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Friday, January 31, 2014

Lucha star passes, Sting update, free agent visits TNA, more Punk fallout, TNA talks social media, big new WWE TV deal, Angle injury update, Young nominated, Styles-TNA update, talk of new Jarrett promotion, the difference between WWE and National Pro Wrestling Day, another TNA-UK tour announced, new role for Ricardo, Interviews with Rhodes/Titus, TNA going Japanese, WWE app hits milestone, TNA's investor tweets, WWE beefs up NXT special and Questions on Sting vs. Taker, 2spooky4me, The Shield in MITB and the Rumble

AAA star Mini Chessman passed away at 46. More details here. I normally don't cover lucha stuff, but since someone passed away, I think it's appropriate to mention it.

Sting is believed to be done with TNA, at least for the foreseeable future. I can't blame him if he goes and collects some sweet WWE paychecks. I believe TNA's gotten as far as they can with him.

NJPW performer Prince Devitt visited at a recent TNA event. His contract expires soon and he's expected to go to WWE, but maybe there's a curveball thrown.

TNA put up some footage of C.M. Punk from his days in the company to play off him being in the news. I can't say I blame them. I'd be INCREDIBLY surprised to see Punk go to TNA, though.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/30/14

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Main Event Reax - 1/29/14, new TNA Knockout, Punk walks out of WWE, WWE moves international tour, Jarrett update, Matt Hardy arrested, update on Total Divas cast, more Rumble fallout, guest on TNA live event, Angle hurt and Questions on Cena at Mania, Batista's star power, Heel Dixie, legends returning, and ROH on Roku

Main Event:
Del Rio vs. R-Truth was pretty nice. Good word from both men. It's a shame Del Rio's character is so stale because he's quite the performer.

Pretty silly Divas segment, but at least it added some story to the matches.

Tamina vs. Natalya was nice. I wish it would have went longer, but it was good for the time it had.

I liked the post-match well enough. At least now there's something going on too add to the matches.

I can see that cage match setting up Goldust vs. Cody at WrestleMania. I'm looking forward to it.

I liked the six-man tag well enough. It didn't have much greater meaning for anything, but it was fine for showing what The Usos and Big E can do.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

What Happened After Raw, UFC boss talks Vince, Interviews with Jim Johnston/AJ Styles, top international star at WWEPC, Raw changes, why WWE is keeping Sin Cara II, Cesaro endorsement, Roberts congratulated, Foley smashes TV, Garcia signs new deal, more Network hype, Sting talking to WWE, Warrior buries hatchet, new Sin Cara gets new Twitter and Questions on Punk going to ROH, Vince/HBK, ROH surpassing TNA and Tag Team Title booking

After Raw, the babyface team laid out Seth Rollins after Ambrose and Reigns bailed. No dark match. I'm sure everyone was spent after the Rumble.

Dana White talked about Vince McMahon and WWE. Vince is a go-getter, that's for sure.

Stone Cold Steve Austin talked to WWE musician Jim Johnston. I'm glad he's getting more recognition lately.

Japanese star KENTA reported to the WWE Performance Center for a tryout, at the suggestion of William Regal. He's very well regarded for his matches online. He's 32 with more than 1200 matches to his name, so I definitely think WWE should consider picking him up. If he is signed, I wonder what that means for Yoshi Tatsu's spot (or lack thereof at the moment).

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Foley upset about Bryan booking, Total Divas cast change?, Rumble reactions, original Sin Cara update, Interviews with Bryan/Miz/Shield/Angle/Titus, WWE monopolizing Santa Clara, Rumble guests, Updates on Nash/Show/Rusev, Smackdown audience and Questions on Batista's look, Hogan vs. Warrior, MITB at Mania and Sting in a T-shirt

Mick Foley expanded on his thoughts on Daniel Bryan's booking at the Royal Rumble. Breaking a TV because of a wrestling PPV is not the best message to send. HOWEVER, I'm starting to feel what the detractors are saying. There are people who are really busting their humps only to be thrown aside for already-established performers. I think some of those guys have earned big money matches, but I'd be curious to know the actual value of those older stars vs. the current crop.

Summer Rae will be a part of Season 2 of Total Divas. Some wonder what this means for JoJo. I don't see any reason to release JoJo at this time. I'm a fan of Summer Rae and hope this brings her career even higher.

Kevin Nash and Batista tweeted about the Royal Rumble, because WWE believes Nash and Batista are A+ players and them being in the Rumble instead of Daniel Bryan was best for business. I'll go to bat for Batista, but Bryan should be booked better and I've never really been a Nash fan.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Raw Reax - 1/27/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Raw.

Monday, January 27, 2014

WWE live event notes, Angle-TNA HoF update, Rumble reactions and Questions on watching Genesis, WWE-NBCU, pushing Cesaro, WWE's meeting and Sting vs. Taker

Alexander Rusev, El Torito and Kane all competed on live events this weekend ahead of appearing in the Royal Rumble. It will be interesting to see how much Rusev and Kane work on the main roster going forward.

Daniel Bryan also returned to the ring at live events after being cleared from his concussion. Talk about someone who has a lot of crowd support right now.

Kurt Angle will accept his induction into the TNA Hall of Fame during TNA's UK tour. I imagine Magnus and crew will crash the party. Should be fun.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Royal Rumble Reax - 1/26/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Royal Rumble PPV.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

NXT star to main roster note, current WM30 plans, Interviews with Rollins/Axel and Questions on NXT Divas, WWE's roster meeting, female HoFers, NXT live and lolSMW

Rusev once again defeated Zack Ryder on a recent WWE live event. I don't know of any timetable to him getting in the ring on the main roster.

The current plan for WrestleMania 30 is:
- Randy Orton vs. Batista for the WWE Championship
- John Cena vs. Bray Wyatt
- C.M. Punk vs. Triple H
- The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar
- Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus
I honestly can't say that's a bad card. If they build it right, it could be pretty enjoyable. I know people want Bryan in a higher-profile match, but I can see why WWE wants to make the most of HHH, Taker, Lesnar and Batista while they have them. Sheamus as HHH's heavy in The Authority is pretty intriguing. Also, where the heck is Kane? I'm surprised he's not up there.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Eaton update, physical WWE Hall of Fame on its way?, Interviews with Punk/Bryan/Gabriel/original Sin Cara, Tag champs to NXT, Ziggler update, WWEPC profiled, Impact audience, Daniels addresses rumors, TNA adds TV/PPV dates, Russo returning?, possible TNA investor spoiler, Styles-TNA update and Questions on Kharma, matches without storylines, the Wyatts are next, Benoit on the WWE Network, why Sting challenged for the TNA Title and renaming WWE Studios

Bobby Eaton has been released from the hospital after some time there. That's certainly good news.

NBCUniversal is considering making a WWE Hall of Fame attraction at Universal Studios as part of the ongoing negotiations to keep showing Raw and Smackdown. I hope WWE really comes out as winners here. How is NASCAR considered a more viable brand in 2014?

C.M. Punk gave a big interview, highlighted here. I'd think he'd talk to HHH to re-sign. I can see some weird similarities between the workaholicism of Punk and Vince. The company has changed since 2011, but it hasn't been revolutionized in a way some would like. People are going to complain about Batista being in big matches no matter what. If he brings more eyeballs to the product to see the likes of Bryan, etc., I think it's a good move. I definitely think Punk should have gotten more time off, but Payback 2013 was in Chicago and I guess they felt he had to have a match then. After reading Beadle's side, it sounds like it could have been a misunderstanding between Punk and Beadle. I hope they can put it behind them some day.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.




Smackdown Reax - 1/24/13

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Smackdown.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Batista fires back at detractors, Interviews with Cornette/Styles/Chavo/JR/Mickie/Iron Sheik, Extreme Rules location, remembering Mae, Where's Snitsky?, Nash rumor, Lockdown press release, WWE surgery and Questions on the Wolves, Knockouts, Koloff and Batista's return

In a now-deleted Tweet, Batista simultaneously thanked his fans and bashed his critics. I'm sure WWE loved that remark. I can't blame him for going after the whiners, though. There's a difference between people who have legitimate concerns about using a 40+ year old returning performer as a main eventer and the people more focused on his ring attire than his effect on WWE's business.

Jim Cornette did the Jim Cornette thing, talking about HHH, Vince Russo, TNA and more. There are some differences to WWE as far as talent goes: The Shield, Bryan and the Wyatts are being pushed rather well (generally). There could and should still be some roster changes and changes in who's pushed, but some progress has been made. I agree about Russo's booking being too focused on big brawls and screaming and "crash TV". That stuff's done better in moderation. I found the TNA jokes pretty funny, but things have in some ways been better post-Hogan and Bischoff. That hunchbacks idea is actually kind of clever, but it doesn't belong in a major wrestling promotion.

AJ Styles talked about a number of TNA topics. I do think the "independent contractor" thing is bizarre when the company controls all your bookings. I enjoyed some of his more comedic stuff with Angle and Christian, though I wish he would have gotten to be more of a top guy like so many wanted.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Superstars and Genesis Part 2 Reax - 1/23/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Genesis edition of Impact Wrestling.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Main Event Reax - 1/22/14, Payback note, various TNA publicity and notes, how the Rumble got started, LeBron thanks Rock, Paige update, Interviews with Flair/Batista/Miz+Ziggler/Bryan, Young laid to rest, WWE going live Down Under, Rumble teases and Questions on Old School Raw, must-see PPVs, a mandatory retirement age, Network availability and Jim Johnston

Main Event:
I think it's time for something new for Damien Sandow. The character hasn't really progressed in some time now.

I enjoyed Sandow vs. Truth. Sandow stepped up his game there.

That Divas segment was better than no segment at all, and it did reinforce the Bryan angle.

Not a bad Divas match, but it didn't really accomplish all that much. The division can definitely use some shaking up. Hopefully Emma's arrival will change things, though I think a title change is in order as well. Unless they have something really awesome planned for AJ to drop the strap at Mania.

Del Rio vs. Cara was really awesome. Hunico's really taking the ball and running with it. Del Rio's definitely not dead in the water, even after taking a Batista Bomb on Monday.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Warrior responds to Roberts, What happened after Raw, former WWF/WCW booker passes, Jarrett rumors, TNA rumorkillers, why WWE didn't pick up The Wolves, Sheamus update, WWE event photos, Interviews with WWE Network partner/Piper, TNA live event notes, TNA publicity in the UK, Smackdown audience, Payback location and Questions on Taker vs. Sting, inducting Paul Bearer, Hogan/Piper at Mania, Styles in WWE and TNA copying WWE

Ultimate Warrior responded to Jake Roberts' recent remarks here and here. I wonder if Roberts will challenge him to an MMA fight like Nash did a few years back.

Update: Jake Roberts apologized, which I commend him for. That's very mature of him.

After Raw ended, John Cena traded promos with Damien Sandow before giving him an Attitude Adjustment. Nothing really surprising there. I wonder who Cena's facing at Mania?

George Scott, a pivotal booker in the '70s and '80s, has passed away at 85. PWInsider has a fantastic write-up of his career. It's a great insight on how the world of wrestling has changed.

Update: Ricky Steamboat sent in a statement. Ahh, Steamboat vs. Flair. Good times.

Jeff Jarrett is shopping the idea for a new wrestling promotion, with a lot of rumors circulating. For those looking for him to debut a big national promotion, note how long it took TNA to reach the level it is now. Success won't come overnight. That said, it would be great if there was some new competition out there.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Interviews with Rosita/Jake Roberts/Keneley/Ryback, MVP rumorkiller, former TNA name retiring, Sin Cara update, NFL star makes a splash, Bryan beard mania, HHH meets MMA, more Bellator/TNA crossover?, Rumble pre-show match and Questions on a success on the WWE Network, WWE buying TNA and the state of TNA

Former TNA star Rosita talked about her goals, inspiration and more. Highlights here. I wish her great success.

The former MVP shot down rumors of signing on with TNA. He actually had a few matches there before coming to WWE. I'd be down with him returning. TNA can afford to cut loose a few more names to bring in some movers and shakers.

Jake Roberts talked about being back on Old School Raw and more. I'm very glad he's moved on from drugs. I imagine Warrior will have something to say about Roberts' comments there.

Former TNA performer Jesse Neal is retiring shortly to focus on other areas of life, including his family. The business isn't for everyone.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Raw Reax - 1/20/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Raw.

Monday, January 20, 2014

Original Sin Cara update, Bryan's injury shakes up live events, NXT star gets tryout, ECW vs. boxing, JR-Mania update, Interviews with Ted Sr./Maryse/Kane/Mathews, NXT visitor, WWE publicity, TNA tryout? and Questions on putting Elimination Chamber on the Network, Heel Dixie, Punk vs. HHH, inducting Warrior and the Wolves in TNA

The original Sin Cara is being advertised for a non-WWE show in Mexico on 3/1. I wonder if WWE will acknowledge him leaving once his contract's officially up.

Big Show replaced Daniel Bryan on one live event loop. This set up Kane to face Erick Rowan and Luke Harper on the other live event loop, which Kane lost. As for Big Show, he lost to Bray Wyatt. I think it's pretty significant that the newer guys beat the established veterans.

Also on live events, NXT's Tyler Breeze beat Justin Gabriel. I wonder how many people will be called up in 2014?

World Xtreme Entertainment is doing a match between The Sandman and former boxing champion Tim Witherspoon. Certainly an interesting idea, but I don't know how well it will all work out.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Query on a Chyna comeback, Diva demoted to NXT, Kane update, Dreamer-TNA update, new titles in WWE?, various WWE appearances, the day Bruno lost the WWWF Title and Questions on the Wolves, a Double J swerve, Ryback, WWE dropping PG and the Rumble

First up, a query:
1. I'd normally say there's absolutely NO way WWE would bring Chyna back in any capacity, but they did make amends with Ultimate Warrior. I don't think it's completely out of the question for her to be part of a DX HoF induction, but I'd be surprised if she came back for more than that. Even a HoF induction sounds unlikely.

"Total Divas" star JoJo has been officially moved from the main WWE roster to the NXT roster. I'm guessing they think she needs more experience before competing on TV again. I can't say it's a bad move on their part.

Kane continues to work live events, so I wouldn't be surprised for him to officially go back to more of a wrestling role soon, quite possibly including a spot in the Rumble. This doesn't mean he'll stop being Director of Operations, just get in the ring on TV more.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Another Total Divas wedding, Flair press release, WWE stock note, Cena's Katie appearance, UFC head talks WWE Network and Brock, Wolves/TNA update, Genesis Part 2 card, why TNA had a meeting, Ziggler appearance, AJ Lee record, Genesis Part 1 audience and Questions on the Wolves in TNA, the Network in Puerto Rico, WWE special effects, Cena vs. Rock, Swagger at Mania and WWE Cruiserweights

Jimmy Uso got married to Naomi. I wish them the best. Will this lead to the Funkadactyls working with The Usos on TV?

Here's the press release for Ric Flair being grand marshall for a race. Slow news day...

WWE's stock has passed a 10-year high. So, yeah, the WWE Network has people happy.

John Cena's "Katie" appearances can be seen here and here. No RKO to Couric? Come on, WWE. You guys have a PPV to sell!

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Smackdown Reax - 1/17/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Smackdown.

Friday, January 17, 2014

Flair appearance, Interviews with Cena/Gunner/Styles, WWE star who won't be in the Rumble, more WWE Network talk, more on Heyman DVD, Ross talks Mae, Batista training, Hogan and Piper at Mania?, big TNA meeting, contract updates for Foley and Austin and Questions on getting a WWE release, another season of Tough Enough, Batista and rights fees

Ric Flair will be a part of a car race on the date of the Royal Rumble, so don't expect him to be part of the PPV.

John Cena talked about being a role model and more. Another reminder that WWE's audience isn't is wider than the "IWC".

Justin Gabriel says he will not be a part of this year's Royal Rumble. I like Gabriel, but I don't think his appearance would have moved things either way.

Stone Cold and John Cena talked about the WWE Network. Now all the people who prefer Austin can watch Attitude Era content instead of complaining about the current product.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.



Superstars and Genesis Part 1 Reax - 1/16/14

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Superstars and Genesis edition of Impact.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Main Event Reax - 1/15/14, Interview with James Storm/Bully/Hogan, Bryan hurt, Young remembered, Cena to appear, more on WWE Network and Warrior in the Hall, Cena Sr. "injury" report, more on new TNA names, new head of TNA Creative, Hogan to be seen by millions, WWE Hall of Famer launches new facility, Flair appearance and Questions on Punk vs. Bryan at Mania, buying TNA, talents' pull, Old School Raw and slacking off

Main Event:
Kofi vs. Axel was good enough. No comment from Kofi on beating Orton? It's like nothing's changed from Monday.

Looks like WWE's ribbing Ryback. If he doesn't take it like a pro, I can see WWE screwing him over push-wise.

No Sandow promo either? Ugh.

I liked Sandow vs. Cara a good deal, but the Ryback silliness took away from it.

I don't think that Maddox segment really did much to build heat to 3MB vs. PTP. It advertised the match, but didn't make it seem like something fans should want to see.

Meh. Not really crazy about the Bad News Barrett gimmick. He does it well, but it feels so limiting for someone who's done bigger things in the past.

Ryback's eating at Vince's house of ribs tonight. This is really stupid if it's not leading to anything worthwhile.

Not crazy about such a brief 3-on-2 match. It didn't have much time to make an impact.

Fine six-man tag to keep that thing going on. I feel like they could have done a similar idea better with just PTP vs. 3MB. PTP could team with Santino or something.

I bet Vince and Kevin Dunn were dying over Ryback running. The rest of us were just confused.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

TNA releases, what happened after Raw, Interview with Reigns, Cena appearance, Warrior rumor, Kaitlyn says goodbye, EVOLVE visitors, Heyman DVD teaser, Genesis card update, Raw audience, Smackdown dark match, Young passes and Questions on Jake in the Hall, other promotions on the Network, Road Dogg on commentary and MITB

TNA has released Jay Bradley, formerly WWE's Ryan Braddock. He hadn't wrestled for the company since August. Bradley had a pretty short run. There were times when I thought he had some potential, but obviously it never materialized.

Update: TNA also released Wes Brisco, who had been written off at the end of the Aces and Eights angle and hadn't wrestled since September. I liked him alright, but I can see why TNA would want to move in a new direction. I wonder where things stand for Knux and Garett now.

After Raw, Randy Orton challenged John Cena (who had left the building following the attack on his dad). Orton declared a win by forfeit, drawing out Cena. Orton powdered out.

Roman Reigns gave a solid interview on what the Rumble and 2014 look like for him and The Shield.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

More on NXT talents on live event, Genesis in two acts, rumored Lockdown main event, Gut Check winner appears, Interview with James Storm, TNA star working Japan, house show mishap, big WWE meeting called off, more on potential Rumble return, Smackdown audience, Lockdown set, Raw notes and Questions on the WWE Network, DVDs and Danny Davis vs. Danny Davis

Of note, Emma and Alexander Rusev got video packages for their appearances on this weekend's WWE live events. That's a good move. NXT's Byron Saxton was the announcer as well, so maybe he'll get to be back on the main roster as well.

Both this Thursday's and next Thursday's Impact will be under the Genesis label. I hope that works out for them.

Some believe Magnus vs. AJ Styles will be the top match at Lockdown on 3/9. I'd be a little surprised, given AJ's recent interviews and ROH commitments.

"Bad Bones" John Klinger, who won TNA's online Gut Check Challenge contest, will be part of some of their upcoming shows in the UK. I was wondering what would become of him. TNA can certainly use some fresh faces ready to make their marks in the company.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Raw Reax - 1/13/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Raw.

Monday, January 13, 2014

Del Rio fires back, WWE live event notes, Ryback rumorkiller, long-awaited DVD in the works, Interview with JR, more WWE Network news, AAA coming to TV on the States and Questions on the WWE Network, AJ vs. Magnus, wrestlers not in the Rumble and Vince as a genius

Alberto Del Rio cut a promo on Batista at a recent live event, saying he (Del Rio) will win the Rumble. Also wrestling on that show were El Torito and Kane. Kane beat Zack Ryder, then made an open challenge that was answered by Big Show. Show won, then hit a chokeslam on Brad Maddox. I wonder if this is leading to Kane moving back into a wrestling role.

There was a rumor going around about Ryback being released from WWE. This was based on a misunderstanding of the wording of one of his tweets. He's still employed as of this writing, though he's not the most popular guy with WWE management at the moment.

WWE is making a Paul Heyman DVD. Jim Ross is set to be a part of it. Yes, please!

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

NXT talent works more live events, NXT injuries, TNA tryout, WWE Network buzz, Divas' Champ in Maxim? and Questions on Bryan vs. the Wyatts, WWE's stage, the impact of the WWE Network and an ECW re-revival

NXT's Alexander Rusev made quick work of Justin Gabriel on a recent live event. I look forward to seeing what he can do on the main roster. It feels like the roster's already rather crowded, though.

Sami Zayn was on crutches at a recent NXT event. It's believed he tweaked his knee and will be back in the ring by the end of the month. He's a hot prospect down there.

Paige is also said to be injured. There are going to be some really disappointed fans if she doesn't make it to the main roster.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

New big job for ex-WWE star, more on Flair missing NFL game, big TNA roster meeting, Lockdown update, WWE Network meeting, Batista buries WWE roster, Interview with Kofi, new faces coming to TNA?, new international WWE deal, Impact audience, Ziggler update and Questions on TNA departures, Styles in ROH, injuries, WWE bringing back former announcers and what's next for Vince

Ken Shamrock is now doing security for 50 Cent. That's great for him.

One reason Ric Flair isn't at the Panthers/49ers game is the fact of there being an arrest warrant out for him due to him owing more than $30,000 in legal fees and support to his most recent ex-wife. So, him appearing there would tip the cops to his location and put him at risk of being taken away.

Dixie Carter had a major meeting with TNA talent. Among the notable items:
- The departure of Jeff Jarrett was called a business decision. No word on if she saw Double J as a "B+ player".

- Negotiations continue with Universal Studios for future tapings there. Fortunately for TNA, they already have tapings set to take them to Lockdown in March. They've got some time, but they certainly need to get on it.

It's believed the Lockdown PPV could be held in the Miami area. You'd think they'd want to go further than the Florida market, but maybe that will end up being a good draw for them.

Everything else from Friday is after the break.

Smackdown Reax - 1/10/14

Read on for my take on Friday's Smackdown.

Friday, January 10, 2014

Ziggler update, sending Kaitlyn off, ROH name has WWE tryout, more on Mae Young, Flair update, Interviews with Henry/Maddox/Ambrose and Questions on NXT on Hulu, firing JR, Kaitlyn's future and Bryan vs. Bray

Dolph Ziggler is scheduled to undergo further testing following his concussion.

AJ Lee and Big E Langston took to Twitter to say goodbye to Kaitlyn. She'll really be missed.

Former Ring of Honor Tag Team Champion Rhett Titus had a tryout with WWE. He's young at 26 with a good amount of experience for his age, so he could be a keeper.

Mae Young is said to be "gravely ill", but still alive as of this writing. She'll keep fighting as long as she can, I'm sure.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Assorted WWE Network news

Here's WWE's press release, with all the details. Long story short, it sounds pretty awesome and will be available in a lot of places for pretty cheap (considering how much content will be there).

More here. I'm going to wait to see how successful it becomes before committing to covering NXT.

William Regal will be the subject of a documentary on the Network. That should be fun.

WWE made a filing about how they affect the Network to change things. Long story short, they think it will be a great success by the end of 2015. In the meantime, PPVs could really take a hit.

Everything else after the break.

Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/9/14

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Main Event Reax - 1/8/14, TNA signs new international deal, Update on TNA-Spike relationship, former Divas Champion leaves WWE, former WWE/TNA name leaves wrestling, Hogan correction, Mae Young update and Questions on WWE live events, bringing back KOTR, the dangers of indie wrestling, Batista at Mania and signing Sin Cara

Main Event:
I really liked the opening match. Cesaro in particular always impresses me, and Woods is starting to get more comfortable in the ring. Hopefully the sky is bright for those two in particular.

I wonder how much putting over of Vince's accomplishments will happen after HHH takes over for real.

Del Rio's a really smooth performer in the ring. I appreciate it. Gabriel's something of an unsung hero for his work ethic. I hope both men catch the attention of WWE brass (though I think Del Rio would benefit from some time off as a character).

Good Del Rio promo. I imagine Batista will eat him for lunch at some point. Batista does need a big win to put him back on the map as a top name.

I'm not really sure why I found that Fandango promo so funny, but I did. I have an odd sense of humor.

Impressive work from the tag champs there. Their string of solid matches continues. 3MB was nice as well.

That was a great send-off match for Kaitlyn.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

TNA footage on news show, Ziggler hurt, what happened after Raw, more on Flair/NFL, Jarrett update, Interviews with Jake Roberts/Foley/Cornette, WWE makes Conan, Elimination Chamber poster, Knockouts take a break, Ryback in hot water, more on original Sin Cara, Diva sick, Rhodes update, Raw audience, Cena's insane schedule, Bryan chant catches on andQuestions on changing WWE PPVs, Shane Douglas, a new Streak and Cena's politics

Footage of Rob Van Dam delivering a five-star frog splash to AJ Styles from a TNA show was used on MSNBC to illustrate an ice-breaking ship. You'd think they'd use WWE footage given the NBC Universal connection. Note how neither person in that clip is with TNA anymore.

Dolph Ziggler was concussed during a match with Ryback taped for this week's Superstars. He'll have to be cleared by WWE doctors before returning to the ring. If anyone could use a new direction in 2014, it's Ziggler.

After Raw went off the air, C.M. Punk celebrated with the New Age Outlaws and Jake Roberts. Then, John Cena beat Randy Orton when Orton used a low blow. How weird is it to have the famously straight-edge Punk alongside someone with Roberts' history?

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Where HBK was, JR on commentary, Interviews with Rollins/AJ Styles, NXT guests, more on big WWE announcement, Jarrett starting new promotion?, more on Lawler, Smackdown audience, possible injury to WWE champ, upcoming WWE matches and Questions on TNA departures, "smarks" say the darnedest things and using Batista and Lesnar

Shawn Michaels was already set for an event for the Archery Trade Association, so it was unlikely he would have been able to make Raw. I suspect we'll see him again during Mania season.

Jim Ross did commentary on a recent NBA game. I still love that NBA Jam clip...

Seth Rollins talked ahead of Old School Raw. I hope The Shield all have really impressive careers.

The first NXT taping of 2014 is set for 1/9/14. The Wyatt Family and Miz will be there. Could be cool.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Old School Raw Reax - 1/6/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Old School Raw.

Monday, January 6, 2014

TNA jobber update, more NXT names on live events, TNA Lockdown date set, Interviews with DiBiase, Sr./Sandow, Mae Young update, another Old School name and Questions on selling wrestling stuff, the Ruthless Aggression era, Ryback at Mania and a TNA invasion angle

Dewey Barnes beat Jessie Godderz at a recent TNA live event, so they're still using him.

On the same live event loop with the debut of "Daniel Wyatt", NXT Champion Bo Dallas lost to R-Truth and NXT diva Emma teamed with Natalya in a win over AJ Lee and Tamina. I've liked what I've seen of both Bo and Emma, though I haven't seen much of them. Bo has notably improved as a character since his last main roster run.

TNA Lockdown will be on 3/9/14. No word on the location at this point in time.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Update on Ezekiel Jackson, Flair appearance, Interviews with Cesaro/Titus/AJ Styles/Ambrose, NXT talent works live events, more on Booker's second book, former WWE Champ back at the Rumble?, injured NXT star returns, Foley looks at Bryan angle, TNA leaving Universal Studios again, Impact audience, pictures of Daniel "Wyatt" and Questions on chanting ECW, EC3 and WWE holiday shows

Ezekiel Jackson gave an update on his status. Dude's JACKED in that picture. I think it's notable he was at home for 10 months where theoretically WWE could have used him but didn't. He might only have one more shot to impress management enough to make it back on TV once he recovers. I hope he'll be ready for it.

Ric Flair talked about the Carolina Panthers adopting his famous catchphrase for their games. That was a nice promo by Flair.

Antonio Cesaro had a Q-and-A before Old School Raw. I can see him being really successful in WWE in the years to come with his experience and work ethic.

Titus O'Neil talked about his journey to WWE and more. He continues to find a nice niche in the company.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Saturday, January 4, 2014

WWE asks for feedback on who to use, TNA updates on Jarrett/Styles/Dreamer, some good TNA business news, TNA tag champs in magazine, more on Hogan/WM30 and Questions on the WWE HoF, Warrior at Mania and the 40-man Rumble

WWE put out a survey, detailed here, about how fans on their mailing list believe current and past top names should be used going forward. That was useful for telling them I don't want to see Hogan anymore.

Jeff Jarrett's TNA resignation takes effect on Jan. 6. It's still pretty wild knowing he won't be around going forward. With other names with expiring contracts in 2014, TNA could look very different by year's end.

Al Snow took over as head producer at this past weekend's live events. I think he could do well in that department.

Negotiations between AJ Styles and TNA falling apart was at least partially linked to Jarrett's exit. It could be a time before morale improves without the founder there. I really wonder what ripple effect this will have on other long-term TNA employees.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Smackdown Reax - 1/3/14

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Smackdown.

Friday, January 3, 2014

Query on ICP, Legends appearances, Interview with former TNA tag champ/Flair+Cody/Angle, Eaton update and Questions on the WWE brand split, TNA ratings, Double J in WWE and E-C-Dub

First up, a query:
1. I don't know of any plans for ICP to return to the ring, either for JCW or anywhere else. There really hasn't been a lot of news about them as wrestlers in a good while.

Hulk Hogan appeared on ESPN after hyping the New England Patriots. I much prefer him being on ESPN than WWE or TNA.

Update: Hogan also appeared with Jimmy Hart and Jerry Lawler at Hogan's restaurant. I wonder how much I could take of that commentary team...

The former Vance Archer/Lance Hoyt was interviewed. I'm also a big fan of Heath Slater lately and think there can be WAY too much negativity in wrestling these days.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/2/14

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Main Event Reax - 1/1/14, Raw audience, WWE connection to recent Hollywood death, WWE future endeavored list, who's not at Old School Raw and Questions on Teddy Long, Bryan's push, the changes in TNA and the unified title

Main Event:
Very nice to establish Sandow as wanting to be WWE World Champion. That should be a goal for a lot of people on the roster.

Kofi vs. Sandow was phenomenal. I expected this to be a fairly quick encounter without much depth, but they went above and beyond here. Both men continue to show potential as main event acts. WWE needs to have them work with more established performers so they continue to improve. More mic time (especially for Kofi) would also be helpful.

Good stuff in selling Brock working with HHH. They did a good job making both men look important. If only they gave some of that love to people who aren't already top stars?

Not a bad Divas tag match, though I'd like to see more from them.

That was better than I expected from the MizTV segment. I have some interest in Brodus as a heel. If he can do big things after the feud with Tensai, we could see some good things from him.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

2014 predictions for WWE and TNA rosters

Read on for my very informal predictions for what will happen with the superstars of WWE and TNA!

More on Lebron's WWE Title chase, another Brock appearance, live event notes, Christian update, Rock and Austin status for WM30, WWE HoFer in hospital and Questions on heel commentary, Evan Bourne, unifying titles, Taker and Sin Cara

Lebron James got a WWE Championship replica from The Rock. That's pretty cool to spread the WWE name.

Added to next week's Old School Raw is BBBBRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKK. LLLEEESSSSSNNNNNAAAAAAARRRRR. I look forward to seeing him on the road to the Rumble.

Jinder Mahal, Drew McIntyre and Ricardo Rodriguez were "The Mounties" on a recent WWE live event, continuing the 3MB impersonation shtick.

Christian was the special referee for Big Show vs. Kane on that live event, replacing Booker T. in Christian's home market. I wonder if we'll see him in the Rumble.

Everything else from yesterday is after the break.