WWE Reports 2011 Third Quarter Financial Results - Full Details
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WWE(R) Reports 2011 Third Quarter Results
STAMFORD, Conn., Nov 03, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) — WWE WWE +1.26% today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2011. Revenues totaled $108.5 million as compared to $109.6 million in the prior year quarter. Operating income was $15.9 million as compared to $20.3 million in the prior year quarter. Net income was $10.6 million, or $0.14 per share, as compared to $14.3 million, or $0.19 per share, in the prior year quarter. Impacting comparability of our year-over-year results were $5.1 million of film impairment charges in the current year quarter. Excluding the impact of the film impairments in the current quarter, Adjusted Operating income was $21.0 million as compared to $20.3 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Net income was $14.1 million, or $0.19 per share, as compared to $14.3 million, or $0.19 per share.
“In the third quarter, our results reflected the Company’s continued focus on improving business results in a difficult environment,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite the challenging economic headwinds, both domestically and abroad, we generated increased profits across a majority of our businesses, with the main exception being our film business which we continue to monitor and refine to improve future performance. We believe the sluggish economy and our ongoing talent transition were important factors that affected the results of our other businesses. Based on our history of developing talent and creating content with broad appeal, we are confident we can address our creative challenges. Further, by taking advantage of our strategic opportunities, including the anticipated 2012 launch of a WWE network, we can achieve meaningful growth.”
Comparability of Results
The current year quarter results included $5.1 million in film impairment charges related to our films Inside Out, The Chaperone, and Knucklehead. In order to facilitate an analysis of our financial results on a more comparable basis, where noted, we have adjusted our results to exclude these film impairment charges from our third quarter of 2011 results. Adjusted Operating income increased 3% to $21.0 million and Adjusted EBITDA increased 5% to $24.6 million. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information) Please note that our revised film strategy utilizing a self-distribution model also has an impact on the comparability of results but is not adjusted in the aforementioned schedules.
Three Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Results by Business Segment
Total revenues declined 1% to $108.5 million driven primarily by declines in WWE Studios and Consumer Products, partially offset by Live and Televised Entertainment. Revenues from North America increased by 1%, led by growth in our Pay-Per-View and Home Video businesses. Revenues outside North America decreased 6%, primarily due to a decline in our Consumer Products segment, which was partially offset by an increase in Television rights revenue and favorable changes in foreign exchange rates.
The following tables reflect net revenues by segment and by region for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010. (Dollars in millions)
Three Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
Net Revenues 2011 2010
——————————– ——— ———
Live and Televised Entertainment $ 78.1 $ 73.8
Consumer Products 19.8 21.4
Digital Media 6.9 6.8
WWE Studios 3.7 7.6
—– —–
Total $ 108.5 $ 109.6
==== ===== ==== =====
Three Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
Net Revenues by Region 2011 2010
———————————– —– —–
North America $ 79.6 $ 78.9
Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 14.1 15.0
Asia Pacific (APAC) 12.6 13.3
Latin America 2.2 2.4
—– —–
Total $ 108.5 $ 109.6
==== ===== ==== =====
Live and Televised Entertainment
Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $78.1 million for the current year quarter as compared to $73.8 million in the prior year quarter, representing a 6% increase.
– Live Event revenues were $23.0 million as compared to $22.8 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting an increase of 1%. — There were 79 events, including 15 international events, during the current year quarter as compared to 78 events, including 16 international events, in the prior year quarter.
– North American events generated $14.2 million of revenues from 64 events as compared to $13.8 million from 62 events in the prior year quarter. North American average attendance decreased 6% to approximately 4,900 from 5,200 in the prior year quarter. The average ticket price for North American events was $41.34 in the current year quarter as compared to $41.07 in the prior year quarter.
– International events generated approximately $8.8 million of revenues from 15 events as compared to $9.0 million from 16 events in the prior year quarter. International average attendance increased 7% to approximately 7,200 from 6,700 in the prior year quarter. In addition, average ticket prices were $80.08 as compared to $86.07 in the prior year quarter, reflecting a 7% decrease, due in part to differences in territory mix that were partially offset by favorable changes in foreign exchange rates.
– Pay-Per-View revenues were $15.8 million as compared to $13.6 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting the impact of buys associated with WrestleMania, a prior period event. There were 65,000 incremental buys for WrestleMania in the quarter, which has a higher retail price than our other events. Buys for the three comparable events in the current and prior year quarter, however, declined 4%, reflecting a 3% increase in domestic buys that was more than offset by a 14% decline in international buys.
The details for the number of buys (in 000s) are as follows:
Broadcast Month Events (in chronological order) Three Months Ended Sept. 30,
————————–
2011 2010
——— —————–
July Money in the Bank(TM) 195 165
August SummerSlam® 296 350
September Night of Champions® 161 165
Prior events 106 55
——— —————–
Total 758 735
========= =================
– Television Rights Fees revenues were $34.0 million as compared to $31.1 million in the prior year quarter. This increase was primarily due to improved terms and contractual increases from our existing programs, partially offset by the absence of rights fees for our NXT(TM) and WWE Superstars programs.
– Venue Merchandise revenues were $3.6 million as compared to $3.9 million in the prior year quarter, as the impact of a 12% decrease in total domestic (U.S.) attendance was partially offset by an 8% increase in domestic per capita merchandise sales to $10.18 in the current year quarter.
Consumer Products
Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses decreased 7% to $19.8 million from $21.4 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to the performance of our Licensing business.
– Home Video net revenues were $8.3 million as compared to $7.2 million in the prior year quarter, a 15% increase driven by an adjustment to our allowance for returns and an increase in revenue per unit, partially offset by a 17% reduction in shipments to 686,000 units. The reduction in our allowance for returns reflected better than expected sell-through rates for titles released in prior quarters. Average prices increased 4% to $13.18 due to the timing of promotional activity and a reduction in manufacturer’s discounts.
– Licensing revenues were $9.0 million as compared to $10.8 million in the prior year quarter as lower toy, collectible and apparel sales more than offset an increase in video game sales. Revenues related to toys declined 24%, or $0.9 million, reflecting a challenging retail environment for certain toy categories. Revenues from our collectible products declined due to a tough comparison to a successful product launch in the prior year. Revenue from video games, increased by approximately $1.1 million, led by sales of the WWE All Stars video game, which launched earlier this year. Unit shipments of our SmackDown vs. Raw video game decreased 59% to 135,000 units as compared to the prior year quarter.
– Magazine publishing net revenues were $1.9 million as compared to $2.6 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting lower newsstand sales in the current year quarter.
Digital Media
Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $6.9 million as compared to $6.8 million in the prior year quarter, representing a 1% increase.
– WWE.com revenues were $3.7 million as compared to $4.0 million in the prior year quarter, primarily reflecting a decline in mobile content revenues.
– WWEShop revenues were $3.2 million as compared to $2.8 million in the prior year quarter. This was driven by a 15% increase in the number of orders to approximately 68,000 and a 2% increase in average revenue per order to $46.94.
WWE Studios
During the quarter, we recorded revenue of $3.7 million as compared to $7.6 million in the prior year quarter, with the decline in revenue driven by the relative performance of our current film releases compared to the prior year quarter release. Film profits declined $5.5 million from the prior year quarter reflecting the performance of recent releases; i.e., Inside Out, The Chaperone, and Knucklehead. Lower home video sales than anticipated contributed to revised ultimate projections, which resulted in a $5.1 million impairment charge for these films. The decline in film profits also reflected lower receipts from our licensed films and the previously disclosed change in our distribution model for films. Under our self-distribution model, we record a film’s advertising costs and distribution expenses in our results as incurred and recognize film receipts as earned.
Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)
Profit contribution decreased to $44.0 million in the current year quarter as compared to $47.8 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting a loss in our WWE Studios segment and lower Licensing profits. Gross profit contribution margin decreased to approximately 41% as compared to 44% in the prior year quarter, primarily driven by the performance of our film business, which reflected the recognition of film impairment charges. Excluding these charges, Adjusted Profit contribution increased to $49.1 million in the current year quarter as compared to $47.8 million in the prior year quarter and Adjusted profit margins increased to 45% as compared to 44% in the prior year quarter.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
SG&A expenses were $24.5 million for the current year quarter as compared to $24.3 million in the prior year quarter, led by increases in salary, severance and benefit costs, as well as higher legal and professional fees, in-part related to the anticipated launch of a WWE Network. These were partially offset by a reduction in accrued management incentive compensation.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense was $3.6 million for the current year quarter as compared to $3.2 million in the prior year quarter.
EBITDA
EBITDA was approximately $19.5 million in the current year quarter as compared to $23.5 million in the prior year quarter. The decrease was primarily driven by reduced profits from our film business. Adjusted EBITDA (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year quarter) increased 5% to $24.6 million in the current quarter as compared to $23.5 million in the prior year quarter.
Investment and Other (Expense) Income
Investment income was $0.5 million in both the current year quarter and prior year quarters. Other expense of $0.7 million, as compared to other income of $0.9 million in the prior year quarter, reflects foreign exchange losses of $0.4 million in the current year quarter as compared to foreign exchange gains of $0.9 million in the prior year quarter.
Effective tax rate
In the current year quarter, the effective tax rate was 32% as compared to 34% in the prior year quarter. The prior year rate was negatively impacted by a $0.4 million adjustment relating to differences between our tax returns as filed and our estimated tax provision.
Summary Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011
Total revenues through the nine months ended September 30, 2011 were $371.0 million as compared to $355.1 million in the prior year period. Operating income for the current year period was $50.1 million versus $67.8 million in the prior year period. Net income was $33.5 million, or $0.45 per share, as compared to $45.3 million, or $0.60 per share, in the prior year period. EBITDA was $61.0 million for the current nine month period as compared to $76.3 million in the prior year period. The current year period was impacted by $11.2 million in film impairment charges, while the prior year period reflected an infrastructure tax incentive which reduced depreciation and amortization expense by $1.6 million. Adjusting for these items, Adjusted Operating income for the current year period was $61.3 million versus $66.2 million in the prior year period. Adjusted Net Income was $41.1 million, or $0.55 per share, as compared to $44.4 million, or $0.59 per share, in the prior year period.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Results by Business Segment
Total revenues grew 4% to $371 million driven primarily by an increase in Live and Televised Entertainment, which occurred mostly in North America. Growth in North America also reflected increased revenue from Licensing (within our Consumer Products segment) and from WWE Studios. Revenues from outside North America were essentially flat as growth from Television and WWE Studios and an approximate $3 million favorable impact from changes in foreign exchange rates were offset by a decline in Consumer Products.
The following charts reflect net revenues by segment and by geographical region for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010. (Dollars in millions)
Net Revenues by Segment
——————
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Live and Televised Entertainment $ 259.0 $ 249.5
Consumer Products 76.2 75.4
Digital Media 19.2 18.6
WWE Studios 16.6 11.6
—– —–
Total $ 371.0 $ 355.1
==== ===== ==== =====
Net Revenues by Region
——————
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
North America $ 272.3 $ 256.4
Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 57.0 55.6
Asia Pacific (APAC) 29.3 29.2
Latin America 12.4 13.9
—– —–
Total $ 371.0 $ 355.1
==== ===== ==== =====
Live and Televised Entertainment
Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $259.0 million for the current period as compared to $249.5 million in the prior year period, an increase of 4%.
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Live Events $ 77.8 $ 78.0
Pay-Per-View $ 63.7 $ 56.4
Venue Merchandise $ 14.4 $ 14.7
Television Rights Fees $ 97.6 $ 91.3
Television Advertising $ 0.7 $ 4.5
WWE Classics On Demand $ 3.4 $ 3.5
Consumer Products
Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses were $76.2 million as compared to $75.4 million in the prior year, an increase of 1%.
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Home Video $ 23.9 $ 26.3
Licensing $ 44.9 $ 39.4
Magazine Publishing $ 5.7 $ 7.9
Digital Media
Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $19.2 million as compared to $18.6 million in the prior year, an increase of 3%.
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
WWE.com $ 9.8 $ 10.4
WWEShop $ 9.4 $ 8.2
WWE Studios
During the current year period, WWE Studios recognized revenue of $16.6 million as compared to $11.6 million in the prior year period, with the growth in revenue driven by an increase in the number of film releases (3 in the current year period as compared to 1 in the prior year period). Lower than anticipated performance of several films contributed to revised ultimate projections, which resulted in $11.2 million of impairment charges. Film profits declined $14.6 million from the prior year period driven by the aforementioned impairment charges and the increased distribution expenses associated with the higher number of releases under our self-distribution model in the current period as compared to the prior year period.
Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)
Profit contribution decreased to $144.4 million in the current year period as compared to $156.6 million in the prior year period primarily driven by the performance of our WWE Studios business and the absence of domestic television rights fees for our NXT(TM) and WWE Superstars programs. Adjusted Profit contribution (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year period) of $155.6 million was essentially flat to the prior year period as increased profits from Licensing and Pay-Per-View were offset by the absence of the domestic television rights fees as discussed above. Adjusted Profit contribution margin declined to approximately 42% as compared to 44% in the prior year period, primarily reflecting the resulting change in product mix.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
SG&A expenses were $83.4 million for the current year period as compared to $80.3 million in the prior year period, led by increases in salary, severance and benefit costs, as well as higher legal and professional fees, partially offset by a reduction in accrued management incentive compensation.
EBITDA
EBITDA for the current year period decreased to approximately $61.0 million as compared to $76.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting lower profit contribution and higher SG&A expenses as described above. Adjusted EBITDA (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year period) declined to $72.2 million from $76.3 million in the prior year period.
Investment and Other Income (Expense)
Investment and Other Income (Expense) was essentially unchanged from the prior year period.
Effective tax rate
The effective tax rate was 33% in both the current and prior year periods. The decrease in our current period tax rate from our anticipated rate of 35% was primarily due to a $0.6 million benefit relating to the shutdown of a Canadian subsidiary. Additionally, rates were positively impacted by the recognition of tax benefits previously unrecognized of $0.5 million and $1.3 million for the current year and prior year periods, respectively. These benefits were primarily a result of the statute of limitations expiring in jurisdictions where the Company had previously taken uncertain tax positions.
Cash Flows
Net cash provided by operating activities was $47.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 as compared to $27.9 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily driven by the timing of feature film production activities.
On September 9th, 2011, WWE entered into a $200 million revolving credit agreement because we believed there was generally a favorable climate in the capital markets for loans of this type. While we do not have specific plans to borrow at this time, we have announced initiatives for which we may borrow going forward. These initiatives include, but are not limited to, the formation of a WWE television network and the expansion and update of our media center as well as initiatives associated with the execution of our strategy.
Additional Information
Additional business metrics are made available to investors on a monthly basis on our corporate website — corporate.wwe.com.
Note: WWE will host a conference call on November 3, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the Company’s earnings results for the third quarter of 2011. All interested parties can access the conference call by dialing 855-993-1400 (conference id:WWE). Please reserve a line 15 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call. A presentation that will be referenced during the call can be found at the Company web site at corporate.wwe.com. A replay of the call will be available approximately three hours after the conference call concludes, and can be accessed at corporate.wwe.com.
WWE, a publicly traded company WWE +1.26% , is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo. Additional information on WWE WWE +1.26% can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/ .
Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.
Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business and any new business initiative which we may undertake; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.
WWE
Consolidated Income Statements
(in thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——— ——— ——— ———
Net revenues $108,518 $109,564 $ 370,979 $ 355,131
Cost of revenues 64,455 61,763 226,531 198,542
Selling, general and administrative expenses 24,567 24,322 83,485 80,284
Depreciation and amortization 3,593 3,211 10,872 8,461
——— ——— ——— ———
Operating income 15,903 20,268 50,091 67,844
——— ——— ——— ———
Investment income, net 484 524 1,458 1,504
Interest expense (151) (64) (246) (202)
Other (expense) income, net (661) 899 (1,082) (1,173)
——— ——— ——— ———
Income before income taxes 15,575 21,627 50,221 67,973
Provision for income taxes 4,984 7,290 16,760 22,648
——— ——— ——— ———
Net income $ 10,591 $ 14,337 $ 33,461 $ 45,325
========= ========= ========= =========
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic 74,328 74,576 74,142 74,372
========= ========= ========= =========
Diluted 74,707 75,325 74,740 75,263
========= ========= ========= =========
Earnings per share:
Basic $ 0.14 $ 0.19 $ 0.45 $ 0.61
========= ========= ========= =========
Diluted $ 0.14 $ 0.19 $ 0.45 $ 0.60
========= ========= ========= =========
WWE
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
As of As of
Sept. 30, Dec. 31,
2011 2010
————– ————–
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 58,384 $ 69,823
Short-term investments 104,401 97,124
Accounts receivable, net 50,730 52,051
Inventory 2,433 2,087
Deferred income tax assets 14,097 17,128
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 14,858 20,856
Total current assets 244,903 259,069
——– ——–
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 79,152 80,995
FEATURE FILM PRODUCTION ASSETS, NET 39,920 56,253
INVESTMENT SECURITIES 14,811 15,037
OTHER ASSETS 5,938 4,375
——– ——–
TOTAL ASSETS $ 384,724 $ 415,729
==== ======== ==== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current portion of long-term debt $ 1,238 $ 1,169
Accounts payable 14,247 18,441
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 22,063 24,478
Deferred income 17,695 28,323
Total current liabilities 55,243 72,411
——– ——–
LONG-TERM DEBT 684 1,621
NON-CURRENT TAX LIABILITIES 7,534 15,068
NON-CURRENT DEFERRED INCOME 8,646 9,881
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Class A common stock 279 275
Class B common stock 465 465
Additional paid-in capital 338,435 336,592
Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,104 3,144
Accumulated deficit (29,666) (23,728)
——– ——–
Total stockholders’ equity 312,617 316,748
——– ——–
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 384,724 $ 415,729
==== ======== ==== ========
WWE
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income $ 33,461 $ 45,325
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Amortization of feature film production assets 23,832 7,014
Revaluation of warrants – (552)
Depreciation and amortization 10,872 8,461
Realized gain on sale of investments (32) (55)
Amortization of investment income 1,958 1,286
Amortization of debt issuance costs 51 -
Stock compensation costs 2,692 6,522
Provision (recovery) for doubtful accounts 17 (37)
Provision for inventory obsolescence 1,504 1,530
(4,348) (8,946)
Benefit from deferred income taxes
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements (138) (2,723)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 2,866 11,008
Inventory (1,851) (1,178)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,905 (8,902)
Feature film production assets (7,358) (27,343)
Accounts payable (4,194) 937
Accrued expenses and other liabilities (1,568) (10,882)
Deferred income (11,864) 6,443
——— ———
Net cash provided by operating activities 47,805 27,908
——— ———
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment and other assets (10,466) (9,130)
Proceeds from infrastructure incentives – 4,130
Purchase of short-term investments (33.472) (88,343)
Proceeds from sales or maturities of investments 25,314 59,035
——— ———
Net cash used in investing activities (18,624) (34,308)
——— ———
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of long-term debt (868) (804)
Debt issuance costs (1,844) -
Dividends paid (38,879) (62,598)
Issuance of stock, net 833 961
Proceeds from exercise of stock options – 695
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements 138 2,723
——— ———
Net cash used in financing activities (40,620) (59,023)
——— ———
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (11,439) (65,423)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD 69,823 149,784
——— ———
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 58,384 $ 84,361
========= =========
WWE
Supplemental Information – EBITDA
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——— ———- ——— ———
Net income reported on U.S. GAAP basis $ 10,591 $ 14,337 $ 33,461 $ 45,325
Provision for income taxes 4,984 7,290 16,760 22,648
Investment, interest and other expense (income), net 328 (1,359) (130) (129)
Depreciation and amortization 3,593 3,211 10,872 8,461
EBITDA $ 19,496 $ 23,479 $ 60,963 $ 76,305
========= ========== ========= =========
Non-GAAP Measure:
EBITDA is defined as net income before investment, interest and other expense/income, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. The Company’s definition of EBITDA does not adjust its U.S. GAAP basis earnings for the amortization of Feature Film production assets. Although it is not a recognized measure of performance under U.S. GAAP, EBITDA is presented because it is a widely accepted financial indicator of a company’s performance. The Company uses EBITDA to measure its own performance and to set goals for operating managers. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
WWE
Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
(in millions)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
———- ———- ———– ———–
Profit contribution $ 44.0 $ 47.8 $ 144.4 $ 156.6
Adjustments (Added back):
Film Impairment Charges 5.1 – 11.2 -
Adjusted Profit contribution $ 49.1 $ 47.8 $ 155.6 $ 156.6
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Selling, general and administrative expenses 24.5 24.3 83.4 80.3
Adjusted Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 24.5 $ 24.3 $ 83.4 $ 80.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Depreciation and amortization 3.6 3.2 10.9 8.5
Adjustments (Added back):
Infrastructure tax credit – - – 1.6
Adjusted Depreciation and amortization $ 3.6 $ 3.2 $ 10.9 $ 10.1
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Operating income $ 15.9 $ 20.3 $ 50.1 $ 67.8
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Adjusted Operating income $ 21.0 $ 20.3 $ 61.3 $ 66.2
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.6 3.2 10.9 8.5
Adjusted Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.6 3.2 10.9 10.1
EBITDA $ 19.5 $ 23.5 $ 61.0 $ 76.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Adjusted EBITDA $ 24.6 $ 23.5 $ 72.2 $ 76.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Non-GAAP Measure:
Adjusted Profit contribution, Adjusted Selling, general and administrative expenses, Adjusted Operating income and Adjusted EBITDA exclude certain material items, which otherwise would impair the comparability of results between periods. These should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
WWE
Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
(in millions, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
———— ———— ———— ————
Operating income $ 15.9 $ 20.3 $ 50.1 $ 67.8
Adjustments (Added back):
Film impairment charges 5.1 – 11.2 -
Infrastructure tax credit – - – (1.6)
Adjusted Operating income $ 21.0 $ 20.3 $ 61.3 $ 66.2
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Investment, interest and other expense, net (0.3) 1.4 0.1 0.1
Adjusted Income before taxes $ 20.7 $ 21.7 $ 61.4 $ 66.3
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Adjusted Provision for taxes (6.6) (7.4) (20.3) (21.9)
Adjusted Net income $ 14.1 $ 14.3 $ 41.1 $ 44.4
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic 74,328 74,576 74,142 74,372
====== ====== ====== ======
Diluted 74,707 75,325 74,740 75,263
====== ====== ====== ======
Adjusted Earnings per share:
Basic $ 0.19 $ 0.19 $ 0.55 $ 0.60
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Diluted $ 0.19 $ 0.19 $ 0.55 $ 0.59
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Non-GAAP Measure:
Adjusted Operating income and Adjusted Net income exclude certain material items, which otherwise would impair the comparability of results between periods. These should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
WWE
Supplemental Information – Free Cash Flow
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——- ——- ——- ——-
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 8,487 $ 2,959 $ 47,805 $ 27,908
Less cash used in capital expenditures:
Purchase of property and equipment (3,587) (2,444) (8,683) (9,070)
Proceeds from infrastructure incentives – - – 4,130
Purchase of other assets (99) – (1,783) (60)
Free Cash Flow $ 4,801 $ 515 $ 37,339 $ 22,908
==== ======= ==== ======= ==== ======= ==== =======
Non-GAAP Measure:
We define Free Cash Flow as net cash provided by operating activities less cash used for capital expenditures. Although it is not a recognized measure of liquidity under U.S. GAAP, Free Cash Flow provides useful information regarding the amount of cash our continuing business is generating after capital expenditures, available for reinvesting in the business and for payment of dividends.
DIRECT LINK: New Pics of Maryse, Her Sister and The Miz Dressed Up for Halloween!
USA Network Touts The Most Watched Quarter In The History Of Cable TV
AppId is over the quota
The USA Network issued the following press release:
USA Network's 3Q11 Most Watched Quarter In History In All of Cable Entertainment
NEW YORK – September 27, 2011 – USA continues to re-write the record books with the hottest 3rd quarter ever on cable, delivering more total viewers (3.51 million) than any network on cable ever has in a 3Q11. For the first time ever for cable entertainment network in any quarter, USA broke the 3.5 million mark in total viewers.
USA sizzled this quarter, shining above every cable competitor in P25-54 (1.45 million, +38% over #2 TNT), P18-49 (1.35 million, 46% over #2 History Channel), total viewers (3.51 million, +31% over #2 Disney Channel), and households (2.67 million, +40% over #2 TNT). USA was the only cable network to average over 1 million in P18-49, 3 million total viewers, or 2 million households was one of only two with over half a million P18-34 (584,000). USA earned the top household coverage rating in 3Q11’s basic cable prime (2.67, +0.76 over #2 TNT).
No cable network has ever seen as large a margin of victory over the #2 network in any quarter than USA did in 3Q11 in households while USA’s victory in P18-49 was second only to what was seen in 2Q97 and those in P25-54 and total viewers were the largest since 1Q09.
USA is up +5% in P25-54, +7% in P18-49, +4% in P18-34, +8% in total viewers, and +9% in households in 3Q11 than in 3Q10 using parallel Most Current data year to year.
USA won the total day crown this quarter as well in P25-54 (601,000, 15% over #2 TNT) and P18-49 (575,000, 9% over #2 Nickelodeon).
USA was the house of hits this quarter with seven original series each averaging over 2 million in P25-54, 1.5 million in P18-49, half a million in P18-34, 5 million total viewers, and 4 million households. Further, most of these titles have over 2.5 million in P25-54, 2.5 million in P18-49, 1 million in P18-34, 6 million total viewers, and 4.5 million households.
USA’s slate of hits this quarter easily outshines the performances of originals on either TNT or History Channel, averaging 2.90 million in P25-54 (+18% more than TNT’s / +43% more than History Channel), 2.66 million in P18-49 (+31% / +43%), 1.15 million in P18-34 (+73% / +42%), 6.36 million total viewers (+6% / +67%), and 4.77 million households (+8% / +78%).
COVERT AFFAIRS and WHITE COLLAR were the top two series on cable Tuesdays this quarter among total viewers (CA 6.91 million / WC 5.83 million) and households (5.11 million / 4.35 million) while COVERT AFFAIRS was #1 among P25-54 (3.20 million). No other scripted series on television with new episodes Tuesdays this quarter delivered over 3 million in P25-54 (3.20 million / 2.70 million), 2 million in P18-49 (2.89 million / 2.60 million), 5 million total viewers, or 4 million households.
With Royal Pains and NECCESSARY ROUGHNESS, USA was the only cable network with a show delivering over 7 million total viewers (RP 7.22 million / NR 5.62 million) or 4 million households (5.40 million / 4.32 million) Wednesday nights this quarter. No other network aired a scripted series on television Wednesdays this quarter to over 2 million in P25-54 (3.28 million / 2.51 million), 2 million in P18-49 (2.96 million / 2.29 million), or 1 million in P18-34 (1.23 million / 870,000).
Burn Notice and Suits were the top two scripted series on television Thursdays this quarter among P25-54 (BN 3.14 million / Suits 2.97 million), P18-49 (2.88 million / 2.84 million), and P18-34 (1.28 million / 1.35 million) and the top scripted series on cable for the night in total viewers (6.73 million / 6.12 million), and households (4.94 million / 4.62 million). These were the #2 and #3 scripted originals on television this quarter in all of television for M18-49.
IN PLAIN SIGHT was the only ad-supported scripted series on television Sundays this quarter to deliver over 3 million total female viewers and was second only to ABC in this demo when it aired this quarter in its Sunday 10pm timeslot. IPS outperformed CBS head to head this quarter for P18-49, P25-54, P18-34, total viewers, and households. Season 4 of In Plain Sight grew +14% in P25-54, +17% in P18-49, +19% in P18-34, +11% in total viewers, and +13% in households from Season 3.
WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW made USA the #1 entertainment network in all of television in its Monday 9pm-11pm time period among M18-34 and total males, coming in behind only FOX for M18-49 entertainment viewers as well as beating CBS in P18-49 and P18-34. WWE Raw delivered +3% more total viewers and+ 8% more P18-34 in 3Q11 than it had in 3Q10.
USA Network is the #1 network in all of basic cable and is seen in over 102 million U.S. homes. A division of NBC Universal, USA is the cable television leader in original series and home to the best in blockbuster theatrical films, acquired television series and entertainment events. The award-winning USA website is located at www.usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.
USA Network is a program service of NBC Universal Cable a division of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.
* WrestleMania 28 PPV Poster Featuring The Rock & John Cena
Latest video from Zack Ryder, WWE to profit in second quarter report soon & more
Published in: WWE
Latest video from Zack Ryder, WWE to profit in second quarter report soon & more
By Michael Bluth
15 July 2011-10: 28: 40 AM - WWE announced that it will be presented their results 2011 second quarter on August 4, 2011, prior to the opening of the market. President and CEO, Vincent k. McMahon and management of the company will be hosting a conference call from 11: 00 a.m. ET to discuss the results. This earnings report include East official event of WrestleMania 27.
-The only WWE House show booked for this weekend is a SuperShow on Saturday night in Milwaukee, WI.
-Zack Ryder is back with another episode of his Z! True story of Long Island. Here is the episode 22 of Mr. Long Island Iced Z:
* MAJOR Update on future WWE CM PUNK (is he really leaving?)
WWE 1st Quarter Financials, How Kharma Got Her Name, EU Pulls WWE DVDs, Hogan On HDNet
- WWE’s 1st Quarter Financial Reports are in and Vince McMahon isn’t happy. He said:
“Our first quarter adjusted EBITDA declined 20 percent reflecting mixed performance from our business lines, including the impact of the ongoing transition in our talent base, and an increase in SG&A expenses. While we understand the lead time required to develop new characters with broad appeal, we were disappointed with our financial performance and our management team is working on addressing these challenges.”
“Looking ahead, we are optimistic about our longer-term opportunities to leverage our strength as the ‘New WWE’. We are pleased with the strong performance of WrestleMania, which is expected to deliver a 30 percent increase in domestic pay-per-view buys and reach more than one million buys globally. Further, the successful launch of our new program, Tough Enough showcases the power of our branded programming. We believe the recent adjustment in our
dividend will enhance our flexibility to create and monetize new content, to distribute that content on a variety of existing and emerging media WWE’ initiative.”
To sum everything up revenues totaled $119.9 million compared to 138.7 million last year.
PPV revenue was $13.5 million, down from the $32.4 million.
Revenue from WWE Classics On Demand for the first quarter were $1.1 million, down from $1.3 million in 2010's first quarter.
WWE.com pulled $2.7 million down from $3.4 million.
On the positive side DVD sales were $8.1 million, up from $7.6 million, and WWE Shop earned $3.4 million for this first quarter, up from $3 million for 2010's first quarter.
WWE Studios recognized revenue of $8.6 million for this year’s first quarter, up from $3.4 million in 2010. WWE attributes the growth in revenue to The Chaperone with Triple H. It was also noted that their financial statements reflect a loss of $1.5 million related to The Chaperone’s advertising costs, among other things.
- Before Awesome Kong could use the name Kharma in WWE, the company had to purchase the rights to the name from fitness model Jennifer Thomas who used it on the Indys.
- The following message pops up when trying to purchase certain DVDs on Silvervision, the EU distributer of WWE DVDs:
“It has been removed at the request of WWE – we’ll have more news on this next week.”
The titles affected are: The Hart Family Anthology, The True Story of Wrestlemania, WWE’s Greatest Stars of 90s, Best of Raw Season 1 & 2, WWE Raw 15th Anniversary.
- HDNet have filed a one-hour interview with Hulk Hogan to air Friday, May 20th at 10pm EST. Here is the trailer:
WWE Reports First Quarter Financial Results
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Posted in: WWE
WWE Reports First Quarter Financial Results
By Marc Middleton
May 5, 2011 - 9:47:30 AM - WWE sent out the following today…
WWE® Reports 2011 First Quarter Results
STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WWE (NYSE:WWE) today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2011. Revenues totaled $119.9 million as compared to $138.7 million in the prior year quarter. Operating income was $13.2 million as compared to $37.3 million in the prior year quarter. Net income was $8.6 million, or $0.11 per share, as compared to $24.7 million, or $0.33 per share in the prior year quarter. There were several items that impacted comparability, primarily the timing of our annual WrestleMania® event and a $2.8 million film impairment charge. Excluding these items, revenues in the current quarter totaled $119.9 million, adjusted operating income was $17.4 million and adjusted net income was $11.2 million, or $0.15 per share. In the prior year quarter, revenues totaled $109.9 million, adjusted operating income was $22.6 million and adjusted net income was $14.7 million, or $0.20 per share.
"Our first quarter adjusted EBITDA declined 20% reflecting mixed performance from our business lines, including the impact of the ongoing transition in our talent base, and an increase in SG&A expenses. While we understand the lead time required to develop new characters with broad appeal, we were disappointed with our financial performance and our management team is working on addressing these challenges," stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Looking ahead, we are optimistic about our longer-term opportunities to leverage our strength as the ‘New WWE'. We are pleased with the strong performance of WrestleMania, which is expected to deliver a 30% increase in domestic pay-per-view buys and reach more than one million buys globally. Further, the successful launch of our new program, Tough Enough showcases the power of our branded programming. We believe the recent adjustment in our dividend will enhance our flexibility to create and monetize new content, to distribute that content on a variety of existing and emerging media platforms and to execute our ‘New WWE' initiative."
The current quarter results reflected $1.4 million in marketing expense to promote WrestleMania XXVII, which occurred within our second quarter on April 3, 2011. In addition, the current quarter included a $2.8 million impairment charge related to our film, 12 Rounds. WrestleMania XXVI occurred on March 28, 2010 and was included as part of our first quarter results in 2010. WrestleMania XXVI contributed approximately $28.8 million of revenues, $13.1 million of profit contribution ($8.8 million, net of tax) and $0.12 of EPS from across our various business lines in the prior year quarter. The Q1 2010 results also reflected an infrastructure tax incentive which reduced depreciation and amortization expense by $1.6 million.
DIRECT LINK: Amazing Hot Pics of WWE-FCW Diva & Lance Storm Student Tenille Taylor! Brett DiBiase, Jon Moxley, and other WWE Developmental Notes Lilian Garcia Explains How She Got On Raw, Whether She Will Return To WWE Kong Almost Not Named Kharma, Multiple WWE DVD Titles Pulled From Europe Jericho Addresses Fans' Criticism Over Match Outcome On This Week's SmackDown TE Contestant Featured On Gay Oriented Wrestling Website, Stratus Teaches Yoga John Cena Talks Retirement, Edge's Injuries, Being A Role Model Lex Luger Say He's Working With WWE Again, Discusses Miss Elizabeth's Death New Hall of Famer Dismisses WWE's Wellness Policy - Says Not Everyone Is 'Clean' Video: Zack Ryder's "Z! True Long Island Story" (Episode 12) RAW Breakdown: The Rock's Birthday, WWE Title Rematch Bombs, More
More News and Notes from Today's 1st Quarter WWE Financial Results
- Here are some notes from WWE's financial results released earlier today:
* Total net revenues from WWE Studios, live/TV events, consumer products and digital media for the first quarter in 2011 were $119.9 million, down from $138.7 million in the first quarter of 2010.
* WrestleMania 27 is not included in these first quarter results as it happened on April 3rd, during the second quarter. WWE had WrestleMania 26 included in their first quarter results from last year.
* Pay-per-view revenues for this year's first quarter were $13.5 million, down from the $32.4 million from 2010's first quarter. There were only two WWE pay-per-views in this year's first quarter as WrestleMania 27 is not included. WWE lists this year's Royal Rumble at 446,000 buys and this year's Elimination Chamber at 199,000 buys.
* Revenue from WWE Classics On Demand for the first quarter were $1.1 million, down from $1.3 million in 2010's first quarter.
* Home video net revenues were $8.1 million, up from $7.6 million in 2010. Licensing revenues were $23.9 million, up from $19.9 million for the same period in 2010. The relationship with Mattel is paying off as revenue from toys increased by $3 million. Video game revenue is up around $2.2 million.
* WWE.com revenues were $2.7 million for the first quarter of this year, down from $3.4 million in the previous year's first quarter. WWE blames this on a decline in pay-per-view webcast and wireless revenues. WWE's shop website were $3.4 million for this first quarter, up from $3 million for 2010's first quarter. Numbers of orders for the first quarter have increased to 83,000 with an average revenue of $40.59 per order.
* WWE Studios recognized revenue of $8.6 million for this year's first quarter, up from $3.4 million in 2010. WWE attributes the growth in revenue to The Chaperone with Triple H. It was also noted that their financial statements reflect a loss of $1.5 million related to The Chaperone's advertising costs, among other things.
Lots of Revealing Backstage Private Maryse Pics, Another Big Name Back in WWE?, More
ToT [64] – 2011 WWE 1st Quarter Power 15 Rankings
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What’s up peeps? How’s it going out there? Good, correct? Before I start off tonight’s column, I got a question to ask… Would you buy an e-magazine covering WWE, TNA, MMA, Boxing, NFL, NBA, MLB, and Indy’s? Would you want to write for said mag? If so, please let me know. If you want to write please e-mail me with a written sample of your work, and me and my staff will get to it accordingly, and if you are something we are looking for you will be hired. That is all.
So, here’s the deal. This is a Power 15 of the top 15 wrestlers since the beginning of the year. It was a huge success back when I wrote the two pieces last year. So, by popular demand, I present to you the 2011 1st Quarter Power 15!
15. Sheamus
In at number 15 is a man who topped the top 15 not even a year ago. Oh, how Sheamus has mightily fallen off of the radar. After winning King of the Ring towards the tail end of last year he went on an epic losing streak. The streak continued on up through February until it came to a halt. On this fateful night Sheamus would put his career on the line for a shot at the United States Championship. The rest as they say is history. He may have had a very slow and dreadful start to the year, but he has made an impact in the closing. Sheamus is undoubtedly building the mid-card to good heights. The second quarter could be better.
14. Kofi Kingston
Next at 14 is a man who has had quite the opposite ride in the first quarter than the aforementioned Sheamus. Kofi began the year by capturing the Intercontinental Championship. The next month or so I firmly believed that he was on the ascend to a World Championship. It climaxed the night after Elimination Chamber, though, as I was positive that he was going to be added to the World Heavyweight Championship match making it a Fatal Four-Way with Christian also added. I was dead wrong, though. He proved to be nothing more than just a man who man del Rio look ultra strong heading into the spectacle of them all. Since then, he has been on the down fall. At this pace I wouldn’t expect to see Mr. Jamaican in the Power 15 at mid-year.
13. Daniel Bryan
Daniel Bryan Danielson is a man that desperately needs a change of character. The happy go lucky act is just not cutting it for him anymore. He was the indy darling because of his blood thirsty attitude, not because he was the ladies man. Given this it was a good thing that the E took the United States title off of him when they did. He has some good momentum building up going into the second quarter. A move to Smackdown definitely wouldn’t hinder him.
12. Triple H
I struggled with this ranking. I wasn’t sure of putting him in the 15 because he’s had one match. One match, and he lost it. I put him on here, though, ultimately because of how dominating he was in his math against The Undertaker. No man before him has put Taker through such a clinic. He did lose, though. I also believe that Trips is going to have a wild summer that could end in his final reign atop the WWE ladder as World champ.
11. John Morrison
Here’s the man who I was POSITIVE would win the Elimination Chamber match and go to WrestleMania and challenge The Miz for his WWE Championship. Instead he was put in the night’s pisser break match. I guess at least he was put on the card, right? Arguable, if it wasn’t for his actions involving Trish Stratus, he would more than likely be in the place that R-Truth is in right now. What a shame. I feel he may be on the downwind from here on out.
10. Christian
Christian is my uber favorite wrestler. I’ve been a peep since he created that phrase. But he’s long been dreaded as never being a World Champion. I believe that is all about to change in the next month. Dare I say it that Edge’s forced retirement could very well be the best thing to every happen to Christian. If it’s not, then I don’t know what is. Christian, my prediction to be number one at mid-year.
9. The Corre
The Corre could potentially be one of the greatest factions, ever. All they need is a little personality, and Vince to have faith in them. I do believe that Ezekiel Jackson could be World Heavyweight Champion this summer. If Wade keeps the Intercontinental Championship which he should as he adds instant credibility to the belt, and if Gabriel and Slater keep the Tag Team straps, they could be a very, very dominant force. All they need is a little push. A push as in ending the careers of The Big Show, and Kane. Yeah, you heard it here first!
8. Cody Rhodes
Mankind Jr.? Just seeing Cody so easily evolve his character over recent months tells you enough as to how much potential this kid has. My biggest fear for him was that Rey would bury him at WrestleMania. That never happened, though, as Cody prevailed and was able to fend off the push killing Mysterio.
7. Dolph Ziggler
Officially Dolph is a one-time World Champion. In my books he is not. Dolph started the year as arguably the top heel on Smackdown. At this point in time he stands as a top heel mid-carder. He’ll do battle for a World title by year end, but will it really be worth it after what he’s been through?
6. CM Punk
Punk just never can catch a break can he. He had an amazing start to the year by becoming the leader of New Nexus, and by taking down John Cena on numerous occasions. The thing that set him from 2-6 for me was how he lost at WrestleMania. He’d be the top man right now had he gone over. But no, creative has to be a dumbass and further push him down the totem pole. At this point, would it really surprise any of you if he faced off with Orton at the next three pay per views, and lost each of these matches? I know it wouldn’t surprise me.
5. Alberto del Rio
I still believe he’s sniffing the World title way to early. He deserves to be in the main event, yes. He doesn’t need to be sniffing the title, though, because if he loses, like he did at Mania, then you risk making him look weak. And I’d argue day and night that he came off as weak as fuck at WrestleMania. A match where he went over Christian would have been better served for him that night. But now, he’s in a match with Christian at Extreme Rules, and I’d argue that if he loses it’ll instantly set him off track. I just don’t like the way his booking is being handled. But you already knew that.
4. John Cena
How can he even be included here after being buried so bad by The Rock? Well, because he’s John Fuckin’ Cena.
3. Edge
I was almost inclined to give him the top spot after his retirement, but I figured that would just de-figure my rankings. He had with much doubt one of the strongest reigns of his career to close it. Some say he should of put over del Rio before he went out. Which if his career didn’t have such a short leash on it, he would of done. Tisk, tisk.
2. Randy Orton
Randy was on fire this quarter. The only thing he didn’t do was re-take his Championship. There’s so much more left for him to do with Punk, though. His shell is on fire, and the E knows when just to cash in on it.
1. The Miz
Not sure about the rest of you, but I’ve been sold on Miz for a little while now. He’s quickly becoming one of my favorite parts to watch every Monday night. It was good to see him put his dreadful first Championship defense be put to rest by straight-up dominating the first quarter. He honestly could have been tarnished beyond recognition had his feud with Jerry Lawler went just a little bit different. It’s safe to say, though, that he is on the quick track to becoming the face of the next Golden Age.
So, there you have it the 1st Quarter Power Rankings. How did I do here? What are you guy’s rankings? Tell me what you guys are feeling out there in ReaderLand. Remember to give me your thoughts on the opening paragraph. It’s, as always, much appreciated!
Until next time, it’s your favorite spartan, Spartacus, signing out!
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Updated: TNA IMPACT! Rating W/ Quarter Hours
As noted earlier here on the website, TNA iMPACT! earned a 1.3 cable rating ? a .94 (0.9) M18-49, a .76 (0.8) in M18-34, and an average audience of 1.7 million viewers (1,738,000). This is slightly down from last week's 1.36 (1.4) cable rating, with 1.8 million viewers. Competitive Ranking -Among Basic Cable Networks between 9p-11p, TNA ranked #3 among M18-49, behind TNT (NBA) and MTV (Jersey Shore(). Here are the TNA iMPACT! quarter hours:
1.42 (1.4)
1.30 (1.3)
1.20 (1.2)
1.12 (1.1)
1.28 (1.3)
1.24 (1.2)
1.21 (1.2)
1.23 (1.2)
Major Update: IMPACT! Scores Highest Rating In Over A Year (Quarter Hours)
Here are the quarter hour numbers:
Q1 - 1.52 (1.5) rating - In-ring segment featuring Dixie Carter, Hulk Hogan, Immortal and Fortune
Q2 - 1.26 (1.3) rating - Backstage segments featuring Bart Scott, Immortal, The Jarretts, AJ Styles, Kazarian, Matt Hardy, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff; Beer Money, Inc. vs. Gunner and Murphy
Q3 - 1.32 (1.3) rating - Beer Money, Inc. vs. Gunner and Murphy; backstage segments featuring The Jarretts and Angelina of Jersey Shore; Velvet Sky vs. Sarita, post-match with The Shore and Angelina
Q4 - 1.17 (1.2) rating - In-ring segment featuring The Shore, Angelina, Sarita and The Beautiful People; backstage segments featuring Mr. Anderson, Eric Young, Orlando Jordan, Jeff Jarrett, Ric Flair, Kurt Angle and Hulk Hogan
Q5 - 1.36 (1.4) rating - The Jarretts' wedding; backstage segments with Hulk Hogan, Jeff Hardy, Eric Bischoff and The Jarretts; Scott Steiner vs. Rob Terry
Q6 - 1.43 (1.4) rating - Scott Steiner vs. Rob Terry; backstage segments with Ric Flair, Bart Scott and Kurt Angle; Matt Morgan vs. Hernandez
Q7 - 1.37 (1.4) rating - backstage segment with Hulk Hogan and Mr. Anderson; The Jarretts' wedding
Q8 - 1.42 (1.4) rating - The Jarretts' wedding, limo shot of boots, Jeff Hardy and Sting ring entrances
Overrun - 1.48 (1.5) rating - Sting vs. Jeff Hardy
As seen above, the show never dropped below a 1.2 and maintained their audience throughout the entire show. As noted earlier, TNA and SpikeTV are both very happy with that number considering the show went head-to-head with a UFC event and the season finale of The Jersey Shore, which did a huge number. Those two shows share the same demographic as TNA and are their main competition on Thursday nights.
