LAS VEGAS - Sports fans can thank Dan Snyder for making some of the Academy of Country Music Awards spectacle relevant for them.

The Washington Redskins owner acquired the show last year as part of his $175 million buyout of dick clark productions inc., and has quickly infused a highlight-reel mentality.

Redskins running back Clinton Portis went to the show, and Sacramento Kings owner Gavin Maloof said he took part in a bit at Snyder's request. When asked to pick winners, Maloof picked Rascal Flatts, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics.

Even mixed martial arts fighter Kimbo Slice stirred up Internet rumors about a possible Mike Tyson fight as he strutted on the orange carpet with a small entourage before the show.

"I'll do it if he wants to do it," said Slice.

Even "Wolf" from American Gladiators showed up — no, he didn't wear the suit — and offered some advice for last year's winner Evan Dollard, who joins the cast this season as gladiator "Rocket." Wolf — whose real name is Hollywood Yates — said Dollard added to his 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame and took some intimidation tips.

"I just told him you just have to find that point in yourself where you just snap," Yates said. "I don't think he'll be the most feared but he'll do a wonderful job."

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JUDGING BROOKS BY HIS COVER: Like other country music stars, the guys from Montgomery Gentry aren't buying the idea that Sunday was the last time they'd see Garth Brooks perform for a while.

"If he has a passion for music, which we know he does like Eddie (Montgomery) and I do, you can't stay retired," Troy Gentry told The Associated Press as he strolled into the 43rd annual Academy of Country Music Awards.

"It's the worst drug in the world, because there's no cure for it," Montgomery said. "Once it's in your blood, you gotta have it."

Brooks planned to perform a medley of his hits on the telecast and was accepting the inaugural Crystal Milestone Award at the show known for showcasing new artists and up-and-comers.

"Garth is my hero, he changed my entire life's direction," said Rodney Atkins, who was nominated for six awards, including top male vocalist, song of the year and album of the year.

"Garth is gonna play music until the good Lord takes him home," he said. "I think once music is a part of you never really stop."

Brooks announced his retirement in 2000 and said he wanted to focus on raising his three kids with wife Sandy Mahl. Brooks and Mahl divorced in 2001, and he married fellow country superstar Trisha Yearwood in 2005.

He's performed occasionally since, for charity and to promote his latest album, a three-disc compilation set called "The Ultimate Hits."

Source: AP