WWE Conference Call: Vince McMahon discusses the third quarter earnings, Shane McMahon's departure, and Linda McMahon's run for U.S. Senate

The following is a live coverage report on the WWE conference call that took place on November 5, 2009.

-Vince McMahon was introduced and said he believes the company had a fairly good quarter. He said one of the big barometers he uses is live event attendance. He said the average attendance increased by approximately nine percent. He added that television ratings were up roughly 23 percent over the quarter.

-Vince also addressed that Linda McMahon has stepped down as CEO. Vince said he has assumed the role and noted that Linda still sits on the WWE board of directors.

-Vince also acknowledged that Shane McMahon is leaving the company "to pursue other interests in the marketplace."

-WWE pay-per-view buys are down roughly 10 percent. However, they were up nine percent in overseas buys. It was noted that the company doesn't charge as much for overseas pay-per-views.

-Average attendance at live events in North America was up nine percent compared to the same quarter last year.

-Television revenue increased by 16 percent and earned an additional $3.9 million due tot he higher fees from global television and the addition of WWE Superstars.

-Magazine publishing decreased by 28 percent.

-WWE Studios earned $3.0 million in revenue compared to $5.6 in the same quarter last year. "12 Rounds" generated $12.2 million in gross domestic revenue. "The Marine 2" is scheduled for a December 2009 release.

-A caller asked about pay-per-view prices outside North America. It was explained that they adjust the cost based on the country. For instance, the price in the UK is more than the price in Mexico.

-WWE's current deal with the National Guard runs through 2010.

-A caller asked why there's not more of the older footage released on video and in general. Donna Goldsmith said they are just starting to put the plans in place for a WWE Network. She said they will use the library more once they launch the network. The project was later described as being "in the preliminary talking stages."

Powell's POV: They never gave a target date for the WWE Network. Vince mentioned the possibility for the first time around SummerSlam. It doesn't sound like anything is imminent.

-Goldsmith said they always look at whether they should add or subtract pay-per-views, or change the themes of the shows. She didn't say whether any changes in the schedule is planned.

Powell's POV: They only took a few calls this time around and were quick to end the conference after those calls.