Roethlisberger doesn't grapple on WWE show

WILKES-BARRE, Pa., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger talked a good game as the guest host of a pro wrestling show but didn't get into a match, observers said.

World Wrestling Entertainment's cable television show Monday Night Raw was broadcast from Wilkes-Barre, Pa., this week, with Roethlisberger as its host. Some were worried that the appearance might interfere with his quarterbacking duties, but despite scripted challenges by wrestlers, the Steelers' star didn't grapple, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported.

The quarterback appeared on the program with his offensive linemen, Max Starks, Willie Colon, Trai Essex, Justin Hartwig, Chris Kemoeatu and Darnell Stapleton, who helped Roethlisberger fend off a taunt by WWE wrestlers the Big Show and Chris Jericho, the newspaper said.

After questioning the quarterback's toughness, the two quickly exited the ring when the linemen reportedly moved in to protect Roethlisberger.

The Tribune-Review said Roethlisberger was greeted by a smattering of boos from the pro-Philadelphia Eagles crowd, acknowledging there were Eagles fans in the arena.