NOV. 16 — Jesse Ventura whose candor and fresh perspective helped him get elected governor of Minnesota in 1998 today was named analyst on NBC’s upcoming XFL broadcasts. The joint announcement was made by Dick Ebersol Chairman NBC Sports and Olympics and Vince McMahon Chairman of WWE Entertainment Inc. The XFL which is co-owned and operated by WWE Inc. and NBC begins its first season on Saturday Feb. 3 2001. NBC will televise a weekly game in primetime each Saturday at 8 p.m. ET.

"We’re thrilled to have one of the most interesting and colorful leaders in America today joining us as an integral part of the XFL " said Ebersol. "This demonstrates our commitment to present real football in a fresh new fun way."

Said McMahon: "The XFL will be the best reality show on television and nobody can add color commentary to our brand of football the way Jesse Ventura can. He’s naturally opinionated charismatic and genuine — just like the XFL will be. From day one we’ve promised that the XFL will allow the true personality of the game to shine and we believe that Jesse is the best person to make that happen."

Ventura’s job approval rating of 71 percent is the highest of any governor in Minnesota’s history and ranks among the highest of any governor in recent memory. His previous broadcasting experience includes two years (1989-90) as the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers radio analyst. He also worked one season on Minnesota Vikings radio broadcasts. In addition Ventura hosted a sports radio talk show in Minneapolis.

Ventura’s professional wrestling career spanned 11 years. He was known as one of the best interviews and most colorful and popular entertainers in the sport. When his in-ring career was complete he became an analyst with the WWE and co-hosted the WWE’s "Prime Time Wrestling." He also hosted a WWE talk show called "The Body Shop."

In 1984 Ventura — a former Navy SEAL who served in Vietnam — retired from wrestling and became an actor. He has appeared in several films including Predator (with Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Batman & Robin.

The XFL’s eight teams will play a 10-week regular season and a two-week playoff culminating with the XFL championship game on April 21 2001. XFL rule modifications — most notably its "no fair catch" rule — are designed to add excitement while encouraging offense.

NBC’s coverage will provide viewers with an "all-access backstage pass" through the use of cameras and microphones placed everywhere from the players and coaches themselves to the huddles and sidelines.

The eight teams are: Birmingham Thunderbolts Chicago Enforcers New York/New Jersey Hitmen Orlando Rage Memphis Maniax San Francisco Demons Los Angeles Xtreme and Las Vegas Outlaws.

MEDIA CONTACT:
NBC Sports Communications 212-664-2014
XFL Communications 203-353-5020