THQ and JAKKS Pacific Celebrate Wrestlemania XX with Second Annual THQ Superstar Challenge; Top WWE Superstars Square Off in Exclusive Videogame Tournament

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 11, 2004--THQ Inc. (Nasdaq:THQI) and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq:JAKK) today announced the second annual THQ Superstar Challenge tonight at Planet Hollywood in Times Square, New York. The Superstar Challenge will pit 16 of WWE(R)'s top Superstars in a videogame tournament showcasing critically acclaimed "WWE SmackDown!(TM) Here Comes the Pain(TM)" for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system.

"We work closely with the WWE to create the most authentic wrestling titles on the market, including significant involvement from the Superstars themselves," stated Peter Dille, senior vice president of worldwide marketing, THQ. "Now WWE Superstars like John Cena(TM) and Torrie Wilson(TM) will have an opportunity to participate in a no-holds barred tournament and play the videogame they helped create."

"The stellar line-up for this year's Superstar Challenge makes the event THE ultimate experience leading up to WrestleMania XX for WWE fans in New York City," said Nelo Lucich, director of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. "Top WWE Superstars like Rey Mysterio(TM), Kane(R) and Christian(R) will once again compete to become the THQ Superstar Challenge champion."

About the THQ Superstar Challenge

The THQ Superstar Challenge is scheduled to take place at Planet Hollywood in Times Square at approximately 9:00 p.m. A total of 16 WWE Superstars will compete in a bracketed tournament to decide who will become the videogame champion. Winners will be awarded the coveted THQ Superstar Challenge trophy along with bragging rights until next year's challenge. THQ videogames, WWE and JAKKS Pacific donated prizes will also be made available.

Superstars Competing in the Challenge:

Booker T(R)

Shelton Benjamin(TM)

Trish Stratus(R)

Torrie Wilson(TM)

Victoria(TM)

Nidia(TM)

Rey Mysterio(TM)

Billy Kidman(TM)

Kane(R)

The Hurricane(R)

Matt Morgan(TM)

John Cena(TM)

D-Von Dudley(TM)
Christian(R)

Bubba Ray Dudley(TM)

A-Train(TM)