Chicago Sun-Times: Several key figures in WCW appear on their way out door

Never mind the constant rumors that Vince McMahon is close to buying the WCW, because there is much more news coming out of that organization this week.

First, the man in charge, Vince Russo, has taken a leave of absence, claiming it is impossible for him to work because of post- concussion syndrome. This could mean Russo's tenure in the WCW is over as it has been widely speculated that he would be let go by the company. Is it possible the handwriting was so visible on the wall that Russo found an out before the out found him?

It also appears two of the biggest stars in wrestling just a few years ago have been shown the door as well. Bret Hart, who has missed more time because of injury than he spent on the active roster, has been given his release. Hart, also a victim of numerous concussions, made a return in a small role a few months ago, but reports indicate he had difficulty traveling because of problems with his balance and was nowhere near in shape to get back in the ring.

And the often-troubled run in the WCW is over for Scott Hall, who was given his papers this last week. Hall also had been hampered by numerous injuries, but his problem was more of an out-of-the-ring deal. Hall and many WCW officials never saw eye-to-eye, and the company felt it was time to cut its losses.

RATINGS: Both shows continue to drop in the national Nielsen ratings, and it may be time for the two companies to shake things up. The WWF has given The Rock a less visible role on TV feeling Stone Cold would pick up the slack, but that has not been the case so far.

"Raw" did a low 4.8 Monday off hours of 4.5 and 5.1. Monday "Nitro" continues to drop to embarrassing levels, drawing a 2.3 with a 2.7 first hour and a 1.9 second. In case you missed it, the ECW has been dropped by TNN.

AROUND THE RING: It's "No Mercy" weekend for the WWF, and The Rock will defend the WWF title against Kurt Angle, Los Conquistadors get a shot at the Hardys and the tag belts, naked man Mideon will face William Regal, Billy Gunn will make a run at Eddie Guerrero's IC belt, and Stone Cold faces Rikishi in a no-rules match. . . . There is a strong rumor that Trish Stratus will be stripped during the show, a move that undoubtedly will earn better reviews than the stripping of Mae Young at the "Royal Rumble." . . . Paul Heyman and Sabu have had talks regarding the return of the former world champion to the ECW. . . . Chris Jericho and the Undertaker could be starting a feud leading up to a match at "Survivor Series." . . . Johnny The Bull has a broken arm and could be out up to four months.

HOTLINE: All the results of the WWF "No Mercy" pay per view available on the hotline-(900) 454-SLAM ($2 per minute).