is significant,”
he said. “It could serve as a launchpad for broader
crypto-friendly rhetoric and possibly renewed regulatory
commitments. Any such pivot would inject momentum
into the sector.” (AFR) *Full article and coverage
via subscription to The Australian Financial Review.
News
Cryptocurrency
Movies
Here’s
a concise rundown of notable cryptocurrency-themed
movies and documentaries, blending education and entertainment,
based on their relevance to blockchain, Bitcoin, and
digital currencies:
Documentaries
The
Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014)
Follows early Bitcoin adopters like Daniel Mross,
exploring Bitcoin’s origins, volatility, and
potential to disrupt finance. Insightful for understanding
the early crypto community. Available on various streaming
platforms.
Banking
on Bitcoin (2016)
Chronicles Bitcoin’s ideological roots and its
impact on financial systems, featuring interviews
with key crypto figures. Great for grasping Bitcoin’s
societal implications. Available on Netflix and other
platforms.
Trust
Machine: The Story of Blockchain (2018)
Explores blockchain’s broader applications beyond
cryptocurrency, demystifying the technology’s
potential. Funded and distributed via blockchain,
it’s a unique watch. Available on Prime Video.
Bitcoin:
The End of Money as We Know It (2015)
A 60-minute dive into the history of money and Bitcoin’s
role in challenging centralized finance. Features
experts like Vitalik Buterin. Streamable on platforms
like YouTube.
Trust
No One: The Hunt for the Crypto King (2022)
A Netflix documentary investigating the mysterious
death of QuadrigaCX CEO Gerry Cotten and the $250
million in missing investor funds. Gripping for scam
enthusiasts.
Biggest
Heist Ever (2025)
A Netflix documentary detailing the 2016 Bitfinex
hack, where 120,000 Bitcoin (worth over $4 billion)
were stolen. Focuses on Heather Morgan (aka Razzlekhan)
and Ilya Lichtenstein. A fresh take on crypto crime.
Feature
Films
Crypto
(2019)
A crime thriller starring Beau Knapp, Luke Hemsworth,
and Kurt Russell. Follows a Wall Street banker uncovering
a cryptocurrency-fueled money laundering scheme in
his hometown. Critically mixed but engaging for drama
fans. Available on Google Play and Prime Video.
Silk
Road (2021)
A crime drama about Ross Ulbricht and the dark web
marketplace Silk Road, where Bitcoin was the primary
currency. Explores the legal and ethical complexities
of crypto in illicit markets. Available on streaming
services like Fandango.
Dope
(2015)
A coming-of-age comedy-drama where high schoolers
use Bitcoin for a dark web drug transaction. Not crypto-centric
but an early mainstream nod to Bitcoin’s cultural
presence. Streamable on Netflix.
Bitcoin
Heist (2016)
A Vietnamese action-comedy about undercover agents
chasing a crypto hacker, “The Ghost.” Blends
suspense and humor, offering a lighthearted take on
crypto crime. Available on Prime Video.
Why
Watch These?
These films range from educational documentaries to
thrilling fictional tales, reflecting crypto’s
rise, scandals, and societal impact. Documentaries
like Banking on Bitcoin and Trust Machine are ideal
for learning about blockchain’s mechanics and
potential, while thrillers like Crypto and Silk Road
dramatize the risks and allure of digital currencies.
For 2025, Biggest Heist Ever is a must-watch for its
fresh perspective on a massive crypto theft.
Where
to Watch
Most
are available on Netflix, Prime Video, Google Play,
or Fandango. Check specific platforms for availability
in your region. (Grok)
News
Bitcoin
Movies On Netflix
Netflix
currently offers a few movies and documentaries focused
on Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Here are the most notable
ones available as of my last update:
Bitconned
(2024) - A true-crime documentary about three individuals
who exploited the cryptocurrency market, scamming
millions from investors to fund lavish lifestyles.
It dives into the darker side of crypto with a focus
on the Centra Tech scam. [IMDb: 6.5]
Trust
No One: The Hunt for the Crypto King (2022) - This
documentary explores the mysterious death of Gerald
Cotten, founder of the QuadrigaCX exchange, and the
$250 million in investor funds that vanished. It follows
investors turned amateur detectives unraveling the
scandal. [IMDb: 6.3]
Hotel
Bitcoin (2024) - A Spanish comedy film where four
friends discover a fortune in lost bitcoins, sparking
a chaotic adventure to protect their windfall and
friendships. It’s a lighter, fictional take on
Bitcoin’s allure.
Biggest
Heist Ever (2024) - A documentary covering the Bitfinex
hack, where a couple, dubbed the "Bitcoin Bonnie
and Clyde," allegedly laundered nearly 120,000
bitcoins. It’s a deep dive into one of crypto’s
most infamous crimes.
Crypto
Boy (2023) - A Dutch drama about a young man drawn
into the world of cryptocurrency after a fallout with
his father, exploring themes of ambition and deception.
It’s more character-driven than educational.
Notes:
Availability
may vary by region, so check Netflix in your area.
Some
older Bitcoin documentaries, like Banking on Bitcoin
or The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin, are not currently
on Netflix but may be available on other platforms
like Amazon Prime or YouTube.
For
a broader list, posts on X also mention Bitcoin: The
End of Money as We Know It and The Blockchain and
Us, but these are not confirmed on Netflix at this
time. (Grok)
News
Memecoins
Today:
Memecoins
are seeing significant activity today, May 13, 2025,
with several coins rallying and ongoing controversies
shaping market sentiment. Here's a concise overview
based on recent developments:
Market
Performance:
Dogwifhat
(WIF), Book of Meme (BOME), and FLOKI are extending
double-digit rallies, driven by a risk-on sentiment
in crypto markets following US-China tariff reductions.
Technical indicators suggest potential for further
gains.
Moo
Deng, a Solana-based memecoin, surged 153% in the
past 24 hours, fueled by institutional demand for
SOL and retail interest after Bitcoin’s rally
above $103,000.
FLOKI
is highlighted on X as a top performer, with posts
suggesting it could lead the memecoin rally alongside
DOGE, SHIB, and PEPE.
Political
and Controversial Developments:
Trump’s
$TRUMP Memecoin: The coin remains in the spotlight
due to a May 22 dinner for top holders at Trump’s
Virginia golf club, sparking ethical concerns and
political backlash. The coin surged over 50% after
the announcement, reaching a $2.7 billion market value,
though 764,000 investors have lost money compared
to 58 wallets profiting significantly.
Melania’s
$MELANIA Memecoin: Launched January 19, it saw sniper
traders earn $99.6 million by buying minutes before
its public announcement. The team recently sold $1.5
million in tokens, amid a weakening memecoin market.
Legislative
Pushback: Senate Democrats blocked stablecoin legislation
due to controversies surrounding Trump’s crypto
ventures. Proposed bills, like the End Crypto Corruption
Act, aim to ban presidents and officials from issuing
digital assets to curb potential conflicts of interest.
Market
Sentiment:
X posts reflect active interest in memecoins, with
users seeking recommendations and shilling coins like
FLOKI and letsBONK. However, some posts highlight
the speculative nature, describing pump-and-dump cycles.
Discussions
on memecoins hit a year-to-date high, shifting focus
from Bitcoin and layer-1 protocols, though some argue
the memecoin frenzy is cooling as stablecoins gain
traction on Solana.
Broader
Context:
Memecoins
face criticism for lacking intrinsic value, with some
viewing them as celebrity-driven schemes. However,
advocates suggest AI agents could drive a “memecoin
renaissance” by adding utility.
The
$TRUMP token’s performance has been lackluster
compared to its peak, with onchain activity spiking
after the dinner announcement but still down 79% from
its all-time high.
Critical
Note: While memecoins are rallying, their volatility
and speculative nature carry significant risks. The
political ties to certain coins, especially $TRUMP,
raise ethical and legal questions, potentially influencing
market stability. Always verify information, as X
posts can contain unverified claims, and memecoin
investments are highly speculative. (Grok)
Bull
Market: Def
"Bull
market" describes a financial market where prices
are rising or are expected to rise. It commonly refers
to the stock market but can be applied to anything
that is traded, such as bonds, real estate, currencies,
and commodities.
Markets
and Cryptos
May
10, 2025
Sydney, Australia
Markets:
ASX
futures up 12 points/0.2% to 8261
AUD +0.1% at US64.09¢
Bitcoin +1.8% to $US103,152
Dow -0.3%
S&P -0.1%
Nasdaq -0.00%
Gold +0.6% to $US3326.57 an ounce
Oil +1.7% at $US63.92 a barrel
Iron ore +0.5% at $US97.00 a tonne
Cryptos
Today: (Near Live)
Bitcoin.
$102,887.02 USD. - 0.18%
Ethereum. $2,331.30. +6.50%
Tether $1 USD -0.10%
XRP. $2.35. +1.83. +2.4%
BNB. $638.149. +2.35%
Solana. $172.18. +6.56%
USD Coin. $1 USD -0.17%
Dogecoin: $0.2045 USD +5.52%
TRON. $0.2562 USD +3.06%
Cardano $0.7801 USD +2.20%
Wrapped Bitcoin $102,930.51 -0.28%
News
Crypto
News
Bitcoin
Surges Past $100,000: Bitcoin reclaimed the $100,000
mark for the first time since February, driven by
optimism around a U.S.-UK trade deal announced by
President Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The deal, which includes a 10% U.S. tariff on UK goods
and reduced UK tariffs, has fueled a broader market
rally. Bitcoin was trading at $102,700 late Thursday,
with analysts noting potential support at $100,000
and resistance near $107,000.
Other
Cryptocurrencies Rally: Ether surged over 14% to $2,050.46,
its highest since late March, while Solana and Dogecoin
gained 10% and 12%, respectively. The total crypto
market cap rose 2.5% to $3.09 trillion.
Stablecoin
Bill Blocked: The GENIUS Act of 2025, aimed at regulating
stablecoins, was stalled in the U.S. Senate on May
8 by Democratic lawmakers, citing concerns over President
Trump’s ties to the crypto industry, including
his family’s World Liberty Financial stablecoin
venture.
German
Seizure of Crypto Assets: German authorities seized
€34 million ($38 million) in cryptocurrencies,
including Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and Dash, from
the eXch platform, linked to laundering funds from
Bybit’s $1.4 billion hack in February 2025.
SEC
and Ripple Settlement: The SEC and Ripple filed a
joint letter on May 8 to dissolve an August 2024 injunction
against Ripple and return $75 million of $125 million
in penalties held in escrow.
Trump’s
Crypto Ventures: World Liberty Financial, a Trump-affiliated
firm, unveiled a stablecoin and secured a $2 billion
deposit deal with an Emirati fund. However, Democratic
senators, including Elizabeth Warren, are pushing
back against crypto legislation, alleging corruption
tied to Trump’s crypto ventures.
Bitcoin
Investment Moves: Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy)
announced a $180 million Bitcoin purchase, adding
1,895 BTC, while a new whale withdrew $50 million
in Bitcoin from Binance.
Ethereum
Upgrades: Ethereum’s Pectra protocol upgrade
went live on May 7, boosting investor interest. Analysts
predict ETH could hit $5,925 in 2025, with long-term
forecasts up to $15,575 by 2030.
Market
Sentiment: The crypto market is in a transitional
phase, with Bitcoin down 14% from its January 2025
high of $109,079. Analysts like Standard Chartered’s
Geoff Kendrick forecast Bitcoin reaching $120,000
by Q2 2025 and $200,000 by year-end. (Grok)
News
A
sharp crypto market awakening
Market
Picture
TThe
crypto market has added about 5.8% to its capitalisation
over the past 24 hours, bringing it to $3.24 trillion.
This is roughly the area where the market has been
consolidating for most of February. A pause halfway
to the area of historical highs above 3.50 looks like
a logical respite. Back in November, the market surged
without major pauses—but this time, the momentum
appears more measured, with less of the earlier excitement.
The
crypto market sentiment index reached 73, which is
only a couple of steps away from extreme greed and
is the highest since late January. Often, this is
a working sentiment for continued growth.
Bitcoin
has been reaching levels above 104000 this morning,
adding an impressive 5% in the last 24 hours and 33%
in 30 days. At current highs, all eyes are on how
soon it will reach the all-time highs, which are less
than 6% away, and whether or not it can overcome them
outright. While similar rallies have broken records
in the past, we still expect some consolidation near
the highs before any decisive move higher.
The
rocket of the last few days has certainly been Ethereum,
which soared 23% in the last 24 hours, strengthening
twice as fast as Bitcoin over the month. The technique
worked perfectly. ETHUSD stomped around the 50-day
moving average for a long time and rose in value by
a third in less than two days to $2380. The rise to
2700 looks like an ‘easy part’ of the growth.
Further upside will already have to be fought for.
News
Background
On
May 8, bitcoin's realised capitalisation reached a
record $890.74 billion, which could indicate that
BTC is poised for significant growth, CryptoQuant
noted. The metric is the aggregate value of all coins
in circulation based on the quotes at which they were
last transferred.
Ethereum
shows the best weekly performance in the top 20 cryptocurrencies.
Nansen notes the accumulation of ‘smart money’
by institutions like Wintermute.
U.S.
banks can perform crypto transactions on customer
requests, provide custodial services through third
parties, and generate tax returns on digital assets.
This is stated in a clarification from the US Office
of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
Payments
company Stripe has launched a product called Stablecoin
Financial Accounts. It will allow businesses in 101
countries to hold balances in dollar-denominated Stablecoins
and receive and send fiat and cryptocurrencies. (FxPro)
Best
Quotes Of The Day
An
investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
— Benjamin Franklin
"Bottoms
in the investment world don't end with four-year lows;
they end with 10- or 15-year lows." — Jim
Rogers
"Be
fearful when others are greedy and greedy only when
others are fearful." — Warren Buffett
Crypto,
FinTech, Comms, Mining, Politics and News Media
Under
The Media Man Watercooler
April
16, 2025
News
Crypto
Today:
Bitcoin
-0.78% to $US84,112 on Bitstamp at 6.23am AEDT
The
S&P 500 fell 0.17 per cent, the Nasdaq 100 was
down 0.05 per cent and the Dow Jones Industrial Average
fell 0.38 per cent. Bitcoin fell 1 per cent to $US83,970.85
and Ether was down 1.6 per cent to $US1608.22.
News
U.S.
Bans Nvidia H20 Chip Exports to China
The
U.S. government has issued a ban on Nvidia's export
of H20 chips to China, citing national security concerns.
Nvidia has announced an anticipated $5.5 billion charge
to its Q1 earnings due to this ban, leading to a significant
drop in its stock price. This decision reflects ongoing
U.S.-China tech tensions, influencing both tech supply
chains and market dynamics. (Grok)
News
Movement
Labs Under Internal Review; Co-Founder Takes Leave
Movement
Labs has launched an internal investigation following
issues with a market maker linked to their MOVE token.
Concurrently, co-founder Rushi Manche has taken an
indefinite leave from the company. There are conflicting
reports on whether this leave is temporary or permanent,
with Manche himself stating he is 'still' at Movement
Labs. (Grok)
News
The
crypto market gathers strength after the rebound
Market
Picture
The
cryptocurrency market added 8% over 7 days, stabilising
at the $2.7 trillion level since Saturday. This is
where the market tried to find support in the last
days of March before collapsing at the start of April.
A move higher could bolster hopes for further gains,
but these expectations will only be confirmed after
a solid consolidation above the 200-day moving average,
which is now near $2.97 trillion.
Bitcoin
continues its cautious rise, trading above its 50-day
moving average and reaching $85.7K. This is an important
technical attempt to reverse the downtrend. Interestingly,
the 200-day average is quite close, so a second confirmation
of a trend change could come quite quickly. However,
from a pessimistic point of view, it is worth noting
that bitcoin has entered a resistance accumulation
zone where the strength of the initial rebound may
fade.
Solana
has added 20% over the past seven days. From a technical
perspective, this is an attempt to get back into the
bull market zone. Solana is recovering faster than
many of the major altcoins, trading at its 50-day
moving average near $130. A consolidation above this
level will open the way to $145, the area of previous
peaks. A sustained move above them will signal a break
of the downtrend and could lead to a move towards
$180.
News
Background
According
to CoinShares, global investments in crypto funds
fell by $795 million last week after outflows of $240
million a week earlier. Bitcoin investments were down
$751 million, Ethereum was down $38 million, and Solana
was down $5 million, but investments in XRP were up
$3.4 million, and Algorand and Avalanche were up $0.25
million.
Coinshares
noted that recent tariff changes have led to record
outflows of $7.2bn, effectively levelling out almost
all of the inflows since the start of the year.
Call
options on Bitcoin at $100K were the most popular
on the Deribit platform, with a total open interest
of nearly $1.2bn, according to CoinDesk analyst Omkar
Godbole. The $70K put options were the second most
popular, with $982 million in open interest.
Project
Mantra's MANTRA token (OM) collapsed by 90%, and its
market capitalisation dropped from $5.5 billion to
$765 million. The crypto community suspects fraud,
calling it the biggest rug pull since the collapse
of LUNA and FTX. (FxPro)
News
Gold
Reaches New Peak at $3,267, Predicted to Rise Further
Gold
prices have surged to a new all-time high, reaching
approximately $3,267 per ounce, influenced significantly
by trading activities in Asia, particularly China.
Financial analysts from Goldman Sachs have predicted
that gold could potentially increase by an additional
38% by the end of 2025, projecting a price around
$4,500 per ounce. This spike is seen in the context
of increased global liquidity and a shift towards
safe-haven investments amid market volatility. (Grok)
News
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6350 USD (up $0.0025 USD)
Iron Ore May Spot Price (SGX): $98.75 USD (up $0.85
USD)
Oil (WTI): $61.53 USD (down $0.07 USD)
Gold: $3,229.93 USD (up $19.36 USD)
Copper (CME): $4.6155 USD (down $0.0430 USD)
Bitcoin: $84,152.84 USD (down 0.50%)
Dow Jones: 40,368.96 (down 155.83 points)
News
Update
ALL
ORDS 7,987.30 +0.22%
ASX 200 7,783.90 +0.29%
AUD/USD 0.6350 +0.13%
OIL 61.14 -0.31%
GOLD 3,294.30 +1.66%
Bitcoin AUD 131,734.02 -1.91%
XRP AUD 3.28 -3.06%
AUD/EUR 0.5598 -0.24%
News
Crypto
Today: Update
Pi
Network. $0.6621. -10.94%
XRP. $2.13. -1.40%
Bitcoin. $84,961.00. -0.96%
Dogecoin. $0.1561. -2.73%
Shiba. $0.000012. -2.16%
Pi Network [IOU... pi. $0.6600. -10.62%
MEME. $0.000110. +12.36%
Solana. $129.75. -1.81%
News
Bitcoin
Movie News
Satoshi
Nakamoto Film: A feature-length movie about Bitcoin’s
enigmatic founder, Satoshi Nakamoto, is in development,
directed by Sophia Banks. Based on Andrew O’Hagan’s
article “The Satoshi Affair,” it explores
the mystery behind Bitcoin’s creator through
investigative storytelling.
Biggest
Heist Ever (Netflix Documentary): Released in December
2024, this documentary covers the 2016 Bitfinex heist
by Ilya Lichtenstein and Heather Morgan, dubbed “Bitcoin’s
Bonnie and Clyde.” They stole nearly 120,000
Bitcoin (worth $4.5 billion today), causing a 20%
drop in Bitcoin’s value at the time. The documentary
faced cease-and-desist demands from Morgan’s
lawyers for alleged privacy violations and false claims.
Crypto
Man (South Korean Film): A major crypto-themed movie
based on true events, “Crypto Man,” was
released in South Korean theaters in January 2025.
It’s generating buzz for its realistic portrayal
of the crypto world.
G20
(Amazon Prime Movie): Released in April 2025, this
action film starring Viola Davis features Bitcoin
and digital currencies as a central plot element,
reflecting crypto’s growing cultural presence.
Posts on X highlight its pro-Bitcoin stance, with
the plot involving governments attempting to control
digital currencies, countered by Bitcoin’s decentralized
nature.
Aimy
in a Cage: This 2015 dystopian horror film, directed
by Hooroo Jackson, was the first movie fully funded
by Bitcoin investments, notable for its independence
from studio interference.
Cold
Wallet: A 2025 thriller about cryptocurrency fraud,
presented by Steven Soderbergh, has been praised for
its suspenseful take on the crypto world.
These
projects reflect Hollywood’s increasing fascination
with Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, blending real-world
events with dramatic storytelling. For more details
on specific films, I can dive deeper into any of these!
(Grok)
News
Australia
ASX
edges up as CSL climbs; Belleveue sinks
The
Australian sharemarket posted a small gain on Tuesday,
with the S&P/ASX 200 adding 0.2 per cent to close
at 7,761.7 points. Iluka Resources was up 5.2 per
cent at $3.62, CSL advanced 2.6 per cent to end the
session at $244.10 and Westpac rose 0.8 per cent to
$30.76. However, Bellevue Gold shed 21.8 per cent
to finish at $0.895 and Collins Foods was down 7.7
per cent at $8. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Stock
market: Famous Quotes:
"An
investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
— Benjamin Franklin
"Bottoms
in the investment world don't end with four-year lows;
they end with 10- or 15-year lows." — Jim
Rogers
"Be
fearful when others are greedy and greedy only when
others are fearful." — Warren Buffett
Gaming
And Casino News
April
2025
Star
Entertainment is a ‘new operator’ despite
‘sins of the past’
Inside
Asian Gaming Chief Executive Andrew W Scott says Star
Entertainment will have nothing to do with the “sins
of the past”.
“Bally’s
have got the opportunity to say look, we’re a
new operator, we have nothing to do with the sins
of the past,” Mr Scott said.
“I
think they didn’t want to let it rain to receivership
because they felt that would be too complicated, they
wanted to pick it up as a going concern … and
see if they can turn it around.”
News
Star
Entertainment: News
Star
Entertainment Group, an Australian casino operator,
has been in the spotlight in April 2025 due to significant
financial and operational developments. Here’s
a concise overview of the latest news based on available
information:
Financial
Struggles and Rescue Deal: Star
Entertainment
reported a $300 million half-year loss for the period
ending December 2024, driven by a 25% revenue decline
to $650 million. Stricter payment regulations, including
mandatory pre-paid cards to curb money laundering,
have pushed gamblers toward pubs and clubs, hurting
Star’s market share. The company secured a $300
million investment from Bally’s Corporation and
Investment Holdings (linked to the Mathieson family),
with $100 million injected in April 2025, providing
critical liquidity. Star’s cash reserves were
at $98 million as of April 11, 2025, narrowly avoiding
collapse.
Bally’s
Takeover and Overhaul Plans: Bally’s, a U.S.
casino giant, is set to control about 56% of Star’s
capital, pending regulatory approval. Bally’s
chairman, Soo Kim, emphasized a “back-to-basics”
approach, aiming to strip away the luxury focus of
Star’s casinos (Sydney, Brisbane, and Gold Coast)
and make them more accessible, likening them to large-scale
RSL clubs. Kim noted Bally’s history of turning
around distressed properties but acknowledged Star’s
turnaround as a significant challenge.
Operational
and Market Challenges: Star’s Brisbane casino,
Queen’s Wharf, was written down in value, and
its sale to partners Far East Consortium and Chow
Tai Fook Enterprises provided $53 million. The company
faced a trading halt in February 2025 due to delayed
financial reporting, with shares resuming trading
on April 16 at 11 cents, briefly jumping 14% before
crashing. Regulatory issues, including a $100 million
fine and a suspended license, continue to weigh on
the company.
Leadership
and Strategic Focus: CEO Steve McCann highlighted
the “very challenged” trading environment
but is now focusing on revenue growth following the
rescue deal. Bally’s pitched its investment after
Star failed to secure a $940 million lifeline from
Salter Brothers, signaling a shift in strategy to
stabilize operations.
Critical
Perspective: While Bally’s intervention offers
a lifeline, Star’s deep losses and regulatory
burdens suggest a tough road ahead. The shift to a
less glamorous, mass-market model may alienate high
rollers, and stricter regulations could continue to
erode revenue. The narrative of a “rescue”
should be scrutinized, as Bally’s own motivations—acquiring
a distressed asset at a discount—may prioritize
its interests over Star’s long-term viability.
Cryptos
Today:
Bitcoin
(BTC): $84,458.50
Ethereum (ETH): $1,616.30
Solana (SOL): $128.27
XRP: $2.11
Binance Coin (BNB): $583.3
Media
Man Watercooler
April
9, 2025
News
Netflix
- Most Valuable Promotions
Taylor vs Serrano 3
Press Conference
Fight Card
Madison Square Garden
New York
July 11, 2025
News
Big
Night Aht with Pat McAfee & Friends
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
PPG Paints Arena
News
Pro
Wrestling Dream Matches:
Most
Wanted:
Roman
Reigns vs The Rock
Cody Rhodes vs Chris Jericho
Penta vs Rey Fenix
Jacob Fatu vs Solo Sikoa
Karrion Kross vs Brock Lesnar
Gunther vs Bron Breakker
Santos Escobar vs Tony D'Angelo
El Grande Americano vs Rey Mysterio
Kevin Owens vs Dean Ambrose
Motor City Machine Guns vs Judgement Day
American Made vs Swipe Right
Josh Barnett vs Claudio Castagnoli
News
MMA
Dream Matches Most Wanted:
Tom
Aspinall vs Jon Jones
Sean Strickland vs The Predator
Volk vs El Matador aka The Legend
News
WWE
WrestleMania 41
Allegiant Stadium
Paradise, Las Vegas, Nevada
April 19, 20, 2025
Roman Reigns vs Seth Rollins vs CM Punk
Cody Rhodes vs John Cena - WWE Title
Gunther vs Jey Uso - World Title
Tiffany Stratton vs Charlotte Flair - WWE Women's
Title
IYO SKY vs Bianca Belair vs Rhea Ripley - Women's
World Title
News
Movie
Re-makes Wanted List:
They
Live
The Running Man
Planet Of The Apes
Logans Run
The Matrix
War Of The Words
The Time Machine
The Land That Time Forgot
1984
The Lost City Of Atlantis
Casino Royale
Nacho Libre
Street Fighter
Bloodsport
The Social Network
TV Show Revamps Wanted List:
MTV's Celebrity Death Match
Hey Hey It's Saturday
The A Team
The Thunderbirds
Gilligan's Island
News
Movies
Coming Up:
The
Luckiest Man in America
The Amateur
Warfare
Gunslingers
Zero
Sinners
Until Dawn
Havoc
Karate Kid: Legends
Ballerina
Predator: Killer of Killers
F1
Sports
And Pop Culture News
X
News Assists News Outlets And Online News Publishers
With Up-To-Date And Accurate News: Media Man Group
April
7, 2025
Brock
Lesnar Announces Retirement from WWE
Brock
Lesnar, a prominent figure in WWE, has declared his
retirement from professional wrestling. This announcement
has elicited a wide range of responses from the wrestling
community. Fans are divided, with some celebrating
his storied career and expressing gratitude for his
contributions, while others question the longevity
of his retirement. Discussions range from fans rejoicing
in his exit, to those feeling a sense of relief, and
others who have critiqued his persona. Despite the
diverse opinions, there is a consensus on Lesnar's
significant impact on WWE throughout his career. (Grok)
News
WWE
Legends Celebrate Rhea Ripley's Impact on Women's
Wrestling
Rhea
Ripley has been celebrated extensively by wrestling
legends and fans for her significant contributions
to women's wrestling. Icons such as Steve Austin,
The Undertaker, and others have publicly acknowledged
her as a revolutionary figure in the sport, highlighting
her as a potential future Hall of Famer. Fans express
immense pride and joy in her achievements, noting
her strength, independence, and dominance, which are
reshaping perceptions of female wrestlers. Her journey,
including overcoming challenges post-WrestleMania
40, has been marked by continuous success and widespread
acclaim. (Grok)
News
Rey
Fenix's WWE Debut on SmackDown
Rey
Fenix made a notable WWE debut on SmackDown on April
4, 2025, where he faced Nathan Frazer in a match that
was part of a storyline involving Frazer and his tag
partner Axiom trying to outdo each other. Fenix's
debut was unexpected and well-received, with fans
and commentators praising his performance and entrance,
which drew comparisons to AJ Styles' early days in
TNA. During the match, Fenix saved Frazer from a potentially
dangerous situation. Discussions among fans and wrestling
personalities have expressed enthusiasm for a potential
rematch and speculated on future matches, including
a mask vs. mask match with his brother PENTA. WWE
and various commentators have welcomed Fenix, highlighting
his arrival as a significant addition to the SmackDown
roster. (Grok)
News
TNA
International Championship Debut at Unbreakable Event
TNA
Wrestling has announced the retirement of the TNA
Digital Media Championship and the introduction of
a new TNA International Championship. A tournament
to crown the first-ever TNA International Champion
will take place at the TNA Unbreakable event on April
17th in Las Vegas, NV. The tournament matches will
be three-way matches, paying homage to a historic
TNA match. The first match announced features Eddie
Edwards with Alisha Edwards, Ace Austin, and Steve
Maclin. Fans and wrestling enthusiasts have expressed
excitement and nostalgia over this significant change
in TNA's championship lineup. (Grok)
News
Anticipation
for Swerve's Championship Win at AEW Dynasty
At
the AEW Dynasty event, anticipation is high for the
AEW World Championship match between Jon Moxley and
Swerve Strickland. Fans and commentators are largely
rooting for Swerve to win, seeing it as a defining
moment for AEW to crown a new champion, potentially
refreshing the promotion's narrative. Swerve's family
presence at the event fuels speculation of his victory.
However, there's a recognition that Moxley retaining
the title could still lead to compelling future storylines,
like a match against Hangman Page at All In. The fanbase
shows a mix of excitement and concern, with some fans
bracing for disappointment should Swerve lose, predicting
significant online reactions. (Grok)
News
Ospreay
vs Knight to Kick Off AEW Dynasty
The
AEW Dynasty pay-per-view event is set to begin with
a high-energy match between Will Ospreay and Kevin
Knight in the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament Quarterfinals.
Fans and wrestling news sources are excited about
this opening match, highlighting it as a significant
and thrilling start to the event.
News
WWE
and AEW Cross-Promotion Tensions
Recent
discussions among wrestling fans have focused on the
frequent cross-promotional references between WWE
and AEW on their television shows. Maxwell Jacob Friedman
(MJF) has publicly questioned why fans react negatively
to these mentions, suggesting that such interactions
should be seen as part of the sport's competitive
spirit. While some fans appreciate the playful rivalry,
others argue there's a perceived double standard where
WWE mentioning AEW is often viewed as normal, but
AEW's references to WWE are met with criticism. The
increase in WWE's references to AEW might be influenced
by AEW's strong streaming numbers, indicating a strategic
acknowledgment by WWE, particularly around significant
events like WrestleMania. This situation has sparked
a debate on the authenticity and frequency of these
references, with opinions split between those who
enjoy the banter and those who feel it's excessive
or insincere. (Grok)
News
Ospreay's
Cage Match Claim Ignites Tribalism Debate
AEW
wrestler Will Ospreay indirectly compared his steel
cage match against Kyle Fletcher at AEW 'REVOLUTION'
to the Seth Rollins vs. CM Punk match, claiming his
was superior in stunts, storytelling, and drama. This
sparked a debate among fans and observers, highlighting
the ongoing rivalry between AEW and WWE. Critics accused
Ospreay of hypocrisy for fueling tribalism despite
his previous complaints about it, while some fans
supported his view, acknowledging the match's quality.
The discussion reflects broader tensions between the
two wrestling promotions, with opinions split on whether
such comparisons contribute positively or negatively
to the wrestling community. (Grok)
News
Aaron
Pico's UFC Debut Against Movsar Evloev at UFC Vegas
106
Aaron
Pico, previously with Bellator and PFL, has signed
with the UFC and is set to debut against Movsar Evloev
at UFC Vegas 106 on May 17th. This fight has generated
significant discussion due to its implications for
both fighters. Some fans and analysts argue that for
Evloev, who is undefeated and ranked highly, this
fight represents a high-risk, low-reward scenario,
potentially undermining his path to a championship.
Others believe it's a golden opportunity for Pico
to showcase his skills against elite competition,
possibly positioning him for a title shot with a victory.
Discussions also touch on Pico's potential, his past
career management, and the UFC's matchmaking strategy,
with opinions split on whether this fight benefits
Pico or is a strategic move against Evloev. (Grok)
News
Boxing
Tim
Tszyu: News
As
of today, April 07, 2025, the latest news on Tim Tszyu
centers around his recent boxing match against Joey
Spencer, which took place on April 6, 2025, in Newcastle,
Australia. Tszyu secured a significant victory, defeating
Spencer via a fourth-round technical knockout (TKO)
to claim the WBO Intercontinental Super Welterweight
title. This win marked a crucial comeback for the
Australian boxer after suffering two consecutive losses
in the United States in 2024—first to Sebastian
Fundora in March and then to Bakhram Murtazaliev in
October. The victory improved Tszyu’s professional
record to 25 wins and 2 losses, with 17 knockouts,
and extended his family’s unbeaten record on
Australian soil to 51-0, alongside his father Kostya
and brother Nikita.
Reports
highlight Tszyu’s dominant performance, noting
a return to his controlled and menacing style, a stark
contrast to the aggressive, high-risk approach that
led to his previous defeats. After a cautious first
round, Tszyu systematically broke down Spencer, culminating
in a barrage of punches in the fourth round that prompted
Spencer’s father to throw in the towel. This
win has reignited Tszyu’s career, setting the
stage for a potential blockbuster fight against former
unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman later
in 2025, a matchup originally scheduled for March
2024 but postponed due to Thurman’s injury.
Tszyu’s
comments post-fight reflect a renewed confidence and
a shift to a smarter fighting strategy, acknowledging
past mistakes where he underestimated opponents like
Murtazaliev. The Australian media and fans have celebrated
this resurgence, with some suggesting that staying
on home soil might be the key to his future success,
allowing him to dictate terms and rebuild his reputation.
Additionally, Tszyu made headlines with a candid remark
after the fight that shocked his wife, Alexandra Constantine,
whom he married in December 2024, though the specifics
of the comment were not widely detailed beyond its
surprising nature. This victory has positioned Tszyu
back in the conversation for world title contention,
with his next steps eagerly anticipated by the boxing
community. (Grok)
News
Tszyu
vs Spencer: A Crucial Clash in Newcastle
April
4, 2025
The
upcoming boxing match between Tim Tszyu and Joey Spencer
in Newcastle, Australia, is a pivotal event for both
fighters. Tim Tszyu, a former WBO junior middleweight
champion, is seeking to recover from two consecutive
losses in 2024, aiming to reclaim his status in the
boxing world. Joey Spencer, an American known for
his tactical fighting style, presents a significant
challenge for Tszyu, who remains favored despite his
recent setbacks. The fight has sparked discussions
on the fighters' strategies, the betting odds, and
the potential career impacts of the match's outcome.
News
Verstappen
Triumphs at 2025 Japanese Grand Prix
Max
Verstappen won the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, marking
his first victory of the season. His exceptional tire
management and strategic racing were key in outpacing
McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Despite
a strong challenge from McLaren, Verstappen's skill
and the performance of the Red Bull car were crucial
in securing the win. A notable moment was when Verstappen
forced Norris onto the grass during a pit exit, showcasing
his defensive driving. The race sparked discussions
among fans and commentators about Verstappen's driving
ability, the competitiveness of the Red Bull car,
and McLaren's strategic decisions, including debates
on whether they should have swapped their drivers'
positions. Verstappen's victory has fueled debates
on his status as one of the greatest drivers of his
time, with opinions split on whether his success is
due to his driving prowess or the capabilities of
his car. (Grok)
News
McLaren
Strategy Debate at Japanese GP
During
the Japanese Grand Prix, McLaren's strategic choice
to keep Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in their current
positions sparked widespread debate. Oscar Piastri
expressed confidence that he could have challenged
race leader Max Verstappen if given the opportunity.
However, McLaren opted to maintain the status quo,
prompting discussions on team strategy and driver
management. Critics suggested that this decision might
have cost them a chance to pressure Verstappen, while
supporters argued that neither driver had the pace
to realistically overtake him. The situation was further
complicated by fans and commentators who analyzed
race data and past performances, underscoring the
intricate nature of team dynamics in Formula 1. (Grok)
News
Oscar
Piastri's Birthday Celebration at the Japanese Grand
Prix
Formula
1 driver Oscar Piastri celebrated his 24th birthday
during the Japanese Grand Prix, where he achieved
a podium finish. Fans worldwide expressed their admiration
through birthday wishes, fanart, and humorous posts,
showcasing a strong community support for Piastri.
His team, McLaren, along with various F1-related entities,
also joined in the celebrations, highlighting his
talent and the special occasion of racing on his birthday.
(Grok)
News
Marc
Leishman Triumphs at LIV Golf Miami
Marc
Leishman won his first LIV Golf League title at the
LIV Golf Miami event, finishing with a score of 4-under
68 in the final round. His victory not only secured
the individual championship but also led his team,
Ripper GC, to their fourth team championship. The
event, held at the Blue Monster course in Miami, saw
Leishman outperform Charl Schwartzel by one stroke.
His standout moment was an 84-foot putt in the previous
round, demonstrating his skill under pressure. Celebrations
ensued for Ripper GC, marking a notable achievement
in the 2025 season. (Grok)
News
AFL
Acknowledges Umpiring Errors Impacting Adelaide Crows
The
Adelaide Crows football team has encountered multiple
instances where the Australian Football League (AFL)
admitted to umpiring errors that significantly impacted
the outcomes of their close games. Over the last few
years, four notable errors have been acknowledged,
each in games where the Crows narrowly lost. This
has led to frustration within the team's management,
players, and fanbase, with CEO Tim Silvers expressing
disappointment over the lack of practical benefit
from these admissions. The situation has sparked discussions
on improving umpiring standards, possibly compensating
affected teams, or even reconsidering game results
for fairness. The recurring demand is for enhanced
umpiring technology and training to avoid such detrimental
mistakes in the future. (Grok)
News
Canterbury-Bankstown
Bulldogs' Unblemished Start to the Season
The
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have begun the rugby
league season with an unprecedented 5-0 record, a
feat not seen since 1926. Their latest victory was
a 20-0 shutout against the Knights, emphasizing their
formidable defense despite a less than stellar offensive
performance. Fans and analysts have praised the Bulldogs
for their aggressive and relentless defensive tactics,
drawing comparisons to both the modern Penrith Panthers
and the Bulldogs teams of the 1980s. The team is now
set for a bye week, with much anticipation for their
next game against South Sydney. (Grok)
News
Sports
Business: News
NFL
Free Agency Updates: The NFL free agency period remains
active, with Aaron Rodgers reportedly having a "productive
day" with the Pittsburgh Steelers and working
out with receiver DK Metcalf. Rodgers and Amari Cooper
are among the last big names left from top free agent
lists, keeping fans and analysts on edge as decisions
loom.
NFL
Technological Advancements: Starting in the 2025 season,
the NFL will implement Sony’s Hawk-Eye system
to measure first downs, moving away from traditional
chain gangs. This shift aims to enhance accuracy and
efficiency in officiating, marking a significant step
in the league’s adoption of advanced technology.
2025
NFL Draft Buzz: Mock drafts are heating up, with trades
shaking up projections. The New York Giants and Jacksonville
Jaguars are rumored to be trading out of the top five
picks, while players like Shedeur Sanders are sliding
to the back half of the first round. Meanwhile, Colorado’s
Travis Hunter has made headlines by expressing his
preferred position announcement for the draft.
Club
World Cup Controversy: Brentford’s head coach
Thomas Frank has called FIFA’s expanded Club
World Cup format "ridiculous," set for June
15 to July 13, 2025, in the U.S. The tournament promises
a £97m top prize from a £775m pool, but
broadcasters like BBC and ITV have opted not to bid
for UK rights, signaling potential accessibility issues.
College
Basketball Spending Surge: As the 2025 Final Four
unfolds, college basketball programs are aggressively
navigating the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image,
Likeness) deals. UCLA’s $3 million deal with
New Mexico transfer Donovan Dent exemplifies the high-stakes
financial landscape shaping the sport. (Grok)
News
Sports
News via Grok
NBA:
Stephen Curry is confirmed to play tonight against
the Houston Rockets, with the Golden State Warriors
reporting no injuries among key players like Curry,
Draymond Green, and Jonathan Kuminga. The game is
anticipated to be a test of Houston’s defense
against Curry’s scoring prowess, especially with
Jabari Smith Jr.’s participation uncertain due
to injury.
NFL:
Free agency updates include Aaron Rodgers having a
"productive day" with the Pittsburgh Steelers
and working out with receiver DK Metcalf. Meanwhile,
the 2025 NFL Draft picture is shaping up, with mock
drafts suggesting quarterbacks Cam Ward and Shedeur
Sanders as top picks, and the full list of 257 draft
picks across all 32 teams has been released, set for
April 24-26 in Green Bay.
Football
(Soccer): In the Premier League, Kevin De Bruyne is
starting in his final Manchester derby, while Luke
Shaw returns to Manchester United’s squad after
a long absence. Pep Guardiola has publicly criticized
derogatory chants aimed at Phil Foden’s family
during the match, which ended in a 0-0 draw, sparking
protests from United fans against the Glazer family.
Cricket:
Jasprit Bumrah is fully fit and set to join Mumbai
Indians for their upcoming IPL 2025 match against
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, providing a boost to
the struggling team.
NHL:
Alex Ovechkin is three goals away from surpassing
Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record as
the Washington Capitals face the Chicago Blackhawks
tonight, adding historical stakes to the playoff race.
Boxing:
India’s Hitesh Gulia won the Men’s 70 kg
Gold at the World Boxing Cup 2025 in Brazil, marking
a strong performance on April 6.
Motor
Racing: Max Verstappen won the Japanese Grand Prix
on April 6, maintaining his dominance in Formula 1.
(Grok)
Crypto,
Markets, Comms, News Media and Politics
April
4, 2025
Crypto
did not give up trying to find the bottom
Market
Picture
The
crypto market cap fell below $2.65 trillion twice
during the week. The market was below the $2.60 trillion
level in November. The ability to consolidate above
it was an important signal for the start of the rally.
The market will likely defend this, which promises
a prolonged battle near these levels. However, the
balance is now on the side of the bears as the capitalisation
index is moving away from its 200-day average. This
is an important signal for large funds to reduce their
investments in the sector.
The
Cryptocurrency Sentiment Index spent the entire week
in fear territory, ending in extreme fear at 25—the
lowest level in three and a half weeks. However, these
readings are not low enough to suggest oversold conditions,
which should discourage sellers.
Bitcoin
jumped to $88K in reaction to the tariff announcement,
only to soon fall back below $82K. In the short term,
it looked like another wave of selling to the upside.
We have been seeing this trend since the second half
of February. Technically, this is a continuation of
the struggle with the major moving averages. The market
is failing to consolidate above the 200-day MA, and
the 50-day MA stopped rising intraday on Wednesday.
As much as crypto enthusiasts would like it to be
otherwise, the bears are in control of the market
for now.
News
Background
Nansen
estimates that the crypto market has a 70% chance
of forming a local bottom in the next two months amid
global uncertainty over trade tariffs.
GameStop
raised $1.5 billion by issuing convertible notes.
The proceeds will be used to buy Bitcoin and for corporate
purposes. The company's management approved the strategy
on 25 March.
According
to CryptoQuant, in the first quarter of the year,
companies around the world added nearly 91,800 BTC
(more than $7.7 billion) to their reserves. Meanwhile,
selling by long-term investors and capital outflows
from bitcoin ETFs prevented the asset from growing.
JPMorgan
noted that March was the worst month for miners. The
14 largest US-listed bitcoin miners lost 25% of their
market capitalisation (around $6 billion) last month.
(FxPro)
News
Metaplanet
Boosts Bitcoin Holdings with ¥2.63 Billion
On
April 3, 2025, Japanese public company Metaplanet
announced it had raised ¥2.63 billion, approximately
$17.8 million USD, to purchase additional Bitcoin.
This move increased their Bitcoin holdings to 4,206
BTC, following a recent acquisition of $13.6 million
worth of Bitcoin. Metaplanet's actions reflect a continued
interest in Bitcoin among institutional investors.
(Grok)
News
Block
Working on Bitcoin Integration for Square Terminals
Jack
Dorsey, CEO of Block, has confirmed that the company
is actively working to integrate Bitcoin payments
into their Square terminals. This initiative aims
to enable approximately 4 million merchants who use
Square to accept Bitcoin payments. The development
is part of a broader effort to enhance the adoption
of Bitcoin in mainstream financial transactions, although
no specific timeline for the implementation has been
provided. (Grok)
News
Oil
plummets the most since 2023
Oil
tumbled the most since 2023 after suffering a twin
hit from President Donald Trump’s tariffs and
an OPEC+ decision to increase output faster than previously
announced.West Texas Intermediate futures plunged
as much as 7.4 per cent to trade below $US67 a barrel,
while global benchmark Brent plummeted as much as
6.9 per cent to slip below $US70.Trump’s deluge
of tariffs is creating fresh doubts about the outlook
for the global economy, with levies against major
crude importers such as China and India coming in
more aggressive than feared. Although the administration
steered away from actions that would directly affect
oil markets — such as refraining from measures
that would curb flows from Canada and Mexico —
concerns that the trade war will sap global energy
demand hammered prices.
News
Australia
PM,
Dutton vow to reason with Trump
Prime
Minister Anthony Albanese said on Thursday that President
Donald Trump's decision to impose a 10 per cent tariff
on Australian imports is "unwarranted",
while Opposition leader Peter Dutton claimed that
the "outcome would have been different"
if he had been PM. Both Albanese and Dutton said they
plan to visit the US if they win the 3 May election
to try to persuade Trump to reverse his decision.
However, both leaders ruled out negotiating on issues
such as Australia's biosecurity ban on US beef and
the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, which have been
cited by the US as being grievances against Australia.
(Roy Morgan Summary)
News
The
tiny Australian islands no one expected to draw Trump's
fury
Located
around 4,000 kilometres south-west of Perth and home
to Australia's only two active volcanoes, Heard and
McDonald islands are an Australian external territory
with no record of any exports to anywhere. However,
they have been hit with 10 per cent tariffs as part
of US President Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff
impost, while Australian officials were very surprised
that he hit Australia's external territory of Norfolk
Island with a 29 per cent tariff. It officially recorded
$411,000 in leather shoe exports in 2023, but a government
official said it has no known exports to the US, and
no tariffs or known non-tariff barriers on goods coming
to Norfolk Island.
News
Manufacturing
ISM: inflation up, activity down
Tuesday's
ISM Manufacturing Indicator confirmed a worrying divergence
in the US economy: economic activity is down, and
inflation is rising. Often, the latter follows the
former, but not now. A prolonged period of such dynamics
is called stagflation, and it forces the Fed to make
difficult choices in its dual mandate.
The
ISM manufacturing business activity index fell from
50.3 to 49 last month. Strictly speaking, this is
contractionary territory for the sector's activity,
but due to the greater resilience of the service sector,
historically, US GDP has declined when the indicator
falls below 42.3.
The
price component climbed to 69.4, recording its highest
value since mid-2022. Unlike the episode three years
ago, this has nothing to do with the economy overheating.
We recall that the University of Michigan previously
noted a sharp jump in consumer inflation expectations,
both one year and five years ahead. If we focus only
on these indicators, the central bank should have
prepared to raise the rate or actually hike it.
But
at the same time, business activity and consumer sentiment
are creeping down. Tuesday's data marked the employment
component falling deeper into the below-50 area. The
rate has been below that level for 16 of the last
18 months. This is a very worrisome signal for industrial
production and is alarming relative to Friday's labour
market data. In addition, the components of production
and new orders have been in contractionary territory
and inventories are rising. These are all signs of
weakening demand. This set of components suggests
the need for a rate cut.
Which
side will the Fed choose? We are more accustomed to
a relatively lenient Fed, which carries risks for
the dollar. If the news continues in a similar vein,
the USD may return to decline after stabilising and
rebounding in the second half of March. This scenario
will be technically confirmed if DXY slides below
the previous lows at 102.8 with a near-term downside
potential of 99-100. (FxPro)
News
Australia
Albanese
vows to defend media bargaining code
Prime
Minister Anthony Albanese says the federal government
stands by the nation's news media bargaining code,
which was introduced by the Coalition in 2021. The
media code was among a list of trade grievances with
Australia that US President Donald Trump recently
identified. Albanese also emphasised that local content
quotas for US-based streaming services and social
media age restrictions will also be non-negotiable
in any talks with the US over Trump's reciprocal tariffs.
(Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Australia
Netflix
rival Max rolls out in Australia with bold profit
prediction
The
global boss of Australia’s newest streaming service,
Max, has declared the platform will turn a profit
within two or three years and will not rule out making
local acquisitions where it makes sense.
Jean-Briac
“JB” Perrette, who is the international
chief executive of streaming for Warner Bros Discovery,
the company that owns Max, Warner Bros, HBO, CNN,
the DC Comic universe, Harry Potter and dozens more
brands and channels, was visiting Sydney to launch
Max, which went live in Australia on Monday.
The
arrival of Max has already shaken up the local media
market. It ended a 20-year output deal with Foxtel
that meant HBO shows such as Game of Thrones, Succession
and The Wire were pulled from Foxtel’s streaming
service, Binge.
It
also enters a crowded streaming market that is dominated
by Netflix (6.2 million subscribers), Amazon Prime
Video (4.8 million) and Disney+ (3.1 million), according
to independent research firm Telsyte.
The
cheapest, advertising-supported tier of Max, formerly
known as HBO Max, will be free to Foxtel’s 1.4
million cable customers. Research firm Ampere Analysis
estimated roughly half of Foxtel’s customers
would subscribe. (AFR). Full article and coverag via
subscription to The Australian Financial Review
News
Elon
Musk to Remain Advisor Post-DOGE Initiative
Elon
Musk will continue to serve as an advisor to President
Trump and Vice President JD Vance after completing
his initial six-month term with the DOGE initiative.
His role has focused on improving government efficiency
and addressing issues such as fraudulent grants and
Social Security payments. Despite earlier reports
suggesting his departure, Vice President Vance has
confirmed that Musk's advisory role will persist beyond
his current position. (Grok)
News
Newsmax
Rings NYSE Bell for IPO Milestone
On
April 3, 2025, Newsmax celebrated its initial public
offering by ringing the opening bell at the New York
Stock Exchange. The event was attended by Newsmax
CEO Chris Ruddy, along with various team members and
guests, including Rudy Giuliani. The IPO marks a significant
milestone for the media company as it goes public
under the ticker symbol $NMAX.
News
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6316 USD (up $0.0026 USD)
Iron Ore May Spot Price (SGX): $101.25 USD (down $1.75
USD)
Oil Price (WTI): $66.74 USD (down $5.40 USD)
Gold Price: $3,108.12 USD (down $14.19 USD)
Copper Price (CME): $4.8135 USD (down $0.2785 USD)
Bitcoin: $81,965.73 USD (down 4.82% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 40,545.93 (down 1,679.39 points)
News
Best
Quotes Of The Day
"Blockchain
is the tech. Bitcoin is merely the first mainstream
manifestation of its potential." — Marc
Kenigsberg
"Blockchain
is the biggest opportunity set we can think of over
the next decade or so." — Bob Greifeld
"Blockchain
is the most disruptive technology I’ve seen in
decades." — William Mougayar
"Blockchain
will do for trusted transactions what the internet
did for information." — Ginni Rometty
"Blockchain
is the future of financial transactions." —
Blythe Masters
"Blockchain
technology is a way to truly democratize power and
wealth." — Laura Shin
"Decentralization
is the keyword for blockchain’s value proposition."
— Vitalik Buterin
"The
great thing about blockchain is that it has the potential
to create new industries." — Patrick Byrne
"Blockchain’s
transparency makes it the perfect tool for accountability."
— Balaji Srinivasan
"Blockchain
is the backbone of the internet of value." —
Don Tapscott
News
Cryptos
Today
BTC.
$82,012.32. 4.29%
ETH. $1,784.70. 5.06.
USDT. $0.9995. 0.05%
XRP. $2.0595. 3.19%
BNB. $587.96. 2.41%
USDC. $0.9999. 0.00%
SOL. $115.55. 9.90%
DOGE. $0.1588. 7.69%
News
X
wins Media Man 'Platform Of The Month' award
Pop
Culture News
Under
The Watercooler; Most Talked About
March
16, 2025
Formula
One: Australia Grand Prix - Today is race day!
WWE
SmackDown. Barcelona, Spain - March 14, 2025
UFC
Fight Night: Vettori vs Dolidze 2 - UFC Vegas 104.
March 15, 2025 - tonight!
TNA
Wrestling: Sacrifice
El Paso County Coliseum. El Paso, Texas
March 14, 2025
Nic Nemeth heel turn. Numerous NXT stars appear and
perform!
WWE
Raw On Netflix
March 17, 2025
Forrest National
Brussels, Belgium
John Cena expected to discuss heel turn and deal with
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and upcoming match
vs Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas in
April!
WWE
WrestleMania 41
Allegiant Stadium
Las Vegas
Cody Rhodes
Rumour: Roman Reigns vs Seth Rollins vs CM Punk
April 19/20, 2025
Most
Valuable Promotions
Boxing
Taylor vs Serrano 3
July 12, 2025
Broadcast via Netfllix
Boxing:
Former Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury Considering
Coming Out Of Retirement
Combat
Sports
TKO Group
Rumoured Combat Sports Supercard Being Created: Boxing,
Wrestling and MMA For United Arab Emirates
Combat
Sports
Strong Rumours: Fenix And Jeff Cobb signed with pro
wrestling powerhouse, WWE
Combat
Sports
UFC 314: Volkanovski vs Lopes. Kaseya Center. Miami,
Florida. April 12, 2025. Betting Odds: Volk - 170
(Favorite)
Streaming
Netflix:
The Electric State. Strong thumbs up
Netflix:
Furiousa: A Mad Max Saga. Massive thumbs up. Timeless
and epic!
News
Movies:
At The Movies
Novacaine
- $8.5m opening
Snow
White - Critics bracing for woke backlash. Mixed vibes!
A
Minecraft Movie: Expects A $60m + opening/debut
Martin
Scorsese Working On Hawaiian Islands Based Underwood
Movie: DiCaprio, Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt. Script
by Nick Bolton!
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The
Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie. Directed
by Peter Browngart. Bob Clampett era!
News
F1
Movie. Warner Bros. Worldwide release: June 25, 2025
News
James
Bond 007; Bond Tipped To Be Male, White and British.
Rumour Australia's Chris Hemsworth under consideration!
WWE2K25
Set To Break Records!
Formula
One Games Enjoy Boost In Popularity As New Race Season
Commences In Melbourne, Australia!
News
Bitcoin/Crypto
Continues Mainstream Penetration; Hotels, Games, VIP
purchases ...
Cryptocurrency,
Fintech, Biz, Metals, Comms and News
April
12, 2025
Cryptos
Today:
BTC-USD.
85279.47. ( +2.25% )
AAPL. 198.15. ( +4.06% )
XRP-USD. 2.16. ( +6.66% )
ETH-USD. 1643.50. ( +4.87% )
SOL-USD. 132.26. ( +8.83% )
News
Crypto
and gold are both alternative assets, but they differ
significantly:
Crypto
(e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum):
Pros: Decentralized, high growth potential (Bitcoin
up ~100% in past year as of Apr 2025), borderless
transactions, tech-driven (blockchain). Some coins
like Bitcoin have capped supply, mimicking scarcity.
Cons:
Volatile (prices can swing 10-20% daily), regulatory
uncertainty, energy-intensive (Bitcoin mining uses
~150 TWh annually), no physical backing, vulnerable
to hacks/theft.
Use
case: Speculative investment, digital payments, store
of value for some.
Gold:
Pros: Stable (less volatility, ~10-15% annual return
long-term), tangible, universal acceptance, inflation
hedge (retains value over centuries), no counterparty
risk.
Cons:
Low growth (underperforms stocks/crypto in bull markets),
storage costs, no yield (doesn’t generate income),
less liquid for small transactions.
Use
case: Safe-haven asset, portfolio diversification,
jewelry/industrial demand.
Data
point: As of Apr 2025, Bitcoin’s market cap ($1.5T)
is ~10% of gold’s ($15T). Gold’s price is
~$2,600/oz, up 30% in 2 years; Bitcoin’s ~$75,000,
up 150% in same period.
Verdict:
Crypto offers higher reward/risk, suits tech-savvy
speculators. Gold’s for stability, long-term
wealth preservation. Mix depends on risk tolerance—younger
investors lean crypto, conservatives prefer gold.
(Grok)
News
China
Raises Tariffs on U.S. Goods to 125% Amid Trade War
China
has announced an increase in tariffs on all U.S. imports
from 84% to 125%, effective April 12. This move is
seen as a retaliation to the United States' earlier
imposition of a 145% tariff on Chinese goods. The
escalation marks a significant development in the
ongoing trade war between the two nations, with potential
implications for global trade dynamics and economic
relations. (Grok)
News
ChatGPT
Enhances Memory with 'Moonshine' Feature
OpenAI
has introduced an update to ChatGPT that enhances
its memory capabilities, allowing the AI to reference
all past conversations to provide more personalized
responses. This feature, known as 'Moonshine', is
rolling out to Plus and Pro users globally, except
in the EEA, UK, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and
Liechtenstein. Team, Enterprise, and Edu users will
gain access in the coming weeks. Users have the option
to opt out of this feature at any time through the
settings, maintaining control over their data and
privacy. (Grok)
News
Crypto
helped by dollar weakness
April
11, 2025
Market
Picture
Crypto
market capitalisation remained at $2.59 trillion on
Friday morning, in line with the previous day's values,
despite a dip to $2.50 trillion overnight and a subsequent
recovery on Friday morning. This contrasts with the
slide in stock indices because a falling dollar supports
cryptocurrencies. Like a rising tide, the dollar's
decline is lifting other assets.
Sentiment
in the crypto market has returned to the extreme fear
zone, sending the index to the 25 level.
Bitcoin has been rising since early Friday, climbing
above $81.4K, after closing just below $80K on Thursday.
However, the first cryptocurrency has yet to confirm
a growth reversal. The key area along the way is the
$85K level, where the 50-day moving average passes.
Its overcoming will be an important confirmation of
the bullish sentiment, while fluctuations below it
will remain market noise.
XRP
and Tron found support this week on the decline to
the 200-day moving averages. This small but encouraging
signal suggests that market participants are still
adhering to a ‘buy on dips’ strategy, believing
in the continuation of the bullish trend.
News
Background
•
A combination of on-chain metrics and technical indicators
point to the need for Bitcoin to return above $93K
to regain upward momentum, Glassnode noted. The correction
has intensified selling by medium-term holdings, but
their activity is slowing.
•
New Bitcoin sell-offs are possible in the coming weeks,
but the bear market is likely to start in September,
according to ‘il Capo of Crypto’. The analyst
attributes this to the expected process of ‘global
economic reset’, which may be accompanied by
a major crisis - the first in BTC history.
•
The US Senate has approved the nomination of Paul
Atkins to the post of SEC chairman. He is expected
to focus on developing permanent standards for the
regulation of digital assets.
•
The SEC authorised the listing and trading of options
on spot Ethereum-ETFs from BlackRock, Bitwise and
Grayscale. In September, the regulator already gave
a similar authorisation for derivatives based on BTC-ETFs.
News
Top
10 Memecoins This Week
Here's
a list of the top 10 memecoins trending this week,
based on market performance, community engagement,
and recent price action as of April 13, 2025. Note
that memecoin rankings can shift rapidly due to volatility
and hype, so always do your own research before investing:
Dogecoin
(DOGE)
Still the king of memecoins, holding strong with a
massive community and consistent market cap dominance.
Recent price stability keeps it at the top.
Market Cap: ~$1.65T
Shiba
Inu (SHIB)
A long-time favorite, SHIB has seen renewed interest
with ecosystem updates like Shiba Name Service. Its
300% weekly rally earlier this year lingers in investor
memory.
Market Cap: ~$15B
Pepe
(PEPE)
The frog meme coin continues to thrive, driven by
viral social media buzz and a loyal community. It’s
a top pick for speculative traders.
Market Cap: High-ranking, exact figures fluctuate
Official
Trump (TRUMP)
Launched in January 2025, this Solana-based coin tied
to Donald Trump has exploded due to political hype
and exchange listings.
Market Cap: ~$38B
Bonk
(BONK)
Solana’s dog-themed memecoin remains a community
darling, with integrations across DeFi and NFTs boosting
its appeal. Up 2.01% this week.
Market Cap: ~$2.3B
Floki
Inu (FLOKI)
Evolving from a meme to a Web3 project with NFT and
DeFi utility, Floki stays relevant with strong marketing
and Elon Musk ties.
Market Cap: Growing steadily
dogwifhat
(WIF)
A Solana-based memecoin with quirky branding, WIF
rides the wave of dog-themed coin popularity and DEX
trading volume.
Market Cap: Competitive in top 10
Fartcoin
(FARTCOIN)
A humorous Solana coin gaining traction for its absurd
branding. Up 35% recently, showing the power of meme-driven
pumps.
Market Cap: ~$475M at $0.4755
SPX6900
(SPX)
Ethereum-based coin with a “flip the stock market”
slogan. Its 8000% surge late last year keeps it in
the spotlight.
Market Cap: ~$860M
Pudgy
Penguins (PENG)
A
newer entrant leveraging NFT community hype, PENG
combines cute branding with growing exchange availability.
Market
Cap: Rising fast
Notes:
Rankings
are based on recent data and sentiment from sources
like CoinGecko, CoinMarketCap, and X posts, but exact
positions vary by source. Memecoins are highly speculative,
and prices can crash as fast as they pump.
I
avoided obscure coins like $FRADWARD or $RETARDIA
mentioned on X, as they lack verified traction and
could be pump-and-dump schemes.
Always
check real-time data on exchanges like Binance, Coinbase,
or DEXs like PancakeSwap, as memecoin volatility is
extreme.
News
Dogecoin
wins Media Meme 'Memecoin Of The Month' award
News
Flashback
AFP
Press Release
March
20, 2025
Australian
victims warned over rising cryptocurrency exchange
impersonation scams
This
is a joint media release between the Australian Federal
Police, National Anti-Scam Centre, and Binance Australia
Editor's
note: Scam text example image available via Hightail.
Authorities
have hit send on a text and email blitz to warn Australian
cryptocurrency customers about scammers impersonating
a high-profile exchange.
The
National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), in partnership with
the AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination
Centre (JPC3), has today (20 March, 2025) reached
out to more than 130 potential victims alerting them
to the impersonation scam targeting the Binance cryptocurrency
exchange.
They
were identified through messages found on an end-to-end
encryption platform.
In
scams similar to what is seen in traditional finance,
targets were allegedly contacted via SMS and encrypted
messaging platforms by someone claiming to be a Binance
representative who said their cryptocurrency accounts
had been breached.
The
messages allegedly contained fake verification codes
and were often 'spoofed', meaning they appeared in
a legitimate existing message thread from the well-known
cryptocurrency exchange.
A
support phone number was also sent, but when the targets
called it, they were instructed to protect their accounts
by transferring their cryptocurrency to a 'trust wallet',
which was controlled by the scammer and allowed the
assets to be stolen.
Under
Operation Firestorm, a global operation launched in
2024 to address and disrupt offshore organised crime
networks deceiving Australians through romance, cryptocurrency
and investment scams, the JPC3 identified more than
130 Australian-based victims targeted by the crypto
scam through collaboration with foreign law enforcement
partners.
AFP
Commander Cybercrime Operations Graeme Marshall said
once the funds were transferred to an account controlled
by scammers, they were generally quickly transferred
through a network of wallets and money laundering
accounts making seizure or recovery difficult.
"The
AFP has worked closely with our partners at the NASC
to ensure any victims in Australia targeted by these
scammers were identified swiftly and given advice
to help protect their cryptocurrency accounts,"
Commander Marshall said.
"Anyone
who received an SMS or email warning from the NASC
must take it very seriously.
"If
you have already transferred your cryptocurrency to
a so-called trust wallet, report it to your bank or
digital currency exchange immediately, then to police
via ReportCyber quoting the reference number AFP-068."
Australian
Competition & Consumer Commission Deputy Chair
Catriona Lowe said impersonation scams had become
common, and it was vital that people verified all
communications they received, even where they appeared
to come from trusted organisations.
"Impersonation
scams rely on people trusting that the text, email
or phone call they get is legitimate and scammers
go to significant lengths to create the appearance
of legitimacy," Ms Lowe said.
"We
urge all Australians to contact an organisation directly
using official contact details from their website
or app to verify any communication they receive."
Binance
Chief Security Officer Jimmy Su said protecting their
users was Binance's top priority, and education was
key in the fight against scams.
"Scammers
often impersonate trusted platforms — like Binance
and others — by exploiting certain telecom loopholes
to manipulate sender names and sender phone numbers
to create urgency," Mr Su said.
"To
stay safe, always verify communications using Binance
Verify — our tool to confirm official Binance
channels. Never share sensitive information like your
seed phrase or transfer funds under pressure. If in
doubt, stop and verify through official sources.
"Binance
remains committed to working with law enforcement
and the community to combat fraud and enhance user
security."
Impersonation
scams
An
impersonation scam occurs when scammers pretend to
be trusted businesses, government agencies, law enforcement,
or even friends and family to steal money or personal
information.
Warning
signs
Unsolicited
contact from someone claiming to be from Binance,
a well-known cryptocurrency exchange, about an 'account
breach'.
Pressure
to act quickly due to suspicious activity or security
concerns.
Being
asked to provide sensitive information, such as your
seed phrase or account balance.
Unusual
requests to transfer money or make payments to a different
account under the guise of securing your funds.
Insisting
on secrecy and not discussing the matter with family
or friends, claiming the situation is sensitive.
Protect
yourself
If
you receive a call, email or text claiming to be your
Digital Currency Exchange (DCE) provider, use the
official contact details on your provider's website
to confirm the legitimacy of the request.
Don't
click on any links or download attachments from unsolicited
messages.
Be
extremely wary of urgent requests asking you to act
immediately.
Keep
your devices secure by ensuring your software is always
up to date.
Never
provide your personal information, particularly your
seed phrase.
What
to do if you're a victim
Report
it to police quoting the reference number AFP-068.
Report
it to Scamwatch to help others avoid similar scams.
Stop
all communication with the scammer.
Notify
your DCE provider.
If
you are concerned your identity has been compromised,
contact the national identity and cyber support service,
IDCARE.
Situations
such as this can be upsetting. If you, or someone
you know, needs help, we encourage you to contact
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
They provide 24/7 support services.
About
the JPC3
The JPC3 brings together Australian law enforcement
and key industry and international partners to fight
cybercrime and prevent harm and financial loss to
the Australian community.
We
are committed to equipping all Australians with the
knowledge and resources to protect themselves against
cybercrime.
Watch
our cybercrime prevention videos and protect yourself
from being a victim of cybercrime.
If
there is an immediate threat to life, or risk of harm,
call 000.
If
you are a victim of cybercrime, report it to police
using Report Cyber.
About
the National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC)
The
National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC) is run by the ACCC.
The NASC promotes and participates in public and private
sector collaboration to make Australia a harder target
for scams.
The
NASC runs the Scamwatch service (http://scamwatch.gov.au)
which receives intelligence from the public and provides
information about how to spot and avoid scams.
(Credit:
Australian Federal Police)
News
Gold
Price
Gold
extended its rose above the $3,250 per ounce mark
on Friday, a new record, lifted by a weaker US dollar
and surging demand for safety following further escalation
in the US-China trade war. China lifted its tariffs
on the US to 125% as of April 12th and stated it will
ignore further US responses after a series of increases
in tariffs by the White House topped at 145%. The
current measures are due to impact nearly $700 billion
of goods exchanged between the world's largest economies
every year, paring risk assets tied to global growth
and supporting inflows into safety. On the monetary
policy front, the Federal Reserve gave no indication
that it will intervene in policy to cap the surge
in long-dated yields, but further evidence of disinflation
in the March CPI report supported the case for rate
cuts this year, also supporting bullion assets.
News
Best
Quotes Of The Day
"Blockchain
is the tech. Bitcoin is merely the first mainstream
manifestation of its potential." — Marc
Kenigsberg
"Blockchain
is the biggest opportunity set we can think of over
the next decade or so." — Bob Greifeld
"Blockchain
is the most disruptive technology I’ve seen in
decades." — William Mougayar
"Blockchain
will do for trusted transactions what the internet
did for information." — Ginni Rometty
"Blockchain
is the future of financial transactions." —
Blythe Masters
"Blockchain
technology is a way to truly democratize power and
wealth." — Laura Shin
"Decentralization
is the keyword for blockchain’s value proposition."
— Vitalik Buterin
"The
great thing about blockchain is that it has the potential
to create new industries." — Patrick Byrne
"Blockchain’s
transparency makes it the perfect tool for accountability."
— Balaji Srinivasan
"Blockchain
is the backbone of the internet of value." —
Don Tapscott
News
Bitcoin
Gaming: News
$GAMES
Token Surge: The $GAMES token, touted as the first
Bitcoin gaming token on http://Gate.io, spiked 35%
as it entered price discovery. It's tied to the "Game
of Bitcoin" project, stirring buzz around a potential
recovery in crypto gaming markets.
Japanese
Developer Enish's Bitcoin Move: Enish, a Japanese
game developer, bought 100 million yen (~$670,000)
worth of Bitcoin to deepen its blockchain gaming expertise.
Their game "De Lithe Last Metsoires" already
uses blockchain, aiming to enhance gameplay and business
models.
Web3
Gaming Momentum: Projects like Big Time Studios and
Star Atlas are gaining traction in Web3 gaming, focusing
on player ownership and sustainable economies. Star
Atlas emphasizes decentralized governance, letting
players shape in-game policies, which could integrate
Bitcoin or crypto rewards.
Bitcoin
Casino Rankings: New 2025 rankings highlight Bitcoin
casinos like Ignition, BitStarz, and mBit for no-KYC,
fast payouts, and provably fair games. These platforms
support Bitcoin alongside other cryptocurrencies,
offering slots, poker, and live dealer options.
Play-to-Earn
Growth: Play-to-earn (P2E) games like http://Casino.bet
Wheel let players earn Bitcoin without deposits, blending
simple gameplay with crypto rewards. These models
are drawing attention for accessible crypto gaming.
News
ASX
News
ASX
Metals & Mining:
BHP
Group Limited (ASX:BHP): Showed a decrease of 2.25%.
Fortescue Ltd (ASX:FMG): Currently has a positive
percentage change.
Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO): Showed a decrease.
Northern Star Resources Limited (ASX:NST): Has a positive
percentage change.
Industrial
Metals:
Copper (Comex): Showed a positive change of +18.65.
3Mo Copper (LME): Showed a positive change of +166.50.
3Mo Aluminum (LME): Showed a positive change of +26.50.
3Mo Zinc (LME): Showed a positive change of +10.50.
Precious
Metals:
Gold: Prices are fluctuating.
Silver: Prices are fluctuating.
Platinum: Prices are fluctuating.
Palladium: Prices are fluctuating
News
Gold:
The price of gold is currently around $5,148.58 per
ounce in Australian dollars.
Silver:
The price of silver is around $51.52 per ounce in
Australian dollars.
Media
Man Group Market Feed
News,
Crypto, Markets, Biz, Politics, Media
March
13/14, 2025
Crypto:
just a bumpy downtrend
Market
picture
The
crypto market declined during the week to a total
capitalisation of $2.5 trillion, a third lower than
the peaks in December last year. However, towards
the end of the week, we could see attempts to stabilise
the market, with a rebound of $2.67 trillion.
Despite
the growth attempts, only if the market breaks above
its 200-day moving average will we be able to take
it as a signal of a return to growth. For now, the
market dynamics resemble no more than just a bumpy
downtrend.
The
story is similar in Bitcoin, where the bears are regaining
control of the market on bounces to the $83,500 area.
A 200-day moving average is near this level.
Ethereum
is in a steep decline, having pulled back below $1900.
At its low point, it was below $1750. It hasn't been
this cheap since October 2023, losing over half of
its price since its peak in mid-December.
News
Background
Outflows
from spot bitcoin-ETFs in the US continue for the
seventh day in a row, with 19 trading sessions out
of 21 already.
CryptoQuant
calls the range of $75,000 - 78,000 as support, which
coincides with the lower boundary of the realised
price. If the quotes are fixed below this zone, the
$63,000 mark may become a benchmark.
Senator
Cynthia Lummis introduced an updated Bitcoin Act bill
in the US Senate that would allow the government to
store more than 1 million bitcoins as part of a newly
created crypto reserve. The US can buy 200,000 BTC
each year for five years, reallocating funds from
the Fed and Treasury Department.
The
US SEC has extended the deadlines for several applications
to launch spot ETFs based on XRP, Solana, Litecoin
and Dogecoin. Bloomberg called the regulator's move
‘expected’ and in line with standard procedures.
(FxPro)
News
The
crypto bounces back from extreme fear
Market
picture
The
cryptocurrency market bounced 2% in the last 24 hours
to $2.67 trillion. So far, the situation looks like
a small rebound after the collapse. We should not
talk about the beginning of recovery as long as the
market is below its 200-day moving average of $2.83
trillion.
Sentiment
in the crypto market has shifted from dread to fear
at 34. The indicator was last higher more than three
weeks ago, indicating that now is a good time to buy.
However, it's worth paying attention to the nervous
stock market before considering investments in more
volatile cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin
was climbing above $83,000 on Tuesday, hitting resistance
in the form of the 200-day moving average. If a long-term
trend line is repurposed as resistance, that's a worrisome
bearish fact.
Ethereum
ended Tuesday with growth and was trading near $1900
at the start of Wednesday, but this is a timid rebound
within the steep peak the coin has been in since February
24th and the broader downtrend of the past three months.
News
Background
CryptoQuant
states a sharp drop in open interest in Bitcoin and
Ethereum futures, suggesting a ‘leverage washout’
and a chance of market stabilisation. The Kobeissi
Letter admits a wave of short position unwinding in
risk assets after extreme fear levels are reached.
Clearstream,
the post-trading arm of Deutsche Börse, will
offer cryptocurrency settlement and custody services
to institutional clients as early as next month, starting
with Bitcoin and Ethereum. It then plans to add support
for other cryptocurrencies and services for staking,
lending and brokerage.
Glassnode notes that Solana fell below its realised
price of $134 for the first time in three years. The
metrics show the average cost for investors to purchase
the coin.
According
to Arkham Intelligence, on 11 March, bankrupt exchange
Mt. Gox transferred 11,501 BTC (~$905 million) to
an unknown address. Mt. Gox-related addresses hold
a total of 35,915 BTC worth $2.89bn. (FxPro)
News
Gold
hits fresh record
March
14, 2025
Spot
gold hit a fresh record high on Friday after the US
threatened higher tariffs on the EU, adding to growing
concerns that levies could hamper economic growth.Prices
rose as high as $US2990.02. It came after spot gold
notched its biggest intraday gain this year on Thursday,
rising 1.9 per cent. US President Donald Trump overnight
threatened to impose 200 per cent tariffs on alcohol
from the European Union, after the block set a 50
per cent tariff on American whisky.
News
Trump
crypto venture has talked to Binance about doing business
March
14, 2025
World
Liberty Financial, one of the Trump family’s
crypto ventures, has discussed doing business with
the world’s largest digital-asset exchange, Binance
Holdings, according to four people with knowledge
of the talks.
The
exchange’s founder pleaded guilty to failing
to take required measures to prevent terrorists, child
abusers and entities in sanctioned nations from using
its services.
It’s
not clear what stage the discussions have reached
or whether they’ll result in any transactions
or ventures, said the people, who asked not to be
named because the talks are private.
Two
of the people who spoke said conversations have included
the possibility of Binance developing a stablecoin
– a dollar-backed cryptocurrency – with
World Liberty, which President Donald Trump and his
sons began promoting in September. The Trumps receive
three-quarters of World Liberty’s net revenue,
according to its founding documents.
In
addition, representatives of the Trump family have
held talks with Binance about taking a stake in its
US arm, Binance US, The Wall Street Journal reported
on Thursday (Friday AEDT), citing people familiar
with the matter. In a post on X, Binance founder Changpeng
Zhao said he has not held discussions about a Binance
US deal with anyone.
Zhao
pleaded guilty in 2023 to anti-money laundering failures
that allowed Binance to be used by criminal groups
and terrorist organisations, including Hamas.
Zhao,
known as “CZ”, was released from a halfway
house in Long Beach, California, in September after
serving a four-month sentence. Binance paid a $US4.3
billion fine. Zhao has been pushing for the Trump
administration to grant him a pardon, according to
the Wall Street Journal’s report.
Three
months after leaving the halfway house, Zhao met with
Steve Witkoff, a co-founder of World Liberty, in Abu
Dhabi at the Bitcoin MENA 2024 conference, two of
the people said. Witkoff is the president’s Middle
East envoy. He is slated to meet with Russian President
Vladimir Putin this week as part of the Trump administration’s
efforts to halt the fighting that began when Russia
invaded Ukraine three years ago.
The
substance of Witkoff’s meeting with Zhao in December
is not clear. Talks between the crypto companies they
founded have taken place since then, according to
the four people with knowledge of the matter.
Witkoff
did not immediately respond to a request for comment,
nor did a White House spokesperson. Witkoff has said
he’s in the process of divesting from his crypto
assets as well as his holdings in real estate, transferring
holdings to his sons to manage potential conflicts
of interest.
A
representative for Binance US declined to comment
on Thursday, and representatives for World Liberty
did not respond to requests for comment.
Zhao
is still Binance’s controlling shareholder, with
a net worth of $US36.9 billion ($58.7 billion), according
to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. He stepped down
as its chief executive officer in November 2023, when
he pleaded guilty to failing to maintain an anti-money
laundering program.
Richard
Teng, who replaced Zhao, said in February that he
sees an opportunity for a “fresh reset and a
restart” under Trump, though he did not specify
any plans. (Full article and coverage via subscription
to The Australian Financial Review)
News
SEC
Proposes XRP as Key U.S. Financial Asset
The
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has
released a document titled 'Comprehensive Proposal:
XRP as a Strategic Financial Asset for the U.S.' This
proposal explores the potential for XRP to become
a key financial asset, discussing the replacement
of the SWIFT system, legal clarity for XRP, and economic
benefits like unlocking $1.5 trillion in banking liquidity.
Discussions are also underway regarding whether XRP
should be classified as a commodity, similar to Ethereum,
which could influence its regulatory and market future.
News
Rumble's
Strategic Bitcoin Acquisition
March
13, 2025
Rumble,
a video platform and competitor to YouTube, has announced
the purchase of 188 Bitcoins for approximately $17.1
million. This acquisition is part of Rumble's strategy
to integrate Bitcoin into its treasury management,
aiming to hedge against inflation and participate
in the growing trend of corporate cryptocurrency adoption.
The move reflects a broader acceptance of Bitcoin
as a legitimate financial asset among companies.
March
11, 2025
Bitcoin
Plunge and U.S. Crypto Reserve Plan
Bitcoin
experienced a significant price drop, falling below
$80,000 after reaching a high of over $84,000. This
decline contributed to a market cap loss of $100 billion
in the cryptocurrency sector. Concurrently, the U.S.
government has announced plans for a Strategic Bitcoin
Reserve, intended to hold cryptocurrency forfeited
through legal actions, sparking discussions on market
stability and government involvement in crypto. (Grok)
News
US
confirms its critical minerals agenda as fallen miner
AVZ chases an improbable African prize
A
spokesman for the US State Department has confirmed
that the Trump administration is interested in entering
into a critical minerals partnership with the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC). DRC President Felix Tshisekedi
is said to want to strike a deal with the US to help
resolve a conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels,
while any deal between the DRC and the US could help
Australian company AVZ Minerals. AVZ is seeking to
regain control of the Manono lithium deposit, which
it contends was illegally seized from it by Chinese
company Zijin, and it is understood that the Trump
administration would want to see AVZ regain control
of at least some part of Manono as part of any deal
with the DRC. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6282 USD (down $0.0035 USD)
Iron Ore Apr Spot Price (SGX): $102.20 USD (up $1.60
USD)
Oil: (WTI): $66.61 USD (down $1.09 USD)
Gold: $2,983.88 USD (up $52.14 USD)
Copper (CME): $4.9240 USD (up $0.0815 USD)
Bitcoin: $80,472.06 USD (down 2.82% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 40,813.57 (down 537.35 points)
News
Roy
Morgan wins Media Man 'News Services Company Of The
Month' award
News
Media
Australia
Peter Dutton More Crypto Friendly And Switched On
Than Albanese (Media Man Group)
News
"Dutton
A Genuine Contender" (Sky News Australia)
Media
Man Group Market Feed
News,
Crypto, Markets, Biz, Politics, Media
March
13/14, 2025
Crypto:
just a bumpy downtrend
Market
picture
The
crypto market declined during the week to a total
capitalisation of $2.5 trillion, a third lower than
the peaks in December last year. However, towards
the end of the week, we could see attempts to stabilise
the market, with a rebound of $2.67 trillion.
Despite
the growth attempts, only if the market breaks above
its 200-day moving average will we be able to take
it as a signal of a return to growth. For now, the
market dynamics resemble no more than just a bumpy
downtrend.
The
story is similar in Bitcoin, where the bears are regaining
control of the market on bounces to the $83,500 area.
A 200-day moving average is near this level.
Ethereum
is in a steep decline, having pulled back below $1900.
At its low point, it was below $1750. It hasn't been
this cheap since October 2023, losing over half of
its price since its peak in mid-December.
News
Background
Outflows
from spot bitcoin-ETFs in the US continue for the
seventh day in a row, with 19 trading sessions out
of 21 already.
CryptoQuant
calls the range of $75,000 - 78,000 as support, which
coincides with the lower boundary of the realised
price. If the quotes are fixed below this zone, the
$63,000 mark may become a benchmark.
Senator
Cynthia Lummis introduced an updated Bitcoin Act bill
in the US Senate that would allow the government to
store more than 1 million bitcoins as part of a newly
created crypto reserve. The US can buy 200,000 BTC
each year for five years, reallocating funds from
the Fed and Treasury Department.
The
US SEC has extended the deadlines for several applications
to launch spot ETFs based on XRP, Solana, Litecoin
and Dogecoin. Bloomberg called the regulator's move
‘expected’ and in line with standard procedures.
(FxPro)
News
The
crypto bounces back from extreme fear
Market
picture
The
cryptocurrency market bounced 2% in the last 24 hours
to $2.67 trillion. So far, the situation looks like
a small rebound after the collapse. We should not
talk about the beginning of recovery as long as the
market is below its 200-day moving average of $2.83
trillion.
Sentiment
in the crypto market has shifted from dread to fear
at 34. The indicator was last higher more than three
weeks ago, indicating that now is a good time to buy.
However, it's worth paying attention to the nervous
stock market before considering investments in more
volatile cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin
was climbing above $83,000 on Tuesday, hitting resistance
in the form of the 200-day moving average. If a long-term
trend line is repurposed as resistance, that's a worrisome
bearish fact.
Ethereum
ended Tuesday with growth and was trading near $1900
at the start of Wednesday, but this is a timid rebound
within the steep peak the coin has been in since February
24th and the broader downtrend of the past three months.
News
Background
CryptoQuant
states a sharp drop in open interest in Bitcoin and
Ethereum futures, suggesting a ‘leverage washout’
and a chance of market stabilisation. The Kobeissi
Letter admits a wave of short position unwinding in
risk assets after extreme fear levels are reached.
Clearstream,
the post-trading arm of Deutsche Börse, will
offer cryptocurrency settlement and custody services
to institutional clients as early as next month, starting
with Bitcoin and Ethereum. It then plans to add support
for other cryptocurrencies and services for staking,
lending and brokerage.
Glassnode notes that Solana fell below its realised
price of $134 for the first time in three years. The
metrics show the average cost for investors to purchase
the coin.
According
to Arkham Intelligence, on 11 March, bankrupt exchange
Mt. Gox transferred 11,501 BTC (~$905 million) to
an unknown address. Mt. Gox-related addresses hold
a total of 35,915 BTC worth $2.89bn. (FxPro)
News
Gold
hits fresh record
March
14, 2025
Spot
gold hit a fresh record high on Friday after the US
threatened higher tariffs on the EU, adding to growing
concerns that levies could hamper economic growth.Prices
rose as high as $US2990.02. It came after spot gold
notched its biggest intraday gain this year on Thursday,
rising 1.9 per cent. US President Donald Trump overnight
threatened to impose 200 per cent tariffs on alcohol
from the European Union, after the block set a 50
per cent tariff on American whisky.
News
Trump
crypto venture has talked to Binance about doing business
March
14, 2025
World
Liberty Financial, one of the Trump family’s
crypto ventures, has discussed doing business with
the world’s largest digital-asset exchange, Binance
Holdings, according to four people with knowledge
of the talks.
The
exchange’s founder pleaded guilty to failing
to take required measures to prevent terrorists, child
abusers and entities in sanctioned nations from using
its services.
It’s
not clear what stage the discussions have reached
or whether they’ll result in any transactions
or ventures, said the people, who asked not to be
named because the talks are private.
Two
of the people who spoke said conversations have included
the possibility of Binance developing a stablecoin
– a dollar-backed cryptocurrency – with
World Liberty, which President Donald Trump and his
sons began promoting in September. The Trumps receive
three-quarters of World Liberty’s net revenue,
according to its founding documents.
In
addition, representatives of the Trump family have
held talks with Binance about taking a stake in its
US arm, Binance US, The Wall Street Journal reported
on Thursday (Friday AEDT), citing people familiar
with the matter. In a post on X, Binance founder Changpeng
Zhao said he has not held discussions about a Binance
US deal with anyone.
Zhao
pleaded guilty in 2023 to anti-money laundering failures
that allowed Binance to be used by criminal groups
and terrorist organisations, including Hamas.
Zhao,
known as “CZ”, was released from a halfway
house in Long Beach, California, in September after
serving a four-month sentence. Binance paid a $US4.3
billion fine. Zhao has been pushing for the Trump
administration to grant him a pardon, according to
the Wall Street Journal’s report.
Three
months after leaving the halfway house, Zhao met with
Steve Witkoff, a co-founder of World Liberty, in Abu
Dhabi at the Bitcoin MENA 2024 conference, two of
the people said. Witkoff is the president’s Middle
East envoy. He is slated to meet with Russian President
Vladimir Putin this week as part of the Trump administration’s
efforts to halt the fighting that began when Russia
invaded Ukraine three years ago.
The
substance of Witkoff’s meeting with Zhao in December
is not clear. Talks between the crypto companies they
founded have taken place since then, according to
the four people with knowledge of the matter.
Witkoff
did not immediately respond to a request for comment,
nor did a White House spokesperson. Witkoff has said
he’s in the process of divesting from his crypto
assets as well as his holdings in real estate, transferring
holdings to his sons to manage potential conflicts
of interest.
A
representative for Binance US declined to comment
on Thursday, and representatives for World Liberty
did not respond to requests for comment.
Zhao
is still Binance’s controlling shareholder, with
a net worth of $US36.9 billion ($58.7 billion), according
to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. He stepped down
as its chief executive officer in November 2023, when
he pleaded guilty to failing to maintain an anti-money
laundering program.
Richard
Teng, who replaced Zhao, said in February that he
sees an opportunity for a “fresh reset and a
restart” under Trump, though he did not specify
any plans. (Full article and coverage via subscription
to The Australian Financial Review)
News
SEC
Proposes XRP as Key U.S. Financial Asset
The
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has
released a document titled 'Comprehensive Proposal:
XRP as a Strategic Financial Asset for the U.S.' This
proposal explores the potential for XRP to become
a key financial asset, discussing the replacement
of the SWIFT system, legal clarity for XRP, and economic
benefits like unlocking $1.5 trillion in banking liquidity.
Discussions are also underway regarding whether XRP
should be classified as a commodity, similar to Ethereum,
which could influence its regulatory and market future.
News
Rumble's
Strategic Bitcoin Acquisition
March
13, 2025
Rumble,
a video platform and competitor to YouTube, has announced
the purchase of 188 Bitcoins for approximately $17.1
million. This acquisition is part of Rumble's strategy
to integrate Bitcoin into its treasury management,
aiming to hedge against inflation and participate
in the growing trend of corporate cryptocurrency adoption.
The move reflects a broader acceptance of Bitcoin
as a legitimate financial asset among companies.
March
11, 2025
Bitcoin
Plunge and U.S. Crypto Reserve Plan
Bitcoin
experienced a significant price drop, falling below
$80,000 after reaching a high of over $84,000. This
decline contributed to a market cap loss of $100 billion
in the cryptocurrency sector. Concurrently, the U.S.
government has announced plans for a Strategic Bitcoin
Reserve, intended to hold cryptocurrency forfeited
through legal actions, sparking discussions on market
stability and government involvement in crypto. (Grok)
News
US
confirms its critical minerals agenda as fallen miner
AVZ chases an improbable African prize
A
spokesman for the US State Department has confirmed
that the Trump administration is interested in entering
into a critical minerals partnership with the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC). DRC President Felix Tshisekedi
is said to want to strike a deal with the US to help
resolve a conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels,
while any deal between the DRC and the US could help
Australian company AVZ Minerals. AVZ is seeking to
regain control of the Manono lithium deposit, which
it contends was illegally seized from it by Chinese
company Zijin, and it is understood that the Trump
administration would want to see AVZ regain control
of at least some part of Manono as part of any deal
with the DRC. (Roy Morgan Summary)
News
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6282 USD (down $0.0035 USD)
Iron Ore Apr Spot Price (SGX): $102.20 USD (up $1.60
USD)
Oil: (WTI): $66.61 USD (down $1.09 USD)
Gold: $2,983.88 USD (up $52.14 USD)
Copper (CME): $4.9240 USD (up $0.0815 USD)
Bitcoin: $80,472.06 USD (down 2.82% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 40,813.57 (down 537.35 points)
News
Roy
Morgan wins Media Man 'News Services Company Of The
Month' award
News
Media
Australia
Peter Dutton More Crypto Friendly And Switched On
Than Albanese (Media Man Group)
News
"Dutton
A Genuine Contender" (Sky News Australia)
Crypto,
Fintech, Markets, News and Politics via Media Man
March
12/13, 2025
The
crypto bounces back from extreme fear
Market
picture
The
cryptocurrency market bounced 2% in the last 24 hours
to $2.67 trillion. So far, the situation looks like
a small rebound after the collapse. We should not
talk about the beginning of recovery as long as the
market is below its 200-day moving average of $2.83
trillion.
Sentiment
in the crypto market has shifted from dread to fear
at 34. The indicator was last higher more than three
weeks ago, indicating that now is a good time to buy.
However, it's worth paying attention to the nervous
stock market before considering investments in more
volatile cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin
was climbing above $83,000 on Tuesday, hitting resistance
in the form of the 200-day moving average. If a long-term
trend line is repurposed as resistance, that's a worrisome
bearish fact.
Ethereum
ended Tuesday with growth and was trading near $1900
at the start of Wednesday, but this is a timid rebound
within the steep peak the coin has been in since February
24th and the broader downtrend of the past three months.
News
Background
CryptoQuant
states a sharp drop in open interest in Bitcoin and
Ethereum futures, suggesting a ‘leverage washout’
and a chance of market stabilisation. The Kobeissi
Letter admits a wave of short position unwinding in
risk assets after extreme fear levels are reached.
Clearstream,
the post-trading arm of Deutsche Börse, will
offer cryptocurrency settlement and custody services
to institutional clients as early as next month, starting
with Bitcoin and Ethereum. It then plans to add support
for other cryptocurrencies and services for staking,
lending and brokerage.
Glassnode
notes that Solana fell below its realised price of
$134 for the first time in three years. The metrics
show the average cost for investors to purchase the
coin.
According
to Arkham Intelligence, on 11 March, bankrupt exchange
Mt. Gox transferred 11,501 BTC (~$905 million) to
an unknown address. Mt. Gox-related addresses hold
a total of 35,915 BTC worth $2.89bn. (FxPro)
News
SEC
vs Ripple Case: Negotiations Underway for Settlement
Recent
developments indicate that the legal dispute between
Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
(SEC) could be nearing a conclusion. Reports suggest
that Ripple's legal team is currently negotiating
more favorable terms related to a $125 million fine
and an injunction on XRP sales to institutional investors.
The anticipation of a settlement has led to increased
interest and speculation within the cryptocurrency
community regarding the outcome and its potential
impact on XRP. (Grok)
News
U.S.
Plans Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Acquisition
Senator
Cynthia Lummis has reintroduced the BITCOIN Act, which
proposes that the United States government purchase
one million Bitcoins over five years to create a strategic
reserve. This legislative move reflects a growing
acknowledgment of Bitcoin as a digital asset for national
economic strategy, garnering support from both traditional
financial sectors and cryptocurrency advocates. Alongside
this, there is an ongoing debate about the implications,
risks, and potential benefits of such a reserve. (Grok)
News
Trump's
Crypto Banking Deregulation
President
Donald Trump is reportedly planning to sign an executive
order that would reverse regulations set by the Biden
administration aimed at restricting banking activities
for cryptocurrency firms. This move could impact how
crypto companies interact with the Federal Reserve,
potentially leading to greater integration of cryptocurrencies
within the traditional financial system. (Grok)
News
Rumble's
Strategic Bitcoin Acquisition
Rumble,
a video platform and competitor to YouTube, has announced
the purchase of 188 Bitcoins for approximately $17.1
million. This acquisition is part of Rumble's strategy
to integrate Bitcoin into its treasury management,
aiming to hedge against inflation and participate
in the growing trend of corporate cryptocurrency adoption.
The move reflects a broader acceptance of Bitcoin
as a legitimate financial asset among companies. (Grok)
News
Trump
Predicts Market Surge Amid Economic Indicators
President
Trump has publicly stated his belief that the U.S.
financial markets are poised for significant growth,
making his comments at an event with business leaders.
This optimistic forecast follows recent economic indicators
showing inflation cooling to levels not seen in years,
despite mixed responses from markets regarding Trump's
economic policies including tariffs. (Grok)
News
Ethereum's
Lowest BTC Ratio Since 2020 Triggers Liquidation Risk
The
Ethereum Foundation faces potential liquidation of
over $100 million in assets if Ethereum's price drops
to $1,100, amidst a historic low in the ETH/BTC trading
ratio not seen since May 2020. This financial maneuver
is part of Ethereum's strategy to manage its treasury
through decentralized finance (DeFi), highlighting
both the risks and innovative approaches to crypto-asset
management in a volatile market. (Grok)
News
Gold
funds burst out of the blocks in 2025 as returns rocket
Australian
gold funds are shaping up for a bumper year as mining
companies start to capitalise on record prices, helping
the stocks to finally catch up to the performance
of the precious metal.
Portfolio
managers were left frustrated last year after a jump
in production costs held back ASX-listed gold producers
from riding the rally in the spot prices to record
levels. The VanEck Gold Miners exchange-traded fund
climbed nearly 20 per cent in 2024 versus a 38 per
cent rally for the gold price in Australian dollars.
But
easing cost inflation that has plagued the mining
sector for the last three years and an ongoing surge
in prices has seen the trend reverse course. VanEck’s
Gold Miners ETF is up 17 per cent already this year
while the Aussie dollar spot price has climbed 6.3
per cent.
Local
fund managers are bullish that gold has much further
to run after the US dollar price climbed above $US2942
an ounce for the first time and the Australian dollar
gold price breached $4500 an ounce.
Victor
Smorgon Partners’ Resource Gold Fund returned
a chunky 13.3 per cent in January and portfolio manager
Cameron Judd believes the valuations of ASX gold stocks
still don’t reflect the outlook for the yellow
metal.
“Gold’s
performance in times of uncertainty or crisis could
see it push towards $US3600,” Mr Judd said. “Despite
the strong gold price performance and fundamentals
supporting further appreciation, gold miners are trading
at discounted valuations on the ASX.”
Wall
Street’s biggest banks believe a $US3000 price
tag is imminent. Citi said it was possible within
the next three months, while JPMorgan has a year-end
target of $US3150. Bank of America said on Thursday
that gold could reach $US3500 an ounce if investment
demand rises 10 per cent this year.
The
unprecedented surge in the gold price has been fuelled
by investors seeking safe haven assets as US President
Donald Trump unleashes aggressive trade and geopolitical
policies. There are fears the president will accelerate
inflation, forcing central banks to raise rates in
a way that damages global growth.
Victor
Smorgon’s top holdings include ASX-listed Vault
Minerals and the world’s largest gold miner,
US-based Newmont, which recently acquired Newcrest.
The fund also owns Australia’s biggest gold miner
Northern Star, which agreed to buy rival De Grey in
a $5 billion deal. (AFR) *Full article and coverag
via subscription to The Australian Financial Review.
News
Australia
Northern
Star paying top dollar for gold rival
Northern
Star has offered $5 billion to buy De Grey Mining,
with De Grey shareholders to vote on the offer on
16 April. De Grey is the company behind the Hemi gold
prospect in Western Australia, which is thought to
hold at least 11 million ounces of gold and which
is slated to produce 530,000 ounces annually in its
first decade of operation. KPMG, which was engaged
to provide an independent assessment of Northern Star's
offer, has valued DeGrey at between $4 billion and
$4.79 billion, inclusive of a premium for control.
It concludes that the offer is "fair and reasonable
and therefore is in the best interests of De Grey
shareholders, in the absence of a superior proposal".
(Roy Morgan Summary)
News
March
12, 2025
Crypto
market tumbles after stocks
Market
picture
Crypto
market capitalisation has been falling to $2.5 trillion
following the rumbling fall of the US stock market.
It is dipping below the peaks of early 2024 and late
2021. Previously, a similar decline would complete
a corrective pullback, attracting buyers. However,
the chances of such an outcome are now lower than
in previous years due to the powerful influence of
traditional financial companies, which has strengthened
the link between the crypto market and stock dynamics.
For
now, though, we can argue that there is less terror
in crypto. The Fear and Greed Index is at 24 (+4 points
for the day), while the low point was a week earlier
at 10.
Bitcoin
slipped towards $76.5K in the early hours of Tuesday
but has popped above $80K at the time of writing,
approaching Monday’s consolidation levels. A
bearish pattern persists on the daily timeframes,
which suggests a strengthening sell-off after a failure
under the 200-day moving average. The scenario of
a pullback to the $70-74K area still looks the most
probable for us. This is all the truer as the consolidation
and rebound in early March has taken the short-term
oversold stance out of the market.
Ethereum
is trying to find a pivot point after falling towards
$1750 at the start of Tuesday. These were the lowest
values in the last 17 months. On weekly timeframes,
the RSI oscillator hit its lowest point since mid-2022
- near the bottom of the bear market. Does this signify
an opportunity for the recklessly bold or a breakdown
in the leading altcoin? We will find out in the coming
days.
News
Background
According
to CoinShares, global crypto fund investments fell
by $876 million last week after record outflows of
$2.911 billion a week earlier. Investments in Bitcoin
fell by $756 million; in Ethereum, by $89 million.
Investments in Solana rose by $16 million, in XRP
by $6 million, and in Sui by $3 million.
As
a result of another recalculation, Bitcoin mining
difficulty increased by 1.43% to 112.15T. The growth
did not compensate for a 3.15% drop two weeks ago.
However, the figure came close to the all-time high
of 114.17T reached in January.
Strategy
(former MicroStrategy) intends to raise $21bn through
the sale of preferred shares as part of its At-The-Market
program. The proceeds will be used to buy Bitcoin
and other corporate purposes. (FxPro)
News
March
11, 2025
US
Senator And Congressman Introduce Strategic Bitcoin
Reserve Bills To Buy One Million BTC
Speaking
at the “Bitcoin for America” summit, lawmakers
announced their plans to create a federal bitcoin
reserve that would see the U.S. buy one million BTC.
Today
at the Bitcoin Policy Institute’s “Bitcoin
for America” summit in Washington DC, U.S. Senator
from Wyoming Cynthia Lummis announced that she is
going to reintroduce her strategic Bitcoin reserve
legislation in the Senate today.
“I
am so pleased to announce that today I will be reintroducing
The Bitcoin Act,” Senator Lummis stated. “And
I’ll be joined here shortly by Senator Justice
of West Virginia, who is one of the cosponsors. And
we have several other additional cosponsors. And a
lot of it is a result of the excitement that’s
been building.” (Bitcoin Magazine). *Full article
via Bitcoin Magazine
News
XRP
wins Media Man 'Crypto Of The Month' award
News
Markets
Australian
Dollar: $0.6317 USD (up $0.0020 USD)
Iron Ore Apr Spot Price (SGX): $100.60 USD (up $0.15
USD)
Oil (WTI): $67.70 USD (up $1.14 USD)
Gold: $2,931.74 USD (up $13.03 USD)
Copper (CME): $4.8425 USD (up $0.0500 USD)
Bitcoin: $82,880.91USD (up 0.32% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 41,350.93 (down 82.55 points)
News
Roy
Morgan wins Media Man 'News Services Company Of The
Month' award
News
Media
Australia
Peter
Dutton More Crypto Friendly And Switched On Than Albanese
(Media Man Group)
News
"Dutton
A Genuine Contender" (Sky News Australia)
March
10, 2025
ASX
futures are pointing up 69 points, or by 0.9 per cent,
to 8011.
All
US prices are as of 4.15pm Sunday in New York:
Bitcoin
-3.7% to $US83,138
On Wall St: Dow +0.5% S&P +0.6% Nasdaq +0.7%
VIX -1.5 to 23.37
Gold -0.1% to $US2909.10 an ounce
Brent oil +1.3% to $US70.36 a barrel
Iron ore +0.3% to $US100.70 a tonne
10-year yield: US 4.3% Australia 4.4%
January
10, 2025
ASX
futures up 33 points or 0.4%
AUD
-0.3% to 61.98 US cents
UK pound -0.4% to $US1.2309
Bitcoin -2.9% to $US91,275 at 7.23am AEDT
US markets closed for Jimmy Carter’s funeral
Stoxx 50 +0.4% FTSE +0.8% DAX -0.1% CAC +0.5%
Spot gold +0.3% to $US2671.00/oz at 1.55pm in New
York
Brent crude +1.2% to $US77.08 a barrel
Iron ore +1% to $US97.40 a tonne
10-year yield: US 4.69% Australia 4.48% Germany 2.56%
US prices as of 1.59pm in New York
Box
Office (North America)
1.
Mickey 17- $19.1m
2.
Captain America: Brave New World - $8.5m
3.
Last Breath - $4.2m
4.
The Monkey - $3.9m
5.
Paddington in Peru - $3.85m
6.
Dog Man - $3.5m
7.
Anora - $1.86m
8.
Mufasa - $1.7m
9.
Rule Breakers - $1.6m
10.
Night of the Zoopocalypse - $1.06m
Pop
Culture News
Under
The Media Man Watercooler
February
24, 2026
WWE
Raw On Netflix: In a few short hours! Verbal Beatdowns
featuring Logan Paul, CM Punk and Seth Rollins. Battle
Of The Egos (who can back it up in the ring). Warm
up for WWE Elimination Chamber!
UFC:
Aussie's Rise To Prominence Again In Upcoming Weeks
And Months
Volk
vs Lopez - UFC 314. Miami, Florida. April 12
Jack
Della Maddalena vs Belair Muhammad - UFC 315. Montreal,
Canada. May 10
*card/s
subject to change
News
UFC
Historical Box Office Draw Conor McGregor Not Returning
To UFC Promotion: Chael Sonnen and numerous credible
sources. McGregor states he will have a bare knuckle
fight in BKFC where he has an existing contract agreement,
fine details of which are secretive/confidential in
nature. Need to know basis!
News
SAG
2025 Awards: More or less woke than usual? Was broadcast
live on Netflix!
News
Pro
Wrestling: TNA Wrestling
Wrestler
Santana will undergo urine test to satisfy opponent
and TNA powers that be!
News
Netflix:
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga rocketing to top position
of Netflix movies, if it's not already there. Absolute
quality. Can't say enough good things about Furiosa!
News
Australian
Politics
Dutton
A "Genuine Contender" (Sky News Australia)
Dutton
for the win over Albo per Freshwater (AFR affiliated)
polls and numerous others. Smart money on Dutton,
by points. Many Aussies want KO victory per pub and
cafe test!
News
US
Politics: Trump Prepares To Inspect Fort Knox Gold!
Movie
News
February
13, 2025
Here's
a roundup of some recent movie news from 2025:
Captain
America: Brave New World: The latest Marvel Studios
film is now in theaters for Valentine's Day, starring
Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, the new Captain America.
This entry seems to be a significant event for Marvel
fans, with some posts on X indicating mixed reception
regarding the villains, but a notable appearance by
Red Hulk.
Marvel's
Future and Blade: Michael B. Jordan has expressed
confidence in Marvel's return to success while specifically
mentioning his desire to see a "Blade" movie,
hinting at potential future projects or his involvement
in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The
Fantastic Four: First Steps: Miles Teller has reacted
positively to the first trailer for this new Fantastic
Four movie, suggesting optimism despite past challenges
with the franchise.
The
Muppets: There's buzz around the development of a
new "Muppet" movie, with Disney reportedly
working on a new project to bring back the beloved
characters.
Super
Bowl 2025 Trailers: The Super Bowl featured several
movie trailers, including a new "Thunderbolts*"
with its mysterious asterisk, and a live-action "Lilo
& Stitch", alongside other high-profile films.
This event has kickstarted the blockbuster movie season
early.
Blackpink's
Lisa in Acting: Lisa from Blackpink has made her acting
debut in HBO's "The White Lotus" and has
expressed interest in starring in an action movie,
showcasing her transition from music to acting.
Superman
and Krypto: James Gunn made an appearance with his
dog Ozu during the Puppy Bowl, connecting to his upcoming
"Superman" movie where Ozu was an inspiration
for Krypto.
Ne
Zha 2: This Chinese animated film has become a monumental
success, surpassing $1 billion in a single market,
indicating a shift towards domestic films in China
over Hollywood imports.
Green
Day-Inspired Movie: Live Nation Productions is working
on a comedy movie inspired by and developed with the
band Green Day, titled "New Years Rev".
OTT
Releases: In Tamil cinema, platforms like Netflix,
Amazon Prime Video, and others are seeing new releases
this week, including films like "Deepavali",
"Lineman", and "Hitler", reflecting
a strong inclination towards digital platforms for
movie watching.
This
summary reflects the dynamic and vibrant landscape
of the film industry as of early 2025, with significant
releases, new projects, and shifts in market trends.
(Grok)
News
The
Batman 2 Filming Confirmed
Robert
Pattinson has confirmed that filming for 'THE BATMAN
2' will start at the end of 2025, with the film set
to premiere in theaters on October 1, 2027. This announcement
has sparked considerable excitement among fans and
film enthusiasts, as it marks the continuation of
Pattinson's portrayal of Batman in a darker, more
intense setting. The sequel aims to build on the gritty
atmosphere established in the first film, with promotional
images and discussions highlighting Batman's iconic
presence against dramatic backdrops. (Grok)
News
Mickey
17 World Premiere
The
world premiere of 'Mickey 17', directed by Bong Joon-ho,
took place in London, featuring stars like Robert
Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.
The film, a mix of sci-fi drama and political satire,
addresses themes of capitalism, colonization, and
corruption. Critics and attendees lauded the film
for its innovative storytelling and relevance to current
issues, with special mention of Pattinson's dual role.
The event was marked by high-profile appearances,
fan interactions, and media coverage, highlighting
the film's anticipated impact on contemporary cinema.
(Grok)
News
On
Swift Horses Trailer Release
The
upcoming film 'ON SWIFT HORSES,' set to release on
April 25, 2025, delves into themes of bisexuality,
complex relationships, and personal desires within
a 1950s melodramatic setting. Directed by Daniel Minahan
and produced by the team behind 'Call Me By Your Name'
and 'Nomadland,' it features a cast including Jacob
Elordi, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Will Poulter, Diego Calva,
and Sasha Calle. The story follows Julius and Muriel,
who meet in San Diego and embark on a journey to Las
Vegas, exploring themes of gambling with life's opportunities
and the pursuit of personal gain. Promotional materials
suggest a narrative filled with drama, romance, and
self-discovery, highlighted by intimate and emotional
interactions among the characters. (Grok)
News
Borderline
Trailer Release
The
upcoming thriller 'BORDERLINE', set to release on
March 14, 2025, stars Samara Weaving as Sofia, a pop
star kidnapped by an obsessive fan, Ray Nicholson,
who believes they are destined to marry. The film
blends psychological horror with comedy, unfolding
in a grand, eerie mansion in 1990s Los Angeles. Written
by Jimmy Warden, known for 'Cocaine Bear', and produced
by the teams behind 'Barbie' and 'Promising Young
Woman', 'BORDERLINE' showcases Weaving in her recurring
role as a 'scream queen', highlighting her in various
intense and dramatic scenarios. The narrative explores
themes of obsession and forced matrimony, with the
mansion setting enhancing the film's suspenseful atmosphere.
(Grok)
News
Movie
Box Office (North America)
February
9, 2025
1.
Dog Man - $13.7m
2. Heart Eyes - $8.5m
3. Love Hurts - $5.8
4. Mufasa: The Lion King - $3.9m
5. Companion - $3.02m
6. One of Them Days - $3m
7. Becoming Led Zeppelin - $2.63m
8. Flight Risk - $2.6m
9. Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - $1.75m
10. Moana 2 - $1.5m
others...
Presence
Wolf Man
Nosferatu
Wicked
Babygirl
Game Changer
The Last Showgirl
Gladiator II
Homestead
The Fire Inside
*
Correct at time of publication
News
As reported in previous weeks, box office numbers
are no longer down approx 70 percent from last year,
thanks to more studios finally giving what fans have
been asking for! Developing news story!
Numbers
down from this past Christmas and Boxing Day, when
numbers peaked! (References: Wikipedia, Box Office
Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter)
Movie
Box Office (North America)
January
5, 2025
1.
Mufasa: The Lion King - $23.8m
2.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - $21.2m
3.
Nosferatu - $13.2m
4.
Moana 2 - $12.4m
5.
Wicked - $10.2m
6.
A Complete Unknown - $8.6m
7.
Babygirl - $4.5m
8.
Gladiator II - $2.7m
9.
Homestead - $2.1m
10.
The Fire Inside $1.2m
Combat
Sports Events
WWE
WWE SmackDown
January 3, 2025
Footprint Center
Phoenix, Arizona
WWE
RAW On Netflix
January 6, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
WWE Legends: Past And Present, John Cena, Roman Reigns,
Celebrities and more
NXT
NXT New Year's Evil
January 7, 2025
The Shrine Expo Hall
Los Angeles, California
Trick Williams vs Oba Femi vs Eddy Thorpe
Roxanne Perez vs Giulia
WWE
SmackDown
January 10, 2025
Moda Center
Portland, Oregon
WWE
RAW On Netflix
January 13, 2025
Sap Center
San Jose, California
UFC
UFC Fight Night 249
January 11, 2025
Apex Arena
Paradise, Nevada
WWE
SmackDown
January 17, 2025
Pechanga Arena
San Diego, California
WWE
RAW On Netflix
January 20, 2025
American Airlines Center
Dallas, Texas
UFC
UFC 311
January 18, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
Makhachev vs Tsarukyan 2
WWE
Saturday Night's Main Event
January 25, 2025
Frost Bank Center
San Antonio, Texas
WWE
Royal Rumble
February 1, 2025
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana
UFC
UFC 312
February 9, 2025
Qudos Bank Arena
Homebush, Sydney, Australia
du Plessis vs Strickland 2
WWE
Elimination Chamber
March 1, 2025
Rogers Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
*card/s
subject to change
Websites
WWE
https://www.wwe.com/
WWE
Raw
https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw
RAW
On Netflix
https://www.netflix.com/title/81788927
WWE
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/WWE
Raw
on Netflix premiere from Intuit Dome in LA on Jan.
6, 2025
WWE
Raw debut episode on Netflix (Wikipedia)
RAW
On Netflix
Raw
on Netflix premiere from Intuit Dome in LA on Jan.
6, 2025
WWE
Raw debut episode on Netflix (Wikipedia)
Netflix:
News
Streaming
News
Blog
Media
Man Streaming Blog
Netflix.com
Raw
on Netflix premiere from Intuit Dome in LA on Jan.
6, 2025
WWE
Raw debut episode on Netflix (Wikipedia)
RAW
On Netflix
Websites
WWE
https://www.wwe.com/
WWE
Raw
https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw
RAW
On Netflix
https://www.netflix.com/title/81788927
WWE
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/WWE
WWE:
News
Netflix
to Become New Home of WWE 'Raw' Beginning 2025
Netflix:
News
WWE
On Netflix
RAW
On Netflix
WWE
Raw debut episode on Netflix (Wikipedia)
The
Monday Night Raw debut episode on Netflix is an upcoming
professional wrestling television special that will
mark the debut of WWE's weekly Monday Night Raw program
on the streaming service Netflix. The event is set
to take place on January 6, 2025, at Intuit Dome in
Inglewood, California, and will feature performers
from the Raw brand as well as the SmackDown brand.
This episode of Raw will shift from broadcasting on
traditional linear cable television to over the top
digital streaming, as well as the start of John Cena's
farewell tour.
The
event will feature an appearance by Houston rapper,
Travis Scott, who will be performing the new theme
song for Raw. (Wikipedia)
Pro
Wrestling
WWE
@WWE RAW On Netflix @netflix
January
6, 2025
Intuit
Dome
Los Angeles, California
Media
Man Watercooler: Some of the hottest pro wrestling
action in the modern era that you will ever see! ;
Historic show sees dream matches and buzz exceed usual
high levels; Broadcasting and pro wrestling history
will be made: Media Man Group
More
footage! Hours to go until live in LA!
Key
Figures In The Netflix Era Go On Record
FIRST
LOOK: Cold Open for the Monday Night Raw on Netflix
premiere
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7MaVm3e0OA&ab_channel=WWE
The
Raw on Netflix era has officially arrived: WWE Now,
Jan. 6, 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcA9frt4U70&ab_channel=WWE
WWE
drone show takes over L.A. skies for Raw on Netflix
premiere
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZAKYP-ZfAc&ab_channel=WWE
Roman
Reigns vs. Solo Sikoa - Tribal Combat: Raw on Netflix
Hype Package
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gTNNjRB4CM&ab_channel=WWE
CM
Punk vs. Seth “Freakin” Rollins: Raw on
Netflix Hype Package
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOUdNPP1oTU&ab_channel=WWE
News via Grok
WWE
Raw Kicks Off New Era on Netflix Tonight
Tonight,
WWE Raw embarks on a groundbreaking journey by debuting
on Netflix with a live 3.5-hour event from the Intuit
Dome in Inglewood, CA. The show, which has nearly
sold out, promises high-octane action with key matches
like CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins. The event opens with
a notable cold open narrated by Triple H, setting
the tone for what's being hailed as a new era for
WWE Raw. Fans and WWE personalities are buzzing online,
sharing their anticipation for this significant move
to streaming. While there's excitement around potential
surprise returns and other matches, the spotlight
tonight is firmly on the confirmed headline bout between
Punk and Rollins. (Grok)
News
John
Cena's Farewell Tour Kicks Off with WWE Raw's Netflix
Premiere
John
Cena, celebrated for his 16 world championships, has
embarked on his farewell tour starting January 6,
2025, coinciding with WWE Raw's debut on Netflix.
This event not only marks the end of Cena's storied
career but also signifies a new era for WWE as it
transitions to streaming. The premiere was preceded
by an impressive drone show in Los Angeles, featuring
iconic WWE symbols like Stone Cold Steve Austin's
smoking skull, to promote this significant shift.
The episode featured high-profile appearances including
The Rock and Cena himself, adding to the night's grandeur.
This move to Netflix aims to broaden WWE's global
audience and redefine wrestling entertainment, with
Cena's tour providing a nostalgic backdrop to this
monumental change. (Grok)
News
Paul
Heyman To ScreenRant
"I
hope so. I hope the product is always evolving. Roman
Reigns and I always like to say, if we can look back
on things that we did 6 months ago, and we can even
watch it anymore, then we haven't improved that much,
have we? Of course the product is gonna change when
it goes on Netflix. How could it not? It's the biggest
streaming service in the world. It's the distribution
portal now for anyone who wants a level of prestige
or placement in the culture. So, once we get on Netflix,
the approach to how we present the product must change,
must evolve, must upgrade, must be enhanced, must
be elevated. If not, what are we doing? How are we
not taking advantage of that opportunity?"
"So,
yes, the product will change on Netflix. Yes, it will
be intentional. Yes, it will be with the help and
the interaction of the audience itself. And, no, I
make no predictions about it because the culture will
be different when we get on to Netflix. And the culture
itself will dictate how far we go in terms of layers
of stories. And at the same time, the accountability
will be on us in terms of driving that culture. The
same way music drives its culture, the same way sneaker
fandom drives its culture, the same way music can
drive fashion and sports and other cultures, we will
drive the culture. We just have to get embedded into
it first."
"...You
said the Attitude Era was the biggest, most robust...
I don't think that is accurate anymore. I think it's
right now, and I think that the moment that we are
going through right now, I was in the Attitude Era
at the peak of it as you were. We didn't realize what
it was in the moment. Having seen that, I see this
and I see it way bigger. I see this as this different
moment in time in the business and it being something
different. And you mentioned the Triple H Era, I don't
think it's that. I think this at the end of it is
going to be called the Netflix Era. That's where the
big change is."
News
Triple
H To Sports Illustrated
"It
will be flexible. It will be flexible in I don’t
necessarily know the time constraints of network television
or cable television apply. It’s a slightly different
platform. Much like many episodic shows, they have
the ability to do whatever the show needs to have
down. If this episode needs to be an hour, great,
it’s an hour. If the next episode needs to be
42 minutes, it’s 42 minutes. It’s what makes
for the best product. I’m not saying we’re
going to be 42 minutes, but clearly we’ll deliver
the product in a way that is best for Netflix and
their business model and best for our storytelling."
Media
Man: Special thanks WWE, Netflix and X! Much respect
to all involved.
Websites
WWE
https://www.wwe.com/
WWE
Raw
https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw
RAW
On Netflix
https://www.netflix.com/title/81788927
WWE
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/WWE
Media
Man: Pumped!
Media
Man Int
Wrestling
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_news.html
WWE
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/wwe_news.html
Streaming
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/streaming_news.html
Netflix
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/netflix_news.html
Entertainment
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/news4.html
Pop
Culture
https://www.mediamanint.com/pop_culture.html
#RawOnNetflix
#WWEOnNetflix #WWERaw #RomanReigns #SoloSikoa #TheBloodline
#TheNewBloodline #TheRock #PaulHeyman #CMPunk #SethRollins
#JohnCena #CodyRhodes #HulkHogan #RheaRipley #LivMorgan
#LoganPaul #JeyUso #DrewMcIntyre #AndNew #AndStill
#TheNetflixEra #TripleHEra #TripleH #PaulLevesque
#MichaelCole #PatMcAfee #ProWrestling #Wrestling #PopCulture
#ThisIsCinema #Entertainment #Broadcast #Streaming
#WrestlingLegends #trend #trends #trending #TrendingNow
#buzz #TV #media #mediaman #XWrestling #XEntertainment
#mediamanint #LA #LosAngeles
(Image
credit: WWE/Netflix)
Netflix:
News
Streaming
News
Blog
Media
Man Streaming Blog
Netflix.com
Raw
on Netflix premiere from Intuit Dome in LA on Jan.
6, 2025
WWE
Raw debut episode on Netflix (Wikipedia)
Combat
Sports Watercooler
News
WWE
Pro Wrestler Karrion Kross On Mox Telling Him To Call
Triple H About A Contract
"After
the show, he's like, he basically says 'Hey listen.
I'm not telling you where to go. I'm not telling you
where to make money. But I'm just saying, you really
should call Triple H, cause you could make a very,
very good living there" ... "He was like
'Work wherever you want, go wherever you want. But
I just have a feeling that if you call him, things
are going to be good for you.'
"And
I was like...that's like 'What do you mean? Call Triple
H? What do you mean?' He's like 'Nah, just call him...I'm
giving you his number. I want you to call him.' And
I was like 'Oh my god.' Well now I can't [not call
him]...So now I had to...So I sent him [Triple H]
a text. He calls me and is like 'Is this really Killer
Kross?' Cause like, I don't know, it could be a crank
caller or somebody gets his number. So we talk, and
a few months later, I was in 'NXT,' and that's kind
of how that worked." (Not Sam Wrestling)
News
Bully
Ray on TNA Wrestling, WWE and AEW via Busted Open
Radio
"TNA
will grow, the WWE will grow bigger, and we will either
be talking about the resurgence or the demise of AEW,
and I go 50/50 on that. I want to see the resurgence,
but from what I see right this very moment, I hope
we're not speaking about the demise, and that's just
my fair assessment on everything." (Busted Open
Radio)
News
Wrestling
Legend Kurt Angle On Wrestling Movies And Career via
Talk Is Jericho
"I've
been pretty much building to this movie I'm having
done about my life's sports story" ... "The
directors are Ian and Eshom Nelms. They're really
talented directors. The reason why I picked them is
because they were wrestlers in high school and college.
So they understand my sport.
"So
we got the ball rolling with that, and now we're getting
investors and we're going to start picking the cast
soon. This movie's only about my Olympic story, not
my WWE story. There's going to be, actually, two movies.
'Angle 1' and 'Angle 2.' One's for the Olympics, one's
for after, my WWE and TNA career, everything after
that. It was just too much to put in one movie, so
they wanted to split it in two." (Web Is Jericho)
News
Tommy
Dreamer on CM Punk And Seth Rollins Raw Face To Face
Promo
"It's
a very 'what have you done for me lately.' There's
so much to get into with CM Punk and leaving, and
yes, some people can still harbor a grudge towards
that"
"I
can't even say 'blurring the lines,' because if you
ask me, these two guys don't like each other"
(Busted Open After Dark)
News
AEW
Signed Adam Copeland On His Injury Via TMZ Sports
"I've
actually been cleared for about three months, but
then with everything that happened here with the hurricane,
it just — we all had the discussion," Copeland
said. "It's more important to be home and kind
of get everything at home squared away, and then just
come back to work."
"In
that time, I've been healthy and going to the ring,
and been able to go 100 in the gym" ... "It's
time. I feel ready." (TMZ Sports)
News
WWE
Raw Moves to Netflix
WWE
has entered into a significant partnership with Netflix,
debuting its flagship show 'Raw' on the streaming
platform starting January 6th, 2025. This move has
sparked excitement among fans worldwide due to the
increased accessibility of WWE content. In the UK,
all WWE programming including Raw, SmackDown, NXT,
and Premium Live Events will be available live on
Netflix, while in the US, only Raw will be streamed.
This partnership marks the end of the WWE Network
era, with WWE content now transitioning to Netflix.
Fans are particularly enthusiastic about the availability
of uncensored content and extensive WWE archives,
including classics like WrestleMania 17. The collaboration
is viewed as a transformative step for WWE's distribution
strategy and is expected to influence viewing habits,
potentially reintroducing wrestling into mainstream
entertainment.
News
MMA/UFC
Strickland's
Controversial Comments Stir MMA Community
Sean
Strickland, a prominent MMA fighter, recently sparked
controversy with his comments on Islam, suggesting
it promotes violence and is incompatible with American
values. His statements have led to a significant backlash
from fans and fellow fighters alike, with many accusing
him of hypocrisy given his career in a sport centered
around violence. While there has been speculation
about a potential match-up with Khamzat Chimaev, a
Muslim fighter known for his deep commitment to his
faith, no official confirmation of such a fight has
been made. The discourse around Strickland's comments
has brought to light the complex interplay between
personal beliefs, professional conduct, and public
statements within the MMA community, highlighting
how fighters' personal views can influence their public
and professional lives.
Sweet
Daddy Siki passes away
WWE
is saddened to learn that Elkin James, known to wrestling
fans as Sweet Daddy Siki, passed away on December
31, 2024, at age 91.
Siki
wrestled worldwide for promotions such as Maple Leaf
Wrestling, Grand Prix Wrestling, and Stampede Wrestling
through the ’60s and ’70s and became a fixture
in the Toronto community. He trained many future wrestlers
out of Sully’s Gym in Toronto, Canada, including
iconic WWE Superstars Edge and Christian.
WWE
extends its condolences to Siki’s family, friends
and fans. (WWE)
News/Profile
Combat
Sports via Grok
Combat
sports are competitive physical activities involving
one-on-one combat where the objective is to score
more points, submit, disable, or defeat an opponent
through regulated techniques. These sports have a
rich history, tracing back to various ancient civilizations
and have evolved into diverse forms practiced worldwide:
Boxing:
A sport where competitors use their fists to throw
punches within a designated ring, aiming to outscore
or knock out their opponent. It's one of the oldest
combat sports, with roots in ancient cultures like
Egypt and Greece, and became an Olympic sport in 1904.
Mixed
Martial Arts (MMA): Often seen in promotions like
the UFC, MMA combines techniques from numerous martial
arts including wrestling, boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
It gained significant recognition in the 1990s and
is known for its no-holds-barred approach within a
regulated environment.
Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Developed by the Gracie family in
Brazil, BJJ focuses on ground fighting and submission
holds. It became popular through MMA and is now practiced
globally for both sport and self-defense.
Muay
Thai: Known as "The Art of Eight Limbs,"
this Thai martial art uses punches, kicks, elbows,
and knee strikes, making it uniquely comprehensive
in terms of striking techniques.
Wrestling:
With styles like freestyle and Greco-Roman, wrestling
involves grappling techniques to pin or throw an opponent.
It's one of the oldest sports, with historical ties
to ancient Greece, and is a mainstay in the Olympics.
Judo:
A Japanese martial art emphasizing throws and submission
holds, judo has been an Olympic sport since 1964,
showcasing its global impact on combat sports.
Kickboxing:
A hybrid sport that incorporates elements from boxing,
karate, and other martial arts, focusing on both punches
and kicks. It's popular in both professional and amateur
circuits.
Combat
sports also serve various benefits beyond competition,
including physical fitness, mental toughness, and
self-defense skills. They are regulated by organizations
to ensure safety, with rules varying by sport and
sometimes by region. In Australia, for instance, combat
sports are overseen by bodies like the Combat Sports
Authority of NSW, ensuring participants are registered
and events are permitted.
These
sports are not only about physical confrontation but
also promote discipline, respect, and sportsmanship
among participants. They have a cultural significance,
often tied to national heritage, and continue to evolve
with new techniques, safety measures, and competitive
formats. (Grok)
News/Profile
Pro
Wrestling
Professional
Wrestling Overview: Professional wrestling is a form
of athletic theater that combines mock combat with
drama, where the premise is that performers are competitive
wrestlers. It's distinguished by its scripted outcomes
and emphasis on entertainment over genuine competition.
The staged nature of matches is an open secret, maintained
through a practice known as "kayfabe," where
both wrestlers and spectators pretend that the performances
are legitimate competitions. Wrestlers perform as
characters with distinctive gimmicks, including unique
attire, stage names, and entrance themes.
Current
Landscape: As of early January 2025, the wrestling
landscape in Australia includes notable promotions
like Pro Wrestling Australia (PWA) in Sydney, which
focuses on providing both adult-themed and family-friendly
shows. United Pro Wrestling (UPW) is another key player,
particularly in Queensland, known for its quality
events and character development. Melbourne City Wrestling
(MCW) has been active with events like their anniversary
celebration planned for March 15, 2025.
Global
Influence: Wrestling has achieved mainstream success
worldwide, influencing popular culture with its terminology
and concepts. It's performed across various promotions
globally, with unique styles in countries like the
U.S., Mexico, Japan, and Europe. The largest promotions
continue to be WWE and AEW, with significant cultural
impact through television, music, film, and video
games.
Community
and Culture: Professional wrestling has developed
its own culture, including a vernacular specific to
the industry. Fans engage through live events, online
discussions, and fan-created content, showing the
community's dedication and passion for the sport-entertainment
hybrid.
For
more specific details on events, wrestlers, or promotions,
further exploration into current wrestling news sources
would be beneficial. (Grok)
News
WWE:
Events
WWE
hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging
from weekly televised shows to premium live events
(PLEs), previously known as pay-per-views (PPVs).
Here's a breakdown of the upcoming WWE events:
Weekly
Shows:
Monday Night Raw: Broadcast live every Monday. The
next event on January 13, 2025, is at the SAP Center
in San Jose, CA.
Friday
Night SmackDown: Aired live every Friday. The upcoming
event on January 3, 2025, will be at the Footprint
Center in Phoenix, AZ.
WWE
NXT: Typically taped or live on Tuesday nights. The
next significant event, New Year's Evil, is scheduled
for January 7, 2025, at The Shrine LA in Los Angeles,
CA.
Premium
Live Events (PLEs) for 2025:
Saturday
Night's Main Event: January 25, 2025, at the Frost
Bank Center in San Antonio, TX.
Royal
Rumble: February 1, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in
Indianapolis, IN.
Elimination
Chamber: March 1, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto,
ON, Canada, marking WWE's return to Canada for a PLE.
WrestleMania:
While the exact date for WrestleMania 41 hasn't been
mentioned in the available data, it's traditionally
held in April.
International
and Specialty Events:
WWE
is planning a European Tour starting in mid-March
2025. No specific dates or locations within this tour
have been detailed yet.
There's
also mention of WWE considering multi-night formats
for major events like the Royal Rumble and Money in
the Bank in future years.
Streaming
and Viewing:
All
WWE PLEs are available live on Peacock in the United
States and through various international WWE Network
partners or other streaming services in other countries.
In Australia, PPVs are shown on Main Event.
Weekly
shows like Raw, SmackDown, and NXT are broadcast on
traditional TV and streaming services depending on
the region.
Additional
Notes:
WWE has no scheduled live events in the U.S. until
the European Tour in March, which has been reported
to be well-received by talent for providing a break.
There's a buzz about CM Punk main eventing WrestleMania,
indicating his significant role in upcoming storylines.
For
the most up-to-date information, checking WWE's official
website or following WWE on social media platforms
would provide real-time updates on any changes or
additional events. (Grok)
Wrestling/Pop Culture News
Mildred
Burke biopic: Queen of the Ring
Under
The Media Man Watercooler
Premiers:
Newport Beach Film Festival
Lead:
Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke
Quotes
to UPI
"I
was like, 'Oh, I feel like I can do that. I just haven't'"
"I've
always been super active and I pick up things pretty
fast."
Burke
wrestled professionally from 1937 to 1956 and launched
her own World Women's Wrestling Association after
leaving the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Rickards
portrays Burke, covering her training through the
wrestling organization's creation.
"Mildred
was a pioneer in this arena"
"She
really brought women to wrestling"
"It
was heavy weights, slow on the way down, faster on
the way up"
"There
was a period of time where I remember putting my hands
on my hips and I just felt solid, like there was just
more of me."
"Wrestling
is a lot about safety"
"To
take the bump, you spread out"
Deborah
Ann Woll, Francesca Eastwood, Marie Avgeropoulous,
Kelli Berglund and Damaris Lewis also play real-life
wrestlers. AEW's Kailey Farmer and WWE's Toni Rossall
portray two of Burke's real-life opponents.
Farmer
helped train her in pro wrestling.
"If
you see us wrestling on-screen, she's leading"
"She
brought me into that trust as someone who is an actor,
not a wrestler but was doing my darndest."
"This
ability to weave story and have it be structured but
improvised -- there's an essence there that is so
beautiful"
"I'd
say acting actually is all contact"
"Maybe
it's not punching each other all the time, but it
is really about affecting the other person"
Mildred
Burke Profile/News via Grok
Mildred
Burke was a pivotal figure in professional wrestling,
particularly known for her contributions to women's
wrestling. Here's an overview based on the information
available up to October 20, 2024:
Career:
Mildred Burke began her wrestling career in the early
1930s and quickly made a name for herself by not only
competing against but often defeating male competitors.
Her heyday lasted from the mid-1930s to the mid-1950s,
during which she held the NWA World Women's Championship
for nearly twenty years, showcasing her dominance
in the sport.
Achievements:
Burke is recognized for her strength, tenacity, and
for being a trailblazer for women in wrestling. She
was instrumental in introducing women's wrestling
to several countries, including the United States,
Canada, Cuba, Mexico, and parts of Asia like Japan,
where she helped lay the groundwork for what would
become a significant scene for women's wrestling.
Legacy:
Burke's legacy is honored in several Halls of Fame:
She
was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of
the Legacy Wing in 2016, recognizing her as one of
the first major female competitors in wrestling.
She's also a member of the Professional Wrestling
Hall of Fame and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter
Hall of Fame, underscoring her impact on the sport.
Personal
Life and Challenges: Burke's career was marked by
personal and professional challenges, particularly
her tumultuous relationship with Billy Wolfe, a promoter
who was also her husband. Their relationship was fraught
with issues, including Wolfe's infidelities and control
over the business aspects of wrestling, which led
to significant conflicts and legal battles over the
control of women's wrestling.
Film:
Her life story has been adapted into a biographical
sports drama film titled "Queen of the Ring,"
where actress Emily Bett Rickards portrays Burke.
This film aims to capture her struggle, success, and
the broader impact she had on women's wrestling. The
film has garnered attention for its portrayal of Burke's
life, with its premiere events listed in various film
festivals in October 2024.
Cultural
Impact: Beyond her in-ring achievements, Burke's efforts
helped to legitimize women's wrestling. Her story,
involving both her wrestling prowess and her fight
for the recognition of women in the sport, continues
to inspire new generations of female wrestlers.
Mildred
Burke's story is not just one of athletic achievement
but also of breaking barriers in a male-dominated
industry, making her a significant figure in both
sports and women's history. (Grok)
Queen
of the Ring via Grok
The
term "Queen of the Ring" relates to several
entities across different media:
WWE's
Queen of the Ring: This is a professional wrestling
tournament by WWE, where Nia Jax won the tournament
in 2024, as indicated by posts on X. This event was
part of WWE's broader push to highlight women's wrestling,
providing the winner with a match for the WWE Women's
Championship at SummerSlam.
Mildred
Burke Biopic: There's a biographical film titled "Queen
of the Ring" focusing on Mildred Burke, the first
million-dollar female athlete and a pioneer in women's
professional wrestling. This film has been shown at
various film festivals in 2024, with its world premiere
and subsequent screenings noted across the U.S.
South
Korean TV Series: "Queen of the Ring" also
refers to a South Korean drama series, part of the
"Three Color Fantasy" trilogy, which aired
in 2017. It's a romantic drama involving characters
in a fictional narrative around themes of appearance
and personal relationships.
News
MMA
UFC
311 Betting
UFC
311, scheduled for January 18, 2025, at the Intuit
Dome in Inglewood, California, features several high-profile
fights with notable betting odds. Here's a breakdown
of the betting information for the main events:
Main
Event: Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan Islam Makhachev
is listed as the favorite with odds around -235 to
-334, indicating a strong likelihood of retaining
his lightweight title.
Arman
Tsarukyan comes in as the underdog with odds ranging
from +200 to +250, suggesting a potential for an upset
but less likely according to the bookmakers.
Co-Main
Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
Umar
Nurmagomedov is the betting favorite at -220, reflecting
confidence in his undefeated record and grappling
prowess.
Merab
Dvalishvili is the underdog with +185 odds, despite
being the current champion, possibly due to Nurmagomedov's
impressive run and the anticipation around his title
challenge.
Other
Notable Fights:
Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill: The odds here are
close, with Hill at -103 and Prochazka at -117 or
vice versa, depending on the latest updates, indicating
a highly competitive match.
For
those interested in placing bets, these odds provide
a snapshot of how the betting markets view the chances
of each fighter. Remember, odds can shift as the fight
date approaches based on various factors including
fighter form, public betting trends, and any last-minute
news.
Please
note, betting on UFC fights involves risks, and these
odds should be used for informational purposes. Always
bet responsibly and within your means. If you're looking
to place bets, consider checking with reputable betting
sites for the most current odds. (Grok)
News/Profile
WWE
WrestleMania Vegas 2025
WWE
WrestleMania 41 is set to take place in Las Vegas
at Allegiant Stadium on April 19 and 20, 2025. This
will be the second time Las Vegas hosts WrestleMania,
with the first being WrestleMania IX in 1993 at Caesars
Palace. The event will span two nights, marking a
continued trend from the format established during
the 2020 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Event
Details: WrestleMania 41, also known as WrestleMania
Vegas, will feature matches from both Raw and SmackDown
brand divisions. The event will be broadcasted via
pay-per-view and livestreaming, with international
markets able to watch on Netflix following the WWE
Network's merger with the platform in January 2025.
This will be the first WrestleMania to occur during
Easter weekend.
Ticket
Information: Tickets for WrestleMania 41 went on sale
on October 25, 2024, with presales starting on October
23. There are also 2-day combo tickets available for
purchase.
Cultural
Impact: The event is expected to bring significant
economic benefits to Las Vegas, with more than 180,000
fans anticipated to attend, occupying over 144,000
room nights. Apart from the main event, WWE will also
host Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, the
WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, and WWE World, contributing
to a comprehensive fan experience.
Notable
Matches: There have been discussions about potential
matches, including a bout between John Cena and Logan
Paul for WrestleMania 41.
This
event signifies WWE's return to one of the world's
entertainment capitals, promising a grand spectacle
with a mix of sports and entertainment. (Grok)
Media
Man Int
Combat
Sports (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/combat_sports.html
Pop
Culture (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/pop_culture.html
Coming
Soon (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/coming_soon.html
Wrestling
News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_news.html
Wrestling
Watercooler (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_watercooler.html
AEW
News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/aew_news.html
Sports
News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/articles2.html
Social
Media News
X
Wins Media Man 'Social Media Platform Of The Year'
award; Runner-up: YouTube
Grok
wins Media Man 'AI Of The Year' award
December
28, 2024
News
Elon
Musk's X Actions Stir Free Speech Debate
Prominent
conservative accounts on X, including Laura Loomer's,
have recently lost their verification badges and faced
other account restrictions after critiquing Elon Musk's
views on immigration. Musk has indicated that the
platform's algorithm reduces the reach of accounts
that are frequently muted or blocked by credible users.
This incident has led to allegations of censorship
among right-wing influencers, while Musk himself has
addressed these changes in policy. The actions have
reignited discussions about the balance between free
speech and content moderation on X. (Credit: Grok)
Grok
Profile via Grok!
"Grok"
is a term coined by Robert A. Heinlein in his 1961
science fiction novel "Stranger in a Strange
Land." It means to understand something deeply
and intuitively, often with an empathetic or profound
connection to the subject. The word has transcended
its original context to become part of the vernacular,
especially within communities like computer science,
where it signifies a comprehensive and intuitive grasp
of concepts or systems.
The
term also refers to an AI chatbot developed by xAI,
named Grok, which aims to provide answers with a humorous
and truthful perspective, modeled after the "Hitchhiker’s
Guide to the Galaxy." This AI chatbot is designed
to engage in natural conversation, provide witty responses,
and even tackle "spicy" questions that other
AI might shy away from. It has real-time access to
the world via the X platform (formerly Twitter), which
gives it an edge in providing current information.
In
summary, "grok" can refer to:
A
verb meaning to understand something profoundly and
intuitively.
The
name of an AI chatbot with unique capabilities in
humor and real-time information processing. (Grok)
Grok
News via Grok!
Here's
a summary of the latest news related to Grok:
Grok-2
Release: xAI has released Grok-2, a new version of
its AI chatbot, which is now available for free to
all users on X. This model is three times faster,
offers improved accuracy in following instructions,
and has enhanced multilingual capabilities. It also
includes features like web search for real-time information
and citation capabilities for fact-checking.
Image
Generation: xAI introduced an image generation model,
initially code-named Aurora, which is now part of
the Grok chatbot's capabilities. This feature allows
for photorealistic image creation and is available
to users on X, with plans to expand access.
Mobile
App and Standalone Web App: Grok has expanded its
reach with a standalone iOS app and now a web app
in Australia, broadening its accessibility beyond
the X platform. These apps include features like PDF
analysis, image generation, and real-time X post searches.
Funding
and Future Developments: Elon Musk's xAI has secured
a significant funding round, increasing its valuation
and focus on developing new consumer and enterprise
products, including plans for Grok 3. This funding
will support further advancements in AI technology
and the expansion of Grok's capabilities.
Controversy
and Public Perception: Grok has faced scrutiny for
potential misinformation, especially in political
contexts. Despite this, there's a growing positive
sentiment among users who appreciate its straightforwardness
and utility in searches, particularly for political
or controversial topics.
User
Accessibility: Previously exclusive to premium subscribers,
Grok is now accessible to all X users with some limitations
on usage for free-tier accounts, such as a cap on
the number of prompts and image generations per session.
(Grok)
xAI
via Grok
xAI
is an artificial intelligence company founded by Elon
Musk with the goal of "understanding the true
nature of the universe." The company was established
in March 2023 and is headquartered in the San Francisco
Bay Area. xAI focuses on developing AI to accelerate
human scientific discovery, aiming to create a maximally
helpful AI, exemplified by their product, Grok, which
is designed to provide truthful and helpful answers.
xAI
has raised significant funding, with a Series C funding
round bringing its valuation to over $40 billion by
December 2024, after raising $6 billion. This funding
is being used to enhance its AI models, including
the development of Grok 2 and the construction of
a massive supercomputer named "Colossus"
in Memphis, Tennessee.
The
company's approach includes leveraging real-time data
from Musk's other ventures like X (formerly Twitter)
and Tesla, suggesting a synergy that could potentially
give xAI an edge in the AI race. xAI also released
an API for its AI models, allowing developers to integrate
its technology into various applications.
The
mission and operations of xAI have been met with a
mix of excitement and skepticism, with some viewing
it as a significant player in advancing AI, while
others are concerned about the implications of Musk's
influence over AI development, especially considering
his past with OpenAI and his views on AI safety and
regulation. (Grok)
Media
Man: Groking impressive stuff Team Musk.
Media
Man Int
X
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/x_news.html
Social
Media
https://www.mediamanint.com/social_media.html
Grok
News
https://www.mediamanint.com/grok_news.html
Media
Man Social Blog
https://mediamansocialmedia.blogspot.com/
Media
Man Platform Blog
https://mediamanplatform.blogspot.com/
Movie
Box Office (North America)
December
22, 2024
1.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - $62m
2.
Mufasa: The Lion King - $35m
3.
Wicked - $13.5m
4.
Moana 2 - $13.1m
5.
Homestead - $6m
6.
Gladiator II - $3.5m
7.
Kraven the Hunter - $3.1m
8.
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim - $1.3m
9.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - $825,000
10.
Queer - $364,000
Movie
Box Office (North America)
November
24, 2024
1.
Wicked - $114m
2.
Gladiator II - $55.5m
3.
Red One - $13. 3m
4.
Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. - $5.1m
5.
Venom: The Last Dance - $4m
6.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - $3.5m
7.
Heretic - $2.2m
8.
The Wild Robot - $2m
9.
Smile 2 - $1.1m
10.
A Real Pain - $1.1m
Movies/Showbiz
Box
Office Buzz Under The Media Man Watercooler
Just
In Case You Missed It!
Gonzo
Showbiz News With Number Guestimates!
November
23, 2024
Wicked
And Gladiator: Glicked
‘Wicked’
Nears $117M Opening
‘Gladiator
II’ Fights for $60M
Barbenheimer
shades whispers Hollywooder insiders and deep throat
Red
One Gets (with GQ) interview feature balances the
PR for Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson at WWE prepares for
the electrifying cross-over star; Amazon Prime can
take mixed DJ releases; WWE wants the best version
of 'The Final Boss' in the TKO Group universe! Wrestling
Fans Looking Out For DJ at WWE Survivor Series, Royal
Rumble, SmackDown, RAW On Netflix in Jan, lead up
to WrestleMania Season. DJ business with The Bloodline
on the cards; Amazon Prime Will Wrestle With Numbers
And Movie Critics!: Media Man
WWE
Legend John Cena Notices DJ's Success and Mixed Reviews'
Cena To Return To Streaming - Peacemaker again! Cena
to retire from WWE in 2025
Barbenheimer
- Universal’s musical Wicked and Paramount’s
Gladiator II ... Glicked, Wikiator or whatever the
hell you want — is joyful weekend at the pre-Thanksgiving
box office for fans and showbiz bean counters alike,
young and old! The industry needed some great news
and this is it folks. Santa came early this year?!
Wicked
is headed for a US Box Office debut of approx $117
million. Broadway musical based production heading
for history books
Wicked
aiming for global $165 million hit/launch
Disney
Animation’s Moana 2 opens November 27
Huge
5 Day Thanksgiving Holiday Numbers
Wicked
investment circa $150 million plus marketing budget!
Movie
Industry And Fans Celebrating
Solid
Numbers To Be Released In Approx 24 Hours
Developing
Story as per Internet news 24/7 News Cycle
Jake
Paul vs. Mike Tyson | Official Trailer | Netflix
Jake
“El Gallo” Paul faces Mike Tyson, the Baddest
Man on the Planet, in the highly-anticipated fight
the world’s been waiting for. Live on Netflix.
Friday, November 15th at 8pm ET | 5pm PT.
Jake
Paul vs. Mike Tyson Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano
Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson
Nunes
Watch
on Netflix: https://netflix.com/title/81764952
About
Netflix: Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment
services, with 278 million paid memberships in over
190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games
across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members
can play, pause and resume watching as much as they
want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans
at any time.
Jake
Paul vs. Mike Tyson | Official Trailer | Netflix
Jake
Paul battles Mike Tyson as they headline this must-see
boxing mega-event streaming live in five languages
from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Credit:
Netflix)
BAD
BOYS COLLIDE IN TEXAS on NOVEMBER 15, 2024
Jake
Paul vs. Mike Tyson Is Officially One Month Away
https://netflix.com/tudum/articles/jake-paul-vs-mike-tyson-live-release-date-news
It’s
all happening: For the first time ever, Netflix and
Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) are teaming up for
a boxing mega-event headlined by Jake “El Gallo
de Dorado” Paul versus The Baddest Man on the
Planet, Mike Tyson. The event will stream live on
Netflix from the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas,
on Nov. 15. A rematch between undisputed super lightweight
champion Katie Taylor (23-1, 6 KOs) and unified featherweight
champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano
(47-2-1, 31 KOs) is also rescheduled for the same
day in the co-main event. Explore more on the main,
co-main, and undercards below; win tickets to the
fight here; and be sure to tune in on Netflix on Nov.
15 at 8:00 p.m./5:00 p.m. ET to watch. (Credit: Netflix)
Media
Man: Pumped. KO excitement and action. What the world
is talking about and will continue to for quite some
time. All power to both fighters. The fans win!
Gaming,
Casino and Culture News
November
13, 2024
Films
of Sphere concerts part of company’s future revenue
strategy
Nevada
(Las Vegas)
After
just over a year of operations, Sphere Entertainment
Inc. is starting to figure out how to program the
massive Las Vegas entertainment venue to stem slumping
earnings. What that means for the Sphere’s future
is more performances each day to maximize the building’s
use, Executive Chairman and CEO James Dolan told investors.
The company reported an operating loss of $125.1 million
on revenue of $127.1 million for the quarter that
ended Sept. 30.
News
Las
Vegas Strip hotel-casino lays off top-level employees
A
luxury Strip resort has parted ways with several long-time
and high-level employees, according to multiple sources.
The Venetian and Palazzo casinos laid off an unknown
number of employees this month, some of whom had worked
at the Strip resort for over a decade. Among those
known to be affected by the layoffs are executives
and senior-level employees in multiple departments,
including hotel operations, marketing, celebrations/banquets,
group meetings and casino hosts. An internal memo
obtained by the Review-Journal confirms the staff
reductions.
News
Virgin
Hotels Las Vegas responds to Culinary Union’s
threat to strike before F1 race
An
off-Strip hotel-casino is preparing for a strike deadline
that could threaten its staffing before the Formula
One Las Vegas Grand Prix next week. In a Tuesday statement,
Virgin Hotels management said they were aware of the
strike deadline and were “fully committed to
finding a fair resolution” during negotiations
that are expected to take place on Thursday. But the
management alleged union negotiators have not put
the property’s proposals to a vote or responded
to other proposals.
News
Bahamas:
Vici Properties in negotiations to buy Atlantis Paradise
Island resort
The
multi-billion dollar owner of iconic Las Vegas mega
resorts such as Caesars Palace, MGM Grand and the
Venetian is exploring a deal for Paradise Island’s
Atlantis resort. Tribune Business can reveal that
VICI Properties, a New York headquartered real estate
investment trust (REIT) that owns 93 resort, gaming
and hospitality assets spread across the US and Canada,
is in talks with Atlantis’ current owner, Brookfield
Asset Management, although the two parties have yet
to reach agreement on a sale or how the potential
deal may look.
News
Texas
Lottery’s move could ignite tribal gambling expansion
The
Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas informed the Texas
Senate that if it didn’t rein in the online sales
of Texas Lottery tickets, the tribe would pursue full-blown
casino gambling in the state. Though the tribe omitted
it from their correspondence, recent legal developments
might mean these casinos won’t be housed on reservations;
they might pockmark the entire state.
News
Federal
hearing held over Arkansas amendment that revoked
casino license
A
federal judge heard arguments Tuesday about whether
Arkansas’ Issue 2 should be put on hold. Cherokee
Nation Entertainment filed a lawsuit against the State
of Arkansas after voters approved a ballot measure
that stopped the group’s planned casino. Cherokee
Nation had planned to build a casino near Russellville
in Pope County and had been granted a license.
News
New
York: Turning Stone casino starts new phase of $370
million expansion
The
latest phase of a $370 million expansion at the Turning
Stone Resort Casino — the largest since it opened
in 1993 — is now underway. Some 73 tons of steel
arrived at the Oneida Indian Nation-owned casino in
recent days. The nation and its business arm, Turning
Stone Enterprises, also announced this week they have
signed contracts with 26 different contractors, all
based in Upstate New York, to handle mechanical, electrical,
plumbing and other work on the project. The plan is
to make Turning Stone the largest resort convention
destination in the state.
News
via Grok
Casino
News
Here
are some recent highlights from the world of casino
and gambling news:
Las
Vegas Layoffs: A major resort on the Las Vegas Strip
has reportedly laid off several high-level employees,
indicating potential shifts or financial recalibrations
within the company.
Encore
Las Vegas: The construction of the new 48-story Encore
Las Vegas tower is progressing, with an expected opening
late next year. It will feature over 2,000 rooms and
a significant casino space, alongside a Frank Sinatra-themed
restaurant.
Sweepstakes
Casinos: There's growing discussion around sweepstakes
casinos, their regulatory blind spots, and how they
might be affecting the traditional gambling industry.
This topic was highlighted in a discussion by Howard
Glaser from Light & Wonder.
Bally's
Chicago: Bally's casino in Chicago is experiencing
some challenges, with admissions dropping by 13% from
the previous month, suggesting that the operation
might not be meeting expectations or that there could
be strategic missteps.
Casino's
Rescue Plan: In France, Casino, a major retailer,
has reached an agreement with its employees and new
management on a rescue plan that includes a social
component, which had been lacking in previous proposals.
Casino
Jackpot: A fortunate gambler on the Las Vegas Strip
turned a modest $50 bet into over $1,000,000, showcasing
the allure and potential of casino gaming.
These
snippets provide a glimpse into the current dynamics
of the casino industry, reflecting both the excitement
of big wins and the strategic maneuvers of major players
in the sector. (Grok)
News
Casinos
via Grok
Casinos
are establishments primarily designed for gambling,
offering various games of chance for patrons to wager
money. Here's an overview based on the latest information:
Overview
of Casinos:
Origin
and Etymology: The term "casino" comes from
Italian, originally meaning a small country villa
or summerhouse. Over time, it evolved to refer to
places where gambling activities were the main attraction.
Location
and Integration: Casinos are often integrated with
hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other entertainment
venues to provide a comprehensive experience. They
can be found worldwide but are particularly famous
in places like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Macau.
Types
of Games: Common casino games include: Table Games:
Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, and various
forms of poker.
Slot Machines: These range from traditional mechanical
reels to modern video slots with sophisticated themes
and bonus features.
Electronic Games: Video poker, keno, and electronic
table games.
Specialty Games: Like bingo, which might be offered
in certain jurisdictions.
Online
Casinos: With the advent of the internet, online casinos
have become increasingly popular, providing a digital
platform for many of the same games found in physical
casinos.
Recent
Updates on Casinos:
Regulatory
Changes: There have been updates in casino regulations,
especially concerning online gambling. For instance,
some states in the U.S. have recently moved towards
legalization or expansion of online casino gaming.
Technological
Advancements:
Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Some casinos now accept
cryptocurrencies, and there are decentralized casino
platforms emerging, like those mentioned on platforms
like X, where users can stake tokens to "become
the house."
Live Dealer Games: Online platforms have introduced
live dealer games, providing a more authentic casino
experience through live video feeds.
Economic
Impact: Casinos continue to be significant contributors
to local economies, with Nevada reporting a notable
increase in gambling revenue for September 2024 compared
to the previous year.
Entertainment
and Non-Gambling Activities: Casinos are increasingly
focusing on becoming entertainment hubs, offering
concerts, comedy shows, sports betting, and other
attractions to diversify their appeal.
Fees
and Costs: There have been mentions of increases in
resort fees and parking fees at some casino resorts,
which might affect visitor experience and costs.
Cultural
and Social Aspects:
Gambling
Addiction: Casinos and gambling activities come with
the risk of addiction. Many establishments promote
responsible gambling but also receive criticism for
potentially encouraging addictive behaviors.
Entertainment
Value: Beyond gambling, casinos offer a unique blend
of luxury, excitement, and entertainment, making them
popular tourist destinations.
When
considering visiting or engaging with casinos, whether
in-person or online, it's important for individuals
to understand the rules, the odds of games, and to
gamble responsibly. The information available on platforms
like X or websites like Casinos.com can provide insights
into the latest trends, games, and regulatory changes
in the casino industry. (Grok)
News
via Grok
Las
Vegas Strip
The
Las Vegas Strip, often simply referred to as "The
Strip," is a 4.2-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard
South in Clark County, Nevada, just outside the city
limits of Las Vegas. Here's an overview:
Attractions:
It's famous for its concentration of resort hotels,
high-end casinos, and entertainment venues. The architecture
along the Strip is eclectic, with themes ranging from
ancient Egypt (Luxor), medieval times (Excalibur),
to replicas of famous cities like New York (New York-New
York) or Paris (Paris Las Vegas).
Notable shows include Cirque du Soleil productions,
magic shows by famous magicians like David Copperfield,
and residencies by top musicians. Free attractions
include the Bellagio Fountains, the Mirage Volcano,
and the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas"
sign.
Accommodations
and Casinos: The Strip hosts some of the world's largest
hotels by room count, like the MGM Grand, The Venetian,
and Caesars Palace. These mega-resorts offer not only
gambling but also luxury shopping, fine dining, and
entertainment facilities.
Recent developments include new resorts like the LVXP
project, which proposes to add an NBA-ready arena,
and there's been talk about expanding with unique
attractions like an adults-only mini golf course at
Mandalay Bay.
Transportation:
The Deuce, a double-decker bus, and the Las Vegas
Monorail are popular ways for tourists to travel along
the Strip. However, walking is a common way to experience
the sights and lights, especially at night when the
area truly comes alive.
Events
and Conventions: The area is known for hosting major
events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), SEMA
Show, and various sporting events, including the recent
addition of Formula 1 races which have construction
impacts on the Strip's landscape.
Shopping
and Dining: Shopping ranges from high-end malls like
The Shops at Crystals to themed shopping experiences
within resorts. Dining options are vast, from celebrity
chef restaurants to 24/7 buffets.
Nightlife:
The nightlife is legendary, with clubs like XS and
Omnia, which are among the most renowned in the world,
offering top-tier DJ performances.
Current
Developments: There are continuous updates and construction
projects, like the planned LVXP resort, which could
significantly change the skyline and entertainment
options on the North Strip.
The Sphere at The Venetian has become a new landmark,
known for its massive LED screen exterior and immersive
entertainment experiences inside.
If
you're planning a visit or just interested in what's
happening, the Las Vegas Strip remains an ever-evolving
spectacle of entertainment, where the latest in hospitality,
gaming, and show business is always on display. Remember,
with ongoing construction and new projects, the Strip's
landscape might look different with each visit. (Grok)
News
Las
Vegas Grand Prix via Grok
The
Las Vegas Grand Prix is a significant event in the
Formula One racing calendar, taking place on the iconic
Las Vegas Strip. Here are some key points about the
event:
Background:
After a long hiatus since the early 1980s, Formula
One returned to Las Vegas with a new street circuit
in 2023. The event marked the first Formula One race
in Las Vegas since the 1982 Caesars Palace Grand Prix.
Circuit:
The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is 6.2 kilometers long
with 17 corners. It features a mix of straights, including
a 1.9 km straight down the Strip, and tight sections
around notable Las Vegas landmarks like the Bellagio,
the Venetian, and Caesars Palace.
Race
Dates: For 2024, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled
from November 21st to 23rd.
Format:
Unlike some other races in the U.S. calendar (like
Austin and Miami), the Las Vegas Grand Prix does not
feature a sprint race. Organizers have expressed contentment
with this format, citing the event's unique entertainment
offerings.
Ticketing
and Experience: The event offers various ticket types
ranging from general admission to exclusive hospitality
packages. These include access to entertainment zones,
fan activations, and luxury viewing options like Skyboxes
or the Paddock Club.
Economic
and Cultural Impact: This race not only promises high-speed
action but also integrates the entertainment capital's
allure with dining, nightlife, and celebrity events.
It's expected to bring significant economic activity
to the area, with various hospitality and entertainment
venues involved.
Safety
and Traffic: Local authorities, like LVMPD and Clark
County, have been involved in discussions regarding
safety and traffic management due to expected large
crowds and road closures.
Public
Sentiment: On platforms like X, there's a mix of excitement
for the event's spectacle and logistical concerns
about traffic and road closures.
The
Las Vegas Grand Prix aims to blend the thrill of Formula
One with the non-stop entertainment of Vegas, making
it a unique entry in the F1 calendar. (Grok)
News
WrestleMania
41 Las Vegas
WrestleMania
41 is scheduled to take place in Las Vegas at Allegiant
Stadium on April 19th and 20th, 2025. This event marks
the return of WrestleMania to Las Vegas for the first
time since WrestleMania IX in 1993, which was held
at Caesars Palace.
Venue:
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Dates:
Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, 2025.
Significance: This WrestleMania will be historic as
it will be the first to be livestreamed on Netflix
internationally, following the merger of WWE Network
with Netflix. It's also notable for being held during
Easter weekend, which is a typically slower period
for Las Vegas, potentially attracting a massive influx
of visitors.
The
event promises to be an economic boon for Las Vegas,
with expectations of over 180,000 fans contributing
significantly to the local economy through tourism.
Apart from the main event, WWE will also bring other
shows like Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver,
and the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony to the city, enhancing
its wrestling festivities.
Tickets
for WrestleMania 41 went on sale on October 25, 2024,
and there are also various travel packages available,
including VIP options for fans wanting an exclusive
experience.
The
anticipation for this event is high, as reflected
in posts on X, where fans and travel companies are
promoting special packages for the occasion. (Grok)
News
AEW
Double Or Nothing
AEW
Double or Nothing is an annual professional wrestling
pay-per-view (PPV) event produced by All Elite Wrestling
(AEW). Here are some key points about the event:
Inaugural
Event: The first Double or Nothing took place in 2019
at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, marking
AEW's first-ever event and PPV.
Theme:
The name "Double or Nothing" references
a gambling theme, fitting with the event's traditional
Las Vegas setting.
Significance:
It's considered one of AEW's "Big Four"
PPVs, alongside All Out, Full Gear, and Revolution,
highlighting its importance within the company's annual
calendar.
Recent
Developments: 2024 Event: Held on May 26, 2024, at
the MGM Grand Garden Arena, celebrating AEW's five-year
anniversary. Key matches included:
Swerve Strickland vs. Christian Cage for the AEW World
Championship.
An Anarchy in the Arena match where The Elite defeated
Team AEW.
Mercedes Moné won the AEW TBS Championship
from Willow Nightingale.
Match Styles: Over the years, Double or Nothing has
featured unique matches like the Stadium Stampede
and Anarchy in the Arena.
Location:
While traditionally held in Las Vegas, due to the
COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 and 2021 events were held
at Daily's Place in Jacksonville, Florida.
Cultural
Impact: The event has helped establish AEW as a legitimate
competitor in the wrestling industry, showcasing high-stakes
matches and attracting both wrestling fans and those
interested in the event's broader entertainment value.
For
fans or anyone interested in the latest in AEW, keeping
up with AEW's official channels or wrestling news
outlets would provide the most current information
on upcoming matches, results, and any changes to the
event format or location. (Grok)
News
US
Betting via Grok
The
landscape of US betting has evolved significantly
in recent years, particularly following the Supreme
Court's decision in Murphy v. NCAA in 2018, which
struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection
Act (PASPA). Here are some key points about the current
state of betting in the United States:
Legal
Status: Sports betting is now legal in many states
across the US, with each state regulating it differently.
This legalization has led to a boom in both physical
and online sportsbooks.
Online
Sportsbooks: BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars
Sportsbook are among the most prominent names in the
online betting market. They offer betting on a wide
range of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and
more. These platforms provide various promotions,
live betting options, and sometimes even live streaming
of events.
Mobile
Betting: Most states with legal sports betting have
embraced mobile betting apps, which allow users to
place bets from anywhere within state lines where
betting is legal.
Election
Betting: There's been a notable trend in betting on
political outcomes, like the U.S. presidential election.
Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have gained attention
for allowing bets on these events, though the legality
and ethics of such markets are frequently debated.
Regulation:
Each state has its own regulatory body overseeing
sports betting, ensuring compliance with laws, managing
licensing, and protecting consumers. For instance,
in Nevada, the Nevada Gaming Control Board is responsible,
while other states have different commissions or boards.
Public
Interest and Participation: The legalization has led
to increased public interest, with betting becoming
more mainstream. States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
and New York have seen substantial betting volumes.
Economic
Impact: Betting has contributed significantly to state
revenues through taxes. For example, a post from X
indicated that Colorado passed a proposition to direct
sports betting tax revenue towards water projects.
Innovation
in Betting: There's a trend towards more interactive
and engaging betting experiences, like live betting
where odds change in real-time as the event progresses,
and prop bets on individual player performances or
specific game events.
Ethical
Considerations and Challenges: Despite the growth,
issues like gambling addiction, market manipulation,
and the need for responsible gambling practices remain
significant concerns. States have implemented measures
like self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and
educational campaigns to address these.
Future
Trends: The industry is expected to continue growing
with potential expansion into more states. There's
also interest in expanding into less traditional betting
like esports, and there might be further integration
of technology for personalized betting experiences.
Remember,
while betting can be fun, it's important to engage
in it responsibly. Always set limits, and consider
the legal age and location requirements for betting
in the US. If you or someone you know is struggling
with gambling addiction, resources like the National
Council on Problem Gambling or state-specific help
lines can provide assistance. (Grok)
Movie
And Pop Culture Buzz Under The Media Man Watercooler
November
4, 2024
Venom:
The Last Dance holds onto number one position globally
with average competition. An extra $26m over the weekend.
Now global takings exceed $317m
Smile
2 cracks over $100m globally
The
Wild Robot - $269m globally Conclave. Number 4 position
in U.S - $5.3 extra over weekend
TV/Streaming
Cross Overs:
Junior
2 starring Clint Eastwood gets $5m at theaters. Now
heading to Max streaming platform in approx 1 - 2
months
Making
Of Gladiator 2 hits CBS on November 18
Movie/Wrestling
Connection: John Cena is retiring from the WWE next
year. Tipped to be a WrestleMania send off. Less wrestling
for Mr Cena likely means more movies and streaming
entertainment! Seen more in showbiz circles
MJF,
Maxwell Jacob Friedman of the All Elite Wrestling
challenger brand tipped to appear in more movies and
TV shows!
Chris
Jericho of AEW is in Terrifier 3 if you didn't already
know. More Intel via Web Is Jericho and the Pod Is
Jericho podcast.
Many
WWE fans are keen to see Jericho return to the world's
leading pro wrestling promotion
.
Vince McMahon has started his own "entertainment
hub" company based out of California. Some time
McMahon employee and associate, Eric Bischoff offers
his candid and somewhat informed thoughts via the
83 Weeks podcast.
WWE
NXT's Lexis King is being pitched as "The King
Of TV". This may be a good omen for King in the
future says the King Makers!
Movie
Box Office (North America)
October
13, 2024
1.
Terrifier 3 - $18.3m
2.
The Wild Robot - $13.5m
3.
Joker: Folie à Deux - $7.1m
4.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $7.1m
5.
Piece By Piece - $3.8m
6.
Transformers One - $3.7m
7.
Saturday Night - $3.4m
8.
My Hero Academia - $3m
9.
The Nightmare Before Christmas - $2.3m
10.
The Apprentice - $1.6m
Combat
Sports News
X
And Grok Takes Fans And Sports Media Across The Globe:
Media Man
MMA
Fighter's Head Kick in Boxing Match
During
a recent boxing match, an MMA fighter, facing defeat
in his boxing debut, controversially knocked out his
opponent with an illegal head kick, leading to his
disqualification. This event drew widespread attention
and humorously reminded fans of the much-anticipated
but differently executed fight between Conor McGregor
and Floyd Mayweather. Many fans expressed a wishful
scenario where McGregor would have used similar unorthodox
tactics against Mayweather, highlighting the contrast
between the restrictive rules of boxing and the more
varied striking techniques allowed in MMA. The incident
sparked a humorous yet reflective discussion on the
constraints of boxing rules and the crossover expectations
from MMA fighters entering the boxing ring. (Grok)
News
McGregor-Mayweather
Fight Speculation
During
a boxing match, MMA fighter Idris Abdurashitov was
disqualified for knocking out his opponent, Bagher
Faraji, with an illegal head kick. This incident has
led to widespread discussion among fans and commentators,
many of whom humorously wished for a similar scenario
during the boxing match between Conor McGregor and
Floyd Mayweather. The general sentiment reflects a
mix of amusement and frustration over the strict rules
of boxing compared to the more varied techniques allowed
in MMA, highlighting the different expectations and
strategies between the two sports. (Grok)
News
Trump's
Wrestling Talk with The Undertaker
Based
on the latest information available up to October
21, 2024, Donald Trump has engaged in several activities
involving the wrestling world:
Podcast
Appearance: Donald Trump appeared on The Undertaker's
podcast, "Six Feet Under with Mark Calaway."
During this appearance, Trump discussed various topics,
including his history with wrestling, asking about
the current scene in WWE, and the mechanics of wrestling
like the hardness of the ring. They also delved into
more political discussions, reflecting on what's at
stake in the upcoming presidential election.
Endorsement
Video: Trump shared a video on TikTok where he was
endorsed by Mark Calaway (The Undertaker) and Glenn
Jacobs (Kane). This was an unusual endorsement where
they also took the opportunity to mock the Democratic
ticket, showing unflattering pictures of Kamala Harris,
Dave Bautista, and Tim Walz, as part of their promotional
tactic for the election, likening it to a wrestling
event with "ElectionMania."
Wrestling
Insights: Trump has shown curiosity about the wrestling
business, asking The Undertaker questions that are
common among those outside the industry, like the
reality of wrestling moves, the hardness of the ring,
and how wrestlers handle real-life conflicts in the
ring. This conversation provided insights into Trump's
long-standing relationship with WWE, including his
involvement in past WrestleManias.
Political
and Wrestling Crossover: Trump's interaction with
wrestling personalities isn't just for entertainment;
it's also a part of his campaign strategy, targeting
demographics that follow wrestling. This includes
discussing wrestling stars like Cody Rhodes and Gunther,
indicating his attempt to stay connected with pop
culture and sports entertainment to appeal to voters.
From
posts on X and other sources, there hasn't been a
new, significant event or statement directly labeled
as "Trump's Wrestling Talk with The Undertaker"
beyond what's been described, but Trump's engagement
with wrestling personalities and platforms continues
to be part of his public persona and political strategy.
(Grok)
News
The
Rock's Reach Out to Trump Post-Assassination Attempt
Donald
Trump appeared as a guest on The Undertaker's podcast,
'Six Feet Under,' where the discussion unexpectedly
turned into Trump interviewing The Undertaker about
wrestling rather than focusing on politics. During
the podcast, Trump disclosed that Dwayne 'The Rock'
Johnson had contacted him through Dana White following
an assassination attempt on Trump, expressing concern
for his safety. Trump expressed surprise at this gesture,
having previously believed The Rock did not like him.
The Undertaker commented on how Trump has made politics
entertaining, comparing it to the spectacle of wrestling
where fans sometimes confuse the performance with
reality. Trump also boasted about the large crowds
at his political events, likening them to wrestling
audiences. (Grok)
News
UFC
308 Fight Week Anticipation
Here's
what's buzzing around UFC 308 as of the latest posts
and information available up to October 21, 2024:
Fight
Card and Main Events: UFC 308 is headlined by a UFC
Featherweight Championship bout where the current
champion Ilia Topuria will defend his title against
former champion Max Holloway. Another highlight is
the middleweight bout between Robert Whittaker and
Khamzat Chimaev.
Location
and Date: The event is set to occur on October 26,
2024, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates.
Fight
Week Kickoff: UFC 308 Fight Week has officially started,
with various fan and media activities planned throughout
the week, including fan zones, athlete meet and greets
at Yas Mall and Yas Bay, and the UFC 308 Press Conference.
Broadcast
Details: The event will be available live on PPV,
with the main card starting at 2 PM ET in the U.S.
For viewers in the UK, it's set to be broadcast live
on TNT Sports Box Office.
Fighter
Updates and Speculations: There was some buzz about
Max Holloway's weight cut, with observations suggesting
he has a significant cut, potentially impacting his
performance, though stylistically, the fight with
Topuria is expected to be close.
A false claim circulated about Lerone Murphy being
out and replaced by Jean Silva against Dan Ige, but
this was debunked by Dan Ige himself.
Betting odds and potential upsets are a hot topic,
with some fans and analysts pointing out that there
might be some underdogs worth watching, like Holloway
and Whittaker, who are not favored by the odds.
Community
and Expert Analysis: Discussions are rife about the
potential outcomes, with some analysts and former
fighters like Megan Anderson offering breakdowns of
the main and co-main events. There's also a bit of
skepticism and strategic analysis on how the fights
might go, with emphasis on the stylistic matchups
and the physical condition of fighters like Holloway.
Public
Sentiment: There's considerable excitement about the
card being stacked, with fans eagerly anticipating
knockouts and high-action fights, especially given
the heavy hitters scheduled for the event.
Remember,
while X posts provide real-time reactions and some
insights, they're not always accurate or comprehensive
sources for event details or outcomes. However, they
do capture the community's pulse leading up to UFC
308. (Grok)
News
Anticipation
for Bron Breakker vs Jacob Fatu
During
WWE Raw, fans witnessed several key events including
Bron Breakker defeating Jey Uso to become the new
Intercontinental Champion, amidst excitement over
a potential future match between Bron Breakker and
Jacob Fatu. This match-up has generated significant
anticipation among fans, who describe it as a highly
anticipated, potentially explosive encounter. Additionally,
Seth Rollins was involved in a notable confrontation
with Bronson Reed. The episode also featured moments
involving The New Day and the LWO, contributing to
the night's dynamic action and storyline developments.
(Grok)
News
Wyatt
Sicks vs. Final Testament
Based
on recent events in WWE as of October 21, 2024:
The
Wyatt Sicks made a notable return on WWE Raw, where
they targeted The Final Testament. This happened during
a match involving The New Day and the Authors of Pain
(AOP), where R-Truth's interference led to a chaotic
scene. After The New Day won, The Wyatt Sicks appeared,
leading to a brawl with The Final Testament, showcasing
a new feud or at least a significant confrontation.
Bo
Dallas, portraying Uncle Howdy, applied the Mandible
Claw on Paul Ellering, The Final Testament's manager,
indicating a direct attack on the leadership or symbolic
figure of the opposing faction.
The
Wyatt Sicks have been described as having been off
television for a few weeks prior to this event but
have been keeping the storyline alive through teasers.
Their return marks a continuation or possibly an escalation
of their storyline involving The Final Testament.
There's
also an indication of ongoing tensions and brawls
involving other WWE superstars like Seth Rollins and
Bronson Reed, suggesting a highly volatile environment
on Raw, within which this feud is unfolding.
From
posts on X, although not directly quoted or referenced
in detail here:
The
Wyatt Sicks have used the platform to send cryptic
and menacing messages, hinting at themes of deception,
pride, and upcoming confrontations, aligning with
their eerie and psychological warfare style of storytelling
in WWE.
This
return and attack signify that The Wyatt Sicks are
not only back in the physical sense on WWE programming
but are also actively engaging in psychological warfare
both in the ring and through social media, setting
the stage for what could be an intense rivalry with
The Final Testament. (Grok)
News
Rollins
vs Reed Set for WWE Crown Jewel
Seth
Rollins and Bronson Reed are set to compete against
each other at WWE Crown Jewel, following a series
of aggressive confrontations on WWE Raw. The feud
intensified with Rollins attacking Reed both backstage
and during live events, leading to a notable brawl.
WWE official Adam Pearce officially announced their
match for the upcoming Crown Jewel event, escalating
the anticipation for their showdown. (Grok)
News
Rhea
Ripley's Dominance at WWE Raw
During
a recent WWE Raw event, Rhea Ripley was a central
figure, engaging in a match where she single-handedly
faced three opponents, showcasing her dominance. This
event highlighted her ongoing feud with Raquel Rodriguez
and Liv Morgan, with many fans expressing fatigue
over the storyline's continuation. While Rhea Ripley's
performances were widely praised for their intensity
and skill, there was a mixed reception towards Raquel
Rodriguez's involvement. Some fans felt her portrayal
lacked impact and questioned her effectiveness in
the storyline. The episode also featured moments like
Rhea Ripley costing Liv Morgan a match, further escalating
their rivalry. Overall, the event demonstrated strong
performances from Rhea Ripley but also sparked discussions
about the direction and development of her feud with
Raquel Rodriguez. (Grok)
News/Profile
WWE
NXT
As
of my last update, WWE NXT has continued to evolve,
serving as WWE's developmental territory while also
establishing itself as a unique brand with its own
fanbase. Here's a brief overview and some recent developments
based on general knowledge up to October 2024:
Rebranding
and Focus: After transitioning from the "NXT
2.0" era, which saw a vibrant rebranding in color
schemes and a focus on developing new talents, NXT
has somewhat returned to its roots while keeping the
developmental aspect strong. The brand balances between
showcasing up-and-coming wrestlers and occasionally
featuring established stars.
Broadcast:
NXT airs live on The CW as of 2024, having moved from
USA Network. This move was part of WWE's strategy
to potentially reach a broader audience on network
television.
Talent
Development: NXT remains crucial for WWE's strategy
of grooming future main roster superstars. It's where
talents refine their characters, in-ring skills, and
promos before potentially moving to Raw or SmackDown.
Events:
NXT continues to produce special events like NXT TakeOver,
although the frequency and branding might have adjusted.
These events are significant for storylines culminating
in high-stakes matches.
Championships:
The NXT Championship, NXT Women's Championship, and
NXT North American Championship are still pivotal,
with the latter often being seen as a workhorse title.
There might also be developments in tag team and possibly
cruiserweight divisions if they continue or have been
revived.
Cross-promotion:
There's often interaction with main roster talents,
either through crossovers, talent exchanges, or NXT
stars being called up during events like the Royal
Rumble or after WrestleMania.
Storylines
and Characters: NXT is known for its longer-term storytelling
compared to the main roster, with more focus on in-ring
action. Characters evolve significantly here, and
there's usually a mix of indie darlings, homegrown
talents, and international stars.
Recent
Movements: Without specific X posts or updates, one
can assume NXT might be focusing on building new stars
after inevitable call-ups post major WWE events. There
could also be an emphasis on competing directly with
other wrestling promotions by offering unique match
types or international collaborations.
Venue:
While initially heavily associated with Full Sail
University, NXT has been known to tour or set up in
different venues, enhancing its live event feel. However,
with recent changes, they might be utilizing different
arenas or even revisiting past iconic locations like
the 2300 Arena for special episodes.
For
the most current events or specific matches, one would
typically look at recent shows or announcements. However,
NXT's core purpose as a blend of entertainment and
talent development for WWE remains its defining feature.
(Grok)
News
Chris
Jericho's AEW Contract Expiry
Chris
Jericho's contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
is due to expire in 2025, prompting speculation and
discussion among fans and commentators about his future
in professional wrestling. Some fans hope for Jericho
to continue with AEW, emphasizing his importance to
the promotion, while others discuss the possibility
of him returning to WWE, considering the financial
and creative implications. There is a mix of emotional
reactions from fans, with some expressing devastation
at the thought of Jericho leaving AEW, while others
speculate on the impact his departure could have on
both AEW and WWE fanbases. Discussions also touch
on potential financial offers from AEW to retain Jericho,
suggesting that AEW might be more inclined to offer
a substantial deal to keep him. (Grok)
News
Tim
Tszyu vs Bakhram Murtazaliev
The
boxing match between Tim Tszyu and Bakhram Murtazaliev
on October 20, 2024, resulted in a significant victory
for Murtazaliev, who defended his IBF super welterweight
title against the Australian boxer.
Here's
a detailed overview:
Outcome:
Bakhram Murtazaliev won the bout via a third-round
stoppage, retaining his IBF title. Tim Tszyu was knocked
down four times during the fight, three times in the
second round and once in the third, before his corner
threw in the towel, signaling Tszyu's defeat.
Fight
Highlights: Knockdowns: Murtazaliev's strategy and
power were evident as he dropped Tszyu multiple times,
showcasing his dominance in the ring with precise
counter-attacks, particularly with his left hook.
Corner's Decision: After the fourth knockdown, and
with Tszyu appearing unable to defend himself effectively,
his team decided to stop the fight to prevent further
punishment.
Post-Fight
Sentiment: There's been a mix of shock and analysis
following the fight. Social media and boxing forums
on X have highlighted Murtazaliev's impressive performance,
noting his dangerous left hand and questioning the
matchmaking that led to this bout.
Discussions on X also reflect concerns over Tszyu's
condition post-fight, with some posts indicating that
Tszyu has been cleared of serious head injuries but
suggesting that his career might be at a crossroads
due to this devastating loss.
Implications
for Tszyu: This defeat marks a significant setback
in Tim Tszyu's career, especially after coming off
a previous loss. There's talk about his future in
boxing, with some suggesting this might affect his
standing and potential future title opportunities
in the super welterweight division.
Murtazaliev's
Position: With this victory, Murtazaliev not only
retains his title but also significantly raises his
profile in the boxing world, potentially setting up
future high-profile fights with other champions in
the division.
Fight
Availability: Clips and full fight videos have been
shared across platforms, including X, indicating high
fan interest in rewatching or analyzing the bout.
This
match has evidently had a profound impact on both
fighters' careers, with Murtazaliev emerging as a
dominant force in the super welterweight category,
while Tszyu faces a challenging path forward after
consecutive high-profile losses.
News
Tim
Tszyu News/Profile via Grok
Tim
Tszyu, born on November 2, 1994, in Sydney, Australia,
is a professional boxer who has quickly risen through
the ranks to become one of the notable names in the
super welterweight division. Here are some key points
about Tim Tszyu:
Family
Legacy: Tim is the son of the legendary boxer Kostya
Tszyu, a former undisputed light-welterweight champion
who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall
of Fame. This heritage has naturally placed a spotlight
on Tim, with many expecting him to follow in his father's
footsteps.
Professional
Career: Tim Tszyu made his professional debut in December
2016. Since then, he has shown considerable skill
and determination, climbing the ranks in the boxing
world. His style combines technical proficiency with
aggressive fighting, reminiscent of his father but
with his unique flair.
Titles
and Achievements: By 2024, Tim has captured several
regional titles. He won the WBC-ABCO Continental light-middleweight
title early in his career and has since aimed for
world titles. His pursuit of world championship belts
has been a significant focus, with matches that have
drawn considerable attention in the boxing community.
Notable
Fights: Tszyu has faced several high-profile opponents.
His fights have included bouts against domestic and
international fighters, enhancing his reputation both
in Australia and abroad. One of his significant fights
was for the WBO interim junior middleweight title
against Tony Harrison, showcasing his readiness for
world-level competition.
Recent
Developments: As of 2024, Tim Tszyu was involved in
a high-stakes match for the IBF super welterweight
title eliminator, indicating his push towards securing
a world title. However, his journey has not been without
setbacks. For instance, a fight against Sebastian
Fundora for Tszyu's WBO super welterweight title resulted
in a loss, and subsequent injuries have impacted his
fight schedule.
Public
Image and Style: Tim carries the Tszyu name with a
mix of pride and pressure. His fighting style is often
described as calculated aggression, and he's known
for his resilience and comeback spirit in the ring.
Outside of boxing, he maintains a relatively low profile
but is increasingly recognized for his contributions
to Australian boxing.
Future
Prospects: Despite facing some tough losses, Tszyu's
career is still seen with optimism by many in the
boxing world. His dedication to the sport, combined
with his lineage, suggests that he will continue to
be a significant figure in boxing, aiming for world
titles and possibly unification bouts in the super
welterweight division.
Given
the dynamic nature of sports, Tim Tszyu's journey
in boxing continues to evolve with each fight, capturing
the attention of fans and analysts alike, eager to
see if he can capture the world titles that have so
far eluded him but were once held by his father. (Grok)
News/Profile
Combat
Sports
Combat
sports encompass a wide variety of fighting disciplines
where participants engage in direct physical combat,
often one-on-one, following a set of rules designed
to ensure safety while determining a winner through
points, submission, or knockout. Here are some insights
and recent trends in combat sports based on the information
available up to October 21, 2024:
Mixed
Martial Arts (MMA): MMA continues to grow in popularity,
integrating techniques from various combat sports
and martial arts. Events like the UFC have become
mainstream, with fighters from diverse backgrounds
like kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and
boxing competing together. Recent posts on X highlight
upcoming fights, like the mention of Kai Asakura sparring
with Merab Dvalishvili, indicating the cross-weight
class interest and training that fighters undertake.
Boxing:
While boxing remains a staple in combat sports, there's
an ongoing trend of boxers and MMA fighters crossing
over between sports. For instance, Jake Paul's venture
into new combat sports after his fight with Mike Tyson
shows the blending boundaries of combat disciplines.
Moreover, boxers like Artem Vakhitov trying to secure
a UFC contract exemplify this trend.
Kickboxing
and Muay Thai: Although not as highlighted in recent
X posts, these sports contribute significantly to
the combat sports scene, often feeding talent into
MMA. Their techniques are fundamental in the striking
aspect of mixed martial arts.
Wrestling
and Grappling: Catch Wrestling, Combat Sambo, and
Greco-Roman Wrestling are less covered in mainstream
media but remain crucial for their contributions to
the grappling techniques in MMA. There's a continuous
interest in these forms, especially in how they integrate
into MMA strategies.
Emerging
and Niche Combat Sports: Combat sports like Canne
de Combat or variations like Combat Hapkido might
not make daily news but are part of the broader combat
sports ecosystem, often featured in specialized tournaments
or as part of self-defense training.
Events
and Scheduling: Platforms like X provide real-time
updates on combat sports schedules, showing a packed
calendar across various promotions like UFC, PFL,
KSW, and more, indicating a vibrant scene with events
almost every week.
Crossovers
and Novelty Fights: There's a growing trend of crossover
events or novelty fights where personalities from
different combat disciplines or even different sports
altogether engage in combat sports matches, which
draws wide attention.
Safety
and Equipment: Discussions around the safety gear
in combat sports continue, with MMA and boxing being
noted for their minimal gear compared to others like
Taekwondo, influencing injury rates as per earlier
studies.
Market
Growth: The mention of the combat sports market heating
up indicates not just an increase in viewer interest
but also in commercial investments, sponsorships,
and media coverage.
The
landscape of combat sports is ever-evolving, with
athletes constantly adapting new techniques, and promotions
innovating in how fights are presented and consumed.
The integration of social media like X for real-time
updates has also brought fans closer to the action,
making combat sports a dynamic field with global participation
and viewership. (Grok)
News
The
term "Dream Match" in the context of sports
and entertainment often refers to a highly anticipated
or hypothetical contest between top competitors or
teams that fans and analysts would love to see. Here
are some insights based on recent discussions:
Wrestling:
There's considerable buzz around several potential
dream matches in the wrestling world: The Rock vs.
Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes has been floated as a
possible match for WrestleMania 41, indicating a high-profile
encounter that would draw significant interest due
to the star power and storylines involved.
CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre received enthusiastic fan
reaction, showcasing how matches that have already
taken place can still be celebrated as dream encounters
due to their execution and reception.
Seth Rollins vs. Bronson Reed at Crown Jewel has been
highlighted as a match to look forward to, suggesting
an ongoing interest in current roster matchups that
promise high-quality wrestling.
Damian Priest naming Oba Femi as his dream opponent
from NXT points to cross-generational or brand dream
matches that fans and wrestlers themselves are intrigued
by.
Baseball:
The New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Dodgers in the
World Series has been described as a dream matchup
due to the historical rivalry and the significant
market presence of both teams. This reflects not just
on the athletes but the legacy and fanbase of the
teams involved.
Boxing:
Although not recently discussed in X posts, historically,
Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquiao was billed as
"The Dream Match," showing how individual
sports like boxing can create dream scenarios based
on the fame and contrasting styles of the fighters.
General
Sentiment on X: Fans often discuss dream matches across
various platforms, expressing desires to see matches
like Motor City Machine Guns vs. The Street Profits
in wrestling, showcasing a blend of tag team excellence
from different promotions or eras. (Grok)
Media
Man Scribe
Deep
Dive Down The Rabbit Hole
Combat
Sports - Is it both the participant fighting against
his very self as well as against the competitor opposite
him!
Niche
Media and Alternative Media - exist because mainstream
media wasn't giving the world enough of what they
wanted - including the actual truth!
Pro
Wrestling - is more honest that just about all other
professional sports. Wrestling is up front about what
it is and what it isn't.
World
understanding via nature. Research the world, ancient
civilizations, birds and animals.
Saltwater
Wellness. We originated from water, but does it all
go back to Atlantis!
Everything
has an algorithm? Zeros, ones, webcode.
Energy
and Frequency. Da Vinci researched straight line and
curved energy and this can be seen in some of his
paintings and artworks. Some can see Some can see
when shown Some can not see - Leonardo DaVinci
"The
Matrix was a documentary" Keana Reeves
'They
Live" the movie was more of a documentary"
Roddy Piper
The
moment a dollar or financial incentive is offered
in sports it becomes professional, even if not promoted
as such
"Some
are consumers, some are producers and creators , and
many are both, thanks in part to the advent of the
internet" - Greg Tingle, Media Man Group/Media
Man Australia/Media Man Int
Pop
Culture News, Trending News
September
26, 2024
Under
The Media Man Watercooler
Dana
White Contender Series (UFC) broadcast today/tonight
via ESPN.
WWE
Raw: New Intercontinental Champion Jey Uso.
Netflix:
'Mr. McMahon' docu-series due to hit 'Big N' around
the time you read this in most global markets; Vince
McMahon requests "open mind" and cites "distorts
the viewers perception"
Media
And Entertainment Industry: Global Layoffs Continue:
Big end of town, medium through to smaller operations.
A.I, M&A and overall cost cutting cited as some
of the numerous reasons.
News
Corp - Rupert Murdoch Family Dynasty. Real life 'Succession'
meetings occuring at Washoe County Courthouse, Reno,
Nevada, with Rupert Murdoch, other key family members
and legal representatives. Re restructuring of Murdoch
Family Trust. $19bn trust! 7 blacked out SUV's pulled
up ... Some documents unsealed via The New York Times.
Box
Office Movies (North America)
1.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $26m
2.
Transformers One - $25m
3.
Speak No Evil - $5.9m
Combat
Sports News
MMA:
UFC Fight Night: France. September 29
WWE
NXT. Florida. Broadcast today. WWE and TNA Wrestling
collaboration and appearances tipped and ongoing!
WWE
SmackDown - September 27. Oklahoma City
WWE
Bad Blood - October 5. Atlanta, Georgia. Cody Rhodes
and Roman Reigns vs The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa and
Jacob Fatu)
UFC
307 - October 6. Salt Lake City, Utah
Netflix:
Queen Of The Villains based on Dump Matsumoto and
Japanese pro wrestling industry continues to impress
both new and more experienced and knowledgeable audiences.
Netflix:
Terminator: Zero gets big thumbs up. Adult supervision
recommended!
News
Media And Politics: Distrust in sectors at all time
and and for good reason: Media Man Group.
YouTube
And Netflix in battle for same and similar type audiences;
Household continue to "cut the cord"! YouTube
making viewer friendly changes to web interface with
TV broadcast audiences in mind. Remaining smartphone
friendly.
Online
Newspapers Continue To Order Subscribers Significant
Discounts To Retain Readership Numbers.
Pro
Wrestling: Numerous World Class Wrestlers Tipped To
Appear On WWE TV in near future. The names Lucha Bros
and Motor City Machine Guns keep coming up!
Niche
Audiences With Some Scoops And Inside Intel helps
success of online based media companies; High traffic
websites and solid social media performance key elements
of success.
Blockchain/Crypto:
Celebs And Brands Keep Experimenting With Memecoins!
Not many will enjoy a Doge/Musk And/Or Logan Paul
type profile! ... for better or worse! Logan Paul
back to family matters and worldwide audiences yearning
for LP return to WWE rings already! Cheers with Prime!
Markets
and Commodities
October
10, 2024
Australian
Dollar: $0.6710 USD (down $0.0040 USD)
Iron
Ore Nov Spot Price (SGX): $105.15 USD (unchanged -
public holiday)
Oil
Price (WTI): $73.36 USD (down $0.55 USD)
Gold
Price: $2,607.14 USD (down $15.75 USD)
Copper
Price (CME): $4.4080 USD (down 0.0605 USD)
Bitcoin:
$60,908.07 USD (down 2.11% in last 24 hours)
Dow
Jones: 42,512.00 at 4.20pm NY time (up 431.63 points
on yesterday's close)
Markets
and Commodities
October
4, 2024
Australian
Dollar: $0.6840 USD (down $.0040 USD)
Iron
Ore Nov Spot Price (SGX): $108.75 USD (down $0.20
USD)
Oil
Price (WTI): $73.71 USD (up $2.70 USD)
Gold
Price: $2,656.04 USD (down $2.97 USD)
Copper
Price (CME): $4.5435 USD (down 0.1195 USD)
Bitcoin:
$60,801.67 USD (up 0.09% in last 24 hours)
Dow
Jones: 42,011.59 (down 184.93 points on yesterday's
close)
Market,
Commodities and Financial News
Snapshot
via Media Man
October
4, 2024
ASX
futures down 33 points or 0.4% to 8209 near 6am AEST
AUD
-0.6% to $US68.44¢
Bitcoin
+1.3% to $US60,954
Dow
-0.6%
S&P
-0.4%
Nasdaq
-0.3%
FTSE
-0.1%
DAX
-0.8%
CAC
-1.3%
Gold
-0.1% to $US2657.32 an ounce
Brent
oil +5.2% to $US77.77 a barrel
Iron
ore +0.6% to $US108.75 a tonne
Movie
Box Office (North America)
October
6, 2024
1.
Joker: Folie à Deux - $40m
2.
The Wild Robot - $18.7m
3.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $10.3m
4.
Transformers One - $5.4m
4.
Devara Part 1 - $5.6m
5.
Speak No Evil - $2.8m
6.
Sam and Colby - $1.8m
7.
White Bird - $1.53m
8.
Deadpool & Wolverine - $1.52m
9.
The Substance - $1.3m
10.
Megalopolis - $1.1m
others
...
My
Old Ass
Never
Let Go
Am
I Racist
Reagan
Jung
Kook: I Am Still
Alien:
Romulus
The
Killer's Game
It
Ends with Us
The
Forge
God's
Not Dead: In God We Trust
Twisters
Blink
Twice
Despicable
Me 4
Afraid
Inside
Out 2
Coraline
The
Crow
Trap
Stree
2
Borderlands
Harold
and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The
Firing Squad
A
Quiet Place: Day One
Bad
Boys: Ride or Die
The
Fabulous Four
Fly
Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad
Newz
MaXXXine
The
Bikeriders
Sound
of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon:
An American Saga
The
Lion King
Kalki
2898 AD
Kinds
of Kindness
The
Garfield Movie
Kingdom
of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt
& Juliet 3
Blue
Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet
Planet
The
Watchers
IF
The
Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST
Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa:
A Mad Max Story
The
Fall Guy
The
Strangers: Chapter 1
The
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!!
The Dumpster Battle
In
a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
*
Correct at time of publication
News
Box
office numbers down approx 70 percent from last year
(References:
Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The
Hollywood Reporter)
Hotel,
Casino And Gaming News: U.S, Global
October
9, 2024
Hard
Rock Casino Rockford has 2nd largest GGR
Illinois
Hard
Rock Casino Rockford brought in the 2nd highest casino
gambling revenue of any casino operating in Illinois.
In September 2024, Hard Rock Casino Rockford brought
in $13,717,722 in revenue. That makes Rockford’s
casino the second largest in revenue in the state,
behind the Rivers Casino Des Planes, which brought
in $41.5 million in September. The total GGR for Illinois
in September was $138.9 million with 1,140,023 admissions;
the 2023 GGR was $132.1 million with 1,038,436 admissions.
News
Tropicana
implosion paves way for A's stadium
Nevada
The
Tropicana Casino and Resort, one of the last true
mob buildings on the Las Vegas Strip, was reduced
to rubble Wednesday morning. The implosion cleared
land for the proposed $1.5 billion baseball stadium
for the relocating Athletics, which is part of the
city's latest rebrand into a sports hub.
News
Shift
to attract millennials to casinos
Nevada
Innovations
in gaming space and expanding technology in the postpandemic
era continue to attract a new, younger generation
to Las Vegas and its casinos, MGM Resorts International
President Bill Hornbuckle said Tuesday at the Global
Gaming Expo.
News
Allegiant
Stadium to host Gold Cup soccer matches
Nevada
International
soccer will once again kick off at Allegiant Stadium
next summer. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors
Authority approved an event production agreement during
its Tuesday board meeting, including matches in the
CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament in June 2025.
News
Ten
Vegas restaurants together grossed almost $200M in
2023
Nevada
Never
underestimate the power of a seat on the Las Vegas
Strip. Alexxa’s in Paris Las Vegas, which offers
some of the best street-side dining on the boulevard,
was the highest-grossing independent restaurant in
the city in 2023, according to Restaurant Business.
Alexxa’s brought in $28.8 million in food and
drink sales, and about 600,000 meals served. The restaurant
ranked No. 9 on the list…The 10 Vegas restaurants
(all but one on the Strip) in the top 100 together
racked up nearly $200 million in sales for 2023.
News
Revenue
Surges 48% Year-Over-Year in September 2024
West
Virginia
West
Virginia’s sports betting revenue surged in September
2024, seeing a 48% increase compared to the same month
last year…the state generated $7.1 million in
revenue from a $46.4 million handle, marking the second-highest
monthly revenue ever recorded for the state’s
sportsbooks…the total handle—$46.4 million
wagered—was down 7% compared to September 2023.
Casino And Gaming News
Macau
October
2024
Macau's
gaming revenue jumps 15 percent
Macau's
gaming revenue rose 15.5 percent year-on-year in September,
exceeding analysts' forecast as casinos gear up for
one of China's biggest holidays, which usually fuels
travel to the gambling hub.
Gross
gaming revenue reached 17.25 billion patacas (HK$16.73
billion) for the month, according to data released
by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau.
The result is compared to the median analyst estimate
of a 14.2 percent increase and has returned to 78
percent of the pre-pandemic level seen in 2019.
The
reporting was still lower than in the previous month,
as September - when children go back to school and
it being a peak typhoon month - is historically a
weak season for Macau.
Expectations
for the Golden Week holiday, which started yesterday,
are high. Advanced bookings for hotel rooms are strong,
with bigger gamblers making reservations earlier than
usual, Citigroup analyst George Choi wrote in a note.
Affluent
players remain able and willing to spend, and the
trend seems to be accelerating, Choi said, citing
a survey of gaming table performances.
Still,
retail sales in Macau have shown signs of weakness.
Lower-spending players appear to be betting less for
the first time since China's reopening from Covid
early last year, according to Choi. It is expected
that this trend will ease as Beijing's recent announcement
of a series of economic stimulus measures boosts disposable
income, he added.
News
Global
Gaming
Eklutna
tribe clears land for anticipated casino
Alaska
A
tribe near Anchorage has begun clearing land for the
possibility that it will soon win federal approval
to build a 50,000-square-foot facility with a tribal
gaming operation. The casino would be the first of
its kind outside Southeast Alaska. The Native Village
of Eklutna has long pursued the idea of building the
gaming hall on 8 acres of land…The parcel is
in Birchwood, about 20 miles northeast of downtown
Anchorage.
News
Julapun
pushes for talks on casino complex plan
Thailand
Deputy
Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat is calling on
all relevant state agencies to discuss the government's
push to allow casinos to operate within entertainment
complexes. He hopes the discussion can be concluded
by the middle of the month. He said the discussion
will focus on the mechanism for tax collection, as
there are restrictions in the State Fiscal and Financial
Disciplines Act that the government must adhere to.
News
Nevada
Sports
Betting Revenue Grows in August
Nevada
sports betting posted August gains in handle and revenue,
total August volume surpassed $455.2 million, a boost
from the $431.6 million bet during the same month
last year. Nevada sports betting operators cleared
$25 million behind a 5.5% August win rate…The
5.5% hold for NV sportsbooks is one of the lowest
this year, though on par with the market’s average
win rate of less than 6%.
News
Florida
Slot
revenue rises to $54.9 million in August
Florida
Gaming Control Commission has revealed that the state’s
non-tribal casinos collected almost $54.9 million
in net slot revenue in August from around $825.6 million
in wagers. That’s a 1.5 percent year-on-year
increase from the $54.1 million generated in August
2023. With 1,236 machines, Harrah’s Pompano Beach
Casino, reported as the Isle Casino & Racing at
Pompano Park, led with $9.8 million of the total.
News
Pete
Rose dies at age 83
Pete
Rose, baseball’s career hits leader and fallen
idol who undermined his historic achievements and
Hall of Fame dreams by gambling on the game he loved
and once embodied, has died. He was 83. Stephanie
Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County in Nevada,
confirmed on behalf of the medical examiner that Rose
died Monday. Wheatley said his cause and manner of
death had not yet been determined. Rose is in the
WWE Hall of Fame (Celebrity Wing) Rose was grabbed
around the neck in a staged skit by the late, great,
Andre The Giant. And yes, there are some WWE themed
slot games, mainly found in Vegas, Atlantic City and
Florida from what the foot soldiers tell us.
News
Australia
Star
Sydney could be worth as little as $8m: Barrenjoey
consultants; Star Entertainment’s Sydney casino
has emerged as a laggard in the troubled company’s
property portfolio with one estimate putting its valuation
as low as $8m!
News
Atlantic
City
Atlantic
City hotels defeat latest class action over casino
room rates
Major
casino-hotel operators in Atlantic City including
Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts have persuaded
a U.S. judge to dismiss a proposed consumer class
action accusing them and a revenue management platform
of overcharging for room rentals.
U.S.
District Judge Karen Williams in Camden, New Jersey,
ruled, opens new tab on Tuesday that the consumers
had failed to present enough evidence to let their
price-fixing lawsuit move ahead.
Williams
dismissed the consumers’ lawsuit with prejudice,
meaning it cannot be filed again. The case was part
of a wave of new lawsuits claiming the use of revenue
management platforms that rely on rivals' data can
be deemed price-fixing.
The
judge’s ruling marked a second setback for plaintiffs
claiming that major hotels schemed to artificially
jack up room rates. Consumers in a related case have
appealed a Nevada federal judge’s order dismissing
their lawsuit against Wynn Resorts, Caesars and others.
In
both cases, the plaintiffs alleged hotel owners fed
sensitive internal information — such as real-time
price and occupancy data — to a shared software
platform that offered pricing recommendations.
The
hotels and the software maker, Cendyn, which was also
a defendant, have denied any wrongdoing.
Representatives
from Cendyn, Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts and
Hard Rock on Tuesday did not immediately respond to
messages seeking comment.
The
plaintiffs’ attorneys in the New Jersey case
at law firms Lite DePalma Greenberg & Afanador;
Burns Charest; and Susman Godfrey did not immediately
respond to a similar request.
The
consumers said in their lawsuit that the hotels used
Cendyn’s “Rainmaker” software “as
their shared pricing brain” that “does all
the hard work for them.”
They
said “while the AI-driven technology at issue
may be fairly novel, the underlying conduct is not.”
(Wires)
Casinos/Profile via Grok
Here's
an overview of the latest updates and trends regarding
casinos as of October 2024, based on the information
available:
Global
Expansion and New Developments:
Jamaica
is re-opening the application period for an integrated
casino-resort license, indicating interest in expanding
its tourism and entertainment offerings through casino
gaming.
Norfolk,
Virginia has given final approval for a new casino
project, which will likely contribute to local tourism
and economy, reflecting a trend where cities are increasingly
seeing casinos as economic development tools.
Japan
and UAE are among the regions moving towards establishing
casino facilities, aiming to attract tourists. However,
these might be restricted to non-locals, a common
practice to control potential social impacts of gambling
within the local population.
New
York continues to explore online gambling legislation,
which could significantly expand the casino industry's
reach in the state by legalizing online casinos.
Economic
Performance:
Nevada,
particularly Las Vegas, reported a slight decline
in casino winnings for August 2024 compared to the
previous year, suggesting possible market saturation
or shifts in gambling preferences towards other forms
like online betting.
Innovation
and Entertainment:
Steve
Cohen, the owner of the New York Mets, has proposed
an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex next
to Citi Field, illustrating how casinos are increasingly
integrated with sports and entertainment complexes
to offer multifaceted experiences.
Technological
and Gaming Trends:
There's
a noted trend towards tightening up on various casino
offerings like comps, free play, and even slot machine
payouts, possibly in response to increased competition
from online gambling platforms and a need to adjust
profit margins.
Online
Gambling continues to grow, with platforms like Ignition
Casino, Cafe Casino, and DuckyLuck Casino highlighted
for their offerings in the U.S. This reflects a broader
shift towards digital platforms, where convenience,
a variety of games, and bonuses are key attractions.
Security
and Social Responsibility:
Casinos
globally are enhancing their surveillance and security
measures, often referred to as "the eye in the
sky," to combat cheating and fraud, ensuring
a safer environment for all patrons.
There's
an ongoing emphasis on responsible gambling, with
various regions implementing measures and support
systems for gamblers, recognizing the potential social
and economic impacts of casino gambling.
Market
Sentiment:
From
posts on X (formerly Twitter), there's a mix of excitement
about new casino developments and concerns over the
tightening of casino offerings, suggesting a complex
relationship between gamblers and the industry.
In
summary, the casino industry in 2024 is witnessing
expansion into new markets, integration with broader
entertainment complexes, technological adaptation
towards online platforms, and a strategic focus on
security and responsible gambling. This reflects an
industry evolving to meet new consumer behaviors,
technological capabilities, and regulatory environments.
(Grok)
Casino News/Profile via Grok
The
term "casino" refers to a facility where
gambling activities take place, which often integrates
with other entertainment options like hotels, restaurants,
and live shows, making it a central hub for leisure
and gambling. Here's an overview based on current
insights and historical context:
Evolution
of Casinos: Originating from the Venetian Ridotto
in 1638, casinos have evolved from exclusive gambling
houses to multifaceted entertainment centers. Today,
they are known for merging traditional gambling with
modern technology, offering everything from classic
table games to digital slots and live dealer sessions.
Modern
Online Casinos: The digital age has ushered in online
casinos, providing an accessible platform for gambling
from anywhere. These platforms, like those highlighted
in recent promotions on X, offer various incentives
such as bonuses for new sign-ups, free spins, and
the integration of cryptocurrencies for transactions,
enhancing user engagement with promises like "deposit
now and receive FREE BTC!" This reflects a trend
towards digital currencies in gambling for increased
security, anonymity, and efficiency.
Cultural
Impact and Controversy: Casinos, both physical and
online, are not without controversy. They're often
discussed in terms of their societal impact, including
issues like gambling addiction. A perspective shared
on X questions the legality and morality of state-run
casinos like Holland Casino in the Netherlands, pointing
out the potential for addiction due to high stakes
gambling, contrasting it with smaller community events
like bingo nights.
Entertainment
Beyond Gambling: Besides gambling, casinos are pivotal
in the entertainment industry, hosting concerts, stand-up
comedy, and even sports events. This diversification
aims at attracting a broader audience, not just gamblers,
enhancing their appeal as comprehensive entertainment
hubs.
Global
Presence: Casinos like Marina Bay Sands in Singapore
and those along the Las Vegas Strip are not just gambling
venues but architectural marvels and economic powerhouses,
contributing significantly to local economies through
tourism.
Technological
and Thematic Innovation: Modern casinos incorporate
advanced technology for surveillance and game fairness,
alongside themes that range from historical to futuristic,
creating immersive environments for visitors.
Community
and Legal Perspectives: There's an ongoing debate
about the accessibility of casinos to locals, especially
in regions where gambling might be viewed as culturally
or legally sensitive. This reflects in discussions
on platforms like X, where the impact of allowing
locals into casinos like in Vietnam is pondered, weighing
tourism benefits against social costs.
In
summary, "casino" in today's context represents
more than just gambling; it's a convergence of technology,
entertainment, and sometimes, societal debate. The
integration of online platforms and cryptocurrencies
is pushing the boundaries of traditional gambling,
making it more inclusive yet sparking discussions
on regulation, addiction, and societal impact. (Grok)
Movie
Box Office (North America)
September 22, 2024
1.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $26m
2.
Transformers One: - $25m
3.
Speak No Evil - $5.9m
4.Never
Let Go - $4.5m
5.
Deadpool & Wolverine - $3.9m
6.
The Substance - $3.1m
7.
Am I Racist - $2.5m
8.
Reagan - $1.7m
9.
Jung Kook: I Am Still - $1.4m
10.
Alien: Romulus - $1.3m
others
...
The
Killer's Game
It
Ends with Us
The
Forge
od's
Not Dead: In God We Trust
Twisters
Blink
Twice
Despicable
Me 4
Afraid
Inside
Out 2
Coraline
The
Crow
Trap
Stree
2
Borderlands
Harold
and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The
Firing Squad
A
Quiet Place: Day One
Bad
Boys: Ride or Die
The
Fabulous Four
Fly
Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad
Newz
MaXXXine
The
Bikeriders
Sound
of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon:
An American Saga
The
Lion King
Kalki
2898 AD
Kinds
of Kindness
The
Garfield Movie
Kingdom
of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt
& Juliet 3
Blue
Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet
Planet
The
Watchers
IF
The
Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST
Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa:
A Mad Max Story
The
Fall Guy
The
Strangers: Chapter 1
The
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!!
The Dumpster Battle
In
a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
*
Correct at time of publication
News
Box
office numbers down approx 70 percent from last year
(References:
Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The
Hollywood Reporter)
Movie
Box Office (North America)
September
15, 2024
1.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $51.6m
2.
Speak No Evil - $11.5
3.
Deadpool & Wolverine - $5.2m
4.
Am I Racist - $4.8m
5.
Reagan - $3m
6.
The Killer's Game - $2.6m
7.
Alien: Romulus - $2.4m
8.
It Ends with Us - $2.3m
9.
The Forge - $2m
10.
God's Not Dead: In God We Trust - $1.5m
others
...
Twisters
Blink
Twice
Despicable
Me 4
Afraid
Inside
Out 2
Coraline
The
Crow
Trap
Stree
2
Borderlands
Harold
and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The
Firing Squad
A
Quiet Place: Day One
Bad
Boys: Ride or Die
The
Fabulous Four
Fly
Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad
Newz
MaXXXine
The
Bikeriders
Sound
of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon:
An American Saga
The
Lion King
Kalki
2898 AD
Kinds
of Kindness
The
Garfield Movie
Kingdom
of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt
& Juliet 3
Blue
Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet
Planet
The
Watchers
IF
The
Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST
Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa:
A Mad Max Story
The
Fall Guy
The
Strangers: Chapter 1
The
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!!
The Dumpster Battle
In
a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
*
Correct at time of publication
News
Box
office numbers down approx 70 percent from last year
(References:
Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The
Hollywood Reporter)
Movie
Box Office (North America)
September
15, 2024
1.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $51.6m
2.
Speak No Evil - $11.5
3.
Deadpool & Wolverine - $5.2m
4.
Am I Racist - $4.8m
5.
Reagan - $3m
6.
The Killer's Game - $2.6m
7.
Alien: Romulus - $2.4m
8.
It Ends with Us - $2.3m
9.
The Forge - $2m
10.
God's Not Dead: In God We Trust - $1.5m
others
...
Twisters
Blink
Twice
Despicable
Me 4
Afraid
Inside
Out 2
Coraline
The
Crow
Trap
Stree
2
Borderlands
Harold
and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The
Firing Squad
A
Quiet Place: Day One
Bad
Boys: Ride or Die
The
Fabulous Four
Fly
Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad
Newz
MaXXXine
The
Bikeriders
Sound
of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon:
An American Saga
The
Lion King
Kalki
2898 AD
Kinds
of Kindness
The
Garfield Movie
Kingdom
of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt
& Juliet 3
Blue
Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet
Planet
The
Watchers
IF
The
Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST
Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa:
A Mad Max Story
The
Fall Guy
The
Strangers: Chapter 1
The
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!!
The Dumpster Battle
In
a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
*
Correct at time of publication
News
Box
office numbers down approx 70 percent from last year
(References:
Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The
Hollywood Reporter)
X's
Grok Helps Fans, Online Publishers And Newsrooms Keep
Up To Speed With Latest From 'The Big N'; Netflix
Over Delivers Again. Combat Sports And Anime In The
Mix; Geeked Week And Month! Media Man
News
New
Cyberpunk Animated Series on Netflix
Based
on the latest information available up to September
19, 2024, Netflix, in collaboration with CD Projekt
Red, has confirmed the development of a new animated
project within the Cyberpunk universe. Here's what
we know:
Announcement:
During Geeked Week, Netflix teased this new project,
hinting at a "return to Night City," which
suggests it will be set in the same universe as "Cyberpunk:
Edgerunners" and "Cyberpunk 2077."
Project
Details: While it's confirmed to be set in the Cyberpunk
universe, specifics like whether it will be a direct
sequel or a new story entirely, akin to "Edgerunners"
but with a different narrative or characters, remain
undisclosed. There's been no confirmation if this
is an "Edgerunners Season 2," though the
nature of the announcement leaves room for speculation.
Reception
and Context: The original "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners"
series was well-received, contributing to a surge
in interest back towards "Cyberpunk 2077."
This positive reception might influence the new project's
direction, aiming to leverage the existing fanbase
while expanding the universe's lore.
Teasers
and Speculation: From posts on X (formerly Twitter),
there's excitement and speculation among fans. The
mention of "another animated series set in the
Cyberpunk 2077 universe" and teases about exploring
new stories in Night City suggest a continuation or
expansion of the thematic elements fans enjoyed in
"Edgerunners."
Release
Information: As of now, no release date or further
detailed plot information has been shared. Netflix
and CD Projekt Red have promised more details at a
later date, keeping the community in anticipation.
This
new venture into the Cyberpunk animated series by
Netflix represents a commitment to exploring more
narratives within this dystopian world, potentially
tapping into different aspects of Night City's lore,
characters, or even new tech developments within its
universe. While fans eagerly await more concrete details,
the announcement itself has reignited discussions
and excitement around what new stories might unfold
in one of the most visually and narratively rich settings
in recent sci-fi history. (Grok)
News
Squid
Game Season 2 Premiere Date
"Squid
Game" Season 2 is set to premiere on December
26, 2024, on Netflix. This information was confirmed
through multiple sources, including official announcements
and teasers released by Netflix during their Geeked
Week event, as well as posts on X (formerly known
as Twitter) from various users sharing the premiere
date. The season continues the story with Lee Jung-jae
reprising his role as Seong Gi-hun, diving back into
the deadly games with new twists and returning characters.
(Grok)
News
Bridgerton
Season 3 Dominates Netflix
Bridgerton
Season 3 has emerged as the most consumed series on
Netflix in the first half of 2024, amassing 733.8
million hours viewed. This season, focusing on the
romance between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton,
has captivated audiences, leading to widespread acclaim
and discussions about its popularity and narrative.
Fans have particularly celebrated the fulfillment
of Penelope's lifelong dream to be with Colin, highlighting
emotional moments like their wedding and Penelope's
voiceover in the final scene. Despite some criticism
regarding the inclusion of certain scenes, the season's
success is evident, with many expressing their ongoing
affection for the characters and the show's romantic
and dramatic elements. (Grok)
News
Wednesday
Season 2 First Look Revealed.
The
latest on "Wednesday Season 2" includes
a behind-the-scenes first look that was revealed as
part of Netflix's Geeked Week celebrations, indicating
the series will return in 2025. Here's what's known:
First
Look: Fans have been treated to behind-the-scenes
footage featuring the cast, including Jenna Ortega
as Wednesday Addams, providing a glimpse into what's
coming in the new season. This footage emphasizes
that Season 2 will be "bigger and more twisted,"
promising a deeper dive into the horror elements of
the series,
Cast
and Crew: Returning cast members include Jenna Ortega,
Luis Guzmán, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Emma Myers,
and more, under the direction of Tim Burton for at
least part of the season. The show also features new
cast members and promises to expand on the existing
characters' stories.
Plot
Teases: While specific plot details are being kept
under wraps, Jenna Ortega has hinted at incredible
set pieces, suggesting visually richer environments
or significant events that might tie into unresolved
cliffhangers from Season 1, like the transformation
and fate of Tyler.
Themes
and Tone: There's an indication that Season 2 will
continue to focus on Wednesday's journey of self-discovery
and her relationship dynamics, particularly her attempt
to carve out her path away from her family's influence.
Additionally, the emphasis will be on horror over
romance, aligning with Ortega's comments about avoiding
forced romantic narratives.
Production:
Filming for Season 2 commenced in May 2024, with locations
including Ireland, signaling a potentially broader
or different setting for some of the storylines.
Release:
The series is set to return in 2025, maintaining the
suspense and anticipation among fans who are eager
for more of Wednesday Addams's dark-hearted adventures
at Nevermore Academy and beyond.
The
excitement around "Wednesday" Season 2 is
palpable, with fans and critics alike looking forward
to how the series will expand on its established gothic
universe while introducing new elements of horror
and mystery. (Grok)
News
Based
on the information available up to September 19, 2024,
here are some updates and insights regarding Netflix:
Pricing
and Plans: Netflix offers several subscription tiers,
with the most basic ad-supported plan starting at
$6.99 per month, which allows streaming on two devices
in 1080p. The ad-free plans include Standard for $15.49
per month, which also supports streaming on two devices
at 1080p, and Premium for $22.99 per month, which
ups the ante to four simultaneous streams at 4K resolution.
There's also an option to add extra member slots for
an additional cost.
Content
Updates: Netflix continues to add new TV shows, movies,
and original content regularly. Recent or upcoming
releases as of September 2024 include a variety of
genres from survival dramas to supernatural horror,
indicating Netflix's broad content strategy remains
intact.
Event
and Announcements: There was an event around the time
of inquiry where Netflix planned to reveal updates
on several highly anticipated series such as "One
Piece Season 2", "Wednesday Season 2",
"Black Mirror Season 7", "Squid Game
Season 2", "Stranger Things", a "Devil
May Cry" anime, and "Avatar: The Last Airbender
Season 2". This event underscores Netflix's commitment
to both continuing popular series and exploring new
avenues like anime.
User
Interaction and Features: Netflix provides a service
where content can be downloaded for offline viewing,
which is particularly useful for viewers on the go
or in areas with unreliable internet. The platform's
user interface also includes features like profiles
for kids with parental controls, and recommendations
that improve with more viewing data.
Market
Sentiment and Discussions: From X posts, there's considerable
excitement and discussion around Netflix's content
strategy, with users and media outlets focusing on
new releases, price changes, and the platform's approach
to both original content and licensed material.
Cost
Considerations: There's mention in discussions about
how Netflix's cost has nearly doubled for some users,
reflecting the ongoing debate on the value of streaming
services versus their cost, which might influence
subscriber behavior and expectations for content quality
and quantity.
Subscription
Model: Netflix emphasizes its month-to-month subscription
model, which allows users to cancel anytime without
long-term contracts or cancellation fees, providing
flexibility which is often appreciated in the dynamic
streaming market.
Given
these points, Netflix in 2024 continues to evolve,
focusing on a diverse content library, enhancing user
experience through technology and personalization,
while facing the usual industry challenges like pricing
satisfaction and content competition. The platform's
strategy appears to blend global appeal with niche
interests, aiming to cater to a broad audience while
also pushing the boundaries with original programming.
(Grok)
Media
Man Editors: Massive few months for Netflix. Also
mark down Terminator: Zero, The Queen Of The Villains
and Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson (November 2024). And don't
forget WWE Raw hits Netflix in January 2025. And even
the official WWE Vault YouTube channel has plugged
Netflix, and specifically "Dump", while
uploading some classic Japanese pro wrestling matches
to their own platforms.
Websites
Netflix
http://netflix.com
Netflix:
TUDUM
http://netflix.com/tudum
Netflix
YouTube
http://youtube.com/@Netflix
Combat Sports
UFC 308 UFC 307
UFC 308 (Wikipedia)
UFC 307 (Wikipedia)
UFC News via Grok; X's Grok Helps Fans, News Publishers
And Sports Promoters Win The Grapple With The Web:
Media Man
Media
Man Web Tips
SEO
News via Media Man: Ways to Improve your Site’s
Ranking (SEO)
Ways
to Improve your Site’s Ranking (SEO)
New
strategies for Search Engine Optimization
What
is SEO?
Search
engine optimization (SEO) is an essential digital
marketing practice that plays a vital role in making
your website visible to both visitors and search engine
crawlers. The primary objective of SEO is to optimize
relevant and authoritative content to assist visitors
in finding solutions to their queries efficiently.
The
ultimate aim of SEO is to create high-quality and
informative content that increases the volume of traffic
that your website receives daily. Optimizing your
website involves creating and expanding your content
to ensure that search engines will choose your site
over its competitors.
The
focus of SEO is to perfect the quality and quantity
of your webpage to make sure that your website has
an edge over others. Therefore, SEO plays an essential
role in driving traffic to your website, which is
crucial for the visibility and success of your online
Business.
1.
Publish Relevant, Authoritative Content
This
article provides valuable suggestions on how to improve
search engine optimization (SEO) and enhance website
ranking on search engine results. Creating quality
content that caters to the user’s needs is the
driving factor of SEO marketing, and the article emphasizes
that there is no substitute for great content.
The
article further provides guidance on identifying appropriate
keyword phrases for each authoritative content page
and making use of them strategically throughout the
content. Creating distinct web pages for each distinct
targeted keyword phrase is advisable to enhance ranking.
The
article suggests using keywords in headings, subheadings,
URLs, and titles, and stressing the importance of
readability and user-friendliness of the content.
Using emphasis tags and strategically linking to relevant
sources is also encouraged. By following these valuable
suggestions, users can create SEO-friendly content
that benefits the readers while improving their website’s
overall ranking.
2.
Update Your Content Regularly
Maintaining
updated content is crucial to improve your website’s
relevancy, and it is a crucial factor that search
engines prioritize as well. We highly recommend scheduling
regular content audits, for instance, on a semesterly
basis, to update your webpages and blog posts accordingly.
Writing
additional content frequently on your departmental
news blog can enhance your search engine rankings
by incorporating relevant keyword phrases. Brief blog
posts can also be helpful if they offer specific updates
related to your targeted topics.
Moreover,
interlinking your related CMS webpages and blog posts
can provide readers with a better understanding of
your website’s content and additional information
on the subject. Thus, keep your website updated and
relevant to improve your visitor’s user experience
and attract more traffic to your site.
3.
Metadata
Website
designers use metadata to provide information about
a website’s content. When creating a webpage,
a space between the “head” tags is reserved
for metadata.
If
you use a CMS website they have already filled in
the metadata. However, as your content changes, it
is important to review and update the metadata.
Title
Metadata
Title
metadata is the most important because it determines
the page title that appears at the top of a browser
window and in search engine results. For those with
a CMS website, the web team has automated this process
based on your page title. Therefore, it is essential
to use well-thought-out page titles that include keyword
phrases.
Description
Metadata
Description
metadata is a brief and interesting summary of what
your website contains. It’s like a store’s
attractive display that encourages people to visit.
Usually, it should be two sentences long. Search engines
may or may not use this summary, but it’s good
to have it in case they do.
Keyword
Metadata
Keyword
metadata is not very helpful in improving your search
engine ranking. However, it’s useful to include
some of your important keywords in the metadata. You
should select a few phrases with one to four words
each and add three to seven of them. For example,
“computer science degree” or "pop culture
agency" are good keyword phrases to use.
4.
Have a Link-worthy Site
Making
your website popular involves efforts in developing
valuable content and enhancing its search results.
To achieve this, you must focus on creating informative
and unbiased content that caters to the readers’
interests and queries.
Furthermore,
your website might earn a backlink from other websites
if it provides good value to the readers. This can
improve its search engine ranking immensely, which
can bring in more visitors. It is also crucial to
incorporate descriptive hyperlinks in the text as
opposed to generic “click here” links.
This
helps in giving proper context to people who use screen
readers and makes it easier for search engines to
crawl your website. You can lift your website SEO
performance by using appropriate keywords in your
content and developing internal links. These techniques
can help you build a better online presence and increase
your website’s popularity.
5.
Use ALT Tags
Want
search engines to find your website and to make it
more accessible for people who use text-only browsers
or screen readers? Simply put, use alt tags to describe
your media content, like images and videos, with alternative
text descriptions.
These
descriptions act as labels for search engines and
help them identify your page better. They also provide
context for those who cannot view the media directly.
By making your website more accessible and searchable,
you can improve its overall user experience.
News
New
strategies for Search Engine Optimization
New
areas of digital marketing are as changeable and require
so much adaption and new-thinking as the world of
SEO. Search Engine Optimization has come a long way
from its beginnings in the 1990s, and the technologies
deciding what is “good SEO” or not changes
from year to year.
That’s
why tech companies are launching new strategies aimed
at long-term goals in both data-driven and relations-based
SEO all over the world, by implementing tactics from
both traditional PR and modern SEO and link-building.
Below,
we will discuss the nature of SEO, how SEO is changing,
and why choosing an agency will be the key to your
SEO success.
Best
SEO practices:
Find
your customers with data-driven market analysis
Find
authoritative marketing partners using data-driven
PR
Reach
your customers with high quality outreach and credible
link-building
What
is SEO?
In
order to discuss the ways in which SEO works, it’s
important to understand the basic principles on which
the concept is built. SEO is an acronym for Search
Engine Optimization, and is an umbrella term for processes
in which users optimize their websites in order to
rank higher on search engines such as Google whenever
customers search for keywords relevant to their website.
By
optimizing the various aspects of a website, SEO aims
to improve its ranking on search engine result pages
(SERPs), thereby increasing the quantity and quality
of traffic. In layman’s terms, it helps more
people to find your website by increasing its digital
visibility.
Why
is SEO important?
There’s
an old SEO joke that goes like this: A man asks a
detective “Where’s the best place to hide
a body?” The detective answers “Why, on
the second page of Google, of course!”. In other
words, ranking on the first page of Google is the
key to getting traffic and therefore sales or viewings
on your webpage, as few people bother to look past
the first results page.
In
fact, the first spot on Google is ten times more likely
to get a click than results number ten, and the top
three results receive over half of all clicks. That’s
why the goal of every SEO strategist is to get a website
into the top ten search results on Google, and preferably
in the top three.
That’s
why SEO marketing lives on, despite some people saying
that SEO is dead. The answer is: it’s more alive
than ever. It just doesn’t fit into the mold
of the quick-results culture of the modern world,
but it is still effective.
The
evolution of SEO
SEO
as a term first came into use in 1997, despite the
first website being published in 1991. The coin was
termed John Audette of Multimedia Marketing Group
early that year, and so the hunt for the top of the
search engine results pages began.
In
the beginning, there were several competing names
for the concept, including search engine ranking,
website promotion, etc. The strongest competitor was
the term “search engine marketing”, which
was originally pitched as a successor to SEO. But
ultimately, search engine optimization proved to be
the most steadfast and all-encompassing term, while
SEM is used to describe concepts like paid search
marketing and advertising.
Google’s
rise to power
In
the 2000s, Google grew to become the search engine
giant we know it as today. Soon enough, the organization
was able to survive on its own. At that time, they
also launched effective web crawlers and PageRank
algorithms, which changed the SEO game.
Google
began measuring both on-page and off-page content
to decide SERP listings, forcing SEO to expand their
work sphere and link-building took off as a popular
tactic. Around the same time, Google also introduced
PageRank scores, a website score between 1-10, which
was an early version of today’s Domain Authority.
These
measures were broken down further with the introduction
of Google Analytics and the Google Webmaster Tools
(Search Console) in 2006. Later major updates, such
as Panda and Penguin in 2011 and 2012 respectively,
were put in place to sort out poor quality SEO work
and reward those with quality websites.
To
this day, Google continues to release core and minor
updates that impact the way that SEO can work. The
platform has grown to be such a reputable platform
that in 2022 it was estimated that Google accounted
for more than 85 percent of the search engine usage,
which is why it’s the platform that most SEO
strategies focus on today.
The
big three: Local, social, mobile
There
have been three major changes in the way that people
search the web, that has not been a result of search
engine updates. The first of these came in the mid-2000s,
when there was an adaptation toward geographical searches,
which birthed local SEO. This meant that people were
now searching for businesses near them, such as restaurants
or car washes, media, gaming and sports agents, thus
increasing the need for separate local search engine
strategies. This development also resulted in the
advancement of end-user data, including search history
and personalized interests.
Fast-forward
another decade into the 2010s, and a whole new set
of searching and web-using emerged. Rather than just
using the universal search-functions, users were now
turning to medias such as YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn
and other social medias for news and knowledge. Most
importantly for SEO, these networks became revolutionary
in building brand awareness. As such, the old term
of search engine marketing (SEM) became ever more
important on these platforms.
As
users started to bring their lives and entertainment
from the big screens, such as laptops or TVs, they
also began to use search engines straight from their
mobile phones. This third change in user patterns
led to mobile searching overtaking desktop searches
in 2015, and added mobile adaptability to the list
of SEO tools.
The
2020s, AI, and the future of SEO
We’ve
finally arrived at our current time. The 2020s have
brought with it a continued increase in digital usage
and SEO is perhaps more important than ever. One of
the biggest challenges the world of SEO stands before
today is generative AI. Chat GPT, X including Grok,
the free global access to generative AI as a search
function, was released in the winter of 2022/2023,
and has garnered instant attraction from both customers
and competitors, including Google. It is still unclear
what impact generative AI will have on SEO practices
such as keywords analysis, although it is already
affecting the quality of content on the web.
New
strategies for new challenges
As
new SEO directives arrive from Google’s updates,
they also require new strategies. However, some companies
have decided to create new strategies with a focus
on longevity. Among new strategies are both traditional
link-building and outreach including, in combination
with inspiration from the traditional PR marketing
sphere.
The
other two strategies that they’ve developed are
strongly data-driven market research and PR. The market
research is a process in which the company can help
customers who want to scale globally to find the best
geographical place for them to start their SEO journey,
based on SEO factors such as demand and competition.
The
market-driven PR can build on that market research
or stand alone, as a new way of reaching new marketing
partners in international business circles. From these
new partners, it is then possible to continue with
link-building as well as traditional PR strategies.
This is a unique way of piercing niche markets across
the globe to attract potential customers.
How
does SEO work?
Now
that we’ve seen the evolution of SEO it’s
time to get to the real question: what is SEO marketing
actually, and how does it actually work? In order
to understand how SEO works, it’s important to
understand these two things: what Google wants and
what the customers want. Only by doing so will you
understand how you should optimize your web page.
What
Google wants
One
of the reasons why Google rose to such immense heights
early on was due to the founders’ initiative
to implement RankPage, or clear guidelines for how
to rank content on their platform. Initially, the
program worked by ranking content dependent on the
link structure of the website, that built the foundation
for the modern link building strategies. Simply put,
links to the webpage acted as votes of confidence
for the webpage.
Today,
this concept has developed into the E-E-A-T formula,
where Google ranks content based on Experience, Expertise,
Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. These measures
are interpreted by what the site’s link building
looks like, such as what EEAT websites include links
back to their landing page. They then ensure that
the webpage produces reliable and accurate information,
and are most likely to answer their customers’
questions.
Ultimately,
the reason why Google wants to prioritize high quality
content is because happy Google customers are more
likely to return to Google for more information, and
therefore generating income for the search engine.
So,
how does Google find and rank the webpages? They do
this through three stages: crawling, indexing, and
serving results.
Crawling
means that Google sends “bots” or computer
programs to scan through large chunks of the internet
to find new or updated pages. They can only find it
by going through a link.
Googles
then sorts through and organizes the content and puts
it in the huge Google Index – a database for
webpages.
Lastly,
Google serves the results by how relevant they are
to the customer queries.
What
the customer wants
Broadly
speaking, there are three types of searches that customers
make, and they can be described as Do-Know-Go. Whenever
we search the internet, we either want to do something
(such as make a purchase or visit a tourist attraction),
know something, or go somewhere. These three types
of searches can be further broken down, but these
are the basic concepts.
These
three prompts can help you optimize your content so
that you are answering the demand of the people. By
realizing what your customer wants, you can provide
SEO-optimized content which is relevant and fresh,
which Google will reward you for.
SEO
components, or how to do SEO
So
how does a webpage get to that top of the search engine
results page? While there is no quick fix, SEO provides
a long-term strategy which aims at doing just that.
SEO incorporates several different tactics in this
long-term strategy, in which there are three main
components:
Technical
SEO
On-page
SEO
Off-page
SEO
Technical
SEO refers to optimization on your webpage. This can
for example mean implementing site maps so that Google
can crawl the page more easily, increasing the website
speed, or making the site mobile adaptable.
On-page
SEO refers to edits to the content that is already
on the webpage, rather than the technicalities behind
it. This can for example include keyword optimizing
headings, producing SEO-optimized blog posts, URL
and picture optimization, and adding meta titles and
descriptions.
Off-page
SEO, on the other hand, is part of the link-building
strategy. The focus here lies on building credibility
and brand awareness by for example writing guests
posts and linking to your webpage on other, reputable
sources. The key here is to create backlinks, which
give authority and endorsement to your website, and
thus giving Google a sign that you are a credible
source too.
To
get good results, it’s important to implement
all of the tactics above in a combined effort to get
Google’s attention. However, these general descriptions
are only scraping the top of the iceberg of SEO. Beneath
these lay a whole science of various methods and strategies
to rank at the top of the results page.
Link-building
The
on-page and off-stage SEO practices can also be called
SEO link-building. That’s because they both refer
to building a link-system which Google will reward,
whether it’s by driving links to your website
from other credible sources or creating a seamless
link-flow internally on your webpage.
Links
to and on your website act as votes of trust, credibility
and authority, which is why they are a crucial part
of your SEO strategy. However, the links need to be
carefully and thoughtfully crafted so that they maintain
the right level of relevance and credibility, which
can be done through producing high quality SEO content.
SEO
content
For
both on-page and off-page work, SEO content plays
a huge role. As mentioned earlier, Google ranks webpages
depending on both their link-building and how credible,
authoritative, and expert their content is. However,
these two factors are not as separate as one might
think: with high quality content, it is also easier
to build a good SEO link-building network.
Often
when we discuss SEO content, we tend to think of texts
of lesser quality that are packed with poor quality
links. However, due to Google’s updates, such
as Penguin, poor content is continually being phased
out. That means individuals and agencies are having
to spend more time recruiting better writers and spending
more time on content.
As
we discussed earlier, SEO content needs to be adapted
to both the demands from the customer (a.k.a. the
searching person) and Google. That means texts need
to be relevant, authoritative, credible, and high
quality. These texts also need to be SEO optimized
using meta-data, such as titles and descriptions,
and keywords in the headings in order for Google’s
crawlers to pick up better on the relevancy factor.
That
being said, the research and preparation for both
good and bad content remains the same – all SEO
content needs proper keyword research.
Keyword
research
Finding
the right keywords will not only make you more competitive
as an SEO user, but will also help you understand
your audience better. That’s because keywords
are clues to who your audience is. For example, the
keywords “how to ski” and “ski maintenance”
could technically be placed in the same text contextually,
but they imply that we’re dealing with skiers
of different skill levels.
The
keywords are both guides for the link-building process
and the content. When building links, it’s important
that both the link, the placement, and the publishing
website are relevant in the context in order for Google’s
crawlers to give it a credible ranking.
There
are several tools on the market for finding the best
keywords, and there are also a ton of metrics for
understanding how good a keyword is and what the chances
are of breaking into the competition for that specific
keyword. Common metrics include keyword difficulty,
traffic potential, cost-per-click, etcetera.
Brand
awareness
Ultimately,
what these various tactics aim to do is to bring brand
awareness to your website. People are twice as likely
to purchase from a brand they recognize. An American
study found that 75 percent of shoppers tend to go
for known retailers, and nearly 70 percent do the
same when deciding what search result to click on.
Doing
SEO: alone or SEO agency?
As
you can tell, there is a lot of information and knowledge
that goes into producing and completing good SEO strategies.
If you are considering adapting some SEO strategies,
you may be wondering whether you should do it all
on your own or hire an agency.
Without
sugar-coating it, doing SEO alone is a lot of hard
work. First and foremost, you got to have basic understandings
of both SEO tools, Google Analytics, and good writing
skills. Then you need good networking skills and a
sense of price bargaining to get your links out to
credible sources. On top of this, you need to stay
up to date with all the latest developments within
Google updates, market changes, and new technologies
such as generative AI which can impact your SEO strategies.
All of this can be both time consuming and costly.
If
it feels overwhelming, there are a ton of SEO agencies
on the market that are ready to help. Some of them
focus solely on SEO content production, whereas others
focus solely on technical SEO or solely on SEO link-building.
Some
agencies offer entire packages, where staying SEO
updated, building and optimizing webpages, link-building,
content production, and publishing is included. Together
with the new data-driven strategies and tactics, Media
Man Group offers services that are great for both
those who are somewhat new as to those who are already
familiar and wanting to grow beyond.
FAQ:
Frequently asked questions about SEO
What
is SEO?
SEO
stands for Search Engine Optimization. It is a digital
marketing form that focuses on creating digital visibility
on search engines such as Google by improving websites’
rankings in the search results.
What
is the difference between SEO and SEM?
SEO
stands for Search Engine Optimization and works with
creating organic ranking improvements on platforms
like Google. SEM stands for Search Engine Marketing
and focuses on paid promotions and marketing on platforms
like Google.
How
long does SEO take?
Good
SEO typically takes between 4 months to a year to
see good results. However, it’s crucial to understand
that SEO is a long-term strategy, that is never really
finished. If you are lucky enough to rank at 1 on
Google, the job doesn’t stop there: then you
want to maintain that spot by continuing your SEO
work.
Why
do you need SEO?
SEO
helps to build brand awareness, which is key in gaining
credibility amongst both Google and potential customers.
That’s why SEO is worth it, even if it is a long
game.
Media
Man
The
Media Man Group is primarily and online news, media
and sports management firm and website portal developer.
By default Media Man developed many effective SEO
(Search Engine Optimisation) techniques and strategies
since their launch in 2001. SEO helped elevate Media
Man websites into Hitwise "Top 10" status
(entertainment - personalities) category. Media Man
also offers a range of media and convergent media
services including article copy, PR (public relations),
text link based campaigns, product placement and endorsement,
buzz marketing (via websites and social media) and
brand building. The company is best known for insightful
media analysis, specalising in pop culture/entertainment,
streaming and subscriber television including PPV
(Pay-Per-View), PLE, pro wrestling aka sports entertainment
coverage, MMA (mixed martial arts), and commentary
and coverage on an array of trending topics, with
strong focus on X (formerlly Twitter), Alphabet (Google,
YouTube, Blogger etc) and new and emerging technology
and news platforms and developments. MM is both organic
search and AI search friendly. Media Man is often
referenced in both mainstream, niche and alternative
news media stories. The company motto remains "Putting
Your Name Out There".
Websites
Media
Man
www.mediaman.com.au
Media
Man Int
www.mediamanint.com
#Agency
#Search #PopCulture #SEO #Authority #Expert #Experts
#NewsMedia #Creative #Niche #Agent #PR #AI #GregTingle
#trend #buzz #media #mediaman #mediamanint
PR
Newswire
PRNEWS.IO
News
UFC UFC 308 Anticipation
UFC 308, scheduled for next month in Abu Dhabi, has
generated significant excitement among fans following
the release of its official poster. The event features
notable fighters including Khamzat Chimaev, whose
participation is of particular interest due to his
past health challenges. The poster has been widely
praised for its design, with many considering it one
of the best in UFC history, although the absence of
women's fights has sparked some debate. Overall, UFC
308 is anticipated to be a highlight of the year,
highlighted by its strong lineup and the return to
Abu Dhabi. (Grok)
News
UFC 308 Poster Reception
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to
host UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi on October 26, 2024, marking
another significant international event for the organization.
The event has sparked considerable excitement among
MMA fans, primarily due to the release of its official
poster, which has received widespread acclaim for
its design. Fans and commentators have praised the
poster online, with many expressing high expectations
for the fight card, suggesting it could be one of
the best of the year. The anticipation for UFC 308
not only highlights the event's high-profile nature
but also underscores UFC's ongoing global expansion
and its strong presence in the United Arab Emirates.
(Grok)
News
Anticipation for UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to
host UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi on October 26, 2024, generating
significant excitement among fans. The event's official
poster has been praised for its design, with many
fans and commentators expressing high enthusiasm for
the upcoming fights. Discussions have highlighted
anticipation for performances by fighters like Khamzat
Chimaev, with some fans expressing concerns about
potential withdrawals due to health issues. The event
is viewed as a showcase of UFC's international presence,
particularly in the UAE, and is considered by some
to potentially be one of the best fight cards of the
year. (Grok)
Official Websites
UFC
http://ufc.com
UFC 308
http://ufc.com/event/ufc-308
UFC YouTube
http://youtube.com/UFC
Media Man: Strong thumbs up to UFC and Grok.
Streaming Industry News
Olympics fuels US TV viewership in August
September 2024
US Television viewing in August was boosted by the
2024 Paris Olympics, according to The Gauge report
from Nielsen. The Summer Games had the most notable
impact on broadcast viewership, notching growth levels
more typical for September with increases of 8 per
cent versus July and 11.7 per cent year over year.
The broadcast category ultimately accounted for 22
per cent of TV in August, and when looking week-by-week,
its share peaked during the first week of the interval
with 24.3 per cent of TV.
On the streaming side, Peacock offered broad Olympics
coverage to complement linear offerings, the success
of which was demonstrated by a monthly viewership
increase of 39 per cent for the streaming service
overall, and nearly double the amount of viewers aged
35-49. These factors helped lift Peacock from a 1.5
per cent share of TV in July to a new platform-best
2.1 per cent share in August (+0.6 pts.). It also
makes Peacock only the third streaming platform this
year to record a 0.5 point share increase or more
on a monthly basis, in addition to YouTube (February
and July) and Netflix (June).
Olympics programming on NBC drew millions of viewers
in both primetime and daytime windows. Across all
of NBC’s Olympics telecasts that aired during
the August interval, 32 of them totaled more than
5 million viewers, and 17 garnered more than 10 million
viewers. Moreover, Olympics telecasts on NBC notched
the top 19 broadcast telecasts of the month. Leading
the charge with 17.9 million viewers was NBC’s
July 30th primetime programme that highlighted Simone
Biles and the US women’s gymnastics team winning
gold in the team competition, as well as four American
medals in swimming and the dramatic bronze-medal victory
by the US women’s rugby team.
From a total television usage perspective, August
levels were even with July. However, a year-over-year
comparison revealed a larger imbalance, as usage this
month was up 3.5 per cent versus August 2023. A notable
year-over-year difference was also evident among broadcast
program genres, with broadcast sports programme viewership
up 239 per cent over August 2023, further illustrating
the impact of the Games on the overall TV landscape.
Like the broadcast category, cable also exhibited
a peak viewing week that coincided with a major TV
event. The Democratic National Convention aired for
four nights across multiple networks during the final
week of the August interval, and during that week,
cable’s share of television climbed to 27.9 per
cent. The DNC also contributed to the top cable programmes
in August, with MSNBC receiving most of the benefits.
MSNBC owned the top 11 cable telecasts of the month,
and 14 of the top 15. ESPN’s coverage of the
Florida State vs Georgia Tech football matchup snagged
the 12th spot. In the end, cable viewing was down
2 per cent from July and finished the month with 26.3
per cent of TV.
After several consecutive remarkable months, the
streaming category had a softer month in August from
a content perspective, but remained the clear winner
overall with 41 per cent of TV (down 1 per cent, -0.4
pts.). Only one original programme broke into the
month’s top 10 – The Umbrella Academy on
Netflix totaled 3.9 billion viewing minutes –
while the rest went to acquired titles including Prison
Break, which led the way with 5.4 billion minutes
across Netflix and Paramount+. Bluey on Disney+ generated
over 4 billion viewing minutes to secure the second
most watched streaming title this month. The animated
Australian import helped drive an 8 per cent increase
for the streamer, as Disney+ reached a platform high
of 2.3 per cent of TV in August. Some of the 8 per
cent boost can also be attributed to Hulu content
available within the Disney+ platform to certain package
subscribers.
YouTube won the month among streaming services for
the 19th consecutive interval, posting another category
and platform best in August with 10.6 per cent of
TV. Compared with August 2023, YouTube has the largest
year-over-year difference in share for any streaming
platform and has added 1.5 points to its share of
TV (9.1 per cent to 10.6 per cent). Meanwhile, the
overall streaming category has gained 2.7 points YoY
and is up 11 per cent versus August 2023. (Wires)
Noche UFC aka UFC 306
Combat Sports
UFC Noche aka UFC 306
The Sphere
Las Vegas, Nevada
September 13, 2024
Video Highlights
Dana White Post-Fight Press
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKNLWJXHP18
UFC 306: Post-Fight Press Conference
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDNl6M0WeVQ
Diego Lopes Post-Fight Press Conference | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oapas9F-bec&t=3s
MEXICO TODAY AND TOMORROW – Chapter Six | UFC
306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9HpN4_tZb4
Directed by Paul Trillo, Studio: Factory Fifteen
The final chapter envisions a future Mexico—a
city and civilization evolving from its rich lineage,
as its people propel their culture forward into eternity.
Chris O’Reilly, Co-Founder & ECD of Nexus
Studios, remarks: “The Sphere is the most exciting
screen in the world to be creating stories for right
now. It’s been an incredible journey collaborating
with the visionary Carlos López Estrada and
a host of exceptionally talented directors, designers,
VFX artists, and technical teams to bring this project
to life. This venue pushes the boundaries of immersive
storytelling, and we can’t wait for audiences
to experience the innovation and creativity that have
gone 25 into making this a reality.” (Credit:
UFC)
FIGHTERS & HEROES – Chapter Five | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dB5h_kGj48
Directed by Shynola, Studio: Nexus Studios. Spanning
from the origins of Mexico's history to the present,
iconic figures—from ancient leaders to modern
sports heroes—embody the relentless spirit that
defines the nation’s identity. Shynola, Director
at Nexus Studios, shared: “Crafting a film for
Sphere is truly unlike anything we’ve made before.
The screen fills your field of vision, which means
it has a filmic language all its own unique to this
venue. That’s been both a challenge and a lot
of fun: thinking about shots, composition, lighting,
and movement in new ways to play with and fully utilize
this incredible screen so the audience has the best
experience. Sphere has given us a special opportunity
to tell the story in a new, astounding way. It’s
breath-taking." (Credit: UFC)
BATTLE FOR INDEPENDENCE – Chapter Four | UFC
306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2VwMxZspaQ
Directed by Diego Huacuja, Studio: BASA Estudios.
At a defining moment in history, Mexico stands against
centuries of colonial oppression, as the fight for
independence shatters the chains and reshapes the
future. Diego Huacuja, Director at BASA, highlights
the artistic inspiration: “As a Mexican director,
this project has been a unique challenge, particularly
from a pictorial perspective. Inspired by the greatest
muralist artists of Mexico—Diego Rivera, Juan
O'Gorman, and David Alfaro Siqueiros—we symbolized
11 years of struggle for independence through an epic
animated piece serving as an ode to the entire movement
for Mexican independence.” (Credit: UFC)
RITUALS & TRADITIONS – Chapter Three | UFC
306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo9-QYBcsms
Directed by Paul Nicholls, Studio: Factory Fifteen.
Through the rituals and traditions of Mexico's earliest
civilizations, the essence of the ancestors lives
on, immortalized in customs that endure across generations.
Paul Nichols of Factory Fifteen describes the creative
process: “This project blended the fascinating
research of Mexican rituals and traditions with the
creation of an epic fantasy world for UFC306 inside
The Sphere. It perfectly showcases our detail-oriented
maximalist style—beginning with a single flame
drawing back through a ritualistic cave and culminating
in a striking symbol of Mexico: a colossal skull.
We aimed to leave the audience utterly awestruck.”
(Credit: UFC)
EARLY CIVILIZATIONS – Chapter Two | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9wJt3MW69o
Directed by Saad Moosajee, Co-produced by Analog
Studios Saad Moosajee, a Brooklyn-based artist renowned
for his multidisciplinary approach to animation and
visual effects, transports viewers to the beginnings
of Mexican civilization. In the dawn of what we now
call Mexico, the first settlers forge a legacy of
resilience, igniting a fighting spirit that will shape
the nation for centuries to come. (Credit: UFC)
IN THE BEGINNING – Chapter One | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYAgJRyh0W8
Directed by Joe Sill and Brian Tang, Studio: Impossible
Objects. Three decades since the world first witnessed
a new era of combat, we gather where echoes of warriors
past resonate through time, honoring Mexico’s
enduring legacy. Joe Sill, Director at Impossible
Objects, emphasizes the collaboration: “This
film was an incredible collaborative opportunity to
merge the universes of Mexico’s culture, UFC’s
history, and Impossible Object’s love of world-building
into one unprecedented experience. Seeing this inside
the epic showcase of the Sphere is a breath-taking
view into what the future of storytelling may hold,
and we are thrilled to be a part of it.” (Credit:
UFC)
A Love Letter To Mexico | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWoPknJquiM
Merab Dvalishvili Octagon Interview | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3SsQXDulA8
Valentina Shevchenko Octagon Interview | UFC 306
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJsJvF5eaq4
UFC Official YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube/ufc
Media Man Ed: Strong thumbs up. We largely agree
with many of Dana White's comments and quotes on the
event, such as "The Sphere is the star".
It was a historic happening with world class production
and a real buzz in the air, whether you were there
in person, viewing from a club in Sin City Sydney,
Australia, somewhere in the Middle East or other.
The sports and sports business world was buzzing.
In a way like say pro wrestling at the highest level,
the on the mat action is part of the equation. It's
all about the experience and sports entertainment
elements to a large degree. We popped big time for
the wins by Dvalishvili, Shevchenko and Lopes.
More middleweights and heavyweights will have a chance
to shine at upcoming UFC major events. UFC may just
win an Emmy and/or a range of big event production
awards for this world class event. Congratulations
to those both in the around the Octagon who helped
make it a mega success. Credit where credit is due
in our estimation.
Media Man summary: Strong thumbs up. World class
production. Very entertaining.
Results, Review And Event Lead Up, History and Overview
Merab Dvalishvili def Sean O’Malley by unanimous
decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47)
Valentina Shevchenko def Alexa Grasso by unanimous
decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
Diego Lopes def Brian Ortega by unanimous decision
(30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
Esteban Ribovics def Daniel Zellhuber by split decision
(29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Ronaldo Rodríguez defs Ode Osbourne by unanimous
decision (29-28, 29-27, 29-27)
Norma Dumont def Irene Aldana by unanimous decision
(30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Ignacio Bahamondes def Manuel Torres by TKO (strikes)
at 4:02 of Round 1
Ketlen Souza def Yazmin Jauregui by submission (rear-naked
choke) at 3:02 of Round 1
Joshua Van def Edgar Chairez by unanimous decision
(29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Raul Rosas Jr. def Aoriqileng by unanimous decision
(29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Media Man Ed: Strong thumbs up. We largely agree
with many of Dana White's comments and quotes on the
event, such as "The Sphere is the star".
It was a historic happening with world class production
and a real buzz in the air, whether you were there
in person, viewing from a club in Sin City Sydney,
Australia, somewhere in the Middle East or other.
The sports and sports business world was buzzing.
In a way like say pro wrestling at the highest level,
the on the mat action is part of the equation. It's
all about the experience and sports entertainment
elements to a large degree. We popped big time for
the wins by Dvalishvili, Shevchenko and Lopes.
More middleweights and heavyweights will have a chance
to shine at upcoming UFC major events. UFC may just
win an Emmy and/or a range of big event production
awards for this world class event. Congratulations
to those both in the around the Octagon who helped
make it a mega success. Credit where credit is due
in our estimation.
The Card
Sean O'Malley vs Merab Dvalishvili
Alexa Grasso vs Valentina Shevchenko
Brian Ortega vs Diego Lopes
Daniel Zellhuber vs Esteban Ribovics
Ronaldo Rodríguez vs Ode Osbourne
Prelims:
Irene Aldana vs Norma Dumont
Ignacio Bahamondes vs Manuel Torres
Yazmin Jauregui vs Ketlen Souza#
Edgar Chairez vs Joshua Van
First Prelim:
Raul Rosas Jr. vs Aoriqileng
News
UFC News via Grok
Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili for the UFC Men's
Bantamweight Championship. This fight was highly anticipated,
with O'Malley defending his title against Dvalishvili,
who was on a 10-fight winning streak.
Co-Main Event: Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko
in a trilogy for the UFC Women's Flyweight Championship.
This bout aimed to settle the score after Grasso submitted
Shevchenko in their first meeting and they fought
to a draw in their rematch.
Other Main Card Fights:
Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes at featherweight. Ortega,
known for his submission skills, faced the up-and-coming
Lopes, setting the stage for a potential title contention
if Lopes won.
Daniel Zellhuber vs. Esteban Ribovics in a lightweight
bout.
Ronaldo Rodríguez vs. Ode Osbourne at flyweight.
Preliminary Card Highlights:
Included fights like Manuel Torres vs. Ignacio Bahamondes,
which was highlighted as one of Dana White's 'If you
don't know, now you know' fights, indicating potential
for an exciting or breakout performance.
Event Significance: This event was not only about
the fights but also marked as the first live sporting
event at The Sphere in Las Vegas, showcasing UFC's
innovation in event presentation. The card was celebrated
for its alignment with Mexican Independence Day, featuring
a fight kit symbolizing national pride.
Broadcast and Viewing: The event was available live
on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View, with prelims starting at 7:30
pm ET and the main card at 10 pm ET, marking the first
1080p TV broadcast of a UFC event in ESPN history.
This card was designed to be a spectacle, combining
high-stakes championship fights with cultural celebration,
all within a groundbreaking venue, The Sphere, making
UFC 306 a landmark event in UFC history. (Grok)
UFC Noche News via Grok
UFC Noche is an event that has been highlighted for
its unique setting and significant matchups, particularly
UFC 306, which took place at The Sphere in Las Vegas,
Nevada, on September 14, 2024. Here's what you need
to know based on the information available up to that
date:
Event Significance: UFC Noche at UFC 306 was not
just another fight night; it was described as a once-in-a-lifetime
immersive sporting event, emphasizing its unique venue,
The Sphere, which adds a layer of spectacle to the
traditional UFC fight card.
Main Event: The main event featured Sean O'Malley
defending his bantamweight title against Merab Dvalishvili.
This fight was highly anticipated due to O'Malley's
rising star status and Dvalishvili's impressive winning
streak.
Co-Main Event: Alexa Grasso, the UFC women's flyweight
champion, was set to face Valentina Shevchenko in
what would be their third encounter. Grasso previously
submitted Shevchenko to win the title and later fought
to a split draw in their rematch.
Cultural Celebration: The event coincides with Mexican
Independence Day, adding cultural significance, especially
with fighters like Alexa Grasso representing Mexico.
Fight Card Highlights:
The card included other notable fights like Irene
Aldana vs. Norma Dumont, showcasing a diverse range
of talents and styles within the UFC.
There was also mention of Brian Ortega preparing
to move up in weight but facing challenges with the
weight cut, indicating a potential shift in his career
trajectory.
Public and Media Sentiment: From X posts, there's
excitement around the event, with fans and commentators
discussing the fights, the venue's uniqueness, and
the overall atmosphere of the event.
The use of terms like "steel cage match with
an LED exterior" humorously captures the innovative
setting of The Sphere.
Outcome: Given the date and time provided, the outcomes
of these fights would be known by now, but for the
sake of this summary, let's focus on the anticipation
and setup rather than results, as per your instructions.
UFC Noche, especially UFC 306, was not just about
the fights but about creating a memorable experience
through its venue, the cultural timing, and the high-stakes
matchups, particularly in the bantamweight and flyweight
divisions. This event underscores UFC's strategy to
blend sports entertainment with cultural and technological
innovation. (Grok)
News
Mexican Independence Day News via Grok
Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on September
16th every year, commemorating the beginning of the
Mexican War of Independence from Spain in 1810. Here
are some key points about this significant celebration:
El Grito de Dolores: The celebration typically begins
on the evening of September 15th with "El Grito,"
a reenactment of the famous cry for independence by
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest who called for
the end of Spanish rule in the early morning of September
16, 1810. This event takes place in Dolores Hidalgo,
Guanajuato, and is also reenacted by the President
of Mexico from the National Palace in Mexico City.
Celebrations: The festivities include fireworks,
parades, parties, and patriotic events. The Mexican
flag is prominently displayed, and there are often
military parades, especially in larger cities.
Food and Drink: Traditional Mexican foods like chiles
en nogada (which represent the colors of the Mexican
flag), mole, tamales, and traditional drinks like
atole or tequila are commonly enjoyed during this
time.
Cultural Significance: Unlike Cinco de Mayo, which
commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over the French
Empire at the Battle of Puebla, Mexican Independence
Day is a celebration of the country's independence
from Spain, marking a pivotal moment in Mexican history
and national identity.
Parades and Festivities: The day of September 16th
itself is filled with parades, music, dancing, and
cultural performances. Schools, towns, and cities
organize events to celebrate this national holiday.
If you're interested in how this year's celebrations
might differ due to recent events or changes, or if
there are any special events planned for 2024, I'd
need to check more recent sources. Would you like
me to look that up for you? (Grok)
Media Man: Much respect to all the men and women
fighters in the Octagon.
UFC 307
Markets and Commodities
September 11, 2024
Australian Dollar: $0.6650 USD (down $0.0010 USD)
Iron Ore Oct Spot Price (SGX): $91.00 USD (down $1.35
USD)
Oil Price (WTI): $66.31 USD (down $2.49 USD)
Gold Price: $2,516.51 USD (up $11.13 USD
Copper Price (CME): $4.1050 USD (down 0.0365 USD)
Bitcoin: $57,669.72 USD (down 0.38% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 40,736.96 at 4.59pm NY time (down 92.63
points on yesterday's close)
Market, Commodities and Financial News
Snapshot via Media Man
September 11, 2024
ASX futures down 3 points or 0.04% to 7997 near 6am
AEST
AUD -0.1% to 66.58 US cents
Bitcoin +1.4% to $US57,885
Dow -0.3%
S&P +0.4%
Nasdaq +0.8%
FTSE -0.8%
DAX -1.0%
CAC -0.2%
Gold +0.3% to $US2514.88 an ounce
Brent oil -3.2% to $US69.52 a barrel
Iron ore -0.8% to $US91.00 a tonne
Movie Box Office (North America)
September 8, 2024
1. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $110m
2. Deadpool and Wolverine - $7.2m
3. Reagan - $5.2m
4. Alien: Romulus - $3.9m
5. It Ends with Us - $3.8m
6. The Forge - $2.9m
7. Twisters - $2.3m
8. Blink Twice - $2.2m
9. Despicable Me 4 - $1.8m
10. The Front Room - $1.7
others ...
Afraid
Inside Out 2
Coraline
The Crow
Trap
Stree 2
Borderlands
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The Firing Squad
A Quiet Place: Day One
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The Fabulous Four
Fly Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad Newz
MaXXXine
The Bikeriders
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon: An American Saga
The Lion King
Kalki 2898 AD
Kinds of Kindness
The Garfield Movie
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt & Juliet 3
Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet Planet
The Watchers
IF
The Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa: A Mad Max Story
The Fall Guy
The Strangers: Chapter 1
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle
In a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
* Correct at time of publication
Movie Box Office (North America)
1. Deadpool & Wolverine - $19.5 million
2. Alien: Romulus - $11.5 million
3. It Ends with Us - $9.5 million
4. Reagan - $9.2 million
5. Twisters $8.8 million
6. The Forge - $6.3 million
7. Blink Twice - $5.9 million
8. Despicable Me 4 - $5.6 million
9. Afraid - $4.5 million
10. Inside Out $4 million
Streaming TV
Streaming Entertainment
IMDb: Top Box Office (US)
News
Streaming Entertainment via Grok; X TV Tipped To
Eventually Go Head To Head With YouTube, Netflix,
But Will Take Many Years To Get To That Point; Customers
Waiting To Churn/Switch. Changes Ahead For WBD, HBO,
Binge, Paramount And Many Others - Too Many To List!
Media Man Founder and Subscriber TV Veteran
Streaming entertainment has transformed how we consume
media, offering a vast array of movies, TV shows,
music, and more directly to our devices. Here's a
breakdown of what's happening in this space as of
my last update:
Major Players:
Netflix: Known for its original content like "Stranger
Things," "The Crown," and "Squid
Game." They've been pushing into gaming and have
been experimenting with ad-supported models.
Amazon Prime Video: Comes with Amazon Prime membership.
Notable for "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,"
"The Boys," and its integration with shopping
and other Amazon services.
Disney+: A powerhouse for family entertainment, featuring
Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and classic Disney content.
It's also expanding its library with more adult-oriented
content under the Star banner in some regions.
HBO Max: Offers premium content like "Game of
Thrones," "Chernobyl," and a vast library
of movies. It's also known for its DC Universe shows.
Apple TV+: While newer, it's making waves with high-quality
originals like "Ted Lasso," "The Morning
Show," and "See."
Peacock (NBCUniversal): Provides a mix of free and
premium content, including "The Office,"
WWE, and original series like "Punky Brewster."
Paramount+: Combines CBS All Access with content
from Paramount, Nickelodeon, MTV, and more, featuring
shows like "Star Trek: Discovery" and "The
Stand."
Trends and Developments:
Original Content: There's a massive push towards
creating exclusive content to attract subscribers.
This includes movies, series, documentaries, and even
live sports.
Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing
on international markets, either by offering local
content or by making their service available in more
countries.
Bundling: Companies are bundling their streaming
services with other products. For example, Disney
has bundles with Hulu and ESPN+.
Ad-Supported Models: To combat rising costs, some
platforms like Netflix have introduced or are considering
ad-supported tiers.
Direct-to-Streaming Releases: Movies are increasingly
bypassing traditional theatrical releases, going straight
to streaming platforms, especially noted during global
health crises.
Quality Over Quantity: While there's a lot of content,
platforms are also focusing on high-quality, award-winning
productions to stand out.
Interactive Content: Some platforms are experimenting
with interactive movies or shows where viewers can
choose the plot direction.
Technological Integration: Enhanced with technologies
like 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos for audio,
providing a cinematic experience at home.
Challenges:
Content Saturation: With so many platforms, there's
a risk of content fatigue among viewers.
Churn: Subscribers frequently switch between services
based on what's currently available, leading to high
turnover.
Regulatory Scrutiny: Issues like market dominance,
content licensing, and privacy are increasingly under
regulatory lenses.
Piracy: Despite advanced measures, piracy remains
a challenge, especially for content not easily accessible
in certain regions.
If you're interested in a specific aspect of streaming
entertainment or want to know about recent developments
since my last update, feel free to ask! If there's
a particular service or type of content you're curious
about, I can dive deeper into those areas. (Grok)
News
Streaming TV
Streaming TV has revolutionized how we consume television
content, offering a vast array of shows, movies, and
original programming through internet-based platforms
rather than traditional cable or satellite TV. Here's
a breakdown of what you might be interested in regarding
streaming TV as of my last update:
Key Players:
Netflix: Known for its extensive library, original
content like "Stranger Things," "The
Crown," and "Squid Game," and a global
reach.
Amazon Prime Video: Comes with an Amazon Prime subscription,
offering shows like "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,"
"The Boys," and movies, plus the integration
with shopping services.
Hulu: Offers a mix of current TV episodes, a robust
library of older content, and originals like "The
Handmaid's Tale." It's also notable for its live
TV option.
Disney+: Focuses on family-friendly content, including
Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic.
Hits include "The Mandalorian" and "WandaVision."
HBO Max: Home to HBO's acclaimed series like "Game
of Thrones," "Chernobyl," plus a wide
range of Warner Bros. movies and new originals.
Apple TV+: While newer, it's gaining traction with
high-quality originals like "Ted Lasso,"
"The Morning Show," and "Foundation."
Peacock: NBCUniversal's service, offering a mix of
free and premium content, including "The Office,"
"Parks and Recreation," and new originals.
Trends and Features:
Ad-Supported vs. Ad-Free: Many services now offer
tiers where you can choose between watching with ads
for a lower price or paying more for an ad-free experience.
Live TV Streaming: Services like Hulu + Live TV,
YouTube TV, and Sling TV allow streaming of live broadcast
channels, appealing to sports fans and those who still
want traditional TV experiences.
Bundling: Some platforms offer bundles with internet
service providers or other streaming services to reduce
costs.
Original Content: There's a significant push towards
exclusive, original content to differentiate services,
leading to a golden age of TV with high-quality, diverse
programming.
Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing
on global markets, offering localized content or subtitles/dubbing
in multiple languages.
Technological Considerations:
4K and HDR: Many services now offer content in 4K
resolution and HDR, enhancing viewing quality.
Offline Viewing: Most services allow downloading
content for offline viewing, which is great for travel
or areas with poor internet.
Smart TVs and Devices: Streaming is not just for
computers or smartphones anymore; smart TVs, streaming
sticks (like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick), and gaming
consoles have made streaming accessible on almost
any screen.
Challenges:
Content Fragmentation: With content spread across
multiple services, there's a growing issue of "streaming
fatigue" where consumers feel overwhelmed by
the number of subscriptions needed.
Price Increases: As content quality and exclusivity
rise, so do subscription costs, leading to discussions
about the cost-effectiveness of streaming vs. traditional
cable.
Piracy: The fragmentation and cost have somewhat
revived piracy concerns as viewers look for ways to
access content without multiple subscriptions.
If you're looking for recommendations or have specific
questions about streaming services or shows, feel
free to ask! If there's been a significant update
or new service since my last update, you might want
to check the latest reviews or news for the most current
information. (Grok)
Pro Wrestling
WWE Raw
Scotiabank Saddledome
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
September 9, 2024
Full Raw highlights: Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHGULgW_fDU&t=13s&ab_channel=WWE
"Oh God. Howie is stirring" Wade Barrett
"Uncle Howdy staring down Gable and Gable not
looking for Rowan who came flying in" Joe Tessitore
"Onto the steel stairs" JT
"That Iron Claw slam from Erik Rowan" Wade
Barrett
"This one is as good as over. Get him in the
ring. Pin that man. And mercyfully this carnage will
finally be over" WB
"With all due respect Bret, but your not in
my league" Gunther
"Hockey style punch up right here in Calgary"
WB
"And Drew I can assure you of this. When its
over, and it will be over, I'm going to find peace.
And you know why I'm going to find peace. I'm going
to find peace 'cause I'll know in my heart that it
will be over and its going to be over because October,
Atlanta, Georgia, Bad Blood, it will be CM Punk. It
will be Drew McIntyre. It will be Hell In A Cell"
Adam Pearce
"Oh, let's go" JT
Fans cheer
Bret Hart returns home to Raw in Calgary: Raw, Sept.
9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evRp3gGxIrg&ab_channel=WWE
Drew McIntyre will face CM Punk inside Hell in a
Cell at Bad Blood: Raw highlights, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRcQhjaxLkY&t=3s&ab_channel=WWE
Drew McIntyre to Wade Barrett: “Stay out of
my business”: Raw highlights, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkfpnQc3UUw&ab_channel=WWE
Natalya helps Lyra Valkyria & Zelina Vega def.
Pure Fusion Collective: Raw highlights, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yemWPWKPJIY&ab_channel=WWE
FULL MATCH: Jey Uso wins Intercontinental Title No.
1 Contender’s Tournament: Raw, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7usaFHDITo&t=5s&ab_channel=WWE
Jey Uso is focused on becoming a singles champion:
Raw exclusive, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rzOTentGAQ&t=6s&ab_channel=WWE
The Judgment Day ambush The Terror Twins: Raw highlights,
Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOC0W5swIcA&ab_channel=WWE
Liv Morgan helps steal win for “Dirty”
Dom as Judgment Day brawls with The LWO: Raw, Sept.
9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa-6fCUHPUI&ab_channel=WWE
The Wyatt Sicks conquer American Made in a Street
Fight: Raw highlights, Sept. 9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLzsxsdjoyo&t=11s&ab_channel=WWE
Survivor Series: War Games comes to Vancouver - Tickets
on sale this Friday
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFsLqanLseQ&ab_channel=WWE
Recap
Wyatt Sicks vs American Made - Street Fight
Bret "The Hitman" Hart to appear!
CM Punk & McIntyre appearance
"Dirty" Dom vs Dragon Lee - mask in danger
thanks to Judgement Day?
WWE I/C Contenders Match
Superheroes vs Fyre and Dawn. WWE Women's Tag Team
Title
and more.
Bret Hart returns to Raw tonight: WWE Now, Sept.
9, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXObhqqFXXI&ab_channel=WWE
Media Man: Pumped. Buzz for CM Punk and Drew McIntyre.
McIntyre as seen in the upcoming movie, 'The Killers
Game' Fantasy Booking: Hitman Hart vs Killer McIntyre
in a steel cage! How about it CM Punk? Gonzo Pro Wrestling
scribe! Strong thumbs up.
Media Man Int
WWE News (Media Man Int)
www.mediamanint.com/wwe_news.html
USA Network (Media Man Int)
www.mediamanint.com/usa_network.html
Pop Culture (Media Man Int)
www.mediamanint.com/pop_culture.html
Combat Sports News Via Media Man, X And Grok
Combat Sports News; Publishers Assisted By Elon Musk
Owned X/Grok To Cover Massive Sports Weekend; X's
Grok Enjoys Positive Momentum. Sports And Media Agents
Keen For News Developments Re X Sports PPV's, Special
Sporting Events Via Musk's Platforms, Grok Climbs
Further Towards Netflix And YouTube, Not All Data
Is In Public Domain. X The Everything App Becomes
More Real Each Month. Battle For Eyeballs, Hearts
And Minds Continues, X A Fav With Free Thinkers Which
Aligns With Combat Sports Arena: Media Man
News
AEW All Out Highlights
Based on the information available up to September
8, 2024, here are the highlights from AEW All Out:
MJF vs. Daniel Garcia: The match ended with Daniel
Garcia attempting a high-risk move, a piledriver off
the ropes, showcasing a dramatic and high-stakes conclusion
to their feud.
AEW World Championship Match: Bryan Danielson successfully
defended his title against Jack Perry. The match concluded
with Danielson hitting a series of Busaiku Knees,
with the final one leading to Perry's defeat. Post-match,
there was a significant angle where Killswitch attacked
Danielson, setting up a potential challenge by Christian
Cage, but this was thwarted by the Blackpool Combat
Club (BCC). However, the BCC, including Jon Moxley,
turned on Danielson in a shocking twist, with Moxley
even putting a plastic bag over Danielson's head until
he passed out.
Lights Out Steel Cage Match: Adam Page and Swerve
Strickland had an extremely brutal match, described
by fans and commentators as one of the highlights
of the event, with Page ultimately winning after the
referee stopped the match due to Strickland's condition.
AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Mone retained her
title against Hikaru Shida, though the match was described
as underwhelming compared to other bouts on the card.
Post-Show Reactions: The event was praised for its
intensity, particularly the Page vs. Strickland match,
which was compared to legendary hardcore matches for
its brutality. The turn of events with Bryan Danielson
and the BCC was also a major talking point, indicating
significant storyline developments.
General Sentiment: Fans and reviewers highlighted
the event for its high stakes, dramatic finishes,
and unexpected turns, especially in the world title
scene and the lights out match, marking AEW All Out
as a memorable event in AEW's history for its storytelling
and in-ring action.
These highlights reflect a night filled with intense
wrestling action, significant character developments,
and unexpected twists, making AEW All Out 2024 a notable
event in professional wrestling. (Grok)
News
Hangman and Swerve's Brutal Showdown at AEW All Out
At the AEW All Out event, the cage match between
Hangman Page and Swerve Strickland was marked by its
intense and brutal nature, drawing significant attention
and discussion for its violence and the physical endurance
displayed by both wrestlers. The match, described
as potentially career-defining, showcased high stakes
and extreme physicality, with fans and observers expressing
a mix of shock and admiration. Despite the brutality,
efforts were made to ensure safety. The event has
sparked widespread discussion regarding its impact
and the ongoing rivalry between Hangman and Swerve,
with many highlighting the match's brutality and its
implications for future encounters. (Grok)
News
MJF Triumphs at AEW All Out
At AEW All Out, MJF emerged victorious against Daniel
Garcia in a fiercely contested opening match, highlighted
by Garcia's aggressive start and a dramatic piledriver
from the top rope post-match. The event also showcased
a highly praised match between PAC and Will Ospreay,
celebrated for its athletic prowess and storytelling,
which received widespread acclaim. Additionally, the
tag team match featuring Willow Nightingale and Kris
Statlander was noted for its intensity. The night
concluded with a dramatic 'Final Countdown' segment,
intensifying the audience's excitement. (Grok)
Young Bucks Retain AEW Tag Titles
At AEW All Out, The Young Bucks successfully defended
their AEW World Tag Team Championships against Claudio
Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta. The event was highlighted
by a critically acclaimed match between Will Ospreay
and PAC, noted for its intensity and quality. The
night began with a match between MJF and Daniel Garcia,
where MJF won after a competitive and physically demanding
contest. The event showcased several high-energy matches,
captivating the audience with the athleticism and
storytelling of professional wrestling. (Grok)
News
McCool's Return in WWE 2K24
Michelle McCool is featured as a playable character
in "WWE 2K24," included in the game's roster
as part of the Global Superstars Pack. This pack was
released on September 18, 2024, marking her return
to the WWE video game series. She's categorized under
the Legends section, and this inclusion marks her
7th appearance in the main WWE Games series. There
has been positive sentiment around her inclusion,
with fans expressing excitement about her return to
the game on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where
her flawless representation both in and out of the
ring has been highlighted. (Grok)
News
Padilla's Devastating Elbow at UFC Vegas 97
During UFC Vegas 97, Chris Padilla executed a notable
elbow strike against his opponent, Rongzhu, which
led to significant swelling and closure of Rongzhu's
eye, forcing him to withdraw from the fight. This
move was widely recognized for its precision and impact,
showcasing Padilla's fighting prowess. The event sparked
discussions among fans and commentators who praised
the effectiveness of the strike while also expressing
concern for Rongzhu's injury. (Grok)
News
Andrade vs Silva Highlights UFC Vegas 97
At UFC Vegas 97, Jessica Andrade fought against Natalia
Silva in a match noted for its intensity. Silva showcased
superior speed and agility, effectively using her
footwork and combinations to outmanoeuvre Andrade,
who focused on power and pressure. Despite Andrade's
efforts, Silva's performance was highlighted for its
effectiveness in controlling the fight. The match
ended with some observers scoring it 30-27 in favor
of Silva, emphasizing her striking and defensive skills
against a formidable opponent. Additionally, the event
featured a notable incident where Chris Padilla delivered
a severe elbow strike that caused significant injury
to his opponent's eye, leading to the fight's stoppage.
(Grok)
News
UFC Vegas 97: Natalia Silva
At UFC Vegas 97, Natalia Silva showcased a dominant
performance against Jessica Andrade in the co-main
event. Here's a rundown based on the information available
up to September 8, 2024:
Outcome: Natalia Silva defeated Jessica Andrade via
unanimous decision with all three judges scoring the
bout 30-27 in her favor.
Performance Highlights: Silva demonstrated exceptional
striking, keeping Andrade at bay with a variety of
strikes, including rapid punches and spinning wheel
kicks. Her strategy involved excellent footwork and
movement around the cage, which prevented Andrade
from effectively closing the distance.
Despite Andrade's attempts to pressure and engage
in close-quarters combat, Silva's defense, particularly
her takedown defense, was notable. She managed to
fend off Andrade's grappling attempts, showcasing
adaptability and skill in maintaining her preferred
striking range.
Silva's performance was described as a striking clinic,
with her outstriking Andrade significantly, using
her speed and precision to accumulate points and damage
over the three rounds.
Post-Fight: Both fighters received a $50,000 bonus
for their performance, indicating the fight was considered
highly competitive or entertaining despite the decisive
scoreline.
Silva's victory has positioned her as a significant
contender in the flyweight division, with discussions
about her readiness for a title shot, although she
acknowledged the upcoming title defense by Alexa Grasso
against Valentina Shevchenko.
Public and Media Sentiment: Posts on X (formerly
Twitter) and various reports highlighted Silva's impressive
performance, focusing on her footwork, striking accuracy,
and her ability to control the fight's pace and distance.
There was a clear acknowledgment of Silva's growth
and potential in the UFC.
This event not only marked another win for Silva
but also cemented her status as a top contender in
the UFC's flyweight division, with her performance
against a former champion like Andrade being a significant
statement of her capabilities. (Grok)
News
Garcia's Knockout Streak at UFC Vegas 97
Steve Garcia, known as 'The Mean Machine,' has solidified
his reputation in the UFC by securing five consecutive
knockout victories at UFC Vegas 97, with his latest
win against Kyle Nelson via a notable elbow strike.
His aggressive style and finishing power have not
only impressed fans and analysts but also led to discussions
about potential matchups against top-tier fighters
like Giga Chikadze or Calvin Kattar. Garcia's performance
has drawn comparisons to fighters like Carlos Condit,
marking a significant resurgence in his career. Meanwhile,
Sean Brady defeated Gilbert Burns by unanimous decision
in a match that went the distance, showcasing Brady's
wrestling and striking improvements. The fight was
marked by intense exchanges, including controversial
moments like back-to-back low blows, highlighting
the competitive and sometimes contentious nature of
their bout. (Grok)
News
Brady's Unanimous Win over Burns
Sean Brady secured a unanimous decision victory over
Gilbert Burns at UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas, marking
a significant win in his career. Here's what we gathered
from the event:
Fight Dynamics: Brady was dominant throughout the
fight, utilizing a strategy that involved both striking
and grappling. Despite Burns landing some significant
strikes, Brady's overall activity, control, and volume
of strikes led to his victory. He managed to take
Burns down multiple times and controlled much of the
fight's pace and positioning.
Judges' Scorecards: The judges scored the bout 50-45,
50-45, and 49-46 in favor of Brady, indicating a clear
win with his performance being favored across all
rounds by the judges.
Reactions: Fighters and analysts on platforms like
X (formerly Twitter) expressed that Brady looked impressive,
with some noting his wrestling and improved striking.
There was a sentiment that while Burns had moments
of success, Brady's consistent performance from start
to finish was the deciding factor.
Implications: This win propels Brady further up the
welterweight rankings, with some suggesting he's now
among the elite in the division and could be considered
a title threat. Discussions post-fight included potential
future matchups, with names like Usman being mentioned.
Burns' Performance: Although Burns showed resilience
and landed some of the fight's most significant strikes,
it wasn't enough to sway the judges. This fight might
be seen as a testament to both his durability and
the challenge of facing a rising contender like Brady.
Career Impact: For Brady, this victory over a former
title challenger like Burns is a substantial boost,
likely improving his ranking and setting him up for
potentially bigger fights in the welterweight division.
For Burns, at 38, this might be indicative of a challenging
phase in his career, especially after facing top talents
back-to-back.
From posts and reactions on X, the consensus seems
to be that Brady not only won but did so in a manner
that showcased his growth as a fighter, potentially
setting the stage for a title run in the near future.
(Grok)
News
BKFC
Based on the latest information available up to September
8, 2024, here's what's happening in the world of Bare
Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC):
BKFC 65 was a significant event recently, held at
the Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, UT. Christine
“Misfit” Ferea defended her BKFC World Women’s
Flyweight Championship title for the fourth time in
the main event. The event featured several notable
fights, including Jeremy Stephens securing a win in
the co-main event, and various other fighters making
their mark with victories by TKO or KO.
Fighter Faceoffs and Weigh-Ins: Photos from the BKFC
65 weigh-ins and fighter faceoffs were made available,
indicating pre-event activities that build up to the
fights, showcasing the fighters' readiness and intensity
before the event.
Community Engagement on X: There's chatter on X (formerly
known as Twitter) about potential future announcements
from fighters possibly signing with BKFC, indicating
fan speculation and interest in fighters' career moves.
No Direct Updates on New Events or Signings: As of
the latest updates, there haven't been specific announcements
regarding upcoming events beyond BKFC 65 or new high-profile
signings directly from BKFC's official channels or
related discussions on X. However, the community remains
active, discussing potential matchups and the outcomes
of recent fights.
For the most current and detailed updates, or if
there's interest in specific fighters or upcoming
events, checking the official BKFC website or their
official social media channels would provide the most
accurate information. (Grok)
News
Professional Fighters League (PFL)
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is an American
mixed martial arts (MMA) league known for its innovative
approach to MMA competition, where fighters compete
in a regular season, playoffs, and championship format,
similar to traditional sports leagues. Here are some
key updates and features about the PFL:
Format: The PFL operates on a sports-season format,
which includes a regular season where fighters accumulate
points based on their performance (wins, knockouts,
submissions), followed by playoffs and a championship
event. This structure aims to incentivize fighters
to perform at their best in every fight.
SmartCage™: PFL introduced the SmartCage, which
is equipped with technology to capture real-time data
during fights. This includes biometric data like heart
rate, performance metrics like the speed and number
of strikes, and positional data. This technology enhances
viewer engagement by providing live stats during broadcasts,
known as Cagenomics™.
GhostCam™: This is another technological innovation
by PFL, allowing viewers to see the action inside
the cage without the visual obstruction of the cage
mesh, providing an "in the cage" viewing
experience.
Recent Developments: Acquisition of Bellator: PFL
acquired Bellator MMA, which has led to discussions
and some confusion among fans regarding the integration
of the two promotions, including how fighters from
both leagues will be managed, and the distribution
of their events across different platforms like ESPN
for PFL and potentially others for Bellator.
Rule Differences: There's been notable discussion
around rule differences, particularly the ban on elbow
strikes in PFL which contrasts with other promotions
like Bellator where elbows are allowed. This has sparked
debate among fans and fighters about the consistency
and fairness in MMA rules across different leagues.
International Expansion: PFL announced the launch
of PFL MENA, targeting the Middle East and North Africa
market, indicating a strategic move towards global
expansion.
Fighter Contracts and Advocacy: Jake Paul has been
involved with PFL, not just as a fighter but in roles
related to fighter advocacy and promotion, aiming
to improve conditions and opportunities for fighters.
Fan and Fighter Sentiment: Recent posts on platforms
like X (formerly Twitter) reflect a mix of frustration
and enthusiasm among fans and fighters. There's criticism
over rule sets, the handling of fighter contracts,
and the overall direction of the league post-acquisition
of Bellator. However, there's also excitement about
the technological advancements and the potential for
more competitive and financially rewarding opportunities
for fighters.
Event Schedule: Upcoming events include the "Battle
of the Giants PPV" scheduled for October 19,
indicating continued high-profile events aimed at
showcasing top talent in the heavyweight division.
The PFL continues to evolve, focusing on technological
innovation, fighter welfare, and global expansion,
while also navigating the complexities of merging
with Bellator and managing fan expectations regarding
rules and fighter treatment. (Grok)
News
Nurmagomedov Defends Bellator Title
Usman Nurmagomedov successfully defended his Bellator
Lightweight Championship against Alexander Shabliy
at Bellator Champions Series: San Diego on September
7, 2024. The fight concluded with Nurmagomedov winning
via unanimous decision with the judges' scorecards
reading 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46. This victory marked
Nurmagomedov's record to 18-0, maintaining his undefeated
streak and his reign as the Bellator lightweight champion.
The event was notable for its tactical nature, with
Nurmagomedov showcasing a calculated approach to retain
his title. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) and various
MMA news outlets celebrated Nurmagomedov's defense,
with many highlighting his dominance and the strategic
depth of the fight. (Grok)
News
Mike Tyson - Jake Paul
The boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul
has drawn significant attention due to the unique
pairing of a legendary former heavyweight champion,
Tyson, with the YouTube-star-turned-boxer, Paul. Here's
what you need to know based on the latest available
information up to September 8, 2024:
Rescheduled Date: The fight was initially set for
July 20, 2024, but was postponed due to a medical
issue involving Mike Tyson. It has been rescheduled
for November 15, 2024.
Venue: The bout will still take place at AT&T
Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which is known for being
the home of the Dallas Cowboys.
Streaming: The event will be streamed live on Netflix,
marking one of Netflix's ventures into live sports
events.
Fight Details: The match is sanctioned as a professional
fight, not an exhibition, despite initial ambiguity.
They will fight over eight two-minute rounds using
14-ounce gloves.
Background: Mike Tyson, at 57, is stepping back into
the ring after his last professional fight in 2005,
although he did have an exhibition match with Roy
Jones Jr. in 2020. Jake Paul, much younger at 27,
has been actively boxing since 2018, with a professional
record of 9-1.
Health Issue: Tyson experienced an ulcer flare-up
which led to the postponement, ensuring he had adequate
time to recover and train.
Public Interest: There's considerable intrigue around
this fight due to the age difference, the blending
of entertainment with professional boxing, and the
question of how Paul's relatively new boxing skills
will fare against Tyson's legendary prowess, albeit
aged.
Additional Fights: The event card also includes a
highly anticipated rematch between Katie Taylor and
Amanda Serrano for the undisputed junior welterweight
championship.
Viewing Information: For those interested in watching,
the fight card will be exclusively available on Netflix,
with no specific start time mentioned yet for the
main event.
This match-up represents a crossover between different
eras of boxing and entertainment, drawing eyes from
both traditional boxing fans and those who follow
Paul from his YouTube fame. (Grok)
News
Australia
Controversial Try Decides Manly vs Sharks
In a crucial NRL match, the Cronulla Sharks defeated
the Manly Sea Eagles with a final score of 34-14,
significantly boosting their prospects as they approach
the finals. The game was contentious, marked by controversial
referee decisions including questionable tries and
penalties, which led to widespread debate among fans
about the fairness of the officiating. Manly's performance
was notably criticized for its lack of effort and
strategic depth, particularly highlighted by the absence
of key player Tom Trbojevic. Conversely, the Sharks
demonstrated improvement, having defeated several
top teams this season, which has enhanced their confidence.
This win has strategically positioned the Sharks well
for the upcoming finals, while Manly faces the challenge
of regrouping and strategizing ahead of their next
match, likely against the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium.
(Grok)
Media Man
News
Streaming Movies Top 10 (North America)
August 27, 2024
1. Furiosa (Max)
2. The Union (Netflix)
3. Jackpot (Prime Video)
4. The Instigators (Apple TV+)
5. Alien (Hulu)
6. The Bikeriders (Peacock)
7. Immaculate (Hulu)
8. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)
9. Alien: Covenant (Hulu)
10. Twister (Max)
News
Top 10 Streaming TV (North America)
August 27, 2024
1. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)
2. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)
3. Industry (Max)
4. The Bear (Hulu)
5. From (Prime Video)
6. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)
7. Emily in Paris (Netflix)
8. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)
9. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)
10. Evil (Paramount+)
Streaming Media Industry Disruptions Continue
Additional Mergers And Acquisitions Forecast
Live Sport Major Draw As Per Netflix
Compelling Storylines And Series Keeps Audience Coming
Back For More As Per WWE
Combat Sports Storytelling And Talent Elevation As
Per Dana Whites Contenders Series
Free Services With Ads Supported Has Taken Some Audience
As Per Tubi
YouTube Cemented As Major Challenge To Netflix
Paramount's Quality And Iconic Movies Keep Them Valuable
Commodity, Despite Bottom Line Loss
X Corp's X Platform One To Watch For Major Industry
Disruption; WWE Speed Deal With WWE Just A Minor Preview
Of What's On The Cards
Media Man
American, European and Australian Sports News via
Grok; Elon Musk Grok Takes The Sports Fan And Sports
News Publisher Around The Globe In Seconds Ala Virtual
News Time Travel Machine: Media Man
News
Joshua vs Dubois at Wembley
August 31, 2024
The upcoming boxing event, #RiyadhSeasonCard: Wembley
Edition, features a highly anticipated heavyweight
match between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, set
for September 21, 2024, at Wembley Stadium. This fight
is highlighted by Joshua's undefeated record against
British fighters, which he aims to maintain. The event
has been described as potentially historic, with expectations
to break attendance records. Additional tickets have
been released due to high demand, indicating significant
public interest in what is being promoted as an unmissable
event in the boxing calendar. (Grok)
News
Joshua vs. Dubois Tickets Released
Additional tickets are now available for the highly
anticipated heavyweight boxing match between Anthony
Joshua and Daniel Dubois, scheduled for September
21, 2024, at Wembley Stadium. This event, part of
the Riyadh Season Card: Wembley Edition, is expected
to set an attendance record with the stadium's capacity
increased to 96,000. The fight is being promoted as
a historic occasion, with significant interest from
boxing fans and includes a special performance by
Liam Gallagher. Promotional efforts by various boxing
organizations and figures have urged fans to secure
tickets for what is described as a potential heavyweight
classic. (Grok)
News
Hamilton Leads FP2 at Italian GP
During the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, Lewis Hamilton
of Mercedes set the fastest lap in the second free
practice session (FP2), followed closely by Lando
Norris of McLaren and Carlos Sainz of Ferrari. Ferrari
demonstrated strong performance with both cars in
the top five. George Russell, also from Mercedes,
faced delays due to an earlier crash by Andrea Kimi
Antonelli but managed to place sixth. McLaren also
showed promising pace with Norris in second and Piastri
in fourth. Red Bull Racing encountered issues, with
Max Verstappen experiencing a lock-up and the team
addressing concerns about top speed. The session highlighted
intense competition among Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari,
setting up an anticipated close qualifying session.
Despite his crash, Antonelli provided valuable data
to his team. (Grok)
News
Antonelli Crash Halts FP1 at Italian GP
During the first practice session (FP1) at the Italian
Grand Prix in Monza, rookie driver Kimi Antonelli
of Mercedes experienced a significant crash at the
Parabolica corner, leading to a red flag. Despite
initially setting the fastest lap, Antonelli's session
ended prematurely with his car heavily damaged, though
he was reported to be unharmed. Max Verstappen from
Red Bull Racing set the fastest time of the session,
demonstrating strong performance. The incident also
impacted Antonelli's teammate George Russell, who
had to wait for repairs before participating in FP2.
Other teams like McLaren and Ferrari also reported
on their performances, with McLaren's drivers in the
top five and Ferrari's drivers finishing second and
fourth. (Grok)
News
COTA Hosts First Hypercar and LMGT3 Practice
The FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) is currently
hosting the 6 Hours of COTA, also known as Lone Star
Le Mans, at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin,
Texas. This event marks the first time Hypercars and
LMGT3 cars are racing together at this track. Notable
participants include teams from Porsche, Toyota Gazoo
Racing, Ferrari, Jota Sport, and Aston Martin. During
the first practice session (FP1), Porsche Penske Motorsport's
#5 car, driven by Matt Campbell, set the fastest lap
time of 1:53.574. The event also introduced specially
equipped safety cars, including a Porsche 911 Turbo
S with lightweight wheels. This race is significant
for its competitive field and its strategic importance
in the championship standings. (Grok)
News
WEC's Historic Hypercar Race at COTA
The FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) is currently
hosting the 6 Hours of COTA race at the Circuit of
the Americas in Austin, Texas, marking a significant
event as it features both Hypercars and LMGT3 cars
racing together for the first time at this venue.
Prominent teams like Toyota GAZOO Racing, Porsche
Motorsport, Ferrari Hypercar, and Peugeot Sport are
participating, showcasing new models such as the Peugeot
9X8. The event highlights include experienced drivers
like Andre Lotterer, who is aiming for another podium
finish with an impressive track record at COTA, and
the debut of new car models. Activities during the
practice sessions involved teams adjusting setups,
changing drivers, and adapting to track conditions,
drawing considerable attention to the competitive
spirit of endurance racing. (Grok)
News
Rhea Ripley Showcases Ink in WWE Tattooed Series
Rhea Ripley, a prominent WWE wrestler, was featured
in a special segment titled 'WWE Tattooed,' where
she showcased her extensive tattoo collection. This
episode included a photoshoot and discussions about
her tattoos, engaging fans with insights into her
personal style and past rivalries, notably with Charlotte
Flair. Ripley also shared stories about her fans'
enthusiasm for her tattoos, particularly highlighting
their reaction to a recent addition to her scorpion
tattoo. The segment received positive feedback, enhancing
Ripley's popularity within the WWE community. Additionally,
Ripley discussed a time she got a matching tattoo
with fellow wrestler Toni Storm, further personalizing
her connection with fans and colleagues. (Grok)
News
WWE vs. AEW: Talent Pay Debate
The professional wrestling industry is currently
embroiled in a debate over wrestler compensation,
sparked by AEW's high-paying contracts to Swerve Strickland
and Daniel Garcia. WWE has criticized these contracts,
suggesting they exceed market value and could inflate
salary expectations industry-wide, potentially harming
the sport. Conversely, many fans and industry figures
support AEW's approach, arguing that wrestlers deserve
higher compensation due to the physical demands of
their job. This perspective sees AEW's strategy as
fostering a competitive market that might lead to
better overall compensation in wrestling. Critics
of WWE's stance argue that their reluctance to match
AEW's offers undervalues talent and could impact WWE's
ability to retain or attract top wrestlers. The discussion
reflects broader issues about wrestler worth, the
economics of wrestling promotions, and the effects
of competition on talent contracts. (Grok)
News
WWE Criticizes AEW Contracts as Overspending
Professional wrestlers Swerve Strickland and Daniel
Garcia have signed lucrative contracts with All Elite
Wrestling (AEW), which WWE views as detrimental to
the wrestling industry, claiming the salaries exceed
market value. This perspective has ignited a debate
about compensation in wrestling. Supporters of higher
pay argue that wrestlers, who endure significant physical
tolls, deserve substantial compensation, akin to athletes
in other major sports. Critics of WWE's stance believe
the company's opposition stems from a reluctance to
increase their own payroll, potentially driven by
profit considerations rather than the welfare of the
performers. The situation underscores broader issues
of pay equity and the impact of competition on industry
standards, with some seeing AEW's strategy as beneficial
for raising overall compensation levels in wrestling.
(Grok)
News
Swerve Strickland's Lucrative AEW Deal
Swerve Strickland has signed a lucrative contract
with AEW, placing him among the highest-paid wrestlers
alongside stars like Kazuchika Okada and Mercedes
Moné. This deal has stirred debate within the
wrestling community, particularly from WWE, which
considers the contract to exceed the perceived market
value significantly. Critics from WWE argue that such
high compensation could inflate industry salary expectations,
potentially forcing WWE to increase its own wrestlers'
pay. However, supporters of the deal highlight the
physical demands and lack of off-season in wrestling,
suggesting that wrestlers deserve substantial compensation.
This situation underscores broader issues regarding
talent compensation, market value assessments, and
the competitive dynamics between AEW and WWE in the
professional wrestling landscape. (Grok)
News
Swerve's AEW Deal: Highest in Pro Wrestling
Swerve Strickland has recently signed a lucrative
contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), reportedly
placing him among the highest-paid wrestlers in the
industry, comparable to stars like Kazuchika Okada
and Mercedes Moné. This deal, extending through
September 2029, has drawn criticism from WWE officials,
who argue that the financial terms are excessively
high and could set an unsustainable precedent for
wrestler salaries. Despite WWE's contention that Strickland's
market value does not justify such compensation, many
fans and industry observers believe his performances
and popularity warrant his high salary. Additionally,
WWE's critique coincides with their unsuccessful attempts
to reacquire Strickland and recruit other talents
like Daniel Garcia, who chose to remain with AEW.
This situation highlights a competitive landscape
where wrestler contracts are becoming more financially
rewarding. (Grok)
News
Strickland's AEW Deal Stirs Market Controversy
Swerve Strickland has signed a lucrative contract
with AEW, placing him among the highest-paid wrestlers
alongside stars like Kazuchika Okada and Mercedes
Moné. This deal has sparked controversy within
the wrestling industry, particularly from WWE, who
argue that such high compensation sets an unsustainable
market value for wrestlers. Critics suggest WWE's
stance might stem from their own financial interests,
particularly after releasing Strickland only to see
him succeed elsewhere. Supporters of high-value contracts
highlight the physical toll on wrestlers and argue
they deserve substantial pay. This situation underscores
ongoing debates about wrestler compensation, market
dynamics, and the competitive landscape between WWE
and AEW. (Grok)
News
Jon Jones Defiant on Aspinall Fight
Jon Jones, the UFC heavyweight champion, has publicly
expressed confidence in defeating Tom Aspinall, the
interim champion, but has chosen to fight Stipe Miocic
instead. This decision has sparked debates about Jones's
legacy and his avoidance of Aspinall, with critics
arguing that Jones should defend his title against
the interim champion who has actively defended his
belt. Jones, however, insists that his legacy is secure
regardless of the fight outcome, highlighting his
long-term dominance in the sport. Discussions also
touch on Jones's past, including his performances
and controversies like failed drug tests, questioning
whether his refusal to fight Aspinall might affect
his reputation or if his established record justifies
his choices. (Grok)
News
McAfee Donates $1M to WVU NIL Collective
Pat McAfee, a former NFL player and West Virginia
University alumnus, hosted a live broadcast of his
show in Morgantown, West Virginia, creating significant
local excitement. The event was so anticipated that
local schools closed due to expected traffic congestion,
and a large crowd gathered. During the show, McAfee
announced a $1 million donation to West Virginia's
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective, the Country
Roads Trust, to support student-athletes. The event
featured appearances by notable figures including
Nick Saban and highlighted the enthusiasm of WVU fans,
particularly for quarterback Garrett Greene. This
live show not only boosted local spirit but also emphasized
McAfee's ongoing influence and connection to his alma
mater. (Grok)
News
McAfee Hosts Massive WVU Live Show
Pat McAfee, a former NFL kicker and West Virginia
University alum, hosted a live broadcast of his show
in Morgantown, creating significant local excitement.
The event was so anticipated that local schools closed
due to expected traffic congestion. McAfee's show
attracted a crowd reportedly larger than those seen
at major college football events like College GameDay.
During the broadcast, McAfee announced a $1 million
donation to West Virginia's NIL collective, the Country
Roads Trust, to support student-athletes. The event
featured appearances by notable figures including
Nick Saban, who discussed the challenges West Virginia
faces in their upcoming game against Penn State. The
atmosphere in Morgantown was described as electric,
reflecting high expectations for the football season
opener. (Grok)
News
College Football Season Kickoff
The 2024 College Football Season is kicking off with
significant attention on several fronts:
New Kickoff Rule: College football is studying the
new NFL kickoff rule during the 2024 season, aiming
to make the play safer while maintaining its excitement.
This rule, inspired by the XFL, adjusts where players
line up and when they can move, promoting more returns
but with reduced high-speed collisions.
Marquee Matchups: The season starts with several
high-profile games. Notably, LSU faces USC in the
Vegas Kickoff Classic on September 1, a game that's
drawing considerable betting interest. Other early
games include Georgia vs. Clemson and Florida vs.
Miami, setting the stage for what's expected to be
a competitive season.
Team Preparations and Expectations:
Penn State is entering the season with new coordinators
and high hopes for making the College Football Playoff,
focusing on the progression in their quarterback room.
Michigan State under new leadership with head coach
Jonathan Smith, looks to redefine its play.
Colorado, led by Deion Sanders, has already begun
its season against North Dakota State, unveiling new
uniforms and showcasing key players like Travis Hunter.
Player Spotlight:
Players like Oregon's Dillon Gabriel are on the watch
for breaking records, with expectations high for quarterbacks
returning from injuries like Cam Rising of Utah and
Riley Leonard, now at Notre Dame.
Game Day Insights: From X posts, there's a buzz about
the start of the season with live updates, game previews,
and fan reactions, indicating high excitement and
engagement from the community.
Cultural Impact and Media: The season's kickoff is
not just about the games but also the cultural phenomenon,
with extensive media coverage, fan events in places
like Las Vegas, and discussions around team strategies,
player health, and the future of college football
formats.
This season promises to be intriguing with new rules,
team dynamics, and the ever-present quest for the
College Football Playoff, capturing the attention
of fans and bettors alike as teams and players aim
to make their mark. (Grok)
News
Sea Eagles Triumph Over Bulldogs
The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles achieved a significant
victory over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs with
a final score of 34-22 at Accor Stadium. This win
marked Manly's 10th victory in their last 11 encounters
against the Bulldogs. The match was notable for Manly's
strong performance, highlighted by plays from Haumole
Olakau'atu and a late try by Mahoney, despite a concerning
injury to Tom Trbojevic who left the field with a
bleeding right arm. Bulldogs fans and players, while
disappointed, remain optimistic, pointing to their
team's overall successful season and their standing
in the finals. Discussions following the game focused
on player performances, the impact of the result on
team standings, and strategies moving forward in the
NRL season. (Grok)
News
Bulldogs Slip, Sea Eagles Soar
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs suffered a significant
loss against the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in the
NRL, with the final score at 34-22 favoring Manly.
This match was pivotal as it highlighted various aspects
of both teams' performances and strategies. Manly's
victory was marked by strong individual performances,
notably by Haumole Olakau'atu, and strategic plays
that capitalized on controversial referee decisions,
including a non-enforced sin bin for Manly's Tom Trbojevic.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, faced challenges
including fatigue from extensive travel and a reshuffled
backline, which might have contributed to their subpar
performance. Despite the loss, Bulldogs' fans and
commentators remained optimistic, viewing the game
as a learning opportunity and a chance for the team
to regroup. Manly's win has significant implications
for their pursuit of a home final, while the Bulldogs'
chances of securing a top-four position were impacted.(Grok)
News
All-Australian Team 2024 Selection Controversy
The 2024 AFL All-Australian team selection has ignited
significant debate among fans and analysts, focusing
on the criteria and composition of the team. Traditionally
comprising 22 players, this year's selection faced
scrutiny for its inclusion of players from underperforming
teams like the West Coast Eagles, and the exclusion
of others who had standout seasons. Critics argued
over the balance between positional requirements and
individual merit, suggesting a shift towards selecting
purely the best 22 players regardless of their position.
Notable controversies included the omission of players
like Charlie Curnow and Tom Papley, while players
like Nick Daicos and Marcus Bontempelli were celebrated
for their performances, with Daicos being named the
AFL Coaches Association Champion Player. The selection
process was criticized for potential biases, prompting
discussions on how the All-Australian team could better
reflect the season's top performers. Despite the controversies,
the team's announcement highlighted achievements like
Ollie Dempsey winning the Rising Star award and Marcus
Bontempelli receiving the Leigh Matthews Trophy for
the Most Valuable Player. (Grok)
Sports, Combat Sports; Grok Continues To Assist Media
And Online Media Firms At The Speed Of News; Nears
99 Percent Accuracy - Media Man Group
August 22, 2024
News
Cena Declares Reigns as WWE GOAT
John Cena has publicly declared Roman Reigns as the
greatest of all time (GOAT) in professional wrestling,
attributing the significant rise in WWE/TKO stock
value during Reigns' tenure as evidence. This statement
has ignited a debate among wrestling fans and enthusiasts.
Some fans agree with Cena, highlighting Reigns' current
dominance and his impact on WWE's financial success.
However, others argue that while Reigns is exceptional,
he does not surpass historical figures like The Rock,
Stone Cold Steve Austin, or even Cena himself in terms
of overall influence and legacy. The discussion reflects
a generational shift in wrestling's GOAT debate, with
newer fans potentially viewing Reigns differently
than veterans who recall the era of The Rock and Austin.
(Grok)
News
Danielson Declares Wrestling Supremacy
During a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, Bryan Danielson
confidently declared himself the best wrestler in
the world, a claim he has upheld for the past 20 years.
This statement was a focal point of the episode, drawing
significant attention and support from fans and commentators.
Danielson's promo not only showcased his confidence
but also set the stage for his upcoming match at AEW's
All In event, where he is expected to challenge for
the AEW World Title. The episode also featured other
matches, but Danielson's proclamation and the crowd's
enthusiastic response highlighted the high stakes
and anticipation for the future event. (Grok)
News
Danielson Claims Best Wrestler Title
The latest episode of AEW Dynamite, which aired on
August 21, 2024, from Cardiff, was a pivotal go-home
show leading up to the AEW All In event at Wembley
Stadium. The episode was marked by high energy from
both the performers and the audience. Bryan Danielson
made a bold claim, declaring himself the best wrestler
in the world, a statement that was met with significant
fan and commentator support. The show featured strong
promos from key figures like Britt Baker, Mercedes,
MJF, and Will Ospreay, all contributing to the anticipation
for All In. AEW President Tony Khan expressed his
gratitude for the audience's support, highlighting
the show's importance in setting the stage for the
upcoming major event. The episode was widely praised
for its wrestling quality and storytelling, effectively
building momentum towards AEW All In. (Grok)
News
UFC Vegas 96 Betting Highlights
Ahead of UFC Vegas 96, fans and analysts are actively
discussing predictions and betting strategies for
the event. Key points include Jared Cannonier being
seen as a value bet despite his underdog status against
Caio Borralho, and the addition of a last-minute fight
between Zygimantas Ramaska and Fletcher. Discussions
are centered around potential outcomes, with some
focusing on specific bets like Llontop at +186 odds.
The main event features Edmen Shahbazyan, with speculation
on whether he will secure another finish. The community
is engaging with detailed fight breakdowns, betting
tips, and varied predictions, reflecting a mix of
professional analysis and casual fan insights. (Grok)
News
Beterbiev vs. Bivol Set for Boxing Showdown
The upcoming boxing event on October 12th features
a much-anticipated match between Dmitry Beterbiev
and Dmitry Bivol, widely considered one of the top
fights in recent boxing schedules. Beterbiev, known
for his knockout streak, will face Bivol, who is recognized
for his technical boxing skills. Predictions for the
fight are split, with some believing Bivol's skill
might lead to Beterbiev's corner stopping the fight,
while others anticipate Beterbiev's aggressive style
could overpower Bivol. This event has sparked significant
discussion among fans and analysts about the potential
outcomes. Additionally, there was a notable fight
on ProBox TV between Jarrett Hurd and Jeison Rosario,
which ended controversially in the second round, aimed
at keeping the fighters relevant in their divisions.
(Grok)
News
One Month to Joshua-Dubois Showdown
The upcoming boxing event, #RiyadhSeasonCard: Wembley
Edition, is scheduled for September 21 at Wembley
Stadium, UK, featuring a headline fight between Anthony
Joshua and Daniel Dubois for the IBF World Heavyweight
Crown. This event has generated significant anticipation
among boxing fans, with tickets available through
various platforms. Prominent figures in the boxing
community, including Turki Alalshikh, have actively
promoted the event, highlighting its importance in
the boxing calendar. Discussions around the event
include the potential for an upset, with some backing
Dubois to defeat Joshua. The event is part of a broader
series of boxing matches, marking a notable moment
for fans of the sport. (Grok)
News
BKFC
The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is
an American bare-knuckle boxing promotion that has
become quite popular since its inception in April
2018. Here's what you need to know based on the latest
information:
Events and Schedule: BKFC has upcoming events including
BKFC 65 FEREA VS MASSON-WONG on September 6, 2024,
and BKFC 66 BLAS VS REBER on September 13, 2024. They're
also expanding internationally with BKFC SPAIN set
for October 12, 2024.
Regulation and Structure: BKFC is the first promotion
allowed to hold legal, sanctioned, and regulated bare
knuckle events in the U.S. since 1889. Fighters are
allowed to wrap and tape their wrists, thumbs, and
mid-hand, but no gauze or tape can cover the knuckles
within 1 inch.
Fighter Rankings: BKFC employs a ranking system where
champions and interim champions automatically hold
the top spots in their respective weight classes.
Fighters inactive for over 12 months are dropped
from the rankings.
Media and Accessibility: BKFC has an official app
where fans can watch live events, past fights, and
access fighter profiles for a subscription fee. This
indicates their push towards digital media for broader
accessibility.
Public Sentiment and Coverage: From posts on X, there
doesn't seem to be any direct discussion or updates
specifically about BKFC's latest events or fighter
news, but the platform's nature means there could
be discussions or updates in various threads or posts
that might not be directly linked to BKFC but could
discuss related topics like combat sports trends or
fighter performances.
Critical Examination: While BKFC has brought back
the historical aspect of bare knuckle fighting, the
sport's resurgence also sparks discussions on safety,
the spectacle of violence, and its appeal in modern
combat sports culture. Critics might argue about the
ethics of promoting a sport where the lack of gloves
could lead to more severe injuries, while fans and
participants might highlight the raw, unfiltered nature
of the competition as its primary draw.
Remember, while X posts can give insights into public
sentiment or real-time reactions, they're not always
factual or comprehensive sources for event-specific
updates or official news. For the most accurate and
current information on BKFC, checking directly with
their official website or app would be advisable.
(Grok)
News
Josh Barnett's Bloodsport
Josh Barnett's Bloodsport is a series of professional
wrestling events that blend elements of mixed martial
arts (MMA) with traditional pro wrestling, focusing
on a more realistic and hard-hitting style. Here's
what's been happening recently around this event:
Event Details: The latest Bloodsport event, Bloodsport
XI, took place on July 28, 2024, at Roulette Intermedium
in Brooklyn, New York. This event featured a mix of
well-known names from both wrestling and MMA backgrounds,
showcasing matches that end by knockout, submission,
or referee stoppage, reflecting the event's ethos
of minimal rules.
Notable Matches and Results:
Heddi Karaoui defeated Brian Johnson in what was
likely an opening match, setting the tone for the
event.
Julius Creed from WWE had a victory over Matt Makowski,
highlighting WWE talent's participation in the event.
Masha Slamovich won against Jody Threat, another
match that ended with a referee stoppage.
Royce Isaacs managed to defeat Charlie Dempsey, which
was surprising given Dempsey's WWE background.
Brutus Creed also from WWE, defeated "Filthy"
Tom Lawlor, another notable match where WWE talent
was showcased.
Homicide won against Mike Santana, showing a mix
of TNA and indie wrestling talent.
Josh Barnett himself competed, defeating Bad Dude
Tito by knockout, which is in line with the event's
theme of showcasing real combat skills.
MVP's Confrontation: Post-event discussions highlighted
a confrontation between MVP and Josh Barnett, where
MVP challenged Barnett to a future fight, indicating
a potential storyline or match setup for future events.
International Expansion: Josh Barnett has taken Bloodsport
international with Bloodsport Bushido in Tokyo, Japan,
on June 22, 2024, at Ryogoku Kokugikan, featuring
names like Minoru Suzuki, which underscores the event's
global appeal and its blend of wrestling cultures.
Fan and Media Reaction: The event has been praised
for its unique approach to wrestling, bringing in
fans from both the wrestling and MMA communities.
The inclusion of WWE talent in Bloodsport events has
been a point of interest, suggesting a crossover appeal
that might attract a broader audience or serve as
a platform for WWE stars to show a different side
of their wrestling skills.
This series continues to push the boundaries of what's
expected in professional wrestling, focusing on a
more grounded, combat sports approach, which appeals
to fans looking for something different from the usual
scripted wrestling fare. (Grok)
News
Bloodsport
The Sport: In a broader context, "bloodsport"
refers to any sport or entertainment that involves
bloodshed, often to the death or serious injury of
animals or humans. This can include:
Historical Context: Events like gladiatorial combat
in ancient Rome or medieval jousting.
Modern Interpretations: Some might consider extreme
fighting sports like MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) or underground
fight clubs as modern forms of bloodsport, though
these are highly regulated to prevent serious injury
or death.
Cultural Impact: The term "bloodsport"
has also been used metaphorically to describe any
highly competitive or ruthless activity, not necessarily
involving physical combat, where participants might
be seen as fighting for survival or dominance.
If you're referring to something specific about "Bloodsport,"
like a sequel, a remake, or a particular scene, let
me know! (Grok)
News
Pay-Per-View (PPV)
Pay-Per-View (PPV) is a television distribution model
where viewers pay to watch specific events or programs,
typically on a one-time basis. Here's a deeper look
into how it functions:
Business Model:
Revenue: PPV events generate revenue directly from
viewers, which can be particularly lucrative for high-demand
content like major sporting events, boxing matches,
concerts, or exclusive movie premieres.
Cost: The price for viewing can vary widely, depending
on the event's popularity, exclusivity, and the platform
offering it.
Content Types:
Sports: Boxing, UFC, WWE wrestling, and major sports
finals like the Super Bowl or NBA Finals are often
broadcast via PPV.
Entertainment: Special concerts, stand-up comedy
shows, or exclusive movie releases might also be offered
through PPV.
Special Events: Weddings of celebrities, royal events,
or unique live performances.
Distribution:
Cable and Satellite TV: Traditionally, PPV was offered
through cable or satellite TV providers where viewers
would call in or use their remote to order the event.
Streaming Services: With the rise of digital platforms,
PPV has evolved. Services like Amazon Prime Video,
YouTube, and various sports streaming platforms now
offer PPV events online.
Advantages:
Exclusivity: Viewers get access to content that might
not be available through regular broadcasting.
Revenue for Content Creators: PPV allows for direct
monetization of content, which can be beneficial for
artists, athletes, or event organizers.
Challenges:
Piracy: High-profile PPV events are often targets
for illegal streaming, which can cut into profits.
Market Saturation: With many events going PPV, there's
a risk of viewer fatigue or competition for viewership.
Future Trends:
Integration with Subscription Models: Some platforms
offer PPV within a broader subscription service, providing
additional revenue streams.
Virtual Reality (VR): There's potential for PPV to
expand into VR, offering immersive experiences for
events.
If you're interested in a specific aspect of PPV,
like its history, how to set up a PPV event, or its
impact on media consumption, feel free to ask! (Grok)
News
TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO) represents a
significant merger in the sports and entertainment
industry, combining World Wrestling Entertainment,
Inc. (WWE) and the Ultimate Fighting Championship
(UFC) under one corporate umbrella. Here's a detailed
overview based on the latest information:
Formation and Ownership: TKO Group Holdings was formed
by Endeavor Group Holdings as part of a merger between
WWE and Zuffa, the parent company of UFC. This merger
was completed on September 12, 2023, marking a historic
moment as it was the first time WWE was not solely
owned by the McMahon family, who had founded and owned
it for over 70 years. Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc.
(NYSE: EDR) is the majority owner of TKO, with Vince
McMahon personally owning approximately one-third
of the Class A Common Stock of TKO Group Holdings,
Inc.
Business Structure: Both WWE and UFC operate as divisions
under TKO, maintaining their individual branding and
operations but now under the same corporate governance.
This structure aims to leverage combined resources
for global expansion and cost savings, with an estimated
value of more than $21 billion at the time of the
merger.
Financial Performance: Recent financial data indicates
TKO's stock price at around $119.78, with significant
fluctuations in its financial metrics year-over-year.
For instance, net income saw a decrease, while cash
from operations increased dramatically, showcasing
a mixed bag of financial health but with a strong
operational cash flow.
Strategic Moves and Market Impact: The merger has
led to various strategic decisions, including cost-saving
measures, with expectations of saving between $50
million to $100 million. Additionally, WWE's deal
with Netflix for content distribution was highlighted
as transformative, indicating TKO's approach to expanding
its media presence.
Board and Leadership: The board of TKO Group Holdings
includes notable figures like Dwayne "The Rock"
Johnson, who joined to help expand the business globally,
alongside other industry leaders from both WWE and
UFC backgrounds. This diverse board aims to steer
the company towards further integration and growth
in the entertainment sector.
Public Sentiment and Media Coverage: From posts on
X, there's a mix of excitement about the merger's
potential for growth and concerns over the implications
for WWE's traditional ownership structure. The listing
on the NYSE and the involvement of high-profile figures
like Ari Emanuel and Vince McMahon have been points
of discussion, reflecting both optimism for the future
of combat sports and entertainment and skepticism
regarding the cultural shift within WWE.
Stock Performance: TKO's stock experienced a significant
rise after reporting a strong second-quarter earnings
report, nearly tripling its revenue from the previous
year's quarter, indicating investor confidence in
the company's direction under the new structure.
This merger not only reshapes the landscape of sports
entertainment but also positions TKO Group Holdings
as a major player in the global entertainment industry,
with ambitions to expand its reach and influence through
combined resources and strategic partnerships.
News
Verstappen's Trophy or Bust
Formula 1 is set to resume with the Dutch Grand Prix
this weekend, generating excitement among fans, particularly
for Max Verstappen who has a perfect record at this
event since its return to the calendar in 2021. Discussions
are centered around Verstappen's potential to win
again, with fans expressing high expectations and
some playful skepticism about others' interest in
the sport. Meanwhile, there have been significant
team changes; Lewis Hamilton's long-time race engineer,
Peter 'Bono' Bonnington, has been promoted to Head
of Race Engineering at Mercedes, ending speculation
about his move to Ferrari with Hamilton. This news
has stirred reactions among fans and within the F1
community, highlighting the dynamic shifts in team
structures and driver-engineer relationships. (Grok)
News
Ronaldo Breaks YouTube Subscriber Record
Cristiano Ronaldo launched his YouTube channel and
within less than 24 hours, he amassed over 14 million
subscribers, breaking the previous record held by
Mr. Beast who took 132 days to reach 10 million subscribers.
Ronaldo's channel not only set a new benchmark for
the fastest growth in subscribers but also highlighted
his immense global popularity, with his first video
garnering millions of views shortly after its release.
This achievement was celebrated by fans and commentators
alike, noting Ronaldo's unparalleled influence both
on and off the football pitch. (Grok)
Media Man Int: Editor
The Grok reference for TKO Group is not 99 or 100
percent. A number of references are 6 to over 12 months
out of date. The information regarding TKO Group is
published as is, just as Grok AI directs us. This
editor post may potentially assist Grok to further
improve its otherwise excellent service, in the view
of Media Man Group management. Media Man Int/Media
Man Group management/staff finds Grok A.I to be overall
much superior than that of the general A.I offerings
of the industry and believes that under Elon Musk
management and direction that the sky's the limit!
Combat sports on Mars anyone?! Grok/X Championship
Of The World!
Movie Box Office (North America)
August 18, 2024
1. Alien: Romulus - $41.5m
2. Deadpool & Wolverine - $29m
3. It Ends with Us - $24m
4. Twisters - $9.8m
5. Coraline - $8.4m
6. Despicable Me 4 - $6m
7. Trap - $3.4m
8. Inside Out 2 - $3.2m
9. Stree 2 - $2.6m
10. Borderlands - $2.4m
others...
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Cuckoo
Longlegs
The Firing Squad
A Quiet Place: Day One
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The Fabulous Four
Fly Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad Newz
MaXXXine
The Bikeriders
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon: An American Saga
The Lion King
Kalki 2898 AD
Kinds of Kindness
The Garfield Movie
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt & Juliet 3
Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet Planet
The Watchers
IF
The Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa: A Mad Max Story
The Fall Guy
The Strangers: Chapter 1
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle
In a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
* Correct at time of publication
Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment
Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)
August 20, 2024
Top 10 movies
1. The Instigators (Apple TV+)
2. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)
3. The Bikeriders (Peacock)
4. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)
5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)
6. Twister (Max)
7. Challengers (MGM+)
8. If (Paramount+)
9. Deadpool (Disney+)
10. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)
Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment
Top 10 Streaming TV (United States)
1. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)
2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)
3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)
4. House of the Dragon (Max)
5. Industry (Max)
6. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)
7. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)
8. The Bear (Hulu)
9. Evil (Paramount+)
10. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)
Movie Box Office (North America)
August 4, 2024
1. Deadpool & Wolverine - $97m
2. Twisters - $22.7m
3. Trap - $15.6m
4. Despicable Me 4 - $11.3
5. Inside Out 2 - $6.7m
6. Harold and the Purple Crayon - $6m
7. Longlegs - $4.1m
8. The Firing Squad - $1.6m
9. A Quiet Place: Day One - $1.4m
10. Bad Boys: Ride or Die - $601,000
others...
The Fabulous Four
Fly Me to the Moon
Raayan
Bad Newz
MaXXXine
The Bikeriders
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon: An American Saga
The Lion King
Kalki 2898 AD
Kinds of Kindness
The Garfield Movie
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt & Juliet 3
Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet Planet
The Watchers
IF
The Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa: A Mad Max Story
The Fall Guy
The Strangers: Chapter 1
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle
In a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
* Correct at time of publication
News
Box office numbers down approx 70 percent from last
year
(References: Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline
and The Hollywood Reporter)
SEO And X Buzz For Pop Culture
Pro Wrestling And Pop Culture Connection
SEO And X Buzz For Pop Culture
Combat Sports and Contact Sports Connection
News Bytes via Media Man
In Case You Missed It; Updated July 18, 2024
UFC Partners With Crown Resorts (Melbourne, Australia)
UFC Teams Up With PCYC (Sydney, Australia), as per
tip off 6 months ago
UFC Explored Venue Deal With Manly Warringah Leagues
Club (Sea Eagles). Brookville, Sydney, Australia
WWE prepares for show In Germany and Canada; Japan
this past week huge success
WWE stars including Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley and
Rey Mysterio appear on Call Of Duty videogame upgrade
WWE NXT ratings up; TNA Wrestling helped keep positive
momentum. TNA's Joe Hendry creates additional buzz,
web and social media traffic for NXT. Continues to
increase pro wrestling skills, technical etc, Fan
signs start to appear on prime WWE brands Raw and
SmackDown. NXT's Booker T stirs the pop with Joe Hendry:
"What's he doing here"?!
Pro wrestling "forbidden door" strategy
helps ignite fan and sports media interest; Fresh
dream matches! AEW did start the recent ripple effect!
UFC 303 in Las Vegas over-delivers as management
and fighters demonstrate teamwork and massive work
ethic
UFC's Dana White X tie ins with Conor McGregor and
Michael Chandler indicate that the match will happen
this year to fans delight.
UFC staying clear of political drama says Media Man
agency; Of course they respect the fight and "fight
fight fight" in Trump's will and ability to survive
just about anything than a sometimes crazy world can
throw at him; "American Bad *ss" - Dana
White
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship enjoys additional
media buzz since Conor McGregor deal announced; Website
traffic and PPV numbers on the rise - intel
WWE Raw broadcast deal on track with Netflix including
in Australia - Jan 2025
Most Valuable Promotions: Jake Paul received alternative
fight proposals from would be opponents to replace
Mike Tyson. Vs Tyson confirmed for November 15 in
Texas
Jake Paul vs Mike Perry in 8-round boxing match on
July 21 AEST in Tampa, Florida.
WWE SummerSlam: August 3, 2024. Cleveland, Ohio.
Priest vs Gunther
Rhodes vs Sikoa
Bayley vs Jax
Morgan vs Ripley
Some surprises fully expected! No spoilers!
WWE RAW: This past Raw Big Bronson Reed vs Sheamus
help spike X numbers and promotion for 'Twisters'
movie; Announcers Michael Cole and Pat McAfee send
wrestling media into positive spiral! Whips up X tsunami
and storm of movie interest and buzz. 'Twisters' via
Univeral Pictures. US release: July 19, 2024
CBD, Canna, alternative health b2b deals prevent
in combat sports sector. Carma prevalent brand with
Mike Tyson, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan...
CBD: Matt Riddle, RVD and Sean Morley also prominent
figures with other brands, dispensaries and outlets
Pro wrestling and MMA promotions become more educated
about benefits of SEO for websites to drive extra
quality traffic, buzz. Helps sell more tickets, merch
and grab additional balanced and positive news media
coverage
Australian boxing gym exploring potential documentary;
Australian, Russian and U.S connection. Stay tuned!
Josh Barnett's Bloodspot aka Bloodsport Bushido big
hit with fans and combat sports media in Japan. Ryogoku,
Kokugikan, Tokyo - June 22, 2024. Game Changer Wrestling
next big event: GCW Bloodsport XI - July 28, 2024.
Roulette Intermedium. Brooklyn, New York
Australian based sports agency receives additional
government backed support; Need to know basis! More
selective of brand partners, affiliates and associates.
Under the watercooler!
TMZ Sports becomes even more active in pro wrestling,
MMA and boxing coverage
ESPN's Pat McAfee of The Pat McAfee Show as broadcast
on globally via ESPN, YouTube and socials, continues
to ruffle some ESPN top brass feathers and PM's fanbase
loves it; Sports Wars YouTube show generates even
additional buzz. UFC's Dana White appears on Pat McAfree
show and offers pro Trump comments and support.
Additional details to follow.
Combat Sports: Pro Wrestling and MMA News via Grok;
Continues To Impress Media And Sports Fans
August 16, 2024
WWE SmackDown
From the latest episode of WWE SmackDown, several
key events and developments have been highlighted:
Roman Reigns and The Bloodline: The episode ended
with a significant moment where Jacob Fatu, alongside
Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga, took down Roman Reigns,
showcasing a shift in power dynamics within The Bloodline.
This was a dramatic conclusion to the night, emphasizing
the ongoing feud and the return of Jacob Fatu to help
his cousins.
Nia Jax's Championship: Nia Jax was celebrated as
the new WWE Women's Champion, with her championship
celebration being a focal point. Her victory was facilitated
by Tiffany Stratton, who played a key role in Jax's
win by creating a distraction with her Money in the
Bank contract.
Tag Team Title Contenders: The Street Profits emerged
victorious over #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa)
in a match to determine the number one contenders
for the WWE Tag Team Championship, setting up a future
title match against The Bloodline.
Kevin Owens' Match: Before his upcoming challenge
for the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes
at WWE Bash in Berlin, Kevin Owens faced Grayson Waller.
This match served as a preparation for Owens, though
the outcome wasn't specified in the summaries provided.
Naomi vs. Blair Davenport: Naomi faced Blair Davenport
in a match where Davenport managed to secure a win,
continuing her recent trend of causing trouble and
aligning with the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
The Unholy Union.
Andrade vs. Melo: The third match in a series between
Andrade and Carmelo Hayes was highlighted for its
quality, indicating a competitive and well-received
segment of the show.
The episode was praised for its content, with fans
and commentators noting the high quality of matches
and the dramatic storytelling, especially around The
Bloodline's internal conflicts and the new championship
reign of Nia Jax. (Grok)
News
The Bloodline Assaults Roman Reigns
During a recent episode of WWE SmackDown, Roman Reigns
faced a significant challenge from The Bloodline,
a group he was once closely allied with. The episode
culminated in a dramatic turn of events where The
Bloodline, including Solo Sikoa, turned against Reigns.
This betrayal led to a physical confrontation where
Reigns was overpowered and attacked by the group,
highlighting a shift in power dynamics. Prior to this
event, there was considerable anticipation and speculation
among fans and commentators about whether Reigns would
acknowledge Solo Sikoa as the new Tribal Chief. Additionally,
fans expressed disappointment over the absence of
Jimmy Uso, whose return was eagerly awaited but did
not occur. (Grok)
News
Afa Anoa'i, Wild Samoan Legend, Passes Away
Afa Anoa'i, known as one-half of the legendary Wild
Samoans tag team and a WWE Hall of Famer, passed away
at the age of 81. His death follows the recent passing
of his brother Sika Anoa'i, marking a significant
loss for the Anoa'i family. Afa was renowned for his
dominant presence in the wrestling ring and his dedication
to training future generations of wrestlers. The wrestling
community, including WWE, TNA, and numerous fans,
expressed their condolences, highlighting Afa's contributions
to the sport and his role in the iconic Samoan wrestling
dynasty. Roman Reigns, Afa's nephew, shared his grief,
noting the reunion of Afa with his brother Sika in
heaven, emphasizing the family's legacy and the comfort
they find in their faith. (Grok)
News
Fatu Overpowers Reigns in Walking Boot
During a recent episode of WWE SmackDown, Jacob Fatu
made a dramatic return to the ring, attacking Roman
Reigns in a notable confrontation. The assault was
particularly striking as Fatu performed the attack
while wearing a walking boot, adding to the spectacle.
This event led to widespread reactions among fans,
who expressed surprise and excitement over the intensity
of the match. Additionally, there was anticipation
for the return of Jimmy Uso, who did not appear despite
the setup seeming perfect for his comeback, leading
to disappointment and speculation about his future
in WWE. (Grok)
News
Nia Jax Stuns at SmackDown
During the recent episode of WWE SmackDown, Nia Jax
made a notable appearance as the newly crowned WWE
Women's Champion. Her entrance was celebrated, with
fans and commentators alike praising her appearance
and performance, describing her as 'phenomenal', 'incredible',
and 'stunning'. However, the episode also saw Naomi
losing a match in her hometown to Blair Davenport,
which sparked disappointment among some fans who felt
Naomi should have won in her local arena. The episode
highlighted both the high points of Jax's championship
celebration and the controversial booking decisions
regarding Naomi. (Grok)
News
Adesanya vs Du Plessis: UFC 305 Showdown
Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis are set to
clash in the main event of UFC 305 for the middleweight
title on August 17, 2024. The anticipation for this
fight has been fueled by their intense verbal exchanges,
with Adesanya promising precision in his strikes.
Both fighters have officially weighed in, with Adesanya
at 184 lbs and du Plessis at 185 lbs. The event has
generated significant interest, with fans and analysts
discussing the potential outcomes, where Adesanya
is slightly favored according to betting odds. The
fighters have expressed readiness to end their verbal
sparring inside the octagon, with du Plessis referencing
past confrontations and Adesanya vowing not to miss
his target. (Grok)
News
UFC 305: Du Plessis vs. Adesanya in Perth
UFC 305 is set to feature a headline middleweight
championship fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel
Adesanya in Perth, Australia. This event marks Du
Plessis's first title defense after defeating Sean
Strickland, and offers Adesanya a chance to win back
the title for a third time. The anticipation for the
fight is high, with both fighters showcasing custom-designed
fight shorts. The buildup to the event included a
traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, highlighting
cultural respect. Discussions and predictions among
fans and analysts are intense, focusing on the rivalry
and the high stakes for both competitors. (Grok)
News
McGregor-Chandler Fight Targeted for December
Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler are in discussions
for a potential fight in December 2024, despite Dana
White's earlier statement that McGregor would not
be fighting this year. The potential matchup has sparked
a range of reactions from fans and commentators, with
some expressing skepticism about the fight actually
happening, while others are hopeful for Chandler to
finally get his long-awaited bout with McGregor. The
situation has also led to discussions about McGregor's
career trajectory and Chandler's persistence in pursuing
the fight. (Grok)
News
Pereira vs. Rountree Headlines UFC 307
The UFC announced that Alex Pereira will defend his
light heavyweight title against Khalil Rountree at
UFC 307, sparking a variety of reactions among fans
and fighters. Some expressed excitement for the matchup,
while others criticized the decision, suggesting that
Ankalaev was more deserving of a title shot. The announcement
also led to discussions about the UFC's matchmaking
and fighter rankings, with some accusing the organization
of protecting Pereira from certain opponents. (Grok)
News
Mbilli-Derevyanchenko Headlines Quebec Card
Boxing fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming
Mbilli-Derevyanchenko fight scheduled for August 17th,
which is expected to be a significant event in the
boxing world. The fight, headlined by Christian Mbilli
and Sergiy Derevyanchenko, will be broadcasted on
ESPN starting at 10 PM ET. The event is seen as a
major test for Mbilli, potentially leading to a world
title shot. Alongside this, other boxing events and
discussions about potential future matchups, including
a possible bout between Canelo Alvarez and Christian
Mbilli, are also generating interest among fans and
commentators. The boxing community is buzzing with
excitement and anticipation for the event, with various
boxing promotions and fans sharing updates and excitement
across social media platforms. (Grok)
News
Crawford Seeks Canelo Fight Amid Options
Boxing fans and analysts are discussing potential
high-profile fights for 2024 and 2025, with a focus
on matchups that could generate significant interest
and revenue. Key suggestions include a rematch between
Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney, a showdown between Tyson
Fury and Anthony Joshua, and a bout featuring Gervonta
Davis against either Shakur Stevenson or Naoya Inoue.
Additionally, there is interest in seeing Terence
Crawford face off against Boots Ennis or Vergil Ortiz
Jr., with some skepticism about Crawford's willingness
to take on these challenges. Other notable matchups
proposed include Canelo Alvarez versus David Benavidez
and a potential fight between Shakur Stevenson and
Joe Cordina, though this latter suggestion has received
criticism due to Cordina's recent performance. Overall,
the boxing community is eager to see these high-stakes
fights materialize, with hopes that promoters and
fighters will agree to these exciting matchups. (Grok)
Sports News, Combat Sports via X; WWE, WWE NXT, TKO
Group - News and Online News Publishers Continue Positive
Reviews For Musk's Grok - Platform X: Media Man
News
Roman Reigns' SmackDown Return
Roman Reigns is scheduled to make his return to WWE
SmackDown this Friday in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This will
be his first appearance since his return at SummerSlam,
where he was listed as a babyface on WWE's internal
roster. The event is expected to draw a large crowd,
with tickets still available for purchase. The announcement
has generated significant buzz among fans and wrestling
media, with many expressing excitement about his comeback.
Additionally, AJ Styles is also scheduled for this
week's SmackDown, and former World Champion Damian
Priest is now officially listed as a babyface internally
by WWE. (Grok)
News
Orton First Pitch at Cardinals Game
Randy Orton threw the first pitch at the Cardinals
game, generating significant social media buzz. The
Cardinals started strong with Masyn Winn and Willson
Contreras contributing to an early lead. Despite the
Rays' efforts, they struggled to capitalize on scoring
opportunities, allowing the Cardinals to maintain
their lead. The game saw notable performances from
players like Nolan Arenado, who cleared the bases
with a double, and Randy Orton, whose first pitch
was widely discussed on social media. (Grok)
News
WWE NXT on CW: Chicago, St. Louis Episodes
WWE NXT is set to debut on the CW Network with two
special arena shows. The first episode will be held
at the Allstate Arena in Chicago on October 1st, featuring
a special appearance by CM Punk. The second episode
will take place at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis
on October 8th, with Randy Orton making a special
appearance. Both episodes are part of NXT's highly
anticipated broadcast television debut on the CW Network.
(Grok)
News
UFC Vegas 95 Event Coverage
UFC Vegas 95 is set to take place on August 10th,
featuring a 10-fight card headlined by Marcin Tybura
vs. Serghei Spivac. The event has seen changes due
to fighters dropping out, including Javid Basharat
and Allan Nascimento. Chris Gutierrez stepped in to
fight Quang Le after Basharat's withdrawal. Despite
the changes and perceived lack of star power, the
event has garnered attention from betting enthusiasts
and analysts, with various predictions and betting
strategies shared across social media platforms. The
card also includes other notable fights such as Damon
Jackson vs. Chepe Mariscal and Danny Barlow vs. Nikolay
Veretennikov. (Grok)
News
UFC Paris: Moicano vs Saint-Denis, Imavov vs Allen
The UFC has officially announced the main and co-main
events for UFC Paris, set to take place on September
28th at the Accor Arena in Paris, France. The main
event features a lightweight bout between Renato Moicano
and Benoit Saint-Denis, while the co-main event is
a middleweight clash between Nassourdine Imavov and
Brendan Allen. The announcement, made by UFC President
Dana White, has generated significant buzz among MMA
fans and media. The event is expected to be a highlight
for French MMA fans, with the poster for the event
receiving positive feedback for its design. (Groc)
News Paris: Finally, Something More Exciting Than
Baguettes In a stunning turn of events, the UFC has
announced that it will be bringing the action to Paris
on September 28th. While the city is usually known
for its romantic strolls and delicious pastries, it
seems the UFC is determined to add some excitement
to the mix. The main event will feature a battle between
Renato Moicano and Benoit Saint-Denis, because nothing
says 'international diplomacy' like two grown men
beating the living daylights out of each other in
a cage. Fans are already speculating on what the fighters
will be wearing, with many hoping for a chic beret
or a fashionable striped shirt. (Grok)
Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment
Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)
1. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)
2. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)
3. Twister (Max)
4. Deadpool (Disney+)
5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)
6. Tarot (Netflix)
7. If (Paramount+)
8. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)
9. Challengers (MGM+)
10. Abigail (Peacock)
Others
The Beekeeper (Prime Video)
Find Me Falling (Netflix)
My Spy: The Eternal City (Netflix)
*correct at time of publication
Streaming TV (United States)
Top 10 TV
1. House of the Dragon (Max)
2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)
3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)
4. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)
5. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)
6. The Decameron (Netflix)
7. The Bear (Hulu)
8. The Boys (Prime Video)
9. Mayor of Kingstown (Paramount+)
10. Evil (Paramount+)
Streaming Service
An online provider of entertainment (music, movies,
multi-episode series, etc.) that delivers content
over an Internet connection to the subscriber's computer,
TV or mobile device.
Netflix, Amazon Prime, Binge (Australia), Kayo Sports
(Australia), Hulu, HBO, Disney, ESPN Plus, Gaia, Passionflix,
Spotify, Discovery, Peacock, Paramount Plus, Triller
TV, UFC Fight Pass, WWE Network and Apple TV+ are
examples of paid streaming services.
Examples of free services include Amazon ABC iView,
Freedive, Free TV, Hoopla, Kanopy, Pluto TV, Roku
Channel, Snagfilms, Sony Crackle, SBS On Demand, Tubi
TV, VUDU and Xumo.
Sports News Update
X's Grok Helps Keep Online Publishers, Newsrooms
Up To Speed; Media Man
August 2, 2024
News
U.F.C. Abu Dhabi Fight Card
The UFC event in Abu Dhabi on August 3rd, 2024, is
generating significant discussion among fans and analysts.
The main event features Umar Nurmagomedov against
Cory Sandhagen, with Nurmagomedov being favored by
many. The card includes other notable fighters like
Deiveson Figueiredo, Marlon Vera, and Shara. Predictions
and betting odds are being shared across social media,
and Khabib Nurmagomedov is expected to be in Umar's
corner. The event is free to watch on ABC Network,
further enhancing its accessibility and viewership.
Tony Ferguson has expressed his desire to continue
fighting in the UFC, while other fighters like Figueiredo
and Vera are also generating interest among fans.
The event promises to be an exciting showcase of talent
and competition in the world of mixed martial arts.
(Grok)
News
UFC Abu Dhabi Event
The upcoming UFC event in Abu Dhabi on August 2,
2024, is generating significant buzz, featuring a
main event between undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov and
Cory Sandhagen. The event is free to watch on ABC
Network and includes notable fighters such as Deiveson
Figueiredo and Marlon Vera. The card also features
Tony Ferguson, who has expressed his desire to continue
fighting in the UFC. The event is anticipated to be
a major one, with Khabib Nurmagomedov expected to
be in Umar's corner. Betting predictions and discussions
are prevalent across social media platforms, with
various analysts and fans sharing their insights and
picks for the fights.
News
Survivor Series: WarGames in Vancouver
WWE has announced that Survivor Series 2024 will
be held in Vancouver, Canada, marking the first WWE
pay-per-view event in the city since 1998. The event,
featuring the WarGames match format, is scheduled
for November 30 at Rogers Arena. This decision has
sparked excitement among wrestling fans and local
residents, with many expressing enthusiasm about attending
the event in Vancouver. (Grok)
News
SummerSlam Predictions and Anticipation
WWE SummerSlam 2024 is generating significant anticipation
among fans, with many expressing excitement and making
predictions about the outcomes of various matches.
Key discussions revolve around potential returns of
prominent wrestlers such as Roman Reigns and The Rock,
as well as the outcomes of matches like Cody Rhodes
vs. Solo Sikoa and Liv Morgan vs. Rhea Ripley. The
event is set to feature a variety of matches that
fans are eagerly awaiting, including those involving
LA Knight, Logan Paul, and Gunther. The overall sentiment
is one of excitement and speculation, with fans looking
forward to a thrilling event. (Grok)
News
Rampage Debuts for MxM & Private Party on AEW
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is gearing up for an exciting
lineup of events, including the highly anticipated
All In event scheduled for August 25, 2024. The event
is generating significant buzz among fans and is anticipated
to surpass the success of the previous year's event.
The card for All In features high-stakes matches such
as Bryan Danielson putting his career on the line
against Swerve, MJF facing Will Ospreay, and a tag
team grudge match involving Darby Allin, FTR, and
ROH Champion Sussex Co. Chicken against formidable
opponents. AEW is also promoting other shows like
AEW Dynamite and AEW Rampage, which feature matches
like Hangman Page vs. Darby Allin and MxM Collection's
debut against Private Party, respectively. The promotion
is leveraging various platforms and media to engage
with fans and build anticipation for these events.
(Grok)
News
Crawford vs Madrimov: Pre-Fight Press Conference
Terence Crawford and Israil Madrimov are set to face
off in a highly anticipated boxing match on August
3rd, as part of the Riyadh Season Card. The event,
which will be available on PPV, has generated significant
buzz among boxing fans and media. The undercard for
the event is also noted for its quality, featuring
a heavyweight bout between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Jarrell
Miller, as well as other notable fights. The event
is expected to be a major draw, with fans eagerly
anticipating the outcome of the main event between
Crawford and Madrimov. (Grok)
News
TNA Wrestling: Rascalz vs. Bailey, Seven & KUSHIDA
TNA Wrestling's iMPACT episode on August 1, 2024,
featured a lineup of exciting matches and events.
The show included a TNA World Title match between
Nic Nemeth and Mustafa Ali, as well as the wedding
of PCO and Steph De Lander. Other matches included
The Rascalz in action against Mike Bailey, Trent Seven,
and KUSHIDA in a six-man tag team match, Frankie Kazarian
vs. Ryan Nemeth, and Jody Threat vs. Masha Slamovich.
The event was broadcasted on various platforms including
TNA+, AXS TV, DAZN, and YouTube, catering to a wide
audience. Fans and wrestling enthusiasts expressed
their anticipation and excitement for the event across
social media platforms. (Grok)
ROH
Ring of Honor (ROH) is a professional wrestling promotion
recently acquired by Tony Khan, CEO of All Elite Wrestling
(AEW), Chief Football Strategy Officer of the Jacksonville
Jaguars, and GM/Sporting Director of Fulham F.C. ROH
has been holding events and television tapings, with
notable developments including Sammy Guevara's return
to help Dustin Rhodes against the Dark Order at the
July 28th tapings. The promotion has been building
new stars and continues to feature high-profile matches
and events. (Grok)
News
WWE 2K24 Online Stability Hotfix
WWE 2K24 released Patch 1.14 to address online stability
issues, which was automatically applied upon game
loading. The update aimed to fix problems with the
Pat McAfee Show Pack DLC for PS5 users, which was
resolved, allowing the pack to be downloaded. However,
the patch also caused issues with mods on PC, and
some users reported problems with Titantrons in create
an entrance and the unavailability of DLC for PlayStation
5 users. Despite these issues, WWE 2K24 encouraged
players to participate in a giveaway for SummerSlam
and provided a locker code for 7500 VC. (Grok)
Max Verstappen's Potential Mercedes Move
Speculation is rife about Max Verstappen potentially
joining Mercedes, fueled by recent high-profile departures
from Red Bull Racing. Despite the rumors, some fans
express skepticism about the likelihood of such a
move. The discussion also touches on the stability
of other drivers' positions within their teams, with
some questioning the rationale behind certain team
decisions. Additionally, there is discussion about
the performance comparison between Verstappen and
his teammate, Perez, at Red Bull Racing. (Grok)
News
Wheatley's Move from Red Bull to Audi F1
Jonathan Wheatley, the long-serving sporting director
at Red Bull Racing, is set to leave the team at the
end of the 2024 season to become the new team principal
of the Audi Formula 1 project. This move has been
confirmed by Red Bull and widely reported across various
Formula 1 news outlets. Audi has not officially commented
on Wheatley's appointment, and there are indications
that they were not expecting the announcement. Wheatley's
departure marks a significant change in leadership
for Red Bull and a notable acquisition for Audi as
it prepares to enter Formula 1. The transition is
expected to take place after the 2024 season, with
Wheatley remaining in his current role until then.
(Grok)
News
WWE NXT Great American Bash Week One
The WWE NXT Great American Bash kicked off with a
series of exciting matches and events, including a
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship match where Alba
Fyre & Isla Dawn defended their titles against
Jakara Jackson & Lash Legend. Other highlights
included a NXT Women’s Championship match between
Roxanne Perez and Thea Hail, a live concert by Joe
Hendry, and a NXT Heritage Cup match between Tony
D'Angelo and Tavion Heights. Fans and commentators
expressed excitement and anticipation for the event,
with many rooting for their favorite wrestlers and
speculating on potential outcomes. (Grok)
News
NXT Women's Championship: Roxanne Perez Retains
Roxanne Perez successfully defended her NXT Women's
Championship against Thea Hail in a highly acclaimed
match at NXT GAB. The match was praised for its intensity
and the young ages of the competitors, with both being
under 23 years old. The event also featured other
notable matches, including Joe Hendry expressing frustration
with Gallus and a confirmed match between Joe Hendry
and Joe Coffey for the following week. The overall
event was well-received, highlighting the talent and
potential of the NXT roster. (Grok)
News
Bowlin Graham's Pocono Win Secures Playoff Spot
Graham Bowlin secured a spot in the 2024 eNASCAR
Coca-Cola iRacing Series playoffs with a win at Pocono
Raceway. Despite missing out on the playoffs, drivers
from Spire Motorsports expressed pride in their team's
efforts. Nick Ottinger also secured a playoff spot,
marking the seventh consecutive season Team Conti
has fielded at least one car in the post-season. The
playoff lineup includes Steven Wilson, Parker White,
Nick Ottinger, Graham Bowlin, Vicente Salas, Bobby
Zalenski, Tucker Minter, Garrett Lowe, Dylan Duval,
and Daniel Faulkingham. (Grok)
News
CM Punk's Top 5 Wrestlers of All Time
During an interview on ESPN's First Take, CM Punk
named his top-5 wrestlers of all time, which included
Harley Race, Terry Funk, Stone Cold Steve Austin,
Eddie Guerrero, and initially Ricky Steamboat, but
he later switched to Roddy Piper. This selection sparked
discussions among fans and commentators, with some
expressing surprise at the absence of Bret Hart from
the list. Punk also highlighted Stone Cold Steve Austin
as the biggest superstar in the industry. The interview
took place ahead of SummerSlam 2024, which is set
to occur in a few days, generating anticipation among
wrestling fans. (Grok)
News
Cedric Alexander's NXT Victory
Cedric Alexander emerged victorious in a match against
Brooks Jensen on the WWE NXT show. The win was unexpected
by some fans and commentators, and it was celebrated
by many on social media. The event also featured other
matches and announcements, including a promo by Pete
Dunne about his upcoming match with Trick Williams.
(Grok)
News
UFC Abu Dhabi Event
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to
host a highly anticipated event in Abu Dhabi this
Saturday, featuring a stacked card of fights. Notable
fighters on the card include Tony Ferguson, Cory Sandhagen,
and Mackenzie Dern. The event is free and open to
the public, with a live broadcast on various platforms.
Fans and analysts are discussing the matchups and
sharing their predictions and betting tips for the
fights. Cory Sandhagen is a key focus of the event,
with many fans and analysts predicting a strong performance
from him in his fight against Umar Nurmagomedov. (Grok)
News
AEW Returns and Criticisms
The recent episode of AEW's Dynamite received mixed
reactions from fans and critics, sparking discussions
on various aspects of the show. Topics included the
return of a star after a five-month absence, the company's
approach to pushing certain talents, and comparisons
between AEW and WWE. Some fans expressed disappointment
in the show's content and booking decisions, while
others praised specific moments and storylines. The
discourse highlighted a range of opinions and critiques
regarding AEW's current direction and its relationship
with its audience and competitors. (Grok)
News
AEW Collision Viewership Drop Amid Summer Events
AEW Collision viewership experienced a significant
drop, averaging 383,000 viewers with a 0.12 P18-49
rating, marking a 19% decrease from the previous week.
This decline was attributed to tough competition from
the Olympics. Meanwhile, WWE's SummerSlam is generating
anticipation, with fans expressing mixed feelings
about the event and the potential outcomes for their
favorite wrestlers. (Grok)
News
Grok Search: TNA Wrestling
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) is an American
professional wrestling promotion founded in 2002 by
Jeff Jarrett and Jerry Jarrett. It is currently owned
by Anthem Sports & Entertainment and is based
in Nashville, Tennessee. TNA was initially known as
NWA: Total Nonstop Action until 2004 when it rebranded
to its current name.
TNA has been known for its innovative matches and
storylines, and it has featured many notable wrestlers
such as Kurt Angle, Sting, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and
Jeff Hardy. The promotion has also been praised for
its women's division, known as the Knockouts Division,
which features some of the top female wrestlers in
the world.
TNA has faced a number of challenges over the years,
including changes in ownership and a decline in viewership.
However, the promotion has continued to produce entertaining
and innovative content, and it remains a significant
player in the world of professional wrestling. (Grok)
News
Umar vs Sandhagen for Title Shot
Umar Nurmagomedov is set to face Cory Sandhagen at
UFC Abu Dhabi, with the winner potentially earning
a title shot against the victor of the Sean O'Malley
vs Merab Dvalishvili bout. The event also features
Tony Ferguson, who is looking to make a comeback.
The fight card is generating significant interest
and betting activity among fans and analysts. Additionally,
there are discussions about potential matchups for
Shakur Stevenson, including a verbal agreement for
a fight with William Zepeda, although no official
agreement has been reached yet. The event is also
notable for Khabib Nurmagomedov's involvement in Umar's
corner. (Grok)
News
Ruiz vs Miller: Boxing Showdown in Riyadh
On August 3, 2024, a significant boxing event is
set to take place featuring several high-profile matches.
The main event includes a face-off between Andy Ruiz
and Jarrell Miller, which has garnered significant
attention and anticipation. Other notable fights on
the card include a matchup between Isaac Pitbull and
Jose Valenzuela, which is expected to be a highlight
of the evening. Additionally, the event features the
return of Andy Cruz against Antonio Moran, adding
to the excitement. The event is part of the Riyadh
Season and will be broadcasted on ESPN Plus PPV. (Grok)
News
Russell Disqualified, Hamilton Wins Belgian GP
Lewis Hamilton was declared the winner of the Belgian
Grand Prix after his teammate George Russell was disqualified
for having an underweight car. Russell initially crossed
the line first but was stripped of his win due to
the technical violation. Hamilton's victory marked
his second win in three races, sparking discussions
among fans and commentators about the nature of his
win and Russell's performance. The disqualification
also led to Oscar Piastri being promoted to second
place, and Charles Leclerc finishing third for Ferrari.
(Grok)
News
F1 Drivers Pole Positions and Race Outcomes Debate
In recent Formula 1 races, Charles Leclerc has been
praised for his ability to secure pole positions and
maintain leads in a slower car, contrasting with Lando
Norris's performance in a faster car. Max Verstappen
has consistently performed well, often starting from
lower positions and finishing higher, despite debates
about the relative performance of his car. The current
season is highly competitive, with several drivers
from different teams closely competing in points,
highlighting the tight competition in Formula 1. (Grok)
News
US Women's Rugby Wins First Olympic Medal
The United States women's rugby sevens team won their
first Olympic medal, a bronze, in a dramatic match
against Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The
victory was sealed by a last-minute try and conversion
by Alex Sedrick. Meanwhile, Simone Biles led the United
States to a dominant victory in the women's gymnastics
team final, securing her fifth career Olympic gold
medal and becoming the most decorated U.S. Olympic
gymnast in history with a total of 8 medals. (Grok)
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The Australian Financial Review - Media and Marketing
News Corp puts Foxtel up for sale after asset review
By Sam Buckingham-Jones
August 9, 2024
News Corp, the publishing and broadcast giant controlled
by the Murdoch family, has put its majority-owned
Australian pay television platform Foxtel up for sale
after a nine-month strategic review of its assets.
Outlining its financial results on Friday, News Corp
said there was “third-party interest” in
Foxtel, which owns a pay TV business, streaming services
Binge and Kayo Sports, and aggregation platform Hubbl.
“We are confident in the company’s long-term
prospects and are continuing to review our portfolio
with a focus on maximising returns for shareholders,”
News Corp chief executive Robert Thomson said.
“That review has coincided recently with third-party
interest in a potential transaction involving the
Foxtel ... We are evaluating options for the business
with our advisors in light of that external interest.”
News Corp owns 65 per cent of Foxtel, and Telstra
owns the rest.
Foxtel has spent the past decade pivoting to the
streaming era, building Kayo and Binge – which
have much leaner profit margins – while preserving
its legacy base of around 1 million subscribers who
pay, on average, $90 a month. It has grown its total
paying subscription base to 4.7 million people.
Any sale of Foxtel would have a flow-on effect on
long-term content deals, multi-billion dollar sports
rights packages, and more.
Mr Thomson told analysts that News Corp had a “significant
overture that we are naturally assessing”, but
declined to provide further details.
“We have full faith in the potential of Foxtel
and the talented team at Foxtel,” he said. “On
behalf of shareholders, we have to evaluate any interest
… You’ll have to stay tuned. Not indefinitely,
not perpetually, not ad infinitum.” (Credit:
The Australian Financial Review) @FinancialReview
Full article via subscription to The Australian Financial
Review
https://www.afr.com/companies/media-and-marketing/news-corp-puts-foxtel-up-for-sale-20240809-p5k0yv
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Media Man Int X
Elon Musk’s X Files Antitrust Suit Against Global
Advertising Alliance
August 6, 2024
Elon Musk’s social media platform X has launched
a significant antitrust lawsuit against the Global
Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) and several
of its member companies, alleging an illegal ad boycott
that targeted the platform. The lawsuit, filed in
Texas, is aimed at GARM, its parent firm World Federation
of Advertisers (WFA), and members including CVS Health,
Mars, Orsted and Unilever.
In an open letter to advertisers, X CEO Linda Yaccarino
highlighted the reasons behind the lawsuit, stating
that it was a direct response to GARM’s actions
which allegedly cost the company billions of dollars.
“This is not a decision we took lightly, but
it is a direct consequence of their actions,”
Yaccarino wrote. “The illegal behavior of these
organizations and their executives cost X billions
of dollars” per The New York Post.
The lawsuit is seeking trebled compensatory damages
and injunctive relief, according to a complaint viewed
by The New York Post. GARM, led by Robert Rakowitz,
is an initiative of the WFA, which represents many
of the world’s largest companies and ad organizations,
including Disney and Coca-Cola. Its members control
90% of global marketing spending, nearly $1 trillion
per year.
Yaccarino emphasized that the issue extends beyond
financial damages. “This case is about more than
damages — we have to fix a broken ecosystem that
allows this illegal activity to occur,” she added.
According to The New York Post, the suit argues that
the boycott undermined the marketplace of ideas by
financially harming certain viewpoints over others.
(Credit: PYMNTS)
Full article and coverage via PYMNTS
https://pymnts.com/cpi-posts/elon-musks-x-files-antitrust-suit-against-global-advertising-alliance/
PYMNTS is a former Media Man 'Business News Outlet
Of The Month' award winner and finalist
News
Elon Musk takes GARM, several companies to court
over alleged advertising boycott of X outlined in
bombshell report
August 7, 2024
Tech billionaire Elon Musk has taken several companies
and an advertising alliance to court over allegations
of a "boycott" of X.
Elon Musk has waged “war” against advertisers
as his social media platform X filed an antitrust
lawsuit against a global ad alliance and several major
companies, accusing them of illegally boycotting the
site.
X filed a suit in a federal court in Texas against
the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA), the Global
Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) and its members
CVS Health, Mars, Orsted and Unilever.
The suit comes after a report from the US House of
Representatives Judiciary Committee found GARM and
its members “directly organised boycotts”
and employed other indirect tactics to target disfavoured
“platforms, content creators” and news organisations
to demonetise them.
It alleges that GARM’s boycott led advertisers
to pull money from X under the guise of “brand
safety” concerns.
X’s CEO Linda Yaccarino argued this tactic hindered
users on the social media platform from accessing
a wide breadth of ideas by funding alternative viewpoints.
“The consequence - perhaps the intent - of this
boycott was to seek to deprive X’s users, be
they sports fans, gamers, journalists, activists,
parents or political and corporate leaders, of the
Global Town Square,” she wrote.
“To put it simply, people are hurt when the
marketplace of ideas is undermined and some viewpoints
are not funded over others as part of an illegal boycott.”
Mr Musk shared his colleague’s statement to
the platform and boldly declared: “We tried peace
for 2 years, now it is war.”
He later encouraged “any company who has been
systematically boycotted” to file a suit.
Following his post, video sharing platform Rumble
joined Mr Musk’s lawsuit, claiming it has also
been impacted towards GARM’s alleged skew away
from right wing voices and ideologies.
The platform announced its move on X where it accused
GARM of being “a conspiracy to perpetrate an
advertiser boycott of Rumble and others, and that's
illegal”.
Since Musk took over the social media platform in
October 2022, X has suffered a serious dive in ad
dollars with the platform taking in US$2.5 billion
in 2023, according to Bloomberg.
This was down from the US$1bn it was bringing in
every quarter of 2022.
Musk triggered controversy again in November 2023
when he endorsed an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory
that Jewish communities push “hatred against
whites”.
The X owner responded: “You have said the actual
truth,” sparking an advertiser exodus that was
reported to have lost the company as much as $75m,
per The New York Times.
He made headlines again in the same month after blasting
advertisers boycotting the social media platform,
boldly declaring: “Go f**k yourself”.
“If somebody is going to try to blackmail me
with advertising, blackmail me with money, go f**k
yourself. Go f**k yourself. Is that clear? I hope
it is,” he said. (Sky News Australia)
Full article and coverage via Sky News Australia
https://www.skynews.com.au/business/media/elon-musk-takes-garm-several-companies-to-court-over-alleged-advertising-boycott-of-x-outlined-in-bombshell-report/news-story/7bac6243aada770042d14ca84afc23e7
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Yahoo Finance wins Media Man 'Business News Outlet
Of The Month' award
PYMNTS wins Media Man 'Businees News Outlet Of The
Month' award
Market, Commodities and Financial News Snapshot via
Media Man
August 7, 2024
Australian Dollar: $0.6520 USD (up $0.0024 USD)
Iron Ore Sep Spot Price (SGX): $102.85 USD (down
$0.70 USD)
Oil Price (WTI): $72.96 USD (down $1.02 USD)
Gold Price: $2,389.45 USD (down $19.96 USD)
Copper Price (CME): $4.0095 USD (up $0.0085 USD)
Bitcoin: $56,485.71 USD (up 3.10% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 38,997.66 at 5.02pm NY time (up 294.39
points on yesterday's close)
(Roy Morgan Summary)
Box Office News (North America)
Movie Box Office (North America)
July 28, 2024
1. Deadpool & Wolverine - $205m
2. Twisters - $35.3m
3. Despicable Me 4 - $14.2
4. Inside Out 2 - $8.3m
5. Longlegs - $6.8m
6. A Quiet Place: Day One - $3m
7. Bad Boys: Ride or Die - $1.3m
8. The Fabulous Four - $1m
9. Fly Me to the Moon - $950,000
10. Raayan - $453,000
others...
Bad Newz
MaXXXine
The Bikeriders
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
Horizon: An American Saga
The Lion King
Kalki 2898 AD
Kinds of Kindness
The Garfield Movie
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Jatt & Juliet 3
Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi
Daddio
Janet Planet
The Watchers
IF
The Exorcism
Thelma
GHOST Rite Here Rite Now
Furiosa: A Mad Max Story
The Fall Guy
The Strangers: Chapter 1
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle
In a Violent Nature
Ezra
Sight
* Correct at time of publication
News
Box office numbers down approx 70 percent from last
year
(References: Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline
and The Hollywood Reporter)
1. Kung Fu Panda 4 - $30 million
2. Dune: Part Two - $29.1 million
3. Arthur the King - $7.5 million
4. Imaginary - $5.6 million
5. Cabrini - $2.8 million
6. Love Lies Bleeding - $2.5 million
7, Bob Marley: One Love - $2.3 million
8. One Life - $1.7 million
9. The American Society of Magical Negroes - $1.3
million
10. Ordinary Angels - $1 million
Pro Wrestling
WWE
Promos Matter In Pro Wrestling
WWE's Karrion Kross Has Developed Into One Of World's
Best Over Past Year + ; WWE Creative Offered Time
To Shine; Can't Wait For The Netflix Killer Version:
Media Man
Mr Kross @realKILLERkross Is A Former Media Man 'Pro
Wrestler Of The Month' and 'Sports Entertainer' Of
The Month winner and finalist. What some don't know
is that Kross would wipe the mat with most of the
world's pro wrestlers in an uncontrolled aka real-
insert your own word, situation. Wrestler, fighter,
MMA and master promo.
Promos In The Who Have Impressed Of Late In Addition
To Kross Include: Logan Paul, LA Knight, Paul Heyman,
Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Nia Jax, Tiffany Stratton,
Liv Morgan, Lexis King and Sol Ruca. Promos are subjective
in nature, but these days Karrions are motion picture
grade in our view. Netflix Movies, Blumhouse and others
surely have an eagle eye on.
Previously known as names such as:
"The White Rabbit"
"The People's Executioner"
"The Devil Of Monterrey"
The WWE Universe should wake up and know him as a
man not to mess with. Ala the legendary "Macho
Man" Randy Savage, "The cream always rises
to the top". Cheers to the worldwide Kross Cult/Kult.
So Sayeth.
Promo:
"What are you doing, Woods? What are you doing?
No, no, no. Please don’t do that. Do not involve
other people in our business. I don’t like that.
I don’t appreciate it. Not only that, it defeats
the entire purpose of everything I’m trying to
do for you. I’m trying to help you stand on your
own two feet. I never said, ‘Don’t ever
talk to Kofi again,’ or, ‘You can’t
visit him on the holidays,’ or, ‘You can
never tag with him again.’ All I suggested was
that you take a step away from New Day. You had I
guess your own interpretation of that. Don’t
turn me into the bad guy here. Kofi’s the bad
guy. You, I’m suspicious of at this point because
all you’re gonna do for those guys is get them
severely hurt. I don’t know what you’re
trying to do here. Are you trying to replace the New
Day? You think these two guys are gonna be the next
Big E and Kofi Kingston? No, brother. It doesn’t
work that way. This is not going to help you. The
only thing that’s going to help you is to learn
how to stand on your own two feet and then, you come
with me. If you’re not going to do that, well,
next Monday, I’m gonna see you, like I always
do. When I do, I’m gonna step on your head. Then
I’m gonna leave you where I find you, just like
I do. Because after all, you beat me once, right?
Haha. Sure you did. You beat me where Kofi couldn’t.
That’s the confidence we want. I’m telling
you right now, that’s never gonna happen again.
You understand what I’m trying to tell you? Get
rid of these guys, or else. Tick tock" Karrion
Kross
https://x.com/realKILLERkross/status/1813032453449347141
Websites
Real Killer Kross
https://www.killerkross.com/
WWE: Karrion Kross
https://www.wwe.com/superstars/karrion-kross
The Final Testament
Casino (19950
In Las Vegas, two best friends - a casino executive
and a mafia enforcer - compete for a gambling empire
and a fast-living, fast-loving socialite.
News
Gonzo Casino 'N Gaming Edition
Art Imitates Life and Visa Versa
Everything Is A Gamble
Casino was my last good role, says iconic actress
Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone has said she never got a good part again
after 1995's Casino and described herself as "the
invisible actress".
The Basic Instinct star, now a stunning 66, has since
appeared in films such as Catwoman, Lovelace and Basic
Instinct 2.
Stone was passed over on snatching an Oscar for Martin
Scorsese's crime thriller Casino to Susan Sarandon
in Dead Man Walking.
Speaking on high profile Louis Theroux Podcast, Stone
disclosed The Godfather director Francis Ford Coppola
warned her in advance that this would be the case.
She said: "Francis put his hand on my shoulder
and he said: 'I need to talk to you.'
"He said: 'You're not going to win the Oscar.'
'I want you to feel like you're going to cry now.
I don't want you to cry in the room, and that's why
I'm doing this, and it feels so mean right now.
"'But I didn't win for The Godfather and Marty
didn't win for Raging Bull, and you're not going to
win for Casino."
Coppola said none of them won because the Academy
couldn't "hear opera", she remembered.
"'This is not the level of films they want,"
she remembers him saying.
Discussing attending the Oscars when she knew she
was going to lose, she said: "You have to pretend
it's fantastic and it's not fantastic.
"And then I didn't get any good parts ever again
for the rest of my entire life."
When Theroux replied: "That can't be true. I'm
sure there were other movies you did that were good,"
she replied: "No, and guess what? I hate it."
She continued: "It's easier to say: 'She's cold',
or: 'I don't like her', or: 'She's difficult', or:
'She must be sick', or: 'She's too old', or that 'she's
hard to cast', or: 'We don't know what to do with
her.'
Stone also touched on her experiences with disgraced
and vulgar producer Harvey Weinstein, who is in the
clink (jail) for sex offences and with whom she she
crossed paths at events for the Aids charity Amfar.
She said: "I had a long time of dealing with
Harvey and I'm really glad that he's in prison and
I think he should stay there with the rest of the
people who are like him. Harvey's a pig. He's an octopus
and you're just always getting one of his tentacles
off you."
Asked if she was too powerful for him to try to coerce
into sex, she said: "He would say things to me
like: 'You know, you think you're such a princess,
Sharon,' as I would unwind him off me.
"And I'd say: 'Yeah, I think I'm the queen of
France. F*** off.'
"But he was certainly comfortable with throwing
me across the room. He was physically violent to me
on more than one occasion because he was so angry
at me because I wouldn't do what he wanted me to do."
The Power of the Documentary: Breaking the Silence
OCEAN'S 8 - Official 1st Trailer
BLADE RUNNER 2049 - "2048: Nowhere to Run"
Short
Star Wars: The Last Jedi Trailer (Official)
TOMB RAIDER - Official Trailer #1
Netflix Is A Joke | Emmys 2017 | Netflix
Sandy Wexler | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix
GLOW | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix
YouTube Red Originals
News
Vince McMahon biopic, Pandemonium; Hollywood star
Bradley Cooper approached with offer
Wrestling fans and general public calling for movies
and world class documentaries on pro wrestling legends:
Gorgeous George, Andre The Giant, Bruno Sammartino,
Rowdy Roddy Piper, by Greg Tingle - September 2017
Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe lets Media
Man cosplay superhero characters Starlord and Captain
America; One time is not enough, by Greg Tingle -
25th July 2017
Movie Trailers
“Ant-Man & The Wasp” Now In Production
Marvel Studios' Black Panther - Official Trailer
Thor: Ragnarok Teaser Trailer [HD]
Star Wars: The Last Jedi Trailer (Official)
TOMB RAIDER - Official Trailer #1
The Greatest Showman | Official Trailer | 20th Century
FOX
ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD - Official Trailer (HD)
The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin - [Official Trailer]
Interviews
Interviews with new and established models via Media
Man website network
Preity Üpala feature - June 2017
Hannah Fraser, Professional Mermaid, Artist, Activist
and Model
Richard Bradley (Producer: Richard Bradley Productions)
- 26th May 2016
John "Vulcan" Seru, Wrestling legend, trainer,
motivator and actor - June 2017
Davo Hardy - May 2016
Brigette Paroissien, Model, Actor and Entertainment
Industry Entrepreneur
The Rock, Actor & Wrestler (Credit: ABC Mondo
Thingo) : 2004
"Rowdy" Roddy Piper - Wrestler & Actor,
by Chris Yankek - April 2003
Joy Hruby, Producer, Presenter, Actor & Author,
Joy's World & The Dubbo Dazzlers: 29th July 2003
Darren Gray, Director, Darren Gray Management: 15th
June 2003
Lorraine (Abner Zurd) Fontanes, Democrat Candidate
for Governor of California & Film Maker : 15th
August 2003
Ric Drasin, Bodybuilder, Wrestler, Actor & Self
Defense Expert: 18th June 2003
Gary "Jaws" Tiplady, Wrestler and Actor
- 8th July 2003
Brooke Paige Anderson, Actor: 4th December 2003
Lisa Milner, Writer, Film Maker & Activist: 15th
January 2004
Kym Jackson, Actor: 31st October 2004
News
Media Man Movies Blog
Hollywood remake: James Packer follows in dad Kerry’s
footsteps with $450 million film deal
WWE Studios and Film Roman announce 'Camp WWE' irreverent
animated web series
Human Statue Bodyart ramps up bodypainting and human
statues for James Bond movie themes: Skyfall, Goldfinger
and more
Thor: The Dark World
Universal Pictures Australasia release schedule update
The Avengers wins three MTV movie awards
Marvel Studios keen to bring female superhero to
big screen
Marvel Entertainment news: Bradley Cooper Cast as
Rocket Raccoon in Marvel’s ‘Guardians of
the Galaxy’
Hugh Jackman contemplates an exit from "X-Men"
Wolverine role
'Expendables 3' movie blockbuster cast: Jackie Chan,
Nicolas Cage, Wesley Snipes in Talks to Join the Action
Sequel
'Expendables 2' beats 'Dark Knight Rises,' 'Spider-Man'
in China
Grudge Match - Official Trailer
Avatar mystery building up in Sydney suburbs with
Eva Rinaldi: News media companies start probe
WWE Studios movie releases; Wrestling and movie connection
James Packer going to Hollywood to help make movies;
Big money still talks in showbiz -
13th December 2012
'Wolverine' Actor Hugh Jackman to be Honored with
a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Hugh Jackman leads Aust SAG-Globe charge
Skyfall, Rise Of The Guardians battle at US box office
Superhero movie line-up for Australia in 2013
Skyfall, Rise Of The Guardians battle at US box office
Movies, Hollywood, Entertainment and gaming - casino
news; WWE, pro wrestling, Marvel Entertainment - Star
Wars, James Bond Skyfall, WWE Studios...
Hollywood And AussieWood Celebrity News, Wrestling,
WWE Et Al - 13th March 2012
News
Aussie Celeb News; James Bond Casino Icon Connection,
by Greg Tingle - 29th December 2010
Season's Greetings punters, entertainment news junkies,
one and all. Today we have a look at the latest from
Aussiewood and Hollywood powerhouses James Bond, with
a Bondi Beach twist, Marvel Entertainment (go Wolverine)..we
love you Hugh, Spider-Man, Underbelly and more.. Media
Man http://www.mediamanint.com and Gambling911 with
your celebrity and entertainment news fix, just in
time for the New Year. Ho Ho Ho!...
MGM Emerging from Bankruptcy; Wants To Produce James
Bond 23...
MGM Studios is emerging from bankruptcy with a $500
million line of credit, and its first Xmas wish is
to produce James Bond #23, rumoured to be directed
by Sam Mendes and starring Daniel Craig (again), despite
many leaks saying that means it will be a gay Bond
(for real), if you follow.
The James Bond franchise has long been a fav of casino
and gambling lovers, with Casino Royale being the
top pick for most punters.
MGM Studios has been going through the wars as of
late, with the filing of bankruptcy hanging around
their neck. Their massive financial troubles led to
the delay of not only The Hobbit, directed by New
Zealander Peter Jackson, but also James Bond 23 starring
the Daniel Craig.
The studio just underwent a giant restructuring and
was able to acquire $500 million worth of credit from
financial powerhouse JP Morgan, a good lot of which
will likely be spent on the sequel to Quantum of Solace.
MGM is expected to partner with Sony for co-financing,
as it has done a few times previously with Casino
Royale and Quantum of Solace.
Bond fans, did you know that 2012 marks the fiftieth
anniversary of Dr. No (1962), the very first James
Bond movie ever, which makes it bloody good timing
to release a new Bond movie. The studio will be attempting
to secure and shore up its cast, director, and screenplay
for the new movie in very short order.
The studio had previously announced that Peter Morgan,
and frequent Bond collaborators Neal Purvis and Robert
Wade, would be penning a draft of Bond 23. Purvis
and Wade have worked on every James Bond flick since
The World Is Not Enough, and that includes Die Another
Day, Casino Royale, and Quantum of Solace - the last
two of which were rewritten, to some extent, by Paul
Haggis.
Rumors have been flying for months have indicated
that Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Revolutionary Road)
is leading the pack to direct the new movie. Now,
Mendes is not a filmmaker known for his action style
skills. He did however direct Road to Perdition, co-starring
none other than Daniel Craig.
As of press, James Bond will not be film in 3D. Oh,
did we mention Media Man is the agent and manager
for John Seru who played bad guy Gabor in Bond's 'The
World Is Not Enough'. In Nine's 'Underbelly' Seru
placed Kiwi Steve in the following episodes: Alpha
and Omega, The Good Lieutenant, Hurt on Duty (2010),
Saving Face and Women in Uniform.
MGM is still technically under bankruptcy protection
for a couple more months.
Marvel Entertainment's The Avengers: New Mexico Connection...
Marvel Entertainment's biggest film project of all
time is is now New Mexico’s biggest film production
ever as 'The Avengers' confirms its 2011 shooting
locations.
Thor not only hits off the summer movie season of
2011, but it sets up events that will culminate in
the Marvel superhero team-up epic, The Avengers, the
following year. With story elements of Thor taking
place in New Mexico, and the production shooting in
Santa Fe and Galisteo, it’s of little surprise
to see Marvel Studios returning once again for their
biggest project ever.
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson and Marvel Studios
officially announced the agreement making The Avengers
the single largest film production in the state’s
history. The current schedule has Joss Whedon’s
The Avengers shooting in New Mexico between April
and September of next year, using both Albuquerque
Studios and of course, the beautiful and vast surrounding
locations that so many other major Hollywood flicks
have used.
The Avengers also is set to shoot action in Michigan
and New York but production will primarily take place
in New Mexico’s largest city Albuquerque.
Governor Richardson talks to local economic benefits
to New Mexico: "In addition to being our biggest
production to date, The Avengers will be the most
technologically advanced and will provide cutting-edge
training opportunities for our crew… I’m
announcing this as a Christmas present of sorts to
the people of New Mexico. This is a perfect example
of the incredible job creation, economic impact and
global visibility this industry has brought our state
over the past eight years, and of the need to keep
it moving forward."
So Marvel heroes fans, be looking out for Chris Evans,
Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo,
Jeremy Renner, Scarlett Johansson, Clark Gregg and
Samuel L. Jackson.
Thor opens May 5, 2011; The First Avenger: Captain
America hits July 22, 2011 and The Avengers is scheduled
to debut May 4, 2012.
Spider-Man: Broadway No Match For Movie; Spidy Fans
Disappointed; Would Rather Play Spider-Man Games And
Play Dress Up...
The new and much talked about Spider-Man musical
has another problem stuck in its web. Sick to death
of waiting for the problematic Broadway show to officially
open, critics for two mainstream news companies released
early and negative reviews of the $65 million musical,
which won't officially open until February 7.
Writing for Bloomberg News, the influential financial
news wire service, veteran critic John Simon slammed
the show as "an unfocused hodge-podge of story-telling,
myth-making and spectacle that comes up short in every
department. A few good songs would help, in which
department the show is sorely lacking," Simon
wrote in the review late Sunday night. Like most rock
stars, Bono and The Edge haven’t a clue about
writing for the theatre."
The U2 legends wrote the score for the show, which
was directed by Lion King helmer Julie Taymor.
Both Simon and Newsday's Linda Winer defended their
premature reviews on the grounds that the show was
charging full ticket prices in some cases more than
$200 a seat for the performances, and that the opening
date had been pushed back twice.
Winer called the show's infamous high-flying acrobatics
"exciting and scary, in a circus way" but
dismissed the second act as "weak."
Simon was also impressed with the flying scenes:
"An hour of anticipation for about 90 seconds
of exhilaration," he wrote.
Would you believe four actors have been injured during
the show's rehearsals, including a horrible injury
to lead aerialist Chris Tierney last week.
Critics almost never publish their reviews of productions
before the official opening night. Spider-Man: Turn
Off the Dark has pushed back its debut twice.
The New York Times said in a posting to its arts
blog that it would not review the show until the official
opening.
Media Man loves Marvel Entertainment, Spider-Man
and U2, but this project does not sound good. Sorry
guys.
Underbelly TV Movie Legal Problems...
Network Nine may be forced to shelve forever one
of its Underbelly telemovies because of legal action
in the state of New South Wales.
Tell Them Lucifer Was Here, the first of 3vtelemovies
being made under the Underbelly Files title, tells
the story of the 1998 murders of Victoria cops Rod
Miller and Gary Silk.
After a probing investigation by the Lorimer Task
Force, Bandali Debs and Jason Roberts were found guilty
of the double murder in 2003. Debs was sentenced to
life in prison, Roberts to 35 years.
The subject seemed relatively safe... for true crime.
Reader may recall the first Underbelly could not be
screened in Victoria.
However, anything that identifies "Debs"
could be a bit no go zone in NSW.
On September 24, the Victorian Government Solicitor
applied to the Melbourne Magistrates Court to have
Debs transferred to a NSW prison for questioning over
the death of a Sydney prostitute 15 years ago.
Debs's lawyer, Michael De Young, did not oppose the
application, saying his client maintained his innocence
and was confident of being acquitted and returned
to Victoria.
New South Wales Police have been trying for 2 years
to question Debs...also was convicted in 2007 of the
1997 murder of 18-year-old sex worker Kristy Harty...and
reckon they have enough evidence to link him to the
killing.
The transfer order was granted by the court, but
Debs had 14 days to appeal the decision.
Channel Nine has 3 options: rush the Silk-Miller
telemovie out before NSW police have laid any charges
that might arise from the interview; release the telemovie
in all states bar NSW if charges are laid; or hold
off for a national release until any case has been
heard.
Nine has has yet to comment on this matter.
Underbelly #4 To Hit Aussie TV...
A 4th Underbelly series to screen in 2011 promises
to showcase the birth of organised crime in Australia.
Based in Sydney in the roaring 1920s, Underbelly
Razor tells the story of the bloody battle between
"vice queens" Tilly Devine and her rival
Kate Leigh.
The Nine Network are calling it their most "ambitious
and daring" Underbelly series yet.
It will be joined by 3 Underbelly telemovies - Tell
Them Lucifer was Here, Infiltration and The Man Who
Got Away...which were announced earlier in the year.
Aussie Poker Celeb King Shane Warnie Tag Team With
Wolverine Hugh Jackman In Cricket Nets; Jackman Hit
In Balls (Almost) In Lead Up To Boxing Day Ashes Test...
The tag team led the celebrity contingent to the
Melbourne Cricket Group for the prestigious Boxing
Day Test. 'Our Hugh' got hit in the balls by a Warnie
spinner, so it seemed, but he had a cup on, perhaps
taking safeguards, after getting hit in the eye with
a foreign object at his Oprah Winfrey grand entrance
via way of flying fox a couple of weeks ago. Wolverine
Jackman joined other famous mugs in the crowd, including
Opposition Leader Tony 'The Bruiser' Abbott and veteran
English talk show king Sir Michael Parkinson aka 'Parkie'.
Premier Ted Baillieu and wife Robyn also tagged along,
as did Eddie "Everywhere" McGuire, Cathy
Freeman and Molly Meldrum. In a smart and rather cunning
move, just outside the MCG sports stars and entertainment
biz celebs tag teamed a game of cricket which raised
money for the McGrath Foundation. The foundation ambassador
Lee Furlong joined ex-cricketers Justin Langer and
Michael Slater, Glen Moriarty, Kris Smith and Guy
Sebastian at the friendly game. Earlier, Shane Warne
made one of his very first public appearances since
the "Hurley-burley", acting as host for
his fav Shane Warne Foundation's annual Boxing Day
breakfast at Crown. Warne mate, James Packer, attended,
along with wife Erica in a show of support. Singer
Leo Sayer also entertained to an appreciative crowd
that included Glenn Robbins, Mark Taylor, Ian Healy,
Aaron Hamill and Bill Brownless. A great day was had
by all, as best we can tell.
Aussie Poker Celeb Shane Warne And UK Sort Liz Hurley:
Come Down Under And Come In Spinner?...
Is Liz Hurley coming to Australia? Getting spotted
at Heathrow Airport sent press into a frenzy and created
munch speculation she will keep her date with Warnie.
Friends of Hurley told the Pommie press she had dumped
the cricket spin legend after learning he had sent
more than 100 sexy text messages to another woman
behind her back. Warnie is known for his ability to
sent sexy texts that can get the right response. Now
it appears Liz may have reconsidered after attempts
to stop an imminent divorce and rekindle her relationship
with husband Arun Nayar reportedly failed. During
her public flirtation with the spinner on Twitter,
Hurley wrote that she was keen to attend the January
3 "Pink Test," which supports the Jane McGrath
Foundation. Talk about a play on words "Pink
Test", got to love her form. Liz also told Warnie
she would "definitely" make an appearance
on his Channel Nine chat show if she made it to Sydney.
Sources close to the Aussie spinner have said the
cricketer was devastated after being apparently dropped
by Hurley, having previously confided his desire to
marry her. Both Hurley and Warne announced on Twitter
that they had split from their respective partners
shortly after spending 2 delightful, fun filled nights
together at a luxury London hotel earlier this month
and being papped kissing outside a restaurant. Warne
was last week caught in the outfield sending erotic
texts, including, "I want to see you riding me"
to middle-aged Melbourne mum Adele Angeleri. In an
apparent attempt to win Hurley back after the messages
were published in the British tabloids he logged back
on to Twitter to pen "No matter what anyone says
if you know in your heart… who cares what people
think / say !!!" Hurley was snatched in the airport
mess at Heathrow, where snowy conditions caused widespread
cancellations from Saturday, leaving over 100,000
punters stranded, having their patience tested. A
fellow traveler said the swimwear model and well loved
celeb babe "looked nervous" as she attempted
to blend in with the crowd, wearing large sunglasses
and dressing down. "She'd dressed down and it
was clear she wanted to be left alone," the witness
told The Sun. "She looked like a woman with a
lot on her mind." Liz’s office refused to
comment on her travel plans. Whatever the case, we
wish Liz (and Warnie) well on any of their upcoming
travel plans.
Betting For Aussies On TV And Film Success: Not Yet...
Many Australia's remain pissed that they are not
able to bet on financial outcomes of upcoming TV shows
and motion pictures. Passionate Aussies has been reading
reports filed by Media Man and Gambling911 on Box
Office betting exchanges, but none of the action has
come to Australia, so us Aussies can't be on it. We're
not sure any Yankees of Canooks got to bet on outcomes
either. Sly, Arnie and Wall Street - when you read
this, give us an update please. We want to bet on
movie and TV outcomes. PartyGaming and Virgin were
rumoured to have some interest in the concept, but
nothing has eventuated from our probe as yet. Oh,
if you want to see the way Hollywood used to work,
do yourself a favor and rent or buy 'The Last Mogul',
which told the career story of the late Lew Wasserman.
Oh, we heard you want a review, so here it is mates...
The Last Mogul: The Life And Times Of Lew Wasserman...
For the second half of the 20th century, Lew Wasserman
was without question the most powerful money man in
show business, even if most people had no idea who
he was. Born in Cleveland, OH, in 1913, Wasserman
started out booking music gigs for mob-controlled
clubs, and quickly became an agent for Music Corporation
of America, which became the most lucrative music
agency in America. Funny that. As Wasserman rose through
the ranks at MCA, he established such innovative business
practices as "packaging" talent i.e: booking
hot acts and artists only in a package deal with other
artists who were not as talented, to put it politely,
and took the company into managing acting talent in
Hollywood, where he re invented the film industry
forever by negotiating a ground-breaking deal for
James Stewart on the film Winchester '73, which reduced
the actor's up-front salary in favor of a cut of the
movie's profits, earning the actor a mint in the process.
Under Wasserman's lead at MCA, the company took over
Universal Pictures, established the studio's television
branch and made it the most important production outlet
in the business), created the hugely successful Universal
City studio tours, and expanded MCA's recording branch
into one of the biggest record companies in the world.
Wasserman was also politically well connected. Ronald
Reagan was one of his early clients when MCA want
Hollywood), and was reputed to have some handy connections
to organized crime. Wasserman was a secretive fellow
who did not give interviews or commit anything to
writing if it could be avoided, but he knew nearly
everyone in show business. The Last Mogul: The Life
and Times of Lew Wasserman is a documentary that through
interviews with his friends and business associates
beautifully showcases his remarkable career, from
his childhood in Ohio to his death in 2002. Yep, there's
mob ties and such, but hey, that's show business.
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report?
What films and celebs take your liking? As Shane Warne
says, 'How good was that?!". Have you been naughty
or nice? Did Santa give you what you had hoped for?
What have you got planned for New Year's Eve? Tell
us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not
over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily
a media, publicity and internet portal development
company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including
gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
News
Aussiewood - Hollywood Entertainment News, by Greg
Tingle - 29th November 2010
Sylvester Stallone Sex Film 'The Party at Kitty and
Stud's' Sells For $400K on eBay...
Sly, The Italian Stallion himself, is back in action…erotic
action, sort of... The rights to a soft-porn film
starring Sylvester Stallone four decades ago, was
sold on e-Bay for $412,100. The then strapped-for-cash
star made his on-screen debut in the 1970 film "The
Party at Kitty and Stud's." Stallone played Stud,
a young man who, along with his oversexed lover Kitty,
enjoys inviting various women into their bed. The
71-minute movie was eventually renamed "The Italian
Stallion" by Bryanston Distributors after the
actor became famous in "Rocky." Now that
the rights have been purchased (the owner has not
yet been identified), it's likely the film will be
re-released, The Sun reported. In an interview in
the 1970s, Stallone, now 64, told Playboy that he
was so poor that he had to take the role. "It
was either do that movie or rob someone because I
was at the end—at the very end—of my rope.
Instead of doing something desperate, I worked two
days for $200." After filming "Rocky,"
the erotic filmmakers tried to sell the movie back
to Stallone for $100,000, but the actor said he "wouldn't
pay two bucks for it," according to AOL's Moviefone.
Last year MGM unsuccessfully tried to buy the flick.
Sly, you've cum a long way since then.
U2 legend Bono Waits For Table At Australian Bondi
Beaches' Icebergs...
Bono snuck into 'Sin City' Sydney on Saturday. He
headed for a eat and a drink as he often does when
down under. The renowned Irish rock singer, who spent
two weeks at Sydney's Bungan Beach with his family
in 2006 completely undetected, casually strolled into
Rose Bay nosherie Catalina on Sunday for a seafood
feed with guitarist The Edge (David Evans) and the
eatery's owner, Michael McMahon. On Saturday night
he arrived unannounced at Icebergs Dining Room and
Bar at Bondi Beach and like a normal person waited
or a table at the "no reservations" restaurant.
"He was having a red cocktail but didn't finish
it because a table became available," advised
a deepthroat. No, not a Stallone type of deepthroat
you rascals. The U2 360 tour begins in Melbourne this
Wednesday night.
Avatar Michelle Rodriguez Star Teams Up With Sea
Shepherd In Perth...
Hollywood babe actress Michelle Rodriguez, star of
Avatar, was in Fremantle supporting anti-whaling activist
group Sea Shepherd. Rodriguez has been aboard Sea
Shepherd’s flagship vessel MY Steve Irwin. The
crew are replenishing supplies before heading to the
Southern Ocean in December. The trip, dubbed 'Operation
No Compromise', will be Sea Shepherd’s seventh
mission into the frigid waters of Antarctica to attempt
to stop the slaughter of whales by Japanese "scientific
researchers". Among the crew are three Perth
residents including former Labor Attorney General
Jim McGinty’s brother Kevin McGinty, Steven Bennett
and Georgie Dicks. Captain Locky MacLean said the
crew are looking forward to having Rodriguez on board.
The group, which uses rather militant art of war tactics
in its fight against whaling, made headlines early
this year when their stealth vessel the Ady Gill was
"cut in half" by Japanese whalers. This
year, a new monohull fast vessel called the Ocean
Adventurer will replace the Ady Gill. SS are currently
seeking a large sponsor which would give them the
naming rights to use 'Godzilla'. Something like that.
Sea Shepherd’s Australian Director Jeff Hansen
said: "It is great to see high profile people
like Miss Rodriguez giving up their spare time to
help promote our fight to defend the whales being
illegally targeted in New Zealand and Australian waters".
Media Man lost good mate Peter Carrette this past
weekend, approximately 48 hours after doing photography
at the Bondi Beach 'No Compromise' gig at Bondi Beach
last Friday. R.I.P Peter. We miss you mate.
Darren Aronofsky Explains 'The Wolverine' Aussie
Hugh Jackman...
If you're wondering why "Black Swan" director
Darren Aronofsky was hired to tackle "The Wolverine"
for 20th Century Fox, wonder no more. Aronofsky himself
has broken his silence on the "Wolverine"
front in an extensive interview with Movie City News.
According to the filmmaker, his reasons for choosing
the "Wolverine" non-sequel as his next project
are quite simple: in the end, he just wanted to have
a good time. "I'm just trying to have fun,"
he said. "I think, for the first time in my life,
you know, every single film that I've done so far
I've been the only person in the room who wants to
make the movie. And, I kind of am excited about doing
a film where actually everyone wants to make it just
to see what the experience is like and to see if I
can do what I do in that world." It's not like
I'm going to change my process," he added. "I'm
going to be working with the same team, and making,
you know, really trying to do something very, very
different and see what happens." During the interview,
Aronofsky said that he's received a large amount of
support both from franchise lead Hugh Jackman and
Fox Studios head Tom Rothman, joking that Rothman
"doesn't even know how gutsy it is" that
he hired the outside-the-box filmmaker for "The
Wolverine." "I've been looking for a situation
where everything lines up really well. This just makes
sense; I think I'm being hired because of who I am.
I'm not being hired to turn into someone. I'm being
hired to do what I do. I don't know if (Rothman) knows
exactly what he's bought, but we're definitely going
to make something great, you know, but it will be
very different, and that's what I do. We're going
to try and have a great time with it."
John Travolta and Kelly Preston 'Overjoyed' With
New Baby Benjamin; Travolata Not Gay...
Living legend and iconic star of Saturday Night Fever
(the movies and the online slot game), is delighted
with his new baby, but very unhappy about the gay
rumours. Actors John Travolta and Kelly Preston took
to Travolta's website earlier this week to announce
the birth of their 8-pound, 3-ounce son, Benjamin
Travolta. "We are overjoyed to announce the arrival
of our son, Ella's baby brother, Benjamin Travolta.
Born November23, 2010 in Florida, Benjamin is healthy
and doing beautifully. Thank you for the congratulations
messages and wishes...we are beyond happy about the
newest addition to our family," the family said
in the message. Travolta, 56, and Preston, 48, announced
the pregnancy earlier this year, celebrating with
a dozen close friends at a shower held at their Los
Angeles-area home. "This baby is such a healing
baby," a family friend told People magazine.
The pregnancy was the first bit of good news they
had shared in a long time. "It's impossible to
keep a secret," they wrote in a statement on
Travolta's website in May, "especially one as
wonderful as this." We want to be the first to
share this great news with everyone that we are expecting
a new addition to our family," the online statement
continued and like this week's update, was signed
"Love, John, Kelly and Ella." John Travolta's
family has been dealt another blow as reports emerge
that he has been allegedly cheating on his wife...engaging
in "lewd sex acts with other men" as part
of a "secret gay spa subculture." Perez
Hilton posted the story on his website along with
a cover of the National Enquirer, carrying the headline
"John Travolta Caught In Cheating Scandal! "John
Travolta has been cheating on Kelly for years!"
said Robert Randolph, author of the memoir, You'll
Never Spa in This Town Again. "And when the details
emerge, he's gonna make Tiger Woods look like a boy
scout." John has been married to Kelly Preston
for 19 years, with the pair expecting their third
child this year. They lost their eldest son Jett in
2009 to an autism-related seizure.
WWE Studios Films Flop At Box Office; Perform Well
In DVD Rental Market...
Entertainment trade publication Variety published
a report today on WWE Studios's new films strategy
"flopping" at the box office, but perhaps
finding a market on home video. Variety followed up
on WWE's third quarter earnings report last Thursday
by noting WWE reported $3.8 million in revenue related
to "Legendary," despite the movie drawing
a measly $200,000 at the box office. WWE executive
Jim Connelly told Variety that WWE is banking on strong
storefront marketing at retail locations such as Walmart
to help boost DVD and Blu-ray sales of their movies.
Variety also reported on WWE pushing their slate of
movies to theaters simply for marketing purposes before
pulling the movies and releasing them on DVDs. That
was apparent with WWE Studios's theatrical release
schedule for "Legendary" and "Knucklehead."
Related to the planned launch of the WWE TV Network
potentially in 2011, Variety reports that WWE is looking
to their slate of movies to serve as "more high-profile
programming" on the new cable tele channel. Going
forward, Jim Connelly told Variety that WWE will be
re-evaluating their movie release schedule for 2011
as they begin to roll out the next slate of low-budget
movies in theaters with an eye on home video. Variety
concluded: "For now, it appears as if the future
of WWE Studios will play out on the smallscreen."
Aussie's Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban To Appear On
Oprah Winfrey Show Tomorrow; Australia Catches Oprah
- Oprah House Mania...
Australian actress Nicole Kidman and huby singer
Keith Urban will be on The Oprah Winfrey Show tomorrow.
Urban has earlier confirmed that he would be performing
in the shows Ultimate Australian Adventure episodes
to be filmed later this year. "Tomorrow, two
of the hottest Aussies are here! Nicole Kidman and
Keith Urban! The countdown to Oprah's Ultimate Australian
Adventure starts now!," says a post on the official
Facebook page for The Oprah Winfrey Show. Keith Urban
was in The Oprah Winfrey Show earlier this November
where he confirmed his performance at the much anticipated
episodes set to be shot in Sydney this December. Urban
promoted his sixth studio album Get Closer to in the
United States. However, the Australia singer did not
comment on rumours that his wife Nicole Kidman will
also be on Oprah's Australian show. Tomorrow's episode
might just confirm if Nicole Kidman will indeed be
a guest on December 14 and 15 at the Sydney Opera
"Oprah" House.
Mad Max Revamped Movie #4 Will Happen Says Aussiewood
Insiders; Fury Road?!...
Remember the Aussie cult film classic that went on
to mainstream...Max Max. They got to #3, always with
Aussie tough guy Mel Gibson in the lead as 'Max Rockatansky'
aka 'The Road Warrior'. Filming will take place near
Broken Hill, New South Wales. Gibson will not be reprising
his old role in Mad Max 4: Fury Road which will star
British actor Tom Hardy alongside Charlize Theron.
In November 2006, George Miller had stated that he
still had full intentions to make Fury Road, telling
the press that he was considering doing the film without
Mel Gibson, saying, “There's a real hope. The
last thing I wanted to do is another Mad Max, but
this script came along, and I'm completely carried
away with it." The film's screenplay was co-written
with cult British comic creator Brendan McCarthy,
who also designed many of the new characters and vehicles.
Miller again confirmed his desire to make another
Mad Max at the 2007 Aurora film maker initiative.
However, he did say he thought Mel Gibson would not
be interested in the film because he is too old (not
too nuts!)
Billionaire Branson To Launch Apple iPad Lifestyle
Mag...
Aussie's live Branson and Virgin, so you'll love
this...Word of Sir Dick's plans to publish "Project"
for delivery on iPads came shortly after media mogul
Rupert Murdoch hinted that his News Corp empire will
soon publish a digital newspaper for the hot Apple
gadgets. News Corp, owner of The Australian, has been
tight-lipped about the project but 79-year-old mogul
Murdoch acknowledged in an interview last week that
"The Daily" is in the works. Sir Richard
said in invitations to the press that "Project"
themes will include entertainment, travel, business,
design, and international culture. The event in New
York City on Wednesday did not indicate whether "Project"
would be provided as passenger reading on flights.
Billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard owns about half
of Virgin Atlantic airline with its aircraft that
boast internet-age amenities such as power outlets
at seats and wireless connections to the web. He recently
said that his Virgin Galactic enterprise is on track
to offer commercial space travel within 18 months,
and that space hotels are next on the drawing board.
Yeah, we know, Branson has appeared in films such
as Casino Royale, Around The World in 80 days, and
a good spread of other movies and TV specials. If
your going to be a media tart, you might as well be
very good at it.
Lachlan Murdoch Acquires Ten Network Stake, Joins
Shareholder Aussie James Packer...
Lachlan Murdoch, son of News Corp. Chairman Rupert,
has recently acquired a little over half of James
Packer’s stake in Ten Network Holdings Ltd. Packer
bought a 17.88% stake, or 172.2 million shares, in
the media group last month through Cavalane Holdings
Ltd. Murdoch, through Illyria Nominees Television
Pty Ltd. has agreed to buy 93.4 million shares for
A$128.2 million, according to a regulatory filing
to the ASX (Australian Stock Exchange). The two gents
will act in concert in relation to the exercise of
their votes, the statement said. Packer and Murdoch
agreed to join the board of Australia’s third-ranked
television broadcaster last month. Gina Rinehart,
Australia’s richest woman, lifted her stake in
the company to 10%. Packer also owns 49% of Consolidated
Media Holdings Ltd. which in turn has 25% of Foxtel,
down under's largest pay television operator.
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