Chicago Sun-Times: Raw taps Cena with first pick

If WWE truly was looking to shake things up, as Vince McMahon said, it is off to a good start after the first round of the draft lottery.

It started Monday, when Eric Bischoff told fans the Raw brand's first pick was the biggest in lottery history. A few minutes later, during the Highlight Reel segment, SmackDown champion John Cena came through the curtain and informed the fans he is on the Raw roster.

The first question raised is how Cena and Batista will coexist, since both hold titles. According to Bischoff, that situation will be decided after the draft, considering the Raw title-holder could be drafted in the coming weeks.

The pressure was on GM Teddy Long to add star power to SmackDown after Cena's loss. Long's first choice was Chris Benoit, who could have interesting programs against Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle or Rey Mysterio Jr.

HEARD AROUND THE RING: Sounds as if TNA's deal with WGN is not as close as the company once thought, but it still is negotiating with a number of networks about a prime-time slot. If TNA lands a national TV deal, look for WWE to raid some of its top young talent. ... WWE suits are keeping the draft picks a secret until the last moment. Word is Cena and Benoit did not find out until last Sunday. ... Joey Styles will be an announcer for the ECW pay-per- view tonight.