The Rock's coming back to Raw tonight to respond to John Cena. Triple H will also appear.The road to WrestleMania continues. Read on for my thoughts on the show as it happens.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Questions on Kevin Nash, "dirt sheets" and older vs. younger stars at Mania, Hogan and WWE lawsuits, WWE hiring, Taker injury update, Rock on Raw?
Here's a rundown of Sunday's news:
First, PWInsider.com has questions. First up, someone wants to know Kevin Nash's status. As was reported previously, he has signed a 5-year deal, believed to be one of the Legends deals that gives WWE the rights to use his name and likeness for merchandise and the like. Nash can also make on-screen appearances under that kind of deal.
Someone asks about the prevalence of the term "dirt sheets" to refer to wrestling news sites (usually the more gossip-oriented ones). I've seen them referred to that more than just in the past few months, so I don't think it's some conspiracy to discredit the sites. I mean, how long ago was Miz and Morrison's online show of that name? It's pretty much a catch-all name for sites like that. Yes, they're online now, but it's one of those terms that suck around for them. Like "record company", "tuning in" to TV, etc. Heck, some people still call fans "marks" without meaning it derogatorily so it's nothing to get too worked about.
Next, someone takes issue with the WrestleMania card in terms of older vs. younger talents.
First, PWInsider.com has questions. First up, someone wants to know Kevin Nash's status. As was reported previously, he has signed a 5-year deal, believed to be one of the Legends deals that gives WWE the rights to use his name and likeness for merchandise and the like. Nash can also make on-screen appearances under that kind of deal.
Someone asks about the prevalence of the term "dirt sheets" to refer to wrestling news sites (usually the more gossip-oriented ones). I've seen them referred to that more than just in the past few months, so I don't think it's some conspiracy to discredit the sites. I mean, how long ago was Miz and Morrison's online show of that name? It's pretty much a catch-all name for sites like that. Yes, they're online now, but it's one of those terms that suck around for them. Like "record company", "tuning in" to TV, etc. Heck, some people still call fans "marks" without meaning it derogatorily so it's nothing to get too worked about.
Next, someone takes issue with the WrestleMania card in terms of older vs. younger talents.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Match made for WrestleMania, Sin Cara and Jersey Shore-TNA updates, more Jericho, Questions on Laycool, Daffney, children used in angles, and Michael Cole, Interviews with Lawler and Kelly Kelly, and Austin to be on Raw
Triple H vs. The Undertaker is now officially set for WrestleMania. No surprise there. This doesn't mean that they won't add any kind of stipulation to the bout, however.
Jim Ross reports that Sin Cara (it's going to take me a while to get used to that name) will be introduced to the WWE audience through several weeks of TV promotion. This is the best way to introduce someone I always think. It certainly paid off pretty well for Alberto Del Rio, though I'll admit that his went on a little longer than I would have liked.
Another day; another interview promoting Undisputed. Here's Jericho's latest.
There's also a brief blurb with Jersey Shore's Angelina on TMZ.com, where she talks about her preparations and nerves for her wrestling debut. It's definitely umm... interesting how she got ready for it.
Next up, Saturday's questions to PWInsider.com and some other news of interest.
Jim Ross reports that Sin Cara (it's going to take me a while to get used to that name) will be introduced to the WWE audience through several weeks of TV promotion. This is the best way to introduce someone I always think. It certainly paid off pretty well for Alberto Del Rio, though I'll admit that his went on a little longer than I would have liked.
Another day; another interview promoting Undisputed. Here's Jericho's latest.
There's also a brief blurb with Jersey Shore's Angelina on TMZ.com, where she talks about her preparations and nerves for her wrestling debut. It's definitely umm... interesting how she got ready for it.
Next up, Saturday's questions to PWInsider.com and some other news of interest.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Smackdown thoughts- 2/25/11
On Sunday, Edge retained his World Heavyweight Championship in the Elimination Chamber match, only to be assaulted by Alberto Del Rio. Tonight starts Smackdown's road to WrestleMania XXVII where these two will collide. Read on for my thoughts on this show as it happens!
Questions on R-Truth, Tributes to the troops, Desmond Wolfe, Hogan/Bischoff/Flair, and Rhino, Updates on Sin Cara (Mistico) and Ric Flair, Mysterio and HBK interviews, Impact and Superstars ratings
Today's news begins with a look at the questions PWInsider.com got for the day. The first is a suggestion that R-Truth be turned heel and purposefully misquote the city that he's in each night. I think that would have been/would be hilarious. I don't know exactly how well R-Truth would get over as a heel, but I wouldn't mind if they gave it a shot. Not that I think they should do it just because I'd find it funny. They could even get the crowd to chant "shut up" instead of "what's up?" among other things.
As for question #2, I have heard that once some people had to take cover in an area because of safety concerns while overseas for Tribute to the Troops, but thankfully no one was hurt. I don't remember the full details. It was mentioned on one of the broadcasts by I'm thinking Michael Cole a few years ago.
Next someone wants to know when to expect Desmond Wolfe back in TNA. No one knows. There are a number of rumors as to why he's off TV, but nothing concrete. I honestly always found him overrated, so I'm not exactly upset that he's gone.
After the break, my thoughts on whether Hogan, Bischoff, and Flair will be released by TNA, and all the news for the day.
As for question #2, I have heard that once some people had to take cover in an area because of safety concerns while overseas for Tribute to the Troops, but thankfully no one was hurt. I don't remember the full details. It was mentioned on one of the broadcasts by I'm thinking Michael Cole a few years ago.
Next someone wants to know when to expect Desmond Wolfe back in TNA. No one knows. There are a number of rumors as to why he's off TV, but nothing concrete. I honestly always found him overrated, so I'm not exactly upset that he's gone.
After the break, my thoughts on whether Hogan, Bischoff, and Flair will be released by TNA, and all the news for the day.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Jersey Shore castmember and NFL player to appear for TNA, Nash signs deal, Randy Savage question, ex-Diva pregnant, Final WWE All-Stars roster, Lawler and Hogan interviews, WWE's Mexico press conference on Mistico, and a Christian update
"Jersey Shore"'s Angelina has signed a short-term deal with TNA, and will reportedly debut in a tag match involving Robbie E and Cookie next week on Impact. She wants to extend the contract to make an appearance on PPV, and wants to face fellow "Shore" castmate JWoww. I hope this gets them some mainstream attention and ratings, because the core fanbase isn't going to be happy about this news. She'll also appear on the 3/10 episode.
Kevin Nash has signed a 5-year deal with WWE. The details aren't known, but he says that sometime in that period we'll "hear the Diesel engine again". Something else I'm not crazy about, but we'll see how it works. My guess is that this is a Legends deal and not a full-time talent contract. So, we likely won't be seeing Nash as much as we saw him in TNA, but he could still show up from time to time.
PWInsider.com has some more questions today. First up, will Randy Savage go into the Hall of Fame this year, and will we see him at WrestleMania? I won't lead you on here. I wouldn't bet on it.
Anything I add to the other questions would just be a rehash of what they said.
More news after the break!
Kevin Nash has signed a 5-year deal with WWE. The details aren't known, but he says that sometime in that period we'll "hear the Diesel engine again". Something else I'm not crazy about, but we'll see how it works. My guess is that this is a Legends deal and not a full-time talent contract. So, we likely won't be seeing Nash as much as we saw him in TNA, but he could still show up from time to time.
PWInsider.com has some more questions today. First up, will Randy Savage go into the Hall of Fame this year, and will we see him at WrestleMania? I won't lead you on here. I wouldn't bet on it.
Anything I add to the other questions would just be a rehash of what they said.
More news after the break!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Superstars and Impact thoughts- 2/24/11
Read on for my thoughts on this week's Superstars and Impact. Tonight Ric Flair faces AJ Styles, and TNA has a "shocking surprise" for the end of the show.
Updates on Austin Aries and the UWF, Questions on Daniel Bryan, Stone Cold, and Jerry Lawler's mother, Smackdown dark match, new WWE TV deal, McMahon talks WrestleMania, more on Al Snow, another Jericho interview, Raw pulls monster rating, and a note on HHH-Taker
In the first story for Wednesday's news is a video where Austin Aries talks about his future. Pretty interesting, and he's clearly thought this through. I'm glad he's looking at his life from a new perspective instead of continuing to do something he feels he isn't "growing" in.
The UWF has a new video teaser here. It's definitely something different, but how far will an ultra-violent style make it in today's market? The hip hop style gives it something to distinguish itself beyond that, and I'm curious as to how well that will work out. Despite R-Truth being in the video, he's still contracted to WWE and there's been nothing to suggest that he'll be a part of this. On one level I like that they took a shot at WWE's presentation of ECW, as that's something that hardcore fans really took issue with. Not to mention that it fits in with the "anti-establishment" vibe that's popular with those fans.
First up in Wednesday's PWInsider.com questions is about how things would have gone differently had Daniel Bryan not been fired. Read on for my answer to this and the other questions sent in there, as well as the rest of the news of the day.
The UWF has a new video teaser here. It's definitely something different, but how far will an ultra-violent style make it in today's market? The hip hop style gives it something to distinguish itself beyond that, and I'm curious as to how well that will work out. Despite R-Truth being in the video, he's still contracted to WWE and there's been nothing to suggest that he'll be a part of this. On one level I like that they took a shot at WWE's presentation of ECW, as that's something that hardcore fans really took issue with. Not to mention that it fits in with the "anti-establishment" vibe that's popular with those fans.
First up in Wednesday's PWInsider.com questions is about how things would have gone differently had Daniel Bryan not been fired. Read on for my answer to this and the other questions sent in there, as well as the rest of the news of the day.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Questions on Edge vs. HHH, Laycool, the NWA Title, and WrestleMania IX, Interview with Christian, Superstars rating, JR talks about WM27, Al Snow talks about "Smart marks", producing in TNA, and wrestlers publicly airing grievances, TNA hype, Tough Enough trainer returns, and WWE news in Mexico
Let's jump right into it with a look at today's PWInsider.com questions.
Firstly, will we see Edge vs. Triple H at a future WrestleMania in a possible retirement match?
I don't know if they'd do this one just because they both hold so many World Title reigns. It could remind fans "oh yeah, these two have been in a lot of main events" or even "oh yeah, the titles change hands a lot more than they used to". It's amazing to look at the title histories and see that these two each reached double-digits in reigns in less than a decade (It took Edge only a little over 5 years) when others have been around longer but don't have as much gold to show for it.
But to answer the question, I'd put this in the "maybe" category. Not something I'd put too high a likelihood on.
The next question asks about the top 3 entertaining promotions. I'll bow out of this one because I haven't seen much non-WWE wrestling and I don't want to base my opinions on 1 or 2 shows I've seen of another promotion, current or classic. They'd have to be consistently entertaining for me to bestow that honor on them.
For questions I will answer and the rest of today's news, read on.
Firstly, will we see Edge vs. Triple H at a future WrestleMania in a possible retirement match?
I don't know if they'd do this one just because they both hold so many World Title reigns. It could remind fans "oh yeah, these two have been in a lot of main events" or even "oh yeah, the titles change hands a lot more than they used to". It's amazing to look at the title histories and see that these two each reached double-digits in reigns in less than a decade (It took Edge only a little over 5 years) when others have been around longer but don't have as much gold to show for it.
But to answer the question, I'd put this in the "maybe" category. Not something I'd put too high a likelihood on.
The next question asks about the top 3 entertaining promotions. I'll bow out of this one because I haven't seen much non-WWE wrestling and I don't want to base my opinions on 1 or 2 shows I've seen of another promotion, current or classic. They'd have to be consistently entertaining for me to bestow that honor on them.
For questions I will answer and the rest of today's news, read on.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
NXT thoughts- 2/22/11
Season 4 is coming down to the wire, and tonight we go down to the final 2. Who's getting cut? Read on for my thoughts on this week's NXT.
Two WWE returns, a few FCW cuts, more from Jericho, Questions on Cena/Rock, bad gimmicks, Miz/Morrison/Rock, the Raw GM, and WM28, new TNA signing, Big Show DVD update, Foley, Steiner, and Jericho updates, more on the UWF, Stratus interview, Hall of Fame updates, and more on HHH vs. Taker
This story broke less than 5 minutes after the midnight news deadline last night: Evan Bourne is expected back in the ring by the end of the month. I'm guessing a MITB slot is his WrestleMania destiny.
Scott Armstrong was hired back by WWE as a referee. He worked last night's PPV.
WWE has cut developmental talents Kevin Hackman and Caylee Turner, the latter of which is Alicia Fox's sister. There are rumors of more cuts to be had.
Chris Jericho continues his string of good interviews here. I REALLY need to get back to my wrestling reading list.
After the break, I look at PWInsider.com's questions of the day and give my take on them. The first one is about the issue between The Rock and John Cena.
Scott Armstrong was hired back by WWE as a referee. He worked last night's PPV.
WWE has cut developmental talents Kevin Hackman and Caylee Turner, the latter of which is Alicia Fox's sister. There are rumors of more cuts to be had.
Chris Jericho continues his string of good interviews here. I REALLY need to get back to my wrestling reading list.
After the break, I look at PWInsider.com's questions of the day and give my take on them. The first one is about the issue between The Rock and John Cena.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Raw thoughts- 2/21/11
Tonight WWE gets on the highway on the Road to WrestleMania. John Cena is the new #1 Contender after last night's Elimination Chamber, and he's on a collision course with The Miz. Also the 2/21/11 mystery will finally be solved.
WWE Elimination Chamber thoughts
Read on for my thoughts on WWE's last Pay-Per-View before WrestleMania. Jerry Lawler gets his chance to become WWE Champion while 6 men battle to become #1 Contender. Also, Edge defends his 11th World Title. Did I mention that these last two matches are inside the Elimination Chamber? Who's going to headline in Atlanta?
Questions on OVW-TNA, Lacey Von Erich, Looking at monitors during matches, more Hall of Fame inductees, and ratings, Interview with Shawn Michaels and Jonathan Coachman, new TNA signing, HHH update, PPV dark match
Here's the news for this PPV Sunday:
PWInsider.com has some new questions up. Here are my responses to their... umm... responses:
No, OVW doesn't have any kind of relationship with TNA now that they're not a WWE territory. There are no plans for any working agreement at this time.
And no, Lacey Von Erich isn't in ROH. Not sure where that came from. There's another wrestler who just went by "Lacey" who used to wrestle in ROH, though.
Next up, why do the announcers watch the montiors during matches?
PWInsider.com has some new questions up. Here are my responses to their... umm... responses:
No, OVW doesn't have any kind of relationship with TNA now that they're not a WWE territory. There are no plans for any working agreement at this time.
And no, Lacey Von Erich isn't in ROH. Not sure where that came from. There's another wrestler who just went by "Lacey" who used to wrestle in ROH, though.
Next up, why do the announcers watch the montiors during matches?
Sunday, February 20, 2011
WWE Elimination Chamber preview
Read on for my look at tonight's Elimination Chamber PPV, and how I would book it.
Questions on 2/21/11, Kevin Nash, Booker T., the Knockouts, and the WWE Hall of Fame, Austin Aries, Dolph Ziggler, Linda McMahon updates, Orton goes after prankster fan, and Smackdown's plans for the Elimination Chamber
Not too much in the way of news today, which isn't out-of-the-ordinary for a Saturday. Let's start with a look at PWInsider.com's questions.
The first is about the "2 21 11" videos. Some people think that they could apply to Undertaker AND Sting. I'm doubting that they're leading to a Sting debut. It's possible, but more clues point in Undertaker's direction. Plus, there's a lot portion of the WWE audience who's unfamiliar with Sting, so I think they'd go a different route than this for him. So don't expect a swerve here.
Questioner #2 wants to know when we'll see more of Kevin Nash in WWE. It's still up in the air. If they're going to use him, I hope it's with Big Show against the members of The Corre (except Wade Barrett, who should be facing Undertaker). They can add Michael Tarver and/or Skip Sheffield to that group if they'd like in the clash. Either way, The Corre should go over. I think it should just be a brief comeback for Mania, but it's always possible that he'd stick around for a while after that. But none of this is confirmed. If he does wrestle, it will almost certainly be either Taker, Big Show, or The Corre.
There are more questions after the break, starting with one about Booker T.'s future.
The first is about the "2 21 11" videos. Some people think that they could apply to Undertaker AND Sting. I'm doubting that they're leading to a Sting debut. It's possible, but more clues point in Undertaker's direction. Plus, there's a lot portion of the WWE audience who's unfamiliar with Sting, so I think they'd go a different route than this for him. So don't expect a swerve here.
Questioner #2 wants to know when we'll see more of Kevin Nash in WWE. It's still up in the air. If they're going to use him, I hope it's with Big Show against the members of The Corre (except Wade Barrett, who should be facing Undertaker). They can add Michael Tarver and/or Skip Sheffield to that group if they'd like in the clash. Either way, The Corre should go over. I think it should just be a brief comeback for Mania, but it's always possible that he'd stick around for a while after that. But none of this is confirmed. If he does wrestle, it will almost certainly be either Taker, Big Show, or The Corre.
There are more questions after the break, starting with one about Booker T.'s future.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Undertaker's return date, Updates on Lashley and Tough Enough, Questions on Taker at Mania, Evan Bourne, PG WWE, and Christian, Interviews with The Miz,Chris Jericho, and Jerry Lawler, Matt Hardy rumor-buster, Impact rating, new match for Sunday's PPV, and Dolph Ziggler furthers his storyline
Here's today's news:
The Undertaker is scheduled to return on Monday, and is also to appear on the next day's Smackdown tapings.
Bobby Lashley makes his MMA return in March. Any talk of him facing Batista has apparently died down, as nothing has been written about it in months. There were apparently rumors of him returning as part of the Main Event Mafia angle earlier this year, but obviously nothing came of that.
After the break, my thoughts on today's PWInsider.com questions.
The Undertaker is scheduled to return on Monday, and is also to appear on the next day's Smackdown tapings.
Bobby Lashley makes his MMA return in March. Any talk of him facing Batista has apparently died down, as nothing has been written about it in months. There were apparently rumors of him returning as part of the Main Event Mafia angle earlier this year, but obviously nothing came of that.
After the break, my thoughts on today's PWInsider.com questions.
Smackdown thoughts- 2/18/11
Tonight is the historic 600th episode of WWE's second big brand. The celebration for this milestone for Smackdown features a 12-man tag featuring the participants in Sunday's Elimination Chamber matches, and the coronation of "new" World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler.
Read on for my thoughts on this edition of WWE's Friday night juggernaut.
Read on for my thoughts on this edition of WWE's Friday night juggernaut.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Former referee talks, Mattel talks WWE products, Questions on Batista's farewell, wrestling in Australia, Killer Kowalski, and Bruno Sammartino, Miss USA competing on Tough Enough, HHH interview, WWE All Stars roster update, French WWE magazine canceled, McCool's injury, Jericho update
Today's news starts with an interview conducted with a former WWE and WCW referee named Mickie "Jay" Henson. I believe that he's confused about FCW, because they're not being paid to take wrestling school. They pay to take the classes but are paid from the house shows and TV tapings that tickets are sold for. It's like its own indy fed. And at least the male wrestlers still put up the ring.
There's another interesting interview with Mattel's Bill Kerner about WWE's action figures. He mentions some future legends releases, including Bruno Sammartino. Sammartino hasn't been on good terms with WWE in recent years, including refusing an induction into the Hall of Fame on two occasions, so that would be an interesting turn of events. Randy Savage and (The Ultimate) Warrior have separate deals for their action figures.
After the break, a look at today's questions for PWInsider.com and my take on them. Starting with a question asking about Batista's WWE send-off.
There's another interesting interview with Mattel's Bill Kerner about WWE's action figures. He mentions some future legends releases, including Bruno Sammartino. Sammartino hasn't been on good terms with WWE in recent years, including refusing an induction into the Hall of Fame on two occasions, so that would be an interesting turn of events. Randy Savage and (The Ultimate) Warrior have separate deals for their action figures.
After the break, a look at today's questions for PWInsider.com and my take on them. Starting with a question asking about Batista's WWE send-off.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Superstars and Impact thoughts- 2/17/11
Read on for tonight's thoughts on Superstars and Impact. Tonight, Jeff Hardy defends the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against longtime adversary Rob Van Dam.
Jericho interviews, Tough Enough begins filming, Questions on Brent Albright/Gunner Scott, PPVs not on Sunday, Rock in the Hall, theoretical Mania matches, and title rematches, news on The Rock and ratings, Jeff Hardy legal updates, McCool injured, and more added to Sunday's PPV
Here's today's news: Chris Jericho has another interview promoting the release of his second book. He mentions that he's not really off, just doing other things". He isn't sure that he'll return to WWE, but is "sure when the time is right things will work out again".
WWE Tough Enough has begun filming near Venice, CA. Curt Hawkins and Trent Barreta took part in the tapings.
The first of today's questions on PWInsider.com asks about Brent Albright, who briefly worked in WWE as Gunner Scott. They don't see WWE re-hiring him. I was always kind of curious as to what more they could get out of him.
Here's one I actually didn't know: Summerslam was on Mondays from 1998-1994 (before Raw came into existence). The idea was that it didn't matter that it was a "school night" because it was summer. Any time that WWE has tried doing a PPV on a day other than Sunday in the last 10 years (Taboo Tuesday), it hasn't done as well as a Sunday version.
Next up, will The Rock go into the Hall of Fame next year in Miami?
WWE Tough Enough has begun filming near Venice, CA. Curt Hawkins and Trent Barreta took part in the tapings.
The first of today's questions on PWInsider.com asks about Brent Albright, who briefly worked in WWE as Gunner Scott. They don't see WWE re-hiring him. I was always kind of curious as to what more they could get out of him.
Here's one I actually didn't know: Summerslam was on Mondays from 1998-1994 (before Raw came into existence). The idea was that it didn't matter that it was a "school night" because it was summer. Any time that WWE has tried doing a PPV on a day other than Sunday in the last 10 years (Taboo Tuesday), it hasn't done as well as a Sunday version.
Next up, will The Rock go into the Hall of Fame next year in Miami?
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Jericho book released, Rock news, Questions on ex-WWE guys in TNA, bad gimmicks,Ted DiBiase, GMs, and Jerry Lawler, More on the UWF, WWE on Netflix, Impact dark match, Team Taz student speaks, Douglas Williams injury scare, Ex-FCW star gets TNA tryout, Raw rating
Chris Jericho's second book "Undisputed" was released today. It picks up where his first book left off and has received positive reviews.
The Rock is now listed on WWE.com's Alumni section as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. It's not all that surprising that he keeps his real name there, since as far as I know he's not abandoning his acting career. In fact, he's scheduled to shoot a movie this fall.
Former WWE Creative Team member Dave Lagana talks about Rock's return at this link, including telling about working with The Rock. Like this page, that website saw a sizable boost in traffic with the big comeback.
Next up, PWInsider.com questions, starting with the ever-popular topic of former WWE wrestlers in TNA.
The Rock is now listed on WWE.com's Alumni section as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. It's not all that surprising that he keeps his real name there, since as far as I know he's not abandoning his acting career. In fact, he's scheduled to shoot a movie this fall.
Former WWE Creative Team member Dave Lagana talks about Rock's return at this link, including telling about working with The Rock. Like this page, that website saw a sizable boost in traffic with the big comeback.
Next up, PWInsider.com questions, starting with the ever-popular topic of former WWE wrestlers in TNA.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
NXT Thoughts- 2/15/11
a.k.a. "I stopped playing Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for THIS?"
Read on for my thoughts on this week's edition of NXT.
Read on for my thoughts on this week's edition of NXT.
Updates on Justin Credible, Ric Flair, and Hulk Hogan, Terry Funk at a WWE show, Questions on the youth movement, heel Cole, criticisizing wrestling, Punk vs. Bryan, and Mr. Anderson, Lalwer's mother passes away, news on The Chaperone, new WWE hire, Jeff Hardy vs. RVD set, Bieber-Mania update, Raw Guest Host swerve
Justin Credible cleared up the rumors about him, saying that the reason he left a show early (after his match) was that he had a six-hour drive to Connecticut. There was concern over his health because of his past with painkillers.
Terry Funk made a special appearance at a WWE house show in West Texas. He cut a promo about how wrestling was in his blood and about the legends who came out of that area. This set-up a run-in by The Corre, who were beaten in an 8-man tag. Percy Watson worked this match (I believe he's regularly working house shows now), and Big Show celebrated with The Funker afterward. Funk didn't compete in the match.
Up next, questions from PWInsider.com, including a blockbuster question on the youth movement:
Terry Funk made a special appearance at a WWE house show in West Texas. He cut a promo about how wrestling was in his blood and about the legends who came out of that area. This set-up a run-in by The Corre, who were beaten in an 8-man tag. Percy Watson worked this match (I believe he's regularly working house shows now), and Big Show celebrated with The Funker afterward. Funk didn't compete in the match.
Up next, questions from PWInsider.com, including a blockbuster question on the youth movement:
Monday, February 14, 2011
Live Chat recap with The Rock
The Rock had a Q&A session in a WWE.com chat room post-Raw. Read on for the details. These are only edited for grammar/spelling.
Raw Thoughts- 2/14/11
Tonight I look at a Valentine's Day edition of Raw. A day so associated with positive feelings is leading into the barbaric Elimination Chamber pay-per-view. Should be interesting. Read on for my thoughts on it.
Questions about Shelly Martinez, MITB, Christian. and 2/21/11, WWE travel, Guerrero news, Gen Me and Justin Credible updates, Against All Odds notes
Sunday's news starts with questions from PWInsider.com. Remember that I have no affiliation with them, and am just adding my own opinions and analysis to what they said. Also, I only answer ones that I feel I have something to say on it.
First up, someone asks about the WWE release of Shelly Martinez, a.k.a. Ariel from the ECW brand. She gives the whole story in an interview with Diva-Dirt.com. Part 1 Part 2 For those of you without the time to listen to the interview (which is pretty interesting, for the record), she and Batista had a few altercations behind the scenes. Batista was obviously higher on the food chain, so she was cut instead of him. Or so the story goes. I believe it stemmed from a bad relationship Batista had with one of Martinez' friends and/or a fellow Diva.
Yes, currently there are plans for a Money In The Bank match at WrestleMania XXVII. And a pay-per-view by that name. Presumably the Mania winner will still be able to cash in on either show, and there will be one for each brand at the PPV. I can definitely see the criticism that it waters the concept down!
Next, 2/21/11 and an update on Christian. And the rest of the day's news.
First up, someone asks about the WWE release of Shelly Martinez, a.k.a. Ariel from the ECW brand. She gives the whole story in an interview with Diva-Dirt.com. Part 1 Part 2 For those of you without the time to listen to the interview (which is pretty interesting, for the record), she and Batista had a few altercations behind the scenes. Batista was obviously higher on the food chain, so she was cut instead of him. Or so the story goes. I believe it stemmed from a bad relationship Batista had with one of Martinez' friends and/or a fellow Diva.
Yes, currently there are plans for a Money In The Bank match at WrestleMania XXVII. And a pay-per-view by that name. Presumably the Mania winner will still be able to cash in on either show, and there will be one for each brand at the PPV. I can definitely see the criticism that it waters the concept down!
Next, 2/21/11 and an update on Christian. And the rest of the day's news.
TNA Against All Odds thoughts
Read on for my thoughts on TNA's latest Pay-Per-View, headlined by Mr. Anderson vs. Jeff Hardy in a ladder match for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Questions on a Miz DVD, the Crippler Crossface, and changing TNA, Kelly Kelly interview, USA's post-WrestleMania chedule
Here's a rundown of Saturday's news, starting with PWInsider.com's questions:
I don't think we'll see a Miz DVD any time soon (I'd give it a good while. Not that I don't like Miz, but it's still fairly early in his career. Maybe if you call it Volume 1 or something?), but if we do I'd put on his Falls Count Anywhere match with John Morrison, his TLC Match with Jerry Lawler, and his Money In The Bank win for sure.
Apparently it's ok to use the Crippler Crossface again in WWE, but they obviously (and for good reason) don't refer to it by that name. It's kind of chilly seeing that move following the Benoit tragedy. It should be used rarely I think.
Next up, how would I change TNA?
I don't think we'll see a Miz DVD any time soon (I'd give it a good while. Not that I don't like Miz, but it's still fairly early in his career. Maybe if you call it Volume 1 or something?), but if we do I'd put on his Falls Count Anywhere match with John Morrison, his TLC Match with Jerry Lawler, and his Money In The Bank win for sure.
Apparently it's ok to use the Crippler Crossface again in WWE, but they obviously (and for good reason) don't refer to it by that name. It's kind of chilly seeing that move following the Benoit tragedy. It should be used rarely I think.
Next up, how would I change TNA?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
TNA Against All Odds preview
Read on for the third installment in "here's how I'd book an upcoming PPV".
Smackdown thoughts- 2/11/11
Tonight's Smackdown is headlined by Edge defending the World Heavyweight championship against Dolph Ziggler, with Vickie Guerrero as the special referee. Will we have a new champion going into the Elimination Chamber in 9 nights? Read on for my thoughts on the show as it happens.
Jericho takes shot at TNA, Insane Clown Posse wrestling show shut down, Questions about Hernandez, MITB, Matt Hardy in TNA, Taker's return, and the Hall of Fame, Hogan's return, a new Gut Check, Impact and Superstars ratings, Packer talks about wrestling, Iron Sheik surgery
We start today's news with a comment by Chris Jericho in regards to TNA:
"After 10 yrs TNA talent still have an inferiority complex. If u don't think that u work for the BEST COMPANY EVER then nobody else will! As a performer u hav to act and project that where u work is the pinnacle of competition! If not then the whole place just seems second rate."
Texting abbreviations aside, he makes a pretty good point. Also, if most of your "TNA Originals" are being looked over in favor of ex-WWE, WCW, and ECW names, isn't that just reinforcing that your talents aren't at the same level as those guys? I'm not saying that they should just throw out all the veterans and/or put the Originals on top of the card, but there's a real problem here. It seems like any time a WWE wrestler is released, everyone starts speculating on when they'll go to TNA, but when TNA wrestlers are released, there doesn't seem to be much talk on whether they're going "up north".
I went back and forth on whether to mention this, but in the end decided it was newsworthy enough. Rappers Insane Clown Posse have a wrestling promotion called Juggalo Championship Wrestling, which recently had a show shut down in Michigan because it's against local law to serve free beer to patrons. They say that the venue should have known about that in advance, and that the police could have let them run the show without serving beer instead of waiting until it had started and then shutting it down. They make good points.
After the break I gave my take on PWInsider.com's daily questions.
"After 10 yrs TNA talent still have an inferiority complex. If u don't think that u work for the BEST COMPANY EVER then nobody else will! As a performer u hav to act and project that where u work is the pinnacle of competition! If not then the whole place just seems second rate."
Texting abbreviations aside, he makes a pretty good point. Also, if most of your "TNA Originals" are being looked over in favor of ex-WWE, WCW, and ECW names, isn't that just reinforcing that your talents aren't at the same level as those guys? I'm not saying that they should just throw out all the veterans and/or put the Originals on top of the card, but there's a real problem here. It seems like any time a WWE wrestler is released, everyone starts speculating on when they'll go to TNA, but when TNA wrestlers are released, there doesn't seem to be much talk on whether they're going "up north".
I went back and forth on whether to mention this, but in the end decided it was newsworthy enough. Rappers Insane Clown Posse have a wrestling promotion called Juggalo Championship Wrestling, which recently had a show shut down in Michigan because it's against local law to serve free beer to patrons. They say that the venue should have known about that in advance, and that the police could have let them run the show without serving beer instead of waiting until it had started and then shutting it down. They make good points.
After the break I gave my take on PWInsider.com's daily questions.
Friday, February 11, 2011
A look at WWE's press conference
There was a good amount of news out today in regards to WWE's financial situation, so I thought it'd be best to split it off into a separate post. I think I'll make that the norm for when something this big goes down, so it doesn't get all mixed up with everything else.
Read on for the news and my take on it.
Read on for the news and my take on it.
Smackdown hits milestone, Global Impact 3, Questions on Mr. WrestleMania, David Otunga, Cena's firing, and Hornswoggle, Lockdown details, HHH interview
Next week, WWE will tape the 600th episode of Smackdown. That's very impressive. Raw superstars will make appearances on the show as well. Namely, Jerry Lawler, The Miz, and the Elimination Chamber participants are scheduled for the taping.
TNA Global Impact 3 will be be online-exclusive apparently. It will feature action from a show in the Tokyo Dome from 1/4/11.
PWInsider.com has some more questions today. First up, who's the real Mr. WrestleMania, Shawn Michaels or Edge? You'd think that The Undertaker would be a candidate as well. I'm not enough of an expert to answer this one, but I think all three men have good claims to that title.
Next, my thoughts on David Otunga, and the rest of PWInsider.com's questions answered in my own thoughts. Plus, the rest of the day's news!
TNA Global Impact 3 will be be online-exclusive apparently. It will feature action from a show in the Tokyo Dome from 1/4/11.
PWInsider.com has some more questions today. First up, who's the real Mr. WrestleMania, Shawn Michaels or Edge? You'd think that The Undertaker would be a candidate as well. I'm not enough of an expert to answer this one, but I think all three men have good claims to that title.
Next, my thoughts on David Otunga, and the rest of PWInsider.com's questions answered in my own thoughts. Plus, the rest of the day's news!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Superstars and Impact thoughts - 2/10/11
Tonight we get action from both WWE and TNA. Both companies are within 2 weeks of a PPV, so things should be interesting.
We start off Superstars with a Divas match. Read on for my thoughts on this match and everything else from the night's wrestling.
We start off Superstars with a Divas match. Read on for my thoughts on this match and everything else from the night's wrestling.
WM28 announcements, Questions on the SES, Taker as a heel, British Bulldog in the Hall of Fame, and Divas' workrates, Smackdown dark match, new Against All Odds match, WCW reunion, Jericho interview
Today's news starts with a bang as we now know the location of WrestleMania 28. The event will be held in Miami, FL next year. That location beat out Los Angeles, New York, New Orleans, and Toronto. If the crowd is as solid as the crowd for WM24 in Orlando, that should be a good choice. LA's getting Summerslam every year, so I see why they got a pass. I'd like to see a return to Toronto at some point, but the New York crowd gets pretty fickle at times and it can take away from the show.
Update: The date has been announced as 4/1/2012.
Read on for my responses to today's PWInsider.com questions.
Update: The date has been announced as 4/1/2012.
Read on for my responses to today's PWInsider.com questions.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Raw notes, HHH's shoulder rehab, Sting-TNA update, more on the UWF, Questions on 2/21/11, WWE Divas, Lacey Von Erich, Stone Cold, and Eli Cottonwood, Raw dark match, guest at TNA house show, Packers confirmed for Smackdown, Raw rating
C.M. Punk legitimately broke his nose on Raw. No word on if he'll miss any ringtime.
Update: This occurred when Orton accidentally headbutted Punk when he lunged away from Nexus into him.
Dustin Rhodes was backstage, but isn't expected to return any time soon.
Nunzio was the referee for a dark match.
T-Nation.com has a look at working out during shoulder rehabilitation, detailing a process used with Triple H among other athletes. The article notes that he injured his shoulder during filming.
Sting has been removed from the roster page of the TNA website. This has been taken as an indication that the two sides are done for the time being. Some say that his contract has expired as well.
The Urban Wrestling Federation is now seeking talent for their debut PPV taping later this year. They want "Extreme style urban wrestlers". More info here.
After the break, PWInsider.com's daily questions.
Update: This occurred when Orton accidentally headbutted Punk when he lunged away from Nexus into him.
Dustin Rhodes was backstage, but isn't expected to return any time soon.
Nunzio was the referee for a dark match.
T-Nation.com has a look at working out during shoulder rehabilitation, detailing a process used with Triple H among other athletes. The article notes that he injured his shoulder during filming.
Sting has been removed from the roster page of the TNA website. This has been taken as an indication that the two sides are done for the time being. Some say that his contract has expired as well.
The Urban Wrestling Federation is now seeking talent for their debut PPV taping later this year. They want "Extreme style urban wrestlers". More info here.
After the break, PWInsider.com's daily questions.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
NXT Thoughts- 2/8/11
It's elimination night here on NXT. There's a change in format for my thoughts tonight. I'll be reviewing the segments, matches, AND rookies from here on out. Read on for my thoughts on the laggiest show in sports-entertainment!
New TNA videogame, Questions on TNA cliques, Hornswoggle's beard, heel Stone Cold, and Bret Hart in TNA, Kelly Kelly, HHH, Tough Enough, HBK and Ric Flair updates, Main events made for Against All Odds, WWE departure and lawsuit, Stone Cold Kevin Nash, and Eric Bischoff interviews, Packers invited to Smackdown, TNA Films?, Smackdown rating
There will be an update of the TNA Impact! videogame with a bigger roster released for the iPad and iPhone. The original game wasn't reviewed very well. Then again, there was no way it was going to be at Smackdown vs, Raw levels in its first year.
PWInsider.com has more questions today, and I have more of my own answers. One asks what the oddsmakers in Vegas say for the number of cliques we'll see in TNA by year's end. I chuckled. We'll see some breakups there for sure, so some new alliances could follow.
Next, someone talks about Hornswoggle. Read on for my thoughts on what he/she calls an "unfunny comedy character".
PWInsider.com has more questions today, and I have more of my own answers. One asks what the oddsmakers in Vegas say for the number of cliques we'll see in TNA by year's end. I chuckled. We'll see some breakups there for sure, so some new alliances could follow.
Next, someone talks about Hornswoggle. Read on for my thoughts on what he/she calls an "unfunny comedy character".
Monday, February 7, 2011
Raw Thoughts- 2/7/11
We're 13 nights from the Elimination Chamber event, as we continue on the Road to WrestleMania XXVII. Read on for my thoughts on Raw!
Questions About Cena vs. Undertaker, Bret Hart, Miz and Riley, and Evan Bourne, Possible Triple H update
Not much news on Super Bowl Sunday, unsurprisingly. Here's the rundown:
First, PWInsider.com has some new questions. And as usual, I have my own take on them. Someone pitches John Cena vs. The Undertaker for WrestleMania, calling it perhaps the "only true money match the WWE can offer this year".
Given that there's no issue between them and Undertaker isn't back yet, I see absolutely no reason to rush a match between the two of them out of nowhere with hardly any build just because they're 2 top stars who haven't faced off there. That's not so much a money match as a "less money than it should be because it's out of nowhere" match.
Anyway, someone else wants to know if we've seen the last of Bret Hart. I think he'll pop up down the line, but not in as big of a way as he did in 2010. He's not under contract right now, but is open to doing something else.
No, The Miz and Alex Riley aren't related. I don't know how that rumor got started, but it's just another of those silly internet rumors that goes around. I really wish people would stop spreading those.
After the break, an update on Evan Bourne and the rest of Sunday's news.
First, PWInsider.com has some new questions. And as usual, I have my own take on them. Someone pitches John Cena vs. The Undertaker for WrestleMania, calling it perhaps the "only true money match the WWE can offer this year".
Given that there's no issue between them and Undertaker isn't back yet, I see absolutely no reason to rush a match between the two of them out of nowhere with hardly any build just because they're 2 top stars who haven't faced off there. That's not so much a money match as a "less money than it should be because it's out of nowhere" match.
Anyway, someone else wants to know if we've seen the last of Bret Hart. I think he'll pop up down the line, but not in as big of a way as he did in 2010. He's not under contract right now, but is open to doing something else.
No, The Miz and Alex Riley aren't related. I don't know how that rumor got started, but it's just another of those silly internet rumors that goes around. I really wish people would stop spreading those.
After the break, an update on Evan Bourne and the rest of Sunday's news.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Booker T. and Wade Barrett interviews, Questions on Kelly Kelly, Hulk Hogan, HBK's inductor and Cole vs. Lawler, Diesel, Abdullah The Butcher, and Ric Flair updates, Cena pulled from house show, Dixie talks Impact
WWE.com has an interview up with Booker T.. He says that if he returned to WWE it probably wouldn't be as a superstar, because "the young guys are really what it's all about." Having him as an announcer is "a great position for me to actually go out and make the young guys bigger stars". Booker T. is someone who GETS what wrestling is about, as evidenced by his quotes on what he's looking for in prospective Superstars and Divas on Tough Enough:
"What I’m looking for is showmanship, athleticism and how much do they really want to learn about this profession as opposed to thinking it’s something cool to be on television. People really don’t understand how hard it is and what it takes to be a WWE Superstar" He wants to teach that "the smallest things are what people are really looking for. They don’t even really see it; they just know that one guy was different than the next guy."
This is very important. A wrestler needs to stand out from the pack and sometimes it's the little things that are important in doing that. Take Tyson Kidd for instance. He could probably just go out there and do a bunch of flips and kicks that don't mean much of anything at the end of the day. Or as a heel, "rest holds" (submission moves) that are just filler between spots. Instead, he's yelling that he'll break his opponent's arm and that he wants the referee to ask his opponent if they're giving up (which Chris Jericho also did). His cocky, sinister attitude separates him from dozens of smaller heels and that's part of how he keeps his job.
Next up, an interview with Wade Barrett about WM27 rumors, Nexus, and his promos. And plenty more news stories.
"What I’m looking for is showmanship, athleticism and how much do they really want to learn about this profession as opposed to thinking it’s something cool to be on television. People really don’t understand how hard it is and what it takes to be a WWE Superstar" He wants to teach that "the smallest things are what people are really looking for. They don’t even really see it; they just know that one guy was different than the next guy."
This is very important. A wrestler needs to stand out from the pack and sometimes it's the little things that are important in doing that. Take Tyson Kidd for instance. He could probably just go out there and do a bunch of flips and kicks that don't mean much of anything at the end of the day. Or as a heel, "rest holds" (submission moves) that are just filler between spots. Instead, he's yelling that he'll break his opponent's arm and that he wants the referee to ask his opponent if they're giving up (which Chris Jericho also did). His cocky, sinister attitude separates him from dozens of smaller heels and that's part of how he keeps his job.
Next up, an interview with Wade Barrett about WM27 rumors, Nexus, and his promos. And plenty more news stories.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Smackdown Thoughts- 2/4/11
Tonight Smackdown will be headlined by a match for the World Heavyweight Championship, but it's not a 1-on-1 match. Instead, Edge teams with Kelly Kelly to defend the Title against Dolph Ziggler and both members of Laycool.
Read on for my thoughts on this show as it unfolds.
Read on for my thoughts on this show as it unfolds.
First Tough Enough trainer, Dixie Carter talks MEM, a Hall of Fame, and her biggest mistake, WrestleMania speculations, the AWA, Raw guest hosts, Bearer returning?, notes NC Impact taping, guest at FCW, more Jersey Shore-Impact talk, TNA Hall of Fame?, El Generico, Abdullah The Butcher, Armando Estrada, Nunzio, and Edge updates, Nowinski talks concussions, WWE stock update, Impact and Superstars ratings
The first trainer for the new Tough Enough is new WWE signee Booker T.. I think that he could be good in that role.
Dixie Carter answers a fan's question about Booker T. and Kevin Nash not being in a Main Event Mafia reunion in TNA. She says that Booker was not available for the angle, but Nash was under contract with TNA. He was released for reasons that she wouldn't disclose, leading to his going to WWE. She says that the MEM angle was going to be short-term to lead to something else, and not with the entire original group.
PWInsider.com adds that Nash had signed a new contract in November 2010, and that Booker T. was never scheduled for a TNA return. He had come to terms with WWE months ago, but didn't sign right away because something came up that prevented him from doing so. The contract was waiting for him when he was ready, and now he is under contract with them.
Dixie Carter says that her biggest mistake in TNA was the move to Monday nights, because the audience much prefers watching Impact on Thursdays. The ratings bear that out.
Up next, PWInsider.com's questions. I don't have anything to add/say on the first two, but #3 wants some guesses for the WrestleMania card.
Dixie Carter answers a fan's question about Booker T. and Kevin Nash not being in a Main Event Mafia reunion in TNA. She says that Booker was not available for the angle, but Nash was under contract with TNA. He was released for reasons that she wouldn't disclose, leading to his going to WWE. She says that the MEM angle was going to be short-term to lead to something else, and not with the entire original group.
PWInsider.com adds that Nash had signed a new contract in November 2010, and that Booker T. was never scheduled for a TNA return. He had come to terms with WWE months ago, but didn't sign right away because something came up that prevented him from doing so. The contract was waiting for him when he was ready, and now he is under contract with them.
Dixie Carter says that her biggest mistake in TNA was the move to Monday nights, because the audience much prefers watching Impact on Thursdays. The ratings bear that out.
Up next, PWInsider.com's questions. I don't have anything to add/say on the first two, but #3 wants some guesses for the WrestleMania card.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Questions on Nash, Kelly, Booker, HBK's inductors, and Mania, new potential national promotion in the works, ex-WWE and TNA wrestler done with wrestling?, former Raw guest host talks the Rumble, Nash's advice to TNA, Sting rumors, Angle contract update, more on Tough Enough, Barrett talks UFC
Thursday's news starts with questions unsurprisingly. Here's what PWInsider.com was asked today:
Someone apparently thought that Kevin Nash had retired and were wondering why he was in WWE. He didn't retire. He was in TNA, and this is his attempt at one last big run in WWE.
Someone wants to know if we'll see Kelly Kelly turn heel. It'd be something fresh, but I think it's more likely we'll see Drew McIntyre try to get new life as a babyface at the end of the angle.
Should Booker T. return as that gimmick or King Booker? Unless he's feuding with Sheamus, I say have him be Booker T. Even if he's feuding with Sheamus, he doesn't need the king garb. He can just reference being a former King of the Ring. We'll find out more about Booker's future WWE role on Smackdown (remember that I try to avoid spoilers here).
The fourth question is about the chances of Triple H and Kevin Nash inducting Shawn Michaels in Atlanta. If they want to do that, I'm sure WWE would let them.
The next question is about whether WrestleMania should directly follow the Royal Rumble. Read on for my answer and all of today's news.
Someone apparently thought that Kevin Nash had retired and were wondering why he was in WWE. He didn't retire. He was in TNA, and this is his attempt at one last big run in WWE.
Someone wants to know if we'll see Kelly Kelly turn heel. It'd be something fresh, but I think it's more likely we'll see Drew McIntyre try to get new life as a babyface at the end of the angle.
Should Booker T. return as that gimmick or King Booker? Unless he's feuding with Sheamus, I say have him be Booker T. Even if he's feuding with Sheamus, he doesn't need the king garb. He can just reference being a former King of the Ring. We'll find out more about Booker's future WWE role on Smackdown (remember that I try to avoid spoilers here).
The fourth question is about the chances of Triple H and Kevin Nash inducting Shawn Michaels in Atlanta. If they want to do that, I'm sure WWE would let them.
The next question is about whether WrestleMania should directly follow the Royal Rumble. Read on for my answer and all of today's news.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Superstars and Impact thoughts- 2/3/11
It's a big night for Impact tonight, as Mr. Anderson defends the TNA World Championship against Jeff Hardy. But before we get to that, it's over to WGN America for WWE Superstars. My thoughts on the Thursday shows after the break!
Positive things about Matt Hardy, OMEGA Reunion?, new WWE TV deal, Tough Enough and Nash updates, Justin Bieber at WM27?, WWE video game canceled
We start today's news with some questions, not surprisingly. Someone wants five positive things about Matt Hardy. Kind of an odd question, but I'll give it a go:
1. He's presumably made a lot of money over the years for WWE.
2. He worked for pretty much 12 years straight, barring injury and the brief period of time where he was released.
3. He successfully went from being a flashy tag team guy to a solid singles mat wrestler.
4. He was able to use fan demand to return to WWE soon after his release. Few have been able to do that.
5. He's stayed relevant for over a decade. That's also no easy task sometimes.
Then someone asks if there will be an "OMEGA reunion" of Shannon Moore and the Hardys in TNA. I wouldn't rule it out. If Shane/Gregory Helms comes in, it seems pretty likely they'd play off that history at some point.
The other questions are specific to PWInsider.com, so after the break I'll go right into news.
1. He's presumably made a lot of money over the years for WWE.
2. He worked for pretty much 12 years straight, barring injury and the brief period of time where he was released.
3. He successfully went from being a flashy tag team guy to a solid singles mat wrestler.
4. He was able to use fan demand to return to WWE soon after his release. Few have been able to do that.
5. He's stayed relevant for over a decade. That's also no easy task sometimes.
Then someone asks if there will be an "OMEGA reunion" of Shannon Moore and the Hardys in TNA. I wouldn't rule it out. If Shane/Gregory Helms comes in, it seems pretty likely they'd play off that history at some point.
The other questions are specific to PWInsider.com, so after the break I'll go right into news.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Nash interview, Benoit on DVDs, Laycool, shortest title match ever, Jericho, Abyss, Flair, HHH, Kenny Dykstra, and Tommy Dreamer updates, Daniels back in TNA, another Daniels has a tryout, Martha Hart lawsuit update,role for new TNA signee revealed
Kevin Nash takes a few more shots at TNA in a new interview. After initially praising the company and Dixie Carter, when asked about what he thought that TNA felt the big pop he got at the Royal Rumble, he replied "I'm sure they (TNA) realized they were right that they shouldn't have signed me, they should have tried to cut my pay, and they were dead-on. That mindset has proven to be effective and to me, it solidifies they're on top of their game." Ouch.
In TNA's defense, I don't remember anything near the pop that he got in the Rumble during his run then. He didn't add all that much in his last time in TNA. He's not the kind of guy that that crowd gets behind these days. Also, WWE fans hadn't seen him in what, 8 years? And the Diesel gimmick is from like 1996. So that accounts for at least some of the pop.
Next, he takes up for Ric Flair after him being left behind in Europe. "I don't care what he's done or what he's said, he's earned the right to - you make sure Flair gets where he's supposed to be. You don't leave him stranded in the middle of Europe." I'm not crazy about them leaving him stranded, but he definitely shouldn't have been allowed on the bus after pulling that stunt. They weren't going to send him home, but they didn't know what they'd do in the future with him either. He was broke, so he couldn't call a cab or anything. I guess they could have had someone go separately with him to the next city (and pay for it from Flair's pay of that next night)? It's a tricky situation.
Also in the interview he says that his future lies in the hands of the WWE Creative team. He's having a meeting with them tomorrow (Wednesday). If they saw something in him in the Rumble, he's open to just about anything going into WrestleMania. He won't work full time though. He says that he woke up sore from the Rumble. He'd like a match against The Undertaker or teaming with Big Show. Kane and Wade Barrett are also possibilities. He's asked about a possibility of Sting coming to WWE, and Nash says that he'd be a "damn fool" to turn down such an offer. As far as a Main Event Mafia reunion in WWE of Nash, Sting, and Booker, Nash noted that Kurt Angle's TNA contract is up in August. Angle has said that he will likely stay in TNA for the remainder of his wrestling career.
More news and PWInsider's questions of the day answered after the break.
In TNA's defense, I don't remember anything near the pop that he got in the Rumble during his run then. He didn't add all that much in his last time in TNA. He's not the kind of guy that that crowd gets behind these days. Also, WWE fans hadn't seen him in what, 8 years? And the Diesel gimmick is from like 1996. So that accounts for at least some of the pop.
Next, he takes up for Ric Flair after him being left behind in Europe. "I don't care what he's done or what he's said, he's earned the right to - you make sure Flair gets where he's supposed to be. You don't leave him stranded in the middle of Europe." I'm not crazy about them leaving him stranded, but he definitely shouldn't have been allowed on the bus after pulling that stunt. They weren't going to send him home, but they didn't know what they'd do in the future with him either. He was broke, so he couldn't call a cab or anything. I guess they could have had someone go separately with him to the next city (and pay for it from Flair's pay of that next night)? It's a tricky situation.
Also in the interview he says that his future lies in the hands of the WWE Creative team. He's having a meeting with them tomorrow (Wednesday). If they saw something in him in the Rumble, he's open to just about anything going into WrestleMania. He won't work full time though. He says that he woke up sore from the Rumble. He'd like a match against The Undertaker or teaming with Big Show. Kane and Wade Barrett are also possibilities. He's asked about a possibility of Sting coming to WWE, and Nash says that he'd be a "damn fool" to turn down such an offer. As far as a Main Event Mafia reunion in WWE of Nash, Sting, and Booker, Nash noted that Kurt Angle's TNA contract is up in August. Angle has said that he will likely stay in TNA for the remainder of his wrestling career.
More news and PWInsider's questions of the day answered after the break.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
NXT Thoughts- 2/1/11
It's a new month and a new episode of NXT. Four hopefuls seek to become the next WWE superstar. Here are my thoughts on the show:
More on Mistico's signing, biggest recent secret in wrestling, WWE mentioning TNA, WWE giving wrestlers time off, Five good things about Eric Bischoff, Divas' Title match, new TNA signing, more to come, Booker T. autobiography in the works, Diesel, Flair, and Rock updates, Smackdown rating, Raw dark match
The first news story of the day is more on the signing of Mexican wrestling star Mistico. He was offered a chance to go to WWE several years ago, but turned it down. He now wishes he had taken them up on their offer then. He was dissatisfied with with the company he was working for (CMLL), as they pushed a talent to his level that he didn't feel was ready. He considered going to rival promotion AAA, but decided against it.
He doesn't own the rights to the name or gimmick of Mistico, so he won't be using it in WWE. It's likely that he'll start his tenure there in FCW.
Update: CMLL now claims that Mistico is still under contract with them. However, some speculate that this is a plan to reuse the gimmick for someone else. Any other updates will be reported on.
It's time for questions again. The first asks about the best-kept secret since the internet starting covering backstage happenings. They say John Cena's big return at the Royal Rumble. That's hard to argue with. We didn't think he was coming back for months, and I believe he had said as much in an interview.
Next up, why doesn't WWE mention other wrestling companies?
He doesn't own the rights to the name or gimmick of Mistico, so he won't be using it in WWE. It's likely that he'll start his tenure there in FCW.
Update: CMLL now claims that Mistico is still under contract with them. However, some speculate that this is a plan to reuse the gimmick for someone else. Any other updates will be reported on.
It's time for questions again. The first asks about the best-kept secret since the internet starting covering backstage happenings. They say John Cena's big return at the Royal Rumble. That's hard to argue with. We didn't think he was coming back for months, and I believe he had said as much in an interview.
Next up, why doesn't WWE mention other wrestling companies?
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