[Breaking News] Several Legends Released From LCW

The LCW Board of Directors announced today the release of several legends from Legends Championship Wrestling. Hillbilly Jim, Tony Atlas, and Mean Gene Okerlund have all been released and will no longer be featured in LCW storylines.

While no official reason for Hillbilly Jim's release was given, it is believe that his occasional promotional appearances with WWE is the reason for his release. Also, it's believed that creative had nothing for him at the present time. Hillbilly Jim was never really used as anything more than enhancement talent during his time in Legends Championship Wrestling.

Tony Atlas' release came as no surprise given his new, high-profile position on WWE television in an adviser position to ECW Champion Mark Henry. While it's unclear how long Atlas will remain on WWE television, the LCW Board of Directors opted to release Atlas so that he and WWE could explore those options. Atlas was highly regarded by LCW Chairman of the Board Christian Calaway and played an integral part in the "Brothahood" storyline several months ago and it's believed that when his current run with WWE comes to an end he will be welcomed back to LCW.

Mean Gene Okerlund has also been released due to his commitments to WWE and his increased appearance schedule with WWE 24/7 and WWE's newest television program, "Vintage Collection." It is expected that Bill Mercer, who appeared as a special guest backstage interviewer during last month's LCW SuperClash 2008: Parade of Champions pay-per-view event (click here for the complete results) will replace Okerlund as the regular backstage interviewer during LCW pay-per-view events.

LCW Chairman of the Board Christian Calaway has always been adamant about featuring legends not regularly featured on WWE or TNA television programming.