Additional Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter
The Ric Flair retirement angle has been changed from what was laid out several months ago. The original angle which was devised by Steve Austin called for Flair to wrestle and win on all three WWE brands. WWE began the angle at RAW in Charlotte a couple of weeks ago but for reasons unknown got cold feet and pulled Flair from scheduled television appearances two weeks ago. At one point the idea was for Flair to win all the way up to WrestleMania and get a title shot. There was even talk of Flair winning the title at WrestleMania and having a short title reign. Those plans appear to have been scrapped, however, Flair’s retirement angle will continue in some capacity leading up to WrestleMania. As confirmed during Friday’s SmackDown!, Ric Flair will compete in a retirement singles match on the December 21 edition of SmackDown! in Rochester, NY. It was made clear Monday night on RAW that the “Flair must retire if he loses” stipulation will be limited to singles competition only.
In related news, Ric Flair recently agreed to terms with WWE on a new three-year deal that will run through 2010, but he has yet to actually sign the contract. His current contract expires on Tuesday, January 8, 2007.