- The deal that WWFE and DirecTV struck to allow DirecTV to broadcast this Sunday's Unforgiven was actually under the terms of their previous agreement, which expired following last month's Summerslam. Both sides remain in negotiations to put together a new deal.

- Here are highlights from a conference call done by Jim Ross with members of the media this afternoon:

> Jerry Lawler was at Tuesday's Smackdown tapings at Ross' invitation. It was strictly a social visit for Lawler and the boys to see each other once again. There were no business discussions.

> Ross feels that he and Paul Heyman are creating a good chemistry. He feels that he and Lawler had a natural chemistry which didn't need as much work to create.

> The WWF had no idea what they would do following the terrorist attacks but came to the decision on Wednesday to run Smackdown live and in the format it was done in. Ross stated that it was a stressful couple of days, especially since everyone was away from their families.

> The WWF offered anyone and everyone who wanted to speak on the tragedy to do so. He does not know how many people wanted to talk and he doesn't know if everyone made the air.

> The WWF is always looking at the long term effects of having matches like Steve Austin vs. Kurt Angle. Ross described it as a delicate situation because some people want him to win the title since the event is in his hometown (Pittsburgh) and the fact that he is very pro-USA. However, there are also those who want to see Angle continue to chase Austin. Ross said that the decision on the winner of the match has not been made yet and he hopes that the right decision will be made. Ross feels that the match will be a classic with better wrestling than at Summerslam.

> The WWF is pleased with Test's development. They feels that the Hurricane still needs work and that Shawn Stasiak was a work in progress. Ross feels that Rob Van Dam is an emerging star and that Kanyon needs to be given creative opportunities.

> Ross doesn't see anyone being called up from the developmental territories this year with the exception of maybe one or two. At the end of the year, the WWF will determine who should stay in the territories and who should be dropped.

> The WWF has signed Jazz and she will report to OVW soon.

> Ross had a casual conversation with Ken Shamrock and there is interest for him to return to the WWF in the future. He is currently working with his schools and MMA projects. Shamrock will contact Ross when he wants to return, perhaps only on a part time basis. But, the door is open for him.

> Rey Mysterio Jr. is being well-paid by AOL Time Warner and they will talk again on December 31st, when his contract with them expires.

> Ross met with Juventud Guerrera but there isn't a spot for him right now. He plans on meeting with him as well in December.

> A combination of creative team, execution and talent is needs to get the Alliance members over. Ross put over Rob Van Dam, Booker T and Test and said that the key is to put them into creative storylines. Ross likes the idea of conflicts within the Alliance as well as the WWF.

> Ross doesn't know if there will be seperate creative teams for the WWF and the Alliance and the timetable is still being discussed for the split of the two.

> Ross stated that most arenas are developing more security measures. The WWF's backstage security has been tightened but that was in the works anyway. Ross went on to say that arenas will most likely open doors earlier to allow for new security measures.

> Ross said that a meeting was held today to discuss how the WWF will contribute to the relief effort, with both clothing and money. Something of significance will be done.

> Ross doesn't see any connection between the tragedy and the recent DirecTV deal that was struck today.

> There are no plans to bring back Shawn Michaels but that can change. They will continue to use him for public relations but he could be back as soon as the creative team comes up with an idea for him.

> Diamond Dallas Page will return within the next few weeks.

> Grand Master Sexay came to Smackdown with Jerry Lawler. They had a nice conversation but didn't discuss business.

> Ross said that it is challenging for new guys to break into the roster and that because of OVW/HWA, they will have more polished talent to select from. He hoped to send more unused talent there so they could work out.

> The WWF is high on Brock Lesnar.

> Ross feels that Mark Jindrak and Sean O'Haire will improve greatly in the territories.

> The Alliance split may happen after Wrestlemania.

> Ross said that dealing with Japanese feds can be frustrating due to power structures there.

> Ross feels that the WWF could do a much better job with Heat.

> Ross does not see Buff Bagwell returning at this time because not enough time has passed.

> Ross is happy with recent ratings considering the tragedy and Monday Night Football but they can't get complacent.

> Ross is very happy with the way the locker room has begun to co-exist since the summer. It is not perfect but it is a positive environment.

> Ross didn't know what Billy Silverman's issues were. He feels he overreacted to a rib.

> The WWF isn't looking to sign anymore talent but they do need to give some contracted talent more of a chance like Tommy Dreamer, Chuck Palumbo and Mike Awesome.

> Ross doesn't see a full-fledged women's division starting soon but with talent like Jazz, Victoria and Paisley, it may happen.

> Ross said that Arn Anderson, Dave Finlay and Ricky Santana get in the right with young talent before every show. He is very happy with the WWF's agents.

> Ross has spoken with Eddie Guerrero a lot lately and said he is doing well and hopes he can return to normal activity soon. They will most likely assign him to OVW or HWA for a few weeks to get his timing back.

> Ross doesn't think that The Rock will become a part-time wrestler because of his acting career. He feels that he will take roles when they are right for him but his heart is with wrestling. He is very happy with the delivery of his promos.

Credit: 1wrestling.com