WWE Daily

LAS VEGAS – In the VIP suite at the Thomas & Mack Center, WWE Champion Triple H and fellow Superstar Jeff Hardy brought smiles to the faces of Make-A-Wish’s David Presley, of Knoxville, Ga., and Melvin Locher III, of Johnstown, Pa.

“Jeff Hardy is a cool guy. I like how he flies off the ropes and I like his hair. I thought about doing my hair like that, but I cut it off,” said Melvin, 13, before meeting his favorite Superstar. “It’s very important. Today is the funniest day of my life. I knew it was going to come, but I didn’t know it was going to come this soon.”

However, David, 15, admires Triple H’s personality.

“The Game is just a regular guy,” David stated. “I really don’t like to go anywhere, but meeting Triple H has been a dream of mine for many years.”

The WWE Universe has been voting on the WWE Championship Match they’d like to see at Cyber Sunday – Triple H vs. Jeff Hardy, Triple H vs. Vladimir Kozlov or a Triple Threat contest. The True Champs discussed the topic and agreed they’d prefer to see a singles competition between The Game and Hardy or a Triple Threat match.

“It’ll be nice to see a Triple Threat Match, but Jeff has wanted the WWE Championship for a long time. In the end, I just think Triple H is going to hold onto the title,” David predicted, as Melvin disagreed that Jeff would come out on top.

The moment the honorees had been waiting for finally came, as their favorite Superstars entered the luxury suite. The Game and Hardy brought the True Champs WWE merchandise, signed autographs, posed with the honorees and their families, and fielded many questions, including one asked to the 12-time World Champion about whether or not he thought he’ll ever surpass his mentor, WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair, in title wins. (Flair retired with 16 under his belt.)

“Even if I do, there will only be one Ric Flair. He’s in a league of his own,” The Game replied. “Every time I’m compared to ‘Naitch,’ it’s a huge honor.”

David also asked his favorite Superstar who he would like to face for the WWE Title at Cyber Sunday.

“I’d like to face Kozlov because he’s undefeated. If Jeff Hardy gets the majority of the votes, I guess I’ll have to beat him up again,” stated The Game, with a glowing smile.

The champion’s grin grew bigger when he expressed the respect he has for David and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“I always try to give Make-A-Wish kids whatever they want. If they want to take pictures, or just sit there and look at me or ask questions for a few minutes. It’s their Wish and we’re there to make sure it happens,” Triple H explained. “David is a great teenager and I look forward to seeing his name in lights one day.”

Melvin, who met Jeff Hardy minutes before the high-flyer’s match against Kozlov on SmackDown, presented the Superstar with postcards from Johnstown.

For Hardy, his latest Circle of Champions experience was inspiring, as he prepares for what could potentially be his golden opportunity for the WWE Championship at Cyber Sunday.

“Melvin was really cool. It’s always cool to see anyone from Make-A-Wish. I enjoyed the postcards of his hometown, because it gave me the opportunity to see where he’s coming from. It shows he cares, and the fact we got to meet each other meant just as much to me,” Hardy said.

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Circle of Champions honoree Danny Garcia, of Los Angeles, saw his dreams come true when he attended Monday Night Raw live for the first time. If that wasn’t enough, he also got the chance to meet his favorite Superstar, three-time World Heavyweight Champion Batista, in the VIP suite at the Honda Center.

“Batista was everything I thought he would be like, but I didn’t expect him to be as tall as he is,” said Danny about his meeting with the 6-foot-6, 290-pound WWE Superstar. “It’s really cool to have had my family here tonight with me, because my family has been with me through everything.”

It’s been nearly two months since one of Danny’s other favorite Superstars, John Cena, suffered a herniated disk by being caught off the rope with a bone-jarring Batista Bomb – delivered by The Animal at SummerSlam. If there were ever any questions about whether the incident would negatively impact the WWE Universe’s opinion about Batista, Danny put those inquiries to rest.

“I don’t think he’s a bad guy for what happened to John Cena. He was just doing his job,” explained Danny.

After anxiously standing still in his luxury suite, the moment Danny had been waiting for finally arrived when Batista walked into the VIP room carrying a handful of gifts. The Animal presented the True Champ with his signature Batista Unleashed Animal T-shirt, posed for pictures with Danny and his family, and signed autographs, including Danny’s brother’s Nintendo DS.

In the end, Batista, one of Circle of Champions’ biggest supporters, was pleased by his meeting with Danny and the Garcia family.

“It’s events like Circle of Champions meet-and-greets that makes me feel good. Knowing all the honorees want to do is meet us and we’re able to bring a smile to their faces,” said Batista. “This is seriously the best aspect about our job as WWE Superstars.”

MINNEAPOLIS – As World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho prepares for his Ladder Match at No Mercy against archrival Shawn Michaels for the gold, Jericho made wishes come true for a few Circle of Champions honorees. In the VIP suite at Minneapolis’ Target Center, Jericho met with Sunshine Foundation’s Jeremy Grace, of London, Ontario, Canada, and HopeKids Foundation’s Brent Swanson, of Rockford, Minn.

“On a scale of a trillion, my WWE experience was probably a trillion and more,” said 11-year-old Jeremy. “It was really cool to meet Chris Jericho. I’d like to thank the Sunshine Foundation and all the Superstars who took the time to talk to me.”

For Brent, 16, his admiration for WWE began when he was only 1-year-old. He recalls watching, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Rock, and the Undertaker transcend the boundaries of sports-entertainment. The True Champ witnessed when Jericho became the first-ever Undisputed Champion in WWE history, so he was awestruck when he finally got the chance to meet the World Heavyweight Champion.

“A few days ago, when I found out that I was going to Raw to meet Jericho, I kept saying to my dad how I couldn’t wait,” Brent explained. “Chris Jericho was everything I thought it would be. I didn’t think I would be able to meet him. It might not ever happen again, so I’m amazed that this did happen.”

Brent and Jeremy sat patiently until the five-time World Champion strutted into the luxury suite. During his meet and greet, Jericho gave the Circle of Champions honorees various merchandise, signed autographs, and posed for pictures with Jeremy, Brent and their fathers. Jericho, one of WWE’s most charitable Superstars, was impressed with his latest meet and greet.

“It’s very important for us to see Circle of Champions honorees. Whenever a True Champ wants to meet one of our Superstars, we all make sure it happens, given how much this wish means to them. Also, it means a great deal to us knowing that they used their one wish to come see us,” the World Heavyweight Champion explained. “The fact that Jeremy traveled so far shows the global impact of WWE. Kids will come from all over the world and use their one chance to see WWE Superstars wherever and whenever they can.”

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – For Make-A-Wish’s Whitney Sullens and Ruben Fennell, Magic Moments’ Tamarius Williams, and Children’s Wish Foundation’s Devon Pilgrim, experiencing Monday Night Raw live and meeting their favorite WWE Superstar, Batista, was a dream come true. (PHOTOS)

“I like Batista because he’s good looking,” Whitney, 11, of Dickson, Tenn., said with an ear-to-ear grin on her face. “I didn’t think he would be as huge as he is. He was pretty nice.”

Ruben, 15, of Memphis, spends every Monday evening in front of the TV watching Raw. His mother, Vivian, said, “On Monday nights, we know not to bother him.

“When he comes home, all he wants to do is eat, take his bath and watch wrestling.” Vivian continued. “Actually seeing Superstars in person is remarkable and exciting for him. He’s going to love it.”

When the 6-foot-6, 290 pound, three-time World Heavyweight Champion walked into the VIP suite in Memphis’ FedEx Forum bearing gifts for the Circle of Champions honorees, there was not a single face without a smile – including the kids’ mothers, who swarmed to get their pictures taken with The Animal.

Batista gave the True Champs his personalized merchandise, posed for photos with them and their families, and signed autographs. Batista also conversed with the lucky four about baseball, martial arts training and his first World Heavyweight Championship win.

“Winning the title was a dream come true,” Batista said. “When I won it the first time, I never thought I would give it back.”

Although The Animal is their favorite WWE Superstar, the True Champs also received special visits from WWE Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler, Shad, Lilian Garcia and Kelly Kelly.

If meeting Batista wasn’t enough, Whitney and Ruben, along with Tamarius, 7, of Birmingham, Ala., and Devon, 13, of Pendleton, S.C., were later escorted to the ring, in front of the WWE Universe in Memphis, for the ultimate experience. The True Champs were given the opportunity to climb inside the same steel cage that World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho and CM Punk would battle in during Raw that night (Watch Y2J and CM Punk’s Steel Cage Match).

“This was the best thing to happen to me. I’ve been through a lot and this experience helped me mentally. It’s definitely something I’ll never forget,” Devon explained. “Getting this opportunity to meet everybody and getting inside the ring was incredible. Thanks WWE for giving me this opportunity.”

Tamarius’ mom, Phyllis, agreed, “This was a magic moment. It’s indescribable. We had an awesome trip.”

Batista, a huge Circle of Champions fan, reflected on his encounter with the True Champs.

“Bringing smiles to kids’ faces is one of the biggest perks that come with this job. The fact that their wish is to meet me is such a humbling experience. I’m grateful to have the success I do because it enables me to do things like this.” The Animal added, “Meeting the kids puts me in a very good mood and makes me feel that all this physical pain we go through is well worthwhile.”

NEW BEDFORD — We all have wishes and dreams, including young Bradford Brown. And thanks to A Wish Come True Inc., the energetic 10-year-old recently realized one of his.

“This has been his dream for years and he got the chance to experience it,” said Bradford’s mother, Irene Harrop. “I can’t tell you how much this meant to him.” Making Bradford’s wish come true

WWE posted this announcement on rescheduling Raw live event for December 19th:

Due to a scheduling conflict, the Friday, December 19, 2008 WWE presents “Raw Live” event -7:30pm at Fort Lauderdale’s Bank Atlantic Center has been rescheduled for two weeks later- Friday, January 2, 2009 at 7:30pm .

Tickets printed/purchased with the original Friday, December 19, 2008 date will be honored on the new date of Friday, January 2, 2009.

South Florida WWE fans, don’t forget WWE tickets make a great holiday gift!

-Devon Pilgrim has spina bifida, a developmental birth defect that results in an incompletely formed spinal cord. This young man’s dream is to meet WWE CEO and head one in charge Vincent Kennedy McMahon. More on the story below:

-Devon Pilgrim, 13, has undergone 40 surgeries to address a birth defect, but now he is excited about meeting World Wrestling Entertainment’s Vince McMahon on Monday.

Devon of Central was given that opportunity by the Children’s Wish Foundation International, an Atlanta-based charity. The teen arrived in Memphis, Tenn., with family members on Saturday. He will watch WWE Raw at the FedEx Forum on Monday and meet the wrestling promoter. Teen from Central to be granted wish to meet Vince McMahon

-After making his ECW debut over two months ago, WWE.com has added a profile on the manager of Mark Henry, Tony Atlas. You can see it at this link.

ST. LOUIS – With Unforgiven just days away, WWE Superstars Jeff Hardy, Big Show and WWE Champion Triple H brought gigantic smiles to the faces of Make-A-Wish’s Deyanira Santana of New York and Camden Martin of St. Louis, Wishing Well Foundation’s Jessica Kuebler of St. Louis, and Dream Factory’s Christian Mowry of Sullivan, Mo.

“Jeff Hardy is so cute. He’s my favorite Superstar, because his wrestling style is different and he has a unique personality. Plus, he’s not stuck up, at all. I describe my personality to be very similar to his,” Deyanira, 19, an avid WWE loyalist for 11 years, said before meeting Hardy. “I went crazy when I heard my wish would be granted. I’m too nervous. I don’t know what I’m going to say.”

However, Jessica’s admiration for Triple H comes from the words uttered from the 12-time World Champion’s mouth.

“I’ve seen Triple H’s DVD [The King of Kings], and he seems like a nice guy. In it, I was impressed when he said that when he got injured last year, he didn’t think about wrestling. That showed me strength and that he cares a lot about others and his family,” explained Jessica, 10.

The moment the honorees had been waiting for finally came, as one by one, their favorite Superstars entered the luxury suite. The World’s Largest Athlete, the Swanton Bomber and The Game brought the True Champs tons of merchandise, signed autographs, posed with the honorees and their families, and fielded many questions, including the one asked to Triple H by Jessica on whether all the Superstars like each other.

“Imagine if you had a house of 50 brothers. Some of them like each other and the others you beat up,” The Cerebral Assassin responded.

Circle of Champions meet and greets allow for honorees to have fun and see different sides of their favorite Superstars, and the True Champs took full advantage. Christian, wearing his oversized Big Show Big Boot T-shirt, and Camden, both 6-years-old, showed The World’s Largest Athlete some wrestling moves of their own. The multi-talented Hardy even sung a few notes of one of his favorite tunes, Jordin Sparks’ and Chris Brown’s hit, “No Air,” for Deyanira.

The Game got a surprise that made him blush. Jessica asked the WWE Champion out on a date to one of her favorite St. Louis steakhouses. At the end of her meeting with Triple H, Jessica gave him get well cards for John Cena, who recently had surgery for a herniated disk, and St. Louis native, Randy Orton, who’s been out for months with a torn pectoral muscle.

After meeting their favorite Superstars, the Circle of Champions honorees were met by Shawn Michaels, despite his eye injury and his recent triceps injury, and the Legend Killer himself, who specifically came to thank Jessica for the lovely get well card.

“Jessica’s a sweet child. She’s a big fan of the Legend Killer. It’s so uplifting to see the kids, because they’re strong and have such big hearts. It shows a lot about their character and personalities. I perform better knowing they’re in the crowd cheering for me,” said Orton, the three-time World Champion, who made an appearance on Monday Night Raw.

For Hardy, his latest Circle of Champions experience was inspiring, as he prepares for his golden opportunity for the WWE Championship at Unforgiven in the Championship Scramble.

“I’m really pumped up and excited, because I know they’re going to be out there watching and supporting me,” explained The Legend Thriller. “Words can’t describe how I feel. It’s awesome to have that kind of power to put a smile on a kid’s face. It was a very cool experience.”

And Triple H was still smiling over his date request.

“It’s always great to meet True Champs. Usually, you’re there to put a smile on their face, but they end up putting a smile on yours, because they’re so full of life,” said The Game. “That was very nice of Jessica to give Cena and Orton get well cards … To see a kid beaming is the best part of our profession.”

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. – Despite his recent herniated disk injury, John Cena made dreams come true for Make-A-Wish’s Cody McClellan, of Louisville, Ky., James Gravelee, of Kalispell, Mont., and Circle of Champs honoree Matthew Sarna, of Mountain Top, Pa., in a plush VIP suite at Wilkes-Barre’s Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza.

“John Cena is my role model,” said Cody, 10. “I hope to be like him. He’s never negative. He does and says some really funny stuff on television, too.”

James, 16, has been a Chain Gang Soldier ever since Cena arrived to WWE. Every time he watches Raw, he jumps out of his seat with excitement. For Matthew, 5, his dream came true via some help from the Pennsylvania State Police Department. After hearing of Matt’s story and knowing of the kindergartener’s love for WWE and John Cena, the department requested the special meet and greet.

When Cena arrived to the VIP suite, he autographed photos, T-shirts, including James’ stuffed teddy bear, Cody’s Cena T-shirt, caps, his “You Can’t See Me” CD, posed for pictures with Matthew, Cody, James and their families, and presented his Chain Gang Soldiers with wristbands, headbands and his Hustle, Loyalty, Respect T-shirt.

The former three-time champion was impressed with the many homemade posters made by the True Champs, especially James’ “WWE & Make-A-Wish Tag Team Champs” sign. Cena’s injury was the outcome of a high impact Batista Bomb he received at SummerSlam. However, Cena, one of Circle of Champions honorees biggest fans, would not allow his anything stop him form meeting the True Champs.

“The reason why I keep doing all I can for organizations like Make-A-Wish is because of the joy I’m able to provide the kids; it’s about them. It’s the utmost form of flattery. At the same time, if that’s the part I can do for charity, I’ll keep doing it,” explained Cena. “It’s not about padding any statistics or anything like that. It’s about gearing these kids up for a great night of having fun and preparing them for the WWE experience. They were awesome.”

Although Cena was their favorite, the Circle of Champions honorees also received a visit from Cryme Tyme, who were “flossin” Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase’s World Tag Team Championship titles. The self-styled “candle guys” posed with the True Champs and let them hold the gold. However, it was Cena who left the three fans still in awe of their special meeting.

“He’s so big. I’ve been waiting for this moment as long as I can remember. It still hasn’t sunk in yet. I almost cried when I saw him. I couldn’t believe it was him hugging me,” James recalled. “And I hope that Cena gets the World Heavyweight Championship soon.”

“Well, if he doesn’t get the title back, I can just give him mine,” Cody added with a huge smile, as he held up his replica WWE Championship.

The Sarnas were elated to have been able to experience this special moment, and be there with Matthew as he watched Raw live for the first time.

“It just means so much to our family. We are so thankful for WWE and Make-A-Wish to touch our families like this. This is one of the first times in the last year that we’ve had a family moment that we can enjoy together. It’s just so amazing that they did this for us … It’s beyond words.”

David, Matthew’s father continued, “Matthew is my hero. He never complains. Every day he asks if it’s Monday or Friday night. He’s totally thrilled to be here.”

RICHMOND, Va. – Days before John Cena steps into the ring at SummerSlam against The Animal Batista for the first time ever in a one-on-one match, the three-time WWE Champion made the dreams come true for Make-A-Wish’s Tiffany Santos, of Boca Raton, Fla., and Kevin Vargas, of Ocean Township, N.J.

“I was very excited. I never saw a real celebrity. I was so surprised at how big his arms are,” Kevin, 13, said. “He’s my idol. I like his theme song. I always listen to it on my iPod.”

Tiffany, who traveled with her mother, sister, and cousin to meet her favorite Superstar, echoed Kevin’s enthusiasm on John Cena’s theme song, but admitted she liked Cena for another reason.

“He’s really hot and he has a nice body,” explained Tiffany, 10, who said that she was inspired every time she was reminded about her upcoming meet-and-greet with Cena. “I love his entrance song. I dance to it at home. Also, I think he played a really good Marine in the movie The Marine.”

The Chain Gang Commander strutted into the Circle of Champions VIP suite at Richmond Coliseum with a glowing smile on his face and his arms full of gifts. Enthusiastically, Tiffany and Kevin jumped to their feet and ran to hug their favorite Superstar.

Cena autographed photos, T-shirts, caps, John Cena: My Life DVDs, posed for pictures with Tiffany and Kevin and their families, presented his Chain Gang Soldiers with wristbands, headbands, 8-Bit T-shirts, and Hustle, Loyalty, Respect dog tags and caps. Then, Tiffany presented her favorite Superstar with a special surprise – a note that made the three-time WWE Champion blush.

After telling Cena to keep the note a secret, the True Champ recited the poem out loud for everyone to hear.

“Roses are red/Violets are blue/You are so hot/I want to marry you,” Tiffany read, as she covered her mouth to hold back her laughter.

“The poem was great. I’ve heard many marriage proposals, but that was the first genuine proposal. It was a historical first,” Cena said as he flashed his pearly whites. “Just to know that I’m a piece of motivation for [Tiffany and Kevin] and a piece in helping them get through their days is such an honor and good news to me. That’s the main purpose of the charity – to provide kids with hope. That’s why Make-A-Wish is so special.”

Jacob,Cena and Joshua and families

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Hours before he and Batista captured the World Tag Team Championships, John Cena made dreams come true for Make-A-Wish’s Jacob Kitchens of Jefferson, Ga., and Joshua Odle of Albuquerque, N.M., on Monday before Raw.

For Jacob, 10, and Joshua, 12, their admiration for the three-time WWE Champion goes beyond his work inside the ring. The True Champs said Cena’s “coolness” comes from his contribution to Make-A-Wish Foundation and WWE’s Circle of Champions honorees.

After leaving the True Champs speechless the moment he entered the Thompson-Boling Assembly Center & Arena VIP suite, the Chain Gang Commander signed autographs and posed for pictures with the Joshua and Jacob and their families, presented his Chain Gang Soldiers with wristbands; headbands; Hustle, Loyalty & Respect caps and 8-Bit T-shirts.

“Your Make-A-Wish and Circle of Champions T-shirts are nice, but here are my signature T-shirts you can wear, in case you spill mustard or ketchup on yours while eating during the show,” Cena told the True Champs, handing them his new brand new Cenation jersey, which will be available soon on WWE Shop.

The Raw Superstar brought many smiles to his Chain Gang Soldiers’ faces, and they too brought joy to the three-time WWE Champion, who will face Batista for the first time ever in a one-on-one match, next Sunday at SummerSlam. Jacob gave Cena a one-of-a-kind, camouflage University of Tennessee Volunteers baseball cap.

For Cena, a major supporter of Make-A-Wish, his latest Circle of Champions experience was one he’ll always remember.

“Everyone who works with Make-A-Wish, from all sides of the Foundation, knows how valuable it is to have those wishes come true. To be chosen by [Joshua and Jacob] to grant their wishes, out of the fact that I enjoy contributing to Make-A-Wish, that’s a huge honor,” said a humbled Cena.

And for the Circle of Champions honorees, after meeting their favorite Superstar, they couldn’t stop smiling.

“Meeting John Cena stunned me. I chose John Cena to make my wishes come true, because I only focus on two things: wrestling and John Cena. He’s pretty cool and laid back,” said Jacob with an ear-to ear grin.

“The thoughts that went into getting him the hat was that he likes wearing camouflage. I’m glad he liked it. The four-hour drive, with my family, was all worth it,” Jacob continued.

“It was really cool. When he walked into the room and I saw him for the first time ever, I just froze. My mind went blank,” said Joshua. “I had some fun. He’s actually as nice as people say. It’s really nice what he does for Make-A-Wish kids, because I hope to contribute the same way as he does to the Foundation when I get older.”

Make A Wish’s Jacob posses with John Cena

UNCASVILLE, Conn. – The day after a historical Great American Bash, Chris Jericho and John Cena met Circle of Champions honoree Joshua Nadeau, 18, and Make-A-Wish recipient Latiauna Davis, 10, in the Circle of Champions VIP suite at Mohegan Sun Arena before Monday Night Raw.

“I thought Chris Jericho was kind of mean about six years ago, but I started liking him a lot more when he came back at the end of last year. He’s so funny and a great wrestler,” said Nadeau, of Manchester, Conn., about his favorite Superstar.

Moments later, Jericho, wearing a dark blue pinstriped suit, strutted into the luxury suite. Y2J signed autographs, posed for pictures and gave Nadeau some exclusive gear: a “Chris Jericho Entertainment” T-shirt, “Save Us” medallion, a lanyard and a baseball cap. Nadeau also spoke with the three-time World Champion about NASCAR, and the whereabouts of Shawn Michaels.

“Shawn Michaels isn’t here tonight. I had to beat Shawn up yesterday,” Jericho boasted. “I’m pretty mean sometimes. He’s not my friend, but you’re still my friend though, right?”

Nadeau held Jericho’s hand and stared into Y2J’s blue eyes, smiled ear-to-ear and quickly shook his head to gesture ‘yes.’

For Davis, of New Brunswick, N.J., her fascination for sports-entertainment and her favorite Superstar, John Cena, came about while watching Raw with her older brothers, Terrell and Dashaun, and mother, Teshia.

“I like his FU. He’s exciting to watch, and he’s cute,” Davis said, with a bright grin.

Less than 24 hours before, John Cena suffered a crushing defeat to John Bradshaw Layfield in a New York City Parking Lot Brawl where he was thrown onto the front windshield of a car. When the 6-foot-1, 240-pound Superstar walked into the suite, Latiauna couldn’t believe her eyes.

The three-time WWE Champion signed autographs, posed for pictures, presented Latiauna with a Chain Gang medallion, 8-Bit T-shirt, wristbands and his brand-new exclusive “You Can’t See Me” cadet hat.

When John Cena asked the True Champ if there was any other Superstar she wanted to see, she did not hesitate to respond.

“There’s no other person I want to see, but you,” Latiauna exclaimed.

“Oh, I’m flattered,” Cena told the fifth-grade honors student.

Although Y2J and the Chain Gang Commander were their favorites, the Circle of Champions honorees were thrilled to meet World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Paul London and Matt Striker.

After meeting the Circle of Champions honorees, our Superstars said they were humbled by the experience.

“All the bumps, bruises and all the punishment we take, when you get the chance to make a kid smile is what makes this job more worthwhile,” said Y2J. “My appeal is that I think people respect the effort I bring to the ring as an entertainer, showman and the connection I have with my fans, whether I’m viewed as a good guy or bad guy.”

The Chain Gang Commander, one of the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s biggest fans, gets pumped-up to meet Circle of Champions honorees, similar to being in the ring.

“You want to make sure that your time spent with the [True Champs] is the best it could possibly be. The reason why I love the charity is that Make-A-Wish gives one wish to a child and that wish is to spend time with me. The fact that they want to spend time with me is the most flattering thing imaginable,” explained Cena. “Before meeting them you do get a bit nervous, because you want to live up to their expectations, and you want to make sure all their friends and family are happy. That’s the bottom line, because it is certainly about the child, not me the Superstar.”

PHILADELPHIA – Sporting his custom-made “No. 1 Edgehead” T-shirt, Circle of Champions honoree Brian Da Costa, of Sayreville, N.J., waited anxiously in his VIP suite at the Wachovia Center to meet, Edge, his favorite WWE Superstar.

“I’m very excited to be here to meet Edge. I just think he’s a tremendous wrestler and a heck of a competitor. I like his attitude, because he’s a lot like me – cocky,” said Brian , 11, who asked the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help him meet Edge. “For those who don’t like Edge, well that’s their opinion. They can not like him, but I like him.”

Brian, a sixth-grade honor student, was outspoken about Edge and Vickie’s relationship and the events that took place last week on SmackDown.

“Honestly, I think people don’t like Edge only because of SmackDown GM Vickie Guerrero. Now that it seems like their relationship could be ending, people will like him more. I didn’t think Edge and Vickie were a good couple. Not to be rude, but that was a bad career choice for Edge. Although, by staying with Vickie, he could go far and get title opportunities every pay-per-view,” Brian explained.

At 4:24 p.m., the moment that Brian had been waiting for finally happened. The door opened and the 6-foot-5, 240-pound Superstar peeked his head into the doorway. An ecstatic Brian jumped out of his chair, ran toward Edge with tears flowing down his face, and hugged his favorite Superstar.

“I can’t believe it’s you. This is the happiest moment of my life,” Brian exclaimed.

“Does this mean you’re happy or sad?” Edge asked.

“I’m very happy,” Brian replied.

Once Brian gathered his composure, he presented Edge with a gift: an official New Jersey Devils jersey, Edge’s favorite NHL team.

“No one gives me anything. They usually throw things at me,” Edge explained. “I don’t know if you notice, but not too many people like me.”

Edge then presented the True Champ with his special gifts – his authentic “Easy Being Sleazy” T-shirt, which he wears to work out in each day, and his favorite “Rated-R Superstar” wristbands he wears in every match – the same ones he wore to defeat Undertaker and Batista to win his World Heavyweight titles.

Edge posed for photos with Brian and his family, autographed pictures, T-shirts, Da Costa’s “Rated-R Superstar” plush bear, and a picture frame that will hold Brian and Edge’s picture. The event left the Circle of Champions honoree in tears.

“This was the best experience of my life. The happiest moment was seeing my idol right there in front of me. Edge was basically everything I thought he would be like in-person,” Brian said.

For Edge, a Superstar who’s known as a master manipulator, his Circle of Champions experience humbled him.

“There’s nothing that can prepare you for that type of response from someone. To think that Brian’s wish was to meet me, and for him to react that way, blows me away. He was a true Edgehead,” he said .

“When you meet kids like that, it throws everything into perspective. In the grand scheme of things, it makes you thankful for what you do have, instead of complaining about what you don’t.”

The Ultimate Opportunist, the winner of five World Championships, can never get used to receiving gifts.

“The greatest part about this moment is I can walk around the [Philadelphia] Flyers arena in New Jersey Devils gear, so it’s kind of double my pleasure today,” Edge said. “This was probably one of my best Make-A-Wish experiences. I’ll have a smile on my face for the rest of the day … until I walk through the curtains and then the scowl will come back.”

RALEIGH, N.C. – In the Circle of Champions’ VIP suite inside the RBC Center, John Cena literally took the words out of the mouth of Make-A-Wish’s Joshua DeLange, 6, last Monday night.

Accompanied by his parents Don and Laurie, the Stockton, Calif., native was in high spirits in his luxury suite. Joshua, wearing a John Cena T-shirt, khakis and a blue Make-A-Wish baseball cap, was talkative. Then, it happened. The 6-foot-1, 240-pound, three-time WWE Champion strolled into the room. Joshua glanced up and down in awe. The “True Champ” couldn’t believe his eyes.

Cena posed for pictures with the Circle of Champions honoree, signed autographs, gave out wristbands, headbands, T-shirts, and the official “Hustle, Loyalty, Respect” cap. And if that wasn’t enough, Cena gave away something extra.

“I usually throw out my hat before every match, but I’ll give you this one, too,” John Cena said, as he took the cap off his head and handed it to an enthusiastic Joshua.

For Cena, a kid becoming awestruck when meeting him is normal, but he’ll be the first to admit that he’s more humbled by the Circle of Champions honorees for choosing him as the person to make their wish come true.

“You have to put yourself in the kids’ shoes. Make-A-Wish is so generous in granting the one wish that a kid wants. Then, they find out that it’s really coming true. Sometimes it’s overwhelming,” said the Chain Gang Commander. “The glory of meeting Wish kids is they get alone time with me where they can be reserved, but later on, when he or she is in front of tens of thousands of people, they’ll be just as berserk as anyone. Whether they’re shy or not, they’ll remember everything that’s going to happen.”

Cena later made a deal with Joshua that, he’ll “have to promise to get loud and show a lot of excitement during tonight’s show.” Without hesitation, Joshua agreed.

“That’s an easy deal. When you get him in front of that live crowd, and the lights go out, I know there’s no way he won’t enjoy tonight’s show. He was just saving it for tonight,” Cena explained with a smile.

After seeing the smile on their son’s face after meeting Cena, Donald and Laurie agreed that this moment will live on in Joshua’s mind.

“It was a breathtaking experience that Joshua was able to meet someone he looked up to in person. This will continue to motivate and inspire him,” explained Donald, as he glanced at his jovial son. “It’s amazing, because WWE and Make-A-Wish went over and beyond. I wasn’t expecting the amount of effort they put in. On a scale of 1 to 10, and you said 10 was the greatest rating, it’s well over that. I can’t put a number on [what happened today].”

BATON ROUGE, La. – Hours before defeating Chavo Guerrero in front of a packed house at the River Center, WWE Champion Triple H made dreams come true for 12-year-old Kelan Timm, who wished to meet his favorite Superstar. Kelan’s wish, arranged by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and WWE, was The Game’s first since being drafted to SmackDown three weeks ago.

“It’s very cool to have been the first [Circle of Champion honoree] he’s seen since coming to SmackDown. I was shocked he was drafted, because The Game was a really big Superstar on Raw,�? Kelan said. “Triple H is such a cool Superstar because he puts on great performances. I like his attitude. He has a nice sense of humor, he’s brave and he’s a fighter, like me.�?

The Rapid City, S.D., resident was afraid his wish to meet Triple H was not going to happen. When The Game was drafted to SmackDown, that meant the original plan to have the duo meet before Monday Night Raw in New Orleans needed to be rescheduled. That’s when the Make-A-Wish Foundation and WWE worked collectively to accommodate the “True Champ�? and move the meeting to Baton Rouge.

Kelan, accompanied by his mother, Amanda Johnson, stepfather, Jeremy Johnson, brother, Tyson, and sister, Aliyah, sat anxiously in his luxury suite for The Game. Then, the moment he’d been waiting for finally came. The Cerebral Assasin, appropriately dressed in his signature blue jeans and maroon button-down designer shirt, strutted into the room.

“Where’s my buddy, Kelan?�? The Game asked before sitting next to the True Champ.

Kelan couldn’t contain his excitement when he saw his favorite Superstar in person for the first time.

“Oh, my god … it’s Triple H!�? Kelan exclaimed enthusiastically.

Triple H signed autographs, shelled out his new “Triple H Hammer�? T-shirts, cap and wristbands, and he posed for photos with the Circle of Champions honoree and his family. With The Game’s birthday a few weeks away, Kelan surprised him with Rapid City local sports teams’ apparel, a can koozie and a Mt. Rushmore pin. The gifts didn’t end. The local Make-A-Wish chapter honored Triple H with Mardi Gras beads and an official alligator head surveyor.

Sometimes, The Game’s young fans are so thrilled about seeing him, they forget to ask questions. Kelan gained his composure to ask a series of questions on Triple H’s most challenging opponent (Shawn Michaels), toughest match (2000 Street Fight Match at Royal Rumble against Cactus Jack), what career the 12-time champion would’ve pursued had he not become a professional wrestler (graphic designer or a fitness trainer) and a memorable one that was priceless.

“If you could meet anyone in the whole world, who would it be?�? Kelan asked.

“You,�? Triple H replied with no hesitation.

Also, SmackDown Superstars Big Show and Jeff Hardy stopped by to meet Kelan. However, Triple H left a lasting impression.

“It really made me feel good that over everybody in the world Triple H could meet, he chose me,�? Kelan explained, with an ear-to-ear grin. “It was nice to learn so much about him. He’s a nice guy. I’m telling all my friends how cool Triple H was and how cool SmackDown was, and if they ever get this opportunity in their life to take it.�?

For Triple H, an international icon, a multiple-time titleholder and one of the biggest Superstars in sports-entertainment history, meeting Kelan was one of the greatest honors of his life.

“The name of the organization says it all – Make-A-Wish. Kelan had one wish in life and that was to meet me. That’s incredible. Everyone talks about what we do from an industry standpoint, but this is really what we do – take a kid like Kelan and put a smile on his face. Making him smile will be the best thing I do until I meet the next Circle of Champions honoree,�? Triple H said. “If he could not have come to SmackDown, I would’ve gone to him. This is the best part of our job, so we do everything possible to accommodate our True Champs.�?

More WWE Superstars grace Kelans presents….

-NEW ORLEANS – Cameras flashed and on-lookers swarmed the locker room area as Circle of Champions Honoree Clinton Carrier, of Dreams Come True, walked down the red carpet to his luxury suite at the New Orleans Arena. It was another day in the spotlight for the “True Champ�? as he arrived to meet his favorite Superstar, John Cena, for the first time and witness Monday Night Raw live.

For Clinton, 5, of Lafayette, La., passion for sports-entertainment runs through his veins. As a little girl, his mother Lynda would watch professional wrestling with her grandfather and attend every time there was a pro wrestling show in Lafayette. While pregnant with Clinton, she would watch Monday Night Raw and noticed his reactions. Clinton kicked when she screamed at the TV, especially when Shawn Michaels superkicked Mr. McMahon.

Clinton, accompanied by his mother, brother Savontreus, godmother, Nkeitha Calhoun and cousins, Desmond White and Angel Washington, was sporting a huge smile and two very teary eyes when the three-time Champion walked into the suite. Cena signed autographs, shelled out T-shirts, Chain Gang Soldier medallions, wristbands, and headbands, and posed for photos with the Circle of Champion Honoree.

“It’s cool to see kids, like Clinton, so excited. It was very nice to meet Clinton and his family. It makes for an even better experience when the whole family is excited like his were tonight. They all came to the show and had a great time,�? Cena explained.

Clinton has seen Raw live in the past, but this night was special. Instead of getting upper level seats, he and his entourage enjoyed Raw from the front row.

“They are the [real] superstars and our VIP guests, so you treat them as such. They get a personal meet and greet, all the time they need from me and they watch the show from the best seats in the house. That’s what the [Circle of Champions] experience is all about,�? Cena recalled.

Clinton’s meet and greet with the Chain Gang Commander for the first time was like “heaven on earth,�? described Lynda.

“I’d like to thank John from the bottom of my heart for the both of us. He made Clinton’s dream a reality,�? said Lynda. “Clinton was a miracle baby and this experience just shows that God has his hand over the righteous. Thank you WWE and Dreams Come True for making it all possible.�?