Main Event:
I like that they did something to set up a match between Sheamus and Cody instead of just throwing it out there. And it's good that Kaitlyn's getting TV time. Maybe the Divas will become more visible now.
Sheamus vs. Cody was very solid. I hope Management took note. Cody deserves better than he got on Monday.
I like Justin Gabriel and it's kind of a shame that he was a victim here, but losing to such a dominant monster isn't really a huge setback. I guess SOMEONE had to be the sacrificial lamb.
Kind of a weird segment between Kaitlyn and Cody, but at least both of them are doing something. A face turn for Cody would be interesting. Talented guy.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Main Event Reax - 2/27/13, Mysterio update, get trained by Team 3D, Gut Check participant, Vince freaks out, Punk sick, more managers?, Taker update, more on WWE Hall, where was Rock?, Interviews with Miz/Jericho/Rock, buzz at Smackdown, and Questions on Christian, TNA in 2013, the nWo, Raw at 3 hours, and Henry at Mania
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Angle/Foley interviews, former WWE stars returning?, another WWE GM, Raw audience, more time off for Mysterio, and Questions on HBK vs. Lesnar, Vince as booker, and The Shield
Kurt Angle talked about his future. I think he'd be good in a backstage role once he hangs up the boots. His future will be interesting to follow, because it seems like he's going to keep going at a high level forever. He's a machine. I hope there are more like him in the years and decades to come.
Mick Foley was also interviewed. RIGHT THERE, on the Nerdist podcast.
MVP has ended his run with NJPW to focus on a TV show. He has stated that he will return to wrestling, with WWE and TNA being possibilities. I think he'd be a good addition to either roster. Both companies should be in touch with him!
WWE will make a GM for Saturday Morning Slam, because they love having GMs. It's a 30-minute show that already has a lot of video packages. Do we really have time for a GM? That said, there are ways they can use a GM effectively to set up matches and angles. Zack Ryder, Santino Marella, David Otunga, and William Regal would all be good choices in my mind. I can see them wanting to do Hornswoggle since it's a youth-centric show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Mick Foley was also interviewed. RIGHT THERE, on the Nerdist podcast.
MVP has ended his run with NJPW to focus on a TV show. He has stated that he will return to wrestling, with WWE and TNA being possibilities. I think he'd be a good addition to either roster. Both companies should be in touch with him!
WWE will make a GM for Saturday Morning Slam, because they love having GMs. It's a 30-minute show that already has a lot of video packages. Do we really have time for a GM? That said, there are ways they can use a GM effectively to set up matches and angles. Zack Ryder, Santino Marella, David Otunga, and William Regal would all be good choices in my mind. I can see them wanting to do Hornswoggle since it's a youth-centric show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Interviews with Flairs/Ivelisse, NXT notes, live event correction, Smackdown audience, Lesnar update, WWE tries to get comment from Beck, and Questions on WWE in India, the media's perception of wrestling, keeping kayfabe, and Mania
Ric Flair and Charlotte were profiled in Florida. I hope Charlotte does good things. How cool will it be if/when we have the offspring of Flair, Dusty Rhodes, and Ricky Steamboat all on the main roster?
Speaking of that NXT live event, Derrick Bateman and Mason Ryan worked there. It's good that they're getting some ring time. I hope both figure into WWE's plans at some point. Experience wouldn't hurt either.
In a correction from a previous story, football coach Kevin Sumlin was given a replica of the World Championship, not the WWE Championship.
Tough Enough's Ivelisse Velez was interviewed. Interesting thoughts on her time in NXT. She has the right attitude about wanting to prove WWE wrong.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Speaking of that NXT live event, Derrick Bateman and Mason Ryan worked there. It's good that they're getting some ring time. I hope both figure into WWE's plans at some point. Experience wouldn't hurt either.
In a correction from a previous story, football coach Kevin Sumlin was given a replica of the World Championship, not the WWE Championship.
Tough Enough's Ivelisse Velez was interviewed. Interesting thoughts on her time in NXT. She has the right attitude about wanting to prove WWE wrong.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Honor at live event, Swagger update, Tough Enough competitor in Gut Check, and Questions on being smart, being edgy, Stone Cold, and Swagger
On yesterday's live event in College Station, TX, WWE presented former University of Houston football coach Kevin Sumlin with an honorary WWE Championship belt. Fine stunt to get people to come out.
Jack Swagger did work this weekend's Smackdown live events, defeating Sin Cara. I think his future is sitll somewhat in the air.
Tough Enough's Ivelisse Velez, known in NXT as Sofia Cortez, will be a part of an upcoming TNA Gut Check. I wish her the best. I liked her on Tough Enough.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. While I do think some people do it just to be smart, I wouldn't apply that to everyone who does things like that. I don't mind it too much since it's fairly rare.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jack Swagger did work this weekend's Smackdown live events, defeating Sin Cara. I think his future is sitll somewhat in the air.
Tough Enough's Ivelisse Velez, known in NXT as Sofia Cortez, will be a part of an upcoming TNA Gut Check. I wish her the best. I liked her on Tough Enough.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. While I do think some people do it just to be smart, I wouldn't apply that to everyone who does things like that. I don't mind it too much since it's fairly rare.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Saturday Morning Slam Reax - 2/23/13, Interviews with Jericho/JR/D'Lo, Hall update, Undertaker returns, and Questions on suspending Swagger, Cena, Cajun Country, Molly Holly, and the Blossom Twins
Saturday Morning Slam:
I like that they had a video package to set the match up. That's missing on Raw, Superstars, and Smackdown.
I don't think this one was in any doubt. Jey put forth good effort in the loss. Swagger was an absolute machine here.
Kaitlyn vs. Natalya was very impressive. Hats off to both ladies for bringing some solid wrestling. I hope someone in the back was taking notice. I think you've got the ingredients for a pretty good Divas division.
I liked the post-match, though I think Natalya makes a good heel.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I like that they had a video package to set the match up. That's missing on Raw, Superstars, and Smackdown.
I don't think this one was in any doubt. Jey put forth good effort in the loss. Swagger was an absolute machine here.
Kaitlyn vs. Natalya was very impressive. Hats off to both ladies for bringing some solid wrestling. I hope someone in the back was taking notice. I think you've got the ingredients for a pretty good Divas division.
I liked the post-match, though I think Natalya makes a good heel.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Query on Devon's sons, NXT notes including new faces, Big E wrestles, more on Swagger and Colter including offer to Glenn Beck, Interviews with Nese/Miz, Darren Young update, Regal's tips for aspiring wrestlers, Impact audience, Raw pre-show?, and Questions on JBL, the X-Division, Taker, and Dean Ambrose
First up, a query:
1. Devon's sons, Terrence and Terrell Hughes, are still being trained by their father and doing pretty well in amateur wrestling. You can find them on Twitter here.
A good number of NXT notes here:
The dark match from the most recent taping saw Jake Carter (Vader's son) and Garrett Dylan (Kris Kritofferson's son) defeat Axl Keegan and Travis Tyler. I believe this was Tyler's in-ring debut. I hope all four have great futures!
Scott Dawson, formerly KC McKnight and KC Anderson, made his NXT debut alongside Judas Devlin in a handicap match against Adrian Neville (formerly PAC). Details are scarce on him.
Bayley, formerly Davina Rose, also debuted at the taping against Paige.
Two new faces popped up on the NXT website (in addition to Bayley): Malik Omari, billed from Gambia, and Troy McClain, who is recent signee Alexander Jones. I have high hopes for McClain given his background.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Devon's sons, Terrence and Terrell Hughes, are still being trained by their father and doing pretty well in amateur wrestling. You can find them on Twitter here.
A good number of NXT notes here:
The dark match from the most recent taping saw Jake Carter (Vader's son) and Garrett Dylan (Kris Kritofferson's son) defeat Axl Keegan and Travis Tyler. I believe this was Tyler's in-ring debut. I hope all four have great futures!
Scott Dawson, formerly KC McKnight and KC Anderson, made his NXT debut alongside Judas Devlin in a handicap match against Adrian Neville (formerly PAC). Details are scarce on him.
Bayley, formerly Davina Rose, also debuted at the taping against Paige.
Two new faces popped up on the NXT website (in addition to Bayley): Malik Omari, billed from Gambia, and Troy McClain, who is recent signee Alexander Jones. I have high hopes for McClain given his background.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, February 22, 2013
Another NXT guest, WWE scouts Divas, TNA Knockout in Maxim, Rock staying with WWE longer, EY update, Race hosting seminar, Interviews with TRENT?/Stone Cold, injured star returns to the ring, Knockout at Bellator, Marella update, NXT back on TV?, King Mo to TNA soon?, and Questions on Austin vs. Punk, firing for DUIs, Dreamer, and complaining
Kaitlyn was scheduled to appear at last night's NXT tapings. I really hope they did a segment between her and one or more of the up-and-coming Divas. It'll be interesting to see how they stack up to the current Champion.
Speaking of Divas, WWE is holding auditions for new Divas in California. They could also look to Chicago, New York, and Florida. No experience necessary. Hopefully this means they're looking to reignite the division.
Christy Hemme was featured in Maxim. I imagine more than a few people who read that will then go on to look at her Playboy spread.
The Rock is advertised for WWE Extreme Rules, which is pretty big because I and a lot of others assumed that he was done after WrestleMania. I'm guessing Cena wins the title at Mania then wins Round 3 at Extreme Rules to settle the score. Should be exciting. Or they could start the build to Rock vs. Lesnar there. Either way, I think this will lead to something interesting post-Mania.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Speaking of Divas, WWE is holding auditions for new Divas in California. They could also look to Chicago, New York, and Florida. No experience necessary. Hopefully this means they're looking to reignite the division.
Christy Hemme was featured in Maxim. I imagine more than a few people who read that will then go on to look at her Playboy spread.
The Rock is advertised for WWE Extreme Rules, which is pretty big because I and a lot of others assumed that he was done after WrestleMania. I'm guessing Cena wins the title at Mania then wins Round 3 at Extreme Rules to settle the score. Should be exciting. Or they could start the build to Rock vs. Lesnar there. Either way, I think this will lead to something interesting post-Mania.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 2/21/13
Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's offerings from WWE and TNA.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
WWE Main Event Reax - 2/20/13, WWE injuries, Interviews with Rock/Lawler, new NXT Diva, Swagger arrested, Raw audience, and Questions on TNA going on the road, Steiner, and Ambrose vs. Rollins
Main Event:
Strong promo by Show. They've done a good job keeping him strong. If only they cared so much about certain other members of the roster.
I'm not necessarily saying the The Usos should beat Big Show, but they didn't exactly look strong there. They're really stuck in the lower card.
Clay had a decent showing vs. Show. I can't complain too much.
Show vs. Khali was ok for a big man match. Show's looking pretty strong.
I'm very glad that Miz wasn't fed to Big Show, especially after Show had 3 matches.
Nice segment with Maddox. He's a good talker.
Unexpectedly good promo between Gabriel and O'Neil. O'Neil's really growing as a competitor.
Titus vs. Gabriel was pretty solid. Yes, Titus just did power moves and played to the crowd, but that's his style. I hope both guys continue to grow as they impressed here.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Strong promo by Show. They've done a good job keeping him strong. If only they cared so much about certain other members of the roster.
I'm not necessarily saying the The Usos should beat Big Show, but they didn't exactly look strong there. They're really stuck in the lower card.
Clay had a decent showing vs. Show. I can't complain too much.
Show vs. Khali was ok for a big man match. Show's looking pretty strong.
I'm very glad that Miz wasn't fed to Big Show, especially after Show had 3 matches.
Nice segment with Maddox. He's a good talker.
Unexpectedly good promo between Gabriel and O'Neil. O'Neil's really growing as a competitor.
Titus vs. Gabriel was pretty solid. Yes, Titus just did power moves and played to the crowd, but that's his style. I hope both guys continue to grow as they impressed here.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
What happened after Raw, LLUSA star claims gimmick infringement, Interviews with Serena/Justin Roberts, new NXT debut, Australian Boot Camp?, WWE targeting Tea Party?, Jericho praises Shield, roster scheduling conflict, Sammartino dates, Smackdown audience, and Questions on lower card tag teams, Punk carrying The Rock?, edgy gimmicks, and Del Rio vs. Swagger
After Raw, Cody Rhodes came to ringside. The Rock cut a promo on him, then took a Rock Bottom and People's Elbow to send the fans home happy. I think that's short-sighted and defines Rhodes as below Rock. In a few months, Rock is going to be back in Hollywood and Rhodes is going to be someone the company needs to rely on. I'd be fine if it was a lower-card guy like Otunga, 3MB, Hawkins, etc. but Rhodes is an act with a future.
LLUSA's RJ Brewer basically accused WWE of ripping off his gimmick, which has received a good deal of press, for Swagger and Coulter. It's certainly possible that they did. Nothing's truly original. Who's to say that RJ Brewer wasn't inspired by JBL vs. the Guerreros?
Serena Deeb talked about returning to the ring. Here are some highlights. Speaking of Davina Rose, she's officially made her NXT debut, curiously enough under a mask. Her name going forward is Bayley. This was a few weeks ago but apparently slipped under the radar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
LLUSA's RJ Brewer basically accused WWE of ripping off his gimmick, which has received a good deal of press, for Swagger and Coulter. It's certainly possible that they did. Nothing's truly original. Who's to say that RJ Brewer wasn't inspired by JBL vs. the Guerreros?
Serena Deeb talked about returning to the ring. Here are some highlights. Speaking of Davina Rose, she's officially made her NXT debut, curiously enough under a mask. Her name going forward is Bayley. This was a few weeks ago but apparently slipped under the radar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Interview with the Young Bucks, backstage note on Elimination Chamber, Rock at WM30, no Jericho next week, and Questions on Coulter, the PG era, Fandango, and bad promos
The Young Bucks, known in TNA as Generation Me, were interviewed. They came across as kind of arrogant here. I didn't really care for them in their last TNA run. I can definitely see the "spot monkey" criticism from then. I don't think Booker T. would intentionally sabotage their careers.
WWE management was happy with the Elimination Chamber PPV. I thought it was a pretty good show.
Paul Heyman tweeted that The Rock will be at WrestleMania 30. Rock vs. Brock please!
Chris Jericho will be touring with Fozzy in Australia next week, so don't expect him to be wrestling at Raw or Smackdown. He's always a good addition to the show. He'll be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE management was happy with the Elimination Chamber PPV. I thought it was a pretty good show.
Paul Heyman tweeted that The Rock will be at WrestleMania 30. Rock vs. Brock please!
Chris Jericho will be touring with Fozzy in Australia next week, so don't expect him to be wrestling at Raw or Smackdown. He's always a good addition to the show. He'll be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 18, 2013
TNA changes PPV schedule, and Questions on managers, Lesnar, and Aces and Eights
TNA will now be taping its One Night Only PPVs on 3/17, 3/18, and 3/19 instead of 3/17, 3/23 and 3/24. I suppose it makes sense to get them all out of the way within that amount of time. It'll just be brutal for anyone working PPV-level matches twice in one night or multiple times in one weekend. I don't know if that's worth the trade-off.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. You can definitely make an argument that managers/valets/seconds are making something og a comeback. I don't necessarily think it's a push to put more managers on TV, though. I think it's just a case where they felt that each talent would benefit from having someone else being a part of the act. I think all of the names mentioned have brought something good to the table.
Nothing to really add to 2. They pretty much explained it.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. You can definitely make an argument that managers/valets/seconds are making something og a comeback. I don't necessarily think it's a push to put more managers on TV, though. I think it's just a case where they felt that each talent would benefit from having someone else being a part of the act. I think all of the names mentioned have brought something good to the table.
Nothing to really add to 2. They pretty much explained it.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
WWE Elimination Chamber preview
Read on for how I'd book tonight's Elimination Chamber PPV. Note that these are not predictions, but what I would do if I had creative control over the product.
Saturday Morning Slam Reax - 2/16/13, Interview with Cesaro, Hall update, and Questions on DQs, headlining the Hall of Fame, and Orton
Saturday Morning Slam:
I liked the video on Slater vs. Gabriel. It made it feel like more than just a thrown-together match. Props.
Gabriel vs. Slater wasn't bad at all. Gabriel showed some personality in there that we don't see a lot of. If they develop him well, I can see him getting a solid following.
I liked Sheamus vs. Rhodes well enough. Rhodes didn't look like a "jobber". Ziggler acknowledging Finlay was a nice touch. A true student of the game.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I liked the video on Slater vs. Gabriel. It made it feel like more than just a thrown-together match. Props.
Gabriel vs. Slater wasn't bad at all. Gabriel showed some personality in there that we don't see a lot of. If they develop him well, I can see him getting a solid following.
I liked Sheamus vs. Rhodes well enough. Rhodes didn't look like a "jobber". Ziggler acknowledging Finlay was a nice touch. A true student of the game.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
WM30 venue leaked?, Impact audience, and Questions on the Smackdown Championship, Mysterio, HBK vs. Lesnar, and the WWE Hall of Fame
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees tweeted about the rumor that WrestleMania 30 will be there. It's not official yet, but with Elimination Chamber there I can see them announcing it soon.
The audience for the most recent Impact was 1.3 million. The shows haven't been bad lately, so that's kind of a shame.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I've never heard definitively but I don't see why they'd make a new belt and then not unveil/use it. I've never seen any pictures of the Smackdown Championship, so it may well not exist!
Nothing to add to 2.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The audience for the most recent Impact was 1.3 million. The shows haven't been bad lately, so that's kind of a shame.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I've never heard definitively but I don't see why they'd make a new belt and then not unveil/use it. I've never seen any pictures of the Smackdown Championship, so it may well not exist!
Nothing to add to 2.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Generico appears at NXT, Interviews with Matt Hardy/Jericho/Cesaro, special guest at NXT, Bully Ray update, and Questions on social media, Main Event, and Brodus Clay
Indie sensation El Generico made an appearance at an NXT live event. His look was unchanged from the persona he's known as. Maybe he'll get to be similar to what make him famous?
Here's more from the recent Matt Hardy interview. I'm very pleased that Jeff is maturing. He deserved credit for that and I really hope he stays on the straight and narrow. He's a big part of TNA and they need him firing on all cylinders.
Chris Jericho talked about his comeback and more. As long as he keeps performing at the level he's performing at now, and is used to elevate guys like Punk and Bryan, I'm glad to have him back. He's earned TV time.
Actor/singer Kris Kristofferson was backstage at NXT, since his son is under contract there as Garrett Dylan. Dylan really hasn't been on the radar yet. I'm very interested to see how he'll do in the months and years to come.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Here's more from the recent Matt Hardy interview. I'm very pleased that Jeff is maturing. He deserved credit for that and I really hope he stays on the straight and narrow. He's a big part of TNA and they need him firing on all cylinders.
Chris Jericho talked about his comeback and more. As long as he keeps performing at the level he's performing at now, and is used to elevate guys like Punk and Bryan, I'm glad to have him back. He's earned TV time.
Actor/singer Kris Kristofferson was backstage at NXT, since his son is under contract there as Garrett Dylan. Dylan really hasn't been on the radar yet. I'm very interested to see how he'll do in the months and years to come.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Main Event Reax - 2/13/13, post-Smackdown dark match, NXT move update, Interview with Henry/Angle/Brisco/former WWE writer/Matt Hardy+Helms/Dreamer, Sorensen update, and Questions on Brock as champion, Taker, PPVs, and Bret/HHH
Main Event:
I mostly liked the opening segment since it focused on the World Championship. That should be a big goal for superstars to get in their career. I'm not crazy about Jericho making fun of Big E if he doesn't get to look like a big force. The last thing WWE needs is another big guy who isn't credible. He got a big debut. They should keep up his momentum.
Del Rio vs. Ziggler was a thing of beauty. Both guys have earned accolades in the company. They're ready to be featured.
I liked Heyman's promo. One of my favorite all-time talkers.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I mostly liked the opening segment since it focused on the World Championship. That should be a big goal for superstars to get in their career. I'm not crazy about Jericho making fun of Big E if he doesn't get to look like a big force. The last thing WWE needs is another big guy who isn't credible. He got a big debut. They should keep up his momentum.
Del Rio vs. Ziggler was a thing of beauty. Both guys have earned accolades in the company. They're ready to be featured.
I liked Heyman's promo. One of my favorite all-time talkers.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Big Announcement - Extended Ramblings
Read on for a game-changing announcement about Ramblings About Wrestling!
Rock's shout-out, matches added to Elimination Chamber, what happened after Raw, Taker update, JBL taking time off, '80s star passes away, Bully Ray injured?, Raw viewership, and Questions on the Outlaws, Jericho, Vince, and The Rock
The Rock's shout-out to Jeff Jarrett was a nod to their days in the USWA. Pretty interesting that the WWE Champion acknowledged a top TNA executive on the air and on Twitter. Of course, The Rock can do pretty much what he wants to.
Kaitlyn vs. Tamina for the Divas' Title and Antonio Cesaro vs. The Miz for the United States Title have been added to Elimination Chamber. The pre-show will have the recently "broken up" Rhodes Scholars teaming against Brodus Clay and Tensai. They're treating the Divas' division as something of an afterthought here. Kaitlyn vs. Tamina could be a pretty good feud if they gave it TV time and character development. Instead, it's just thrown out there without much meaning (and presumably a lot of people have no idea that it's even going on). And they need to make up their minds on Rhodes Scholars being together or not, unless this is some kind of weird angle where they're teaming up even though they said they split. Not that I have any complaints about them being a team again. Talented guys.
After Raw, Damien Sandow cut a promo on the people in Nashville for cheering for The Rock. He ate a Rock Bottom and People's Elbow. Then John Cena and Rock had a staredown. The dark main event was John Cena vs. Dolph Ziggler, which Cena won. For once I'm not really upset with Sandow and Ziggler losing since they want Cena and Rock to look strong and this was off the air.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Kaitlyn vs. Tamina for the Divas' Title and Antonio Cesaro vs. The Miz for the United States Title have been added to Elimination Chamber. The pre-show will have the recently "broken up" Rhodes Scholars teaming against Brodus Clay and Tensai. They're treating the Divas' division as something of an afterthought here. Kaitlyn vs. Tamina could be a pretty good feud if they gave it TV time and character development. Instead, it's just thrown out there without much meaning (and presumably a lot of people have no idea that it's even going on). And they need to make up their minds on Rhodes Scholars being together or not, unless this is some kind of weird angle where they're teaming up even though they said they split. Not that I have any complaints about them being a team again. Talented guys.
After Raw, Damien Sandow cut a promo on the people in Nashville for cheering for The Rock. He ate a Rock Bottom and People's Elbow. Then John Cena and Rock had a staredown. The dark main event was John Cena vs. Dolph Ziggler, which Cena won. For once I'm not really upset with Sandow and Ziggler losing since they want Cena and Rock to look strong and this was off the air.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Interviews with Lynn+Storm/Matt Hardy/Ziggler, Impact taping update, Punk update, Hogan back in the ring?, Smackdown audience, Lockdown change, Zeb Colter identity, and Questions on the Hall of Fame, Aces and Eights, and Cena
PWInsiderTV talked to ECW alumni Lance Storm and Jerry Lynn about their last match against each other. It's so weird to see that these two guys' in-ring careers are coming to an end. Of course, their legacy will never die.
Matt Hardy responded to Hulk Hogan's recent comments. It would be very interesting to see an '80s style match in front of a modern audience. They'd have to tell a pretty good story for the fans to appreciate it.
Tickets for the first Impact Wrestling taping of the "on the road full time" era are selling well. I understand that that's a good market for them. I really hope they do well on the road. More people watching and paying for wrestling is a plus for the business!
C.M. Punk is banged up after this weekend's botched spot but thankfully didn't have a concussion. He's set for Elimination Chamber. They can't afford for him to be out!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Matt Hardy responded to Hulk Hogan's recent comments. It would be very interesting to see an '80s style match in front of a modern audience. They'd have to tell a pretty good story for the fans to appreciate it.
Tickets for the first Impact Wrestling taping of the "on the road full time" era are selling well. I understand that that's a good market for them. I really hope they do well on the road. More people watching and paying for wrestling is a plus for the business!
C.M. Punk is banged up after this weekend's botched spot but thankfully didn't have a concussion. He's set for Elimination Chamber. They can't afford for him to be out!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Punk hurt?, NXT stars working live events, and Questions on Jeff Hardy, TNA tapings, annoying people, being shot, and HHH in charge
C.M. Punk took a bad bump at a live event during a suplex spot with The Miz where he landed on his head. Hopefully he comes out of that ok.
NXT's Corey Graves lost to Zack Ryder on a recent Raw live event. He seems to really be on WWE's radar so maybe we see him on the main roster soon.
Also from NXT, Conor O'Brian lost to Brodus Clay on the Smackdown live events. I hope he and Graves are more impressive than Bo Dallas.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. That's actually kind of clever. It's still pretty weird to have the other company's champion on your website.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT's Corey Graves lost to Zack Ryder on a recent Raw live event. He seems to really be on WWE's radar so maybe we see him on the main roster soon.
Also from NXT, Conor O'Brian lost to Brodus Clay on the Smackdown live events. I hope he and Graves are more impressive than Bo Dallas.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. That's actually kind of clever. It's still pretty weird to have the other company's champion on your website.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Saturday Morning Slam Reax - 2/9/13, top names to NXT, Interview with Lynn, and a Question on WWE cross-overs
Saturday Morning Slam:
I like that the wrestlers got some videos to promote who they are so they're not just thrown out there in matches. I'd like more videos and interviews and such on the main shows.
Fine pre-match. Again, they got to show some character so they're more than just two guys who wrestle.
Fine match. Kofi in particular looked impressive. I don't have a huge beef with the faces winning. My main concern is that none of these guys are really doing anything of consequence (just kind of a comedy feud in PTP and Brodus' case). There are times when all four seemed like they were in the hunt for titles or at least on a roll. Now they're kind of killing time.
Gabriel vs. Hawkins was pretty solid for the time it got. Hawkins might earn his way out of "jobber" status someday.
Ouch. That's the best they can come up with for Sheamus vs. Cody Rhodes? Those two could put on a pretty good match. They deserve a better set-up than that. Talk up their accolades and how a win for Cody would elevate him.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I like that the wrestlers got some videos to promote who they are so they're not just thrown out there in matches. I'd like more videos and interviews and such on the main shows.
Fine pre-match. Again, they got to show some character so they're more than just two guys who wrestle.
Fine match. Kofi in particular looked impressive. I don't have a huge beef with the faces winning. My main concern is that none of these guys are really doing anything of consequence (just kind of a comedy feud in PTP and Brodus' case). There are times when all four seemed like they were in the hunt for titles or at least on a roll. Now they're kind of killing time.
Gabriel vs. Hawkins was pretty solid for the time it got. Hawkins might earn his way out of "jobber" status someday.
Ouch. That's the best they can come up with for Sheamus vs. Cody Rhodes? Those two could put on a pretty good match. They deserve a better set-up than that. Talk up their accolades and how a win for Cody would elevate him.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Jeff Hardy contract update, TNA leaving Orlando, part-timers on live events, Interviews with Hogan/Booker, Impact audience, and Questions on Taker at Mania, Jeff Hardy, Chyna, Generico, and Eve
Jeff Hardy's new TNA contract is a 2-year deal. Not as long-term as it sounded like initially. I think he'll continue to be a big player as he's got his fans. Of course with Hardy it's always a question of whether he'll stay on the straight and narrow. Regardless, I hope they don't put most of their eggs in that basket.
TNA will end their lease with the Impact Zone once they go on the road full-time, which makes sense. They're entering a new era. If this goes well, I think they'll become more of a force in the wrestling world and that's a plus for everyone.
Chris Jericho and the New Age Outlaws have been added to this weekend's Raw live events. It's great that both acts are working there. They're great at what they do. Hopefully the current roster takes notes.
Hulk Hogan talked about taking TNA to the next level. I wonder what the stars of today think about his line about bagging groceries.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA will end their lease with the Impact Zone once they go on the road full-time, which makes sense. They're entering a new era. If this goes well, I think they'll become more of a force in the wrestling world and that's a plus for everyone.
Chris Jericho and the New Age Outlaws have been added to this weekend's Raw live events. It's great that both acts are working there. They're great at what they do. Hopefully the current roster takes notes.
Hulk Hogan talked about taking TNA to the next level. I wonder what the stars of today think about his line about bagging groceries.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Returning WWE stars updates, Gut Check voting suspended, Flair daughter update, curious Jeff Hardy note, news on recent WWE tryouts, Hardy signs new TNA deal, and Questions on the WWE Network, wrestlers' court, Eddie Guerrero,and Mania
Mark Henry is set for all Smackdown TV tapings leading to WrestleMania. Del Rio vs. Henry would be awesome, but they might want to hold off on it.
Triple H is advertised for the Smackdown after WrestleMania.
Chris Jericho is advertised for Elimination Chamber, some Smackdown tapings, and live event tours in March.
Brock Lesnar is advertised for a number of Raw dates, but curiously not the Elimination Chamber PPV.
It will be interesting to see how everyone fits in going into Mania, and what WWE does with the rest of its roster before and after that date.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Triple H is advertised for the Smackdown after WrestleMania.
Chris Jericho is advertised for Elimination Chamber, some Smackdown tapings, and live event tours in March.
Brock Lesnar is advertised for a number of Raw dates, but curiously not the Elimination Chamber PPV.
It will be interesting to see how everyone fits in going into Mania, and what WWE does with the rest of its roster before and after that date.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 2/7/13
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Main Event Reax - 2/6/13, How Impact will work on the road, TNA tryouts, Interviews with Bruno+HHH/Rocky Johnson/Inoki/Ouellet/Velvet, TNA PPV update, top botches, WM30 update, top names on Smackdown post-Mania, Smackdown dark match, and Questions on Rock, Ready to Rumble, Punk, and WWE-UFC
Main Event:
Other than some of the comedy, the opening segment was pretty good. I hope Rhodes can gain some momentum down the line.
Not a bad opening match at all. Rhodes put up a good enough fight that the clean loss doesn't really hurt him. It does pretty much keep him in the same place, though.
I liked Sandow's promo. He's a pretty good talker.
Interesting to have such a quick match between Bryan and Sandow as I'm sure that could have been really good if they were given more time. Hopefully we get a rematch.
Interesting Divas segment. I guess they need all hands on deck with some of the departures they've had.
Not a bad Divas match. It's going to take more than that to make the division credible again, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Other than some of the comedy, the opening segment was pretty good. I hope Rhodes can gain some momentum down the line.
Not a bad opening match at all. Rhodes put up a good enough fight that the clean loss doesn't really hurt him. It does pretty much keep him in the same place, though.
I liked Sandow's promo. He's a pretty good talker.
Interesting to have such a quick match between Bryan and Sandow as I'm sure that could have been really good if they were given more time. Hopefully we get a rematch.
Interesting Divas segment. I guess they need all hands on deck with some of the departures they've had.
Not a bad Divas match. It's going to take more than that to make the division credible again, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Query on Shane McMahon, Vince's surgery, Interviews with Bruno/Jericho/Blair, what happened after Raw, potential celebrity Hall of Famer, star returning, Shooting Straight update, PPV match set, Raw audience, and Questions on Punk, Lesnar, Vince's vision, Punk, and Dallas vs. Barrett
First up, a query:
1. Shane McMahon is not returning to WWE any time soon. He's got his own thing going on in China. He's also not going to be buying TNA or anything like that. I'd consider him as having moved on from wrestling at this point.
Vince McMahon legitimately underwent hip surgery. Tough guy.
Upcoming WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino (how cool is it to say that?) was interviewed in Pittsburgh.
After Raw, Sheamus left the ring. C.M. Punk and Dolph Ziggler then challenged Cena and Ryback to a tag match, which the faces won.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Shane McMahon is not returning to WWE any time soon. He's got his own thing going on in China. He's also not going to be buying TNA or anything like that. I'd consider him as having moved on from wrestling at this point.
Vince McMahon legitimately underwent hip surgery. Tough guy.
Upcoming WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino (how cool is it to say that?) was interviewed in Pittsburgh.
After Raw, Sheamus left the ring. C.M. Punk and Dolph Ziggler then challenged Cena and Ryback to a tag match, which the faces won.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Funk at Mania, nixed Mania match, ESPN covers Sammartino induction, Smackdown audience, Reaction is back, Interview with Jim Johnston, and Questions on elevating Ziggler, ending the Streak, The Shield, The Rock, and Sting
Terry Funk will be a part of WrestleMania weekend, likely inducting Mick Foley into the WWE Hall of Fame. That will be amazing.
There was talk of doing a Money In The Bank match at Mania, but no more. Ziggler still has his briefcase! Wait until the PPV in July.
ESPN covered Bruno Sammartino going into the WWE Hall of Fame, which is truly a historic moment. Triple H is really making waves behind-the-scenes. My hat's off to him for everything he's done so far. This is a big feather in his cap.
Smackdown did 2.97 million viewers. Not bad.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
There was talk of doing a Money In The Bank match at Mania, but no more. Ziggler still has his briefcase! Wait until the PPV in July.
ESPN covered Bruno Sammartino going into the WWE Hall of Fame, which is truly a historic moment. Triple H is really making waves behind-the-scenes. My hat's off to him for everything he's done so far. This is a big feather in his cap.
Smackdown did 2.97 million viewers. Not bad.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Another NXT appearance on live events, Interview with Piper, what if the lights went out at WM30, and Questions on indies, a new set, Punk at Mania, Fandango, and Heyman
NXT's Corey Graves worked against Brodus Clay on recent live events in losing efforts. Fandango also worked, beating Yoshi Tatsu. It will be interesting to see how they fit into things with the part-timers back and getting pretty much guaranteed TV time.
Roddy Piper was interviewed. Fun stuff. Always good to hear from him. We've GOT to see a Punk/Piper segment.
The power outage at the Super Bowl has people wondering what WWE would do in the same situation. They would have back-up power and try to keep the ringside area and announcers' area powered so the show could go on.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Roddy Piper was interviewed. Fun stuff. Always good to hear from him. We've GOT to see a Punk/Piper segment.
The power outage at the Super Bowl has people wondering what WWE would do in the same situation. They would have back-up power and try to keep the ringside area and announcers' area powered so the show could go on.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Saturday Morning Slam Reax - 2/2/13, Interview with Bret Hart, another NXT star on live events, TNA star confirms departure, and Questions on sick bumps, Aces and Eights, and Eve
Saturday Morning Slam:
Ziggler vs. Ryder was pretty good. I think the World Title contender should have been able to make quicker work of someone who's not on TV much, though. I like Ryder a lot, but Ziggler should be pushed well if they want us to buy him as a champion down the line.
Barrett vs. Tatsu was also nice. Two talented guys.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Ziggler vs. Ryder was pretty good. I think the World Title contender should have been able to make quicker work of someone who's not on TV much, though. I like Ryder a lot, but Ziggler should be pushed well if they want us to buy him as a champion down the line.
Barrett vs. Tatsu was also nice. Two talented guys.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Query on NXT, Interview with Eddie Kingston/Jeff Hardy, Punk surprises fan, NXT appearances, Impact viewership, Jericho updates, and Questions on Cody Rhodes, Cole vs. Lawler, and Flair
First up, a query:
1. NXT still exists. It's something like its own brand with a champion and tag team champions. Gone are Pro's polls and that kind of thing. They've got a good deal of up-and-coming talent there, as well as some main roster people that you don't see much of elsewhere.
Chikara's Eddie Kingston talked.
C.M. Punk called into a radio show to talk to a fan of his who was famously upset that Punk lost at the Royal Rumble. One-of-a-kind listen.
Ric Flair will be at the 2/24 NXT live event in Melbourne, FL.
Zack Ryder will be at the 2/15 NXT live event in Fort Pierce, FL.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. NXT still exists. It's something like its own brand with a champion and tag team champions. Gone are Pro's polls and that kind of thing. They've got a good deal of up-and-coming talent there, as well as some main roster people that you don't see much of elsewhere.
Chikara's Eddie Kingston talked.
C.M. Punk called into a radio show to talk to a fan of his who was famously upset that Punk lost at the Royal Rumble. One-of-a-kind listen.
Ric Flair will be at the 2/24 NXT live event in Melbourne, FL.
Zack Ryder will be at the 2/15 NXT live event in Fort Pierce, FL.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Queries on Sabin and Brawl for All, Interview with Thrasher, another star at NXT, TNA morale, Comic-Con, Impact on the road full-time, injured WWE stars return to the ring, and Questions on Jericho, Punk, Buffer, Brodus/Tensai, and Gut Check
First up, two queries:
1. Chris Sabin is still recovering. No word on a return date. He's still a part of TNA.
2. I don't see WWE bringing back Brawl For All given the injuries that happened last time.
Thrasher of the Headbangers was interviewed. I agree about people having good characters and being themselves sometimes being the best way to go. I don't know if TNA's going to be in WWE's league in 2 years, though, given their problems with getting to that next level so far.
Ryback will appear at the 4/11 NXT taping. As always, I hope he's used in a way that elevates some people there without him looking weak.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Chris Sabin is still recovering. No word on a return date. He's still a part of TNA.
2. I don't see WWE bringing back Brawl For All given the injuries that happened last time.
Thrasher of the Headbangers was interviewed. I agree about people having good characters and being themselves sometimes being the best way to go. I don't know if TNA's going to be in WWE's league in 2 years, though, given their problems with getting to that next level so far.
Ryback will appear at the 4/11 NXT taping. As always, I hope he's used in a way that elevates some people there without him looking weak.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/31/13
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
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