In November, GFW is expected to announce talents signed, venues for live events, and more international PPVs to be distributed. It looks like things might finally be coming together for them to produce something concrete. I'm interested to see what form it takes. It's easy to see it as competing with TNA as it seems to decline, but I think in many ways it should be examined as its own entity going in its own direction.
The Rock talked about coming back to wrestling in 2011 and more. That's a really good piece overall. Very interesting.
AJ Lee talked about Paige, Batman, and more. I'm glad she and Paige are going so far.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
MMA name now training to wrestle, Interview with Borash, WWE press, WWE tryout video, Cena not set for Raw, new WWE PPV name?, Steen's WWE name, and Questions on adult content in WWE, the Streak ending, tag team streeet fights, late WCW vs. current WWE, and WWE's schedule
Matthew Riddle, who after appearing on the Ultimate Fighter has competed for both UFC and Bellator with a record of 8-3, is now training to be a wrestler alongside his wife. I'm curious to see how they do. He's got his work cut out for him following the wrestling careers or lack thereof of King Mo and Rampage Jackson.
Jeremy Borash gave a long-form interview about the current state of TNA and more. I wouldn't assume the clock strikes midnight for them at the end of 2014, but they're definitely in a concerning place with no U.S. TV deal for next year.
Daniel Bryan, Stephanie McMahon, and Darren Young attended an anti-bullying rally. I hope we see Bryan and Darren Young in the ring sooner rather than later.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jeremy Borash gave a long-form interview about the current state of TNA and more. I wouldn't assume the clock strikes midnight for them at the end of 2014, but they're definitely in a concerning place with no U.S. TV deal for next year.
Daniel Bryan, Stephanie McMahon, and Darren Young attended an anti-bullying rally. I hope we see Bryan and Darren Young in the ring sooner rather than later.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Main Event Reax - 10/28/14, Interviews with AJ/Dolph/Hogan/Striker, NXT stars talk Halloween, NXT injury update, Bully teaser, Angle contract update, Reigns update, Punk correction, Raw audience, Del Rio update, more on lawsuit, Bryan update, and Questions on a new Wyatt Family, Summerslam 2015, the Network, and Vince's booking
Main Event:
I liked the opening segment, but wasn't it supposed to be about Mark Henry turning on Big Show? WWE booking can be quite haphazard these days.
Good match for those two teams. The angle continues.
I enjoyed Paige vs. Natalya. It's nice to see Paige doing something different for the time being. I hope she continues to develop a separate identity from AJ.
I liked Bo's promo. It's good for him to want to be part of the main event of a major PPV.
Fine main event for keeping Sheamus' momentum going.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I liked the opening segment, but wasn't it supposed to be about Mark Henry turning on Big Show? WWE booking can be quite haphazard these days.
Good match for those two teams. The angle continues.
I enjoyed Paige vs. Natalya. It's nice to see Paige doing something different for the time being. I hope she continues to develop a separate identity from AJ.
I liked Bo's promo. It's good for him to want to be part of the main event of a major PPV.
Fine main event for keeping Sheamus' momentum going.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Foley on HIAC ending, Stardust update, NXT lineup, another Sting appearance, Haynes lawsuit update, Wyatt note, more WWEPC press, Punk-WWE update, notes on recent WWE tryouts and signings, Smackdown audience, what happened after Raw, and Questions on making Raw must-see, AJ vs. Trish, the brand extension, Taker's future, and Punk the ROH HoFer
Mick Foley defended the ending to the Ambrose/Rollins HIAC match. I'm mostly OK with it. It's all a matter of where they go from here and if Ambrose does get to be a true top guy.
WWE is selling Stardust masks and gloves, so I expect the character to continue for a while. Everyone involved has done a great job with the new gimmick.
Set for this week's NXT:
- Tag team battle royal to determine the #1 Contenders for the Lucha Dragons
- Carmella vs. Emma
- Bull Dempsey vs. Justin Gabriel
- Baron Corbin vs. Tony Briggs
- Marcus Louis vs. Sylvester LeFort
- Sami Zayn vs. Titus O'Neill
NXT is always worth checking out.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE is selling Stardust masks and gloves, so I expect the character to continue for a while. Everyone involved has done a great job with the new gimmick.
Set for this week's NXT:
- Tag team battle royal to determine the #1 Contenders for the Lucha Dragons
- Carmella vs. Emma
- Bull Dempsey vs. Justin Gabriel
- Baron Corbin vs. Tony Briggs
- Marcus Louis vs. Sylvester LeFort
- Sami Zayn vs. Titus O'Neill
NXT is always worth checking out.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Lucha royalty seeks WWE tryout, more on WWE's new policy, WWE PPV changing?, WWE name back from injury?, Orton takes a shot at Cena, WWE seeking trademarks, report from HIAC, and Questions on losing faith in talents, having the champ on every PPV, traditional Survivor Series matches, a Cruiserweight division, and seeing Punk wrestle again
Hijo del Santo was visiting with his son backstage at a recent NXT show, prompting speculation of seeking a tryout for his son. I'm sure WWE would love to tap further into the Latino market with Del Rio gone and Rey more or less out of commission.
WWE's updated stance on domestic abuse has been picked up by the Washington Post. I think that's a great policy for them to implement. Way to be proactive rather than reactive.
WWE could be rebranding the Elimination Chamber for 2015, possibly moving that match to the summer to build for a match at Summerslam. It's not a bad idea to change things up in that regard. The summer can be a downtime for WWE, but it doesn't have to be.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE's updated stance on domestic abuse has been picked up by the Washington Post. I think that's a great policy for them to implement. Way to be proactive rather than reactive.
WWE could be rebranding the Elimination Chamber for 2015, possibly moving that match to the summer to build for a match at Summerslam. It's not a bad idea to change things up in that regard. The summer can be a downtime for WWE, but it doesn't have to be.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Big WWE lawsuit, big name misses NXT signing, Interview with AJ, Questions on the WWE Magazine, Prinze, Jr., Cesaro, Ryder, and creative control
1980s WWF wrestler Billy Jack Haynes is filing a lawsuit against WWE regarding the health of wrestlers. This could potentially be huge, although I don't know how much traction it will actually gain.
Seth Rollins reportedly missed the signing he was advertised for at the NXT taping. After a long wait, the Lucha Dragons took his place. As great as those two are, I think a lot of people came to see Rollins at the signing instead. It sucks that happened. Rollins did appear at the actual NXT taping.
AJ Lee talked ahead of Hell in a Cell. Paige and AJ are pretty much the only Divas I'd care to see in a reality format. Most of the others I just want to see wrestle (and in the case of Eva Marie, I don't even want to see that).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Seth Rollins reportedly missed the signing he was advertised for at the NXT taping. After a long wait, the Lucha Dragons took his place. As great as those two are, I think a lot of people came to see Rollins at the signing instead. It sucks that happened. Rollins did appear at the actual NXT taping.
AJ Lee talked ahead of Hell in a Cell. Paige and AJ are pretty much the only Divas I'd care to see in a reality format. Most of the others I just want to see wrestle (and in the case of Eva Marie, I don't even want to see that).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Interviews with Ambrose/Rollins/Matt Hardy/Y2J/Zeus/Ziggler/Lashley, new role for Taker, and Questions on no-compete clauses, Mysterio, They Live, autobiographies, and Bischoff vs. Russo
Dean Ambrose talked to Rolling Stone. That's pretty big. He does work effectively as the face in this scenario.
Seth Rollins was also interviewed before Hell in a Cell. Pretty good read. He knows what he's talking about.
Matt Hardy talked about his post-WWE career. I'm glad he's making things work outside Vince's bubble. It will be interesting to see what 2015 holds for the Hardys.
Chris Jericho talked about an upcoming WWE DVD on him. As great as his matches with Benoit were, there's no way we'd see Benoit on a new WWE release.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Seth Rollins was also interviewed before Hell in a Cell. Pretty good read. He knows what he's talking about.
Matt Hardy talked about his post-WWE career. I'm glad he's making things work outside Vince's bubble. It will be interesting to see what 2015 holds for the Hardys.
Chris Jericho talked about an upcoming WWE DVD on him. As great as his matches with Benoit were, there's no way we'd see Benoit on a new WWE release.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, October 24, 2014
Interviews with Cesaro/Cena/Chyna, big meeting for Jeff Jarrett, Mysterio update, Puerto Rican name to WWE?, GFW TV update, Impact audience, TNA announcer to GFW?, Del Rio situation update, matches set for next NXT special, and Questions on AJ vs. Paige, Rose's push, Foley books, and Hogan vs. Brody
Cesaro talked about his time so far in WWE and more. He's a very versatile talent. I hope WWE continues to add talents who have honed their craft in a number of different markets.
Jeff Jarrett recently met with ROH president Joe Koff. There's speculation the two parties discussed whether ROH talents can work the GFW-promoted NJPW show on January 4. I definitely think it'd be a solid boost for GFW and ROH if the two sides can work together. Wrestlers having more places to make a payday and more diverse opponents to work with is a good thing for the business.
John Cena talked about being a merch machine, not turning heel, and more. He has a really amazing work ethic that transcends what goes on in the "wrestling" aspect of the company.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jeff Jarrett recently met with ROH president Joe Koff. There's speculation the two parties discussed whether ROH talents can work the GFW-promoted NJPW show on January 4. I definitely think it'd be a solid boost for GFW and ROH if the two sides can work together. Wrestlers having more places to make a payday and more diverse opponents to work with is a good thing for the business.
John Cena talked about being a merch machine, not turning heel, and more. He has a really amazing work ethic that transcends what goes on in the "wrestling" aspect of the company.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Mysterio note, two names added to TNA roster, Interviews with Matt Hardy/Willie Mack/Maria/Y2J/Cesaro/Ambrose/Morrison, Dudleys-WWE tease, and Questions on Darren Young, Orton turning face, Raw vs. Smackdown, the Wyatts, and Summerslam
There has been talk in Mexico of Rey Mysterio having left WWE and returning to AAA. Mysterio and WWE have been having conflicts about the status of his contract. More on this in the days to come. At this point, it's pretty obvious Rey wants out of his deal. I think WWE just wants to continue making money from Rey merchandise, etc. while they still have the rights to his likeness. I'm curious as to what Rey can really do legally to get out of it and work elsewhere.
TNA has added Shark Boy and Tyrus to their website roster. I'm a little surprised to see Shark Boy added, since he's really just kind of brought in here and there for enhancement roles. It will be interesting to see what the roster looks like by the time of the UK tapings.
Matt Hardy talked about his current status with TNA and more. I think TNA has been putting out a lot of good content lately, but it could be too late as a lot of fans have written them off and assume they're going out of business.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA has added Shark Boy and Tyrus to their website roster. I'm a little surprised to see Shark Boy added, since he's really just kind of brought in here and there for enhancement roles. It will be interesting to see what the roster looks like by the time of the UK tapings.
Matt Hardy talked about his current status with TNA and more. I think TNA has been putting out a lot of good content lately, but it could be too late as a lot of fans have written them off and assume they're going out of business.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Main Event Reax - 10/21/14, what Hogan did at Raw, date for airing of next TNA Title match, NXT preview, big NXT guest, Slam City to TV, Jake Roberts note, WWE Network-UK update, Interview with Stephanie/Y2J, Raw audience, NXT coach update, WWE tryouts, and Questions on WWE layoffs, Jeff Hardy back in WWE, WWE staleness, the Wyatts, and attention spans
Main Event:
I have no clue what I watched in that opening segment. It reminded me of early seasons of NXT. I hope it was effective in hyping the tag team title match, because it was pretty out there.
I really enjoy Tyson Kidd as a heel these days. This has been great. I liked this match, and hope it means more for Tyson in the future. If WWE really wanted to, they could have Darren Young return to defend Natalya and feud with Tyson.
I love Bo Dallas as a heel. I hope he rides this really far. Future U.S. or IC Champion?
I'm not sure if it really did anything for anyone to have Big E win. I like Big E, but if there's no followup for his win, it seems a bit pointless for him to beat someone with consistent screen and promo time.
Really good main event. Rollins and Swagger worked together very well, and those on the outside of the ring were incorporated well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I have no clue what I watched in that opening segment. It reminded me of early seasons of NXT. I hope it was effective in hyping the tag team title match, because it was pretty out there.
I really enjoy Tyson Kidd as a heel these days. This has been great. I liked this match, and hope it means more for Tyson in the future. If WWE really wanted to, they could have Darren Young return to defend Natalya and feud with Tyson.
I love Bo Dallas as a heel. I hope he rides this really far. Future U.S. or IC Champion?
I'm not sure if it really did anything for anyone to have Big E win. I like Big E, but if there's no followup for his win, it seems a bit pointless for him to beat someone with consistent screen and promo time.
Really good main event. Rollins and Swagger worked together very well, and those on the outside of the ring were incorporated well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
HIAC card, Ox Baker passes, Interviews with Y2J/JR, ring announcing set, Hogan update, indie name at WWEPC, Smackdown audience, WWE policy update, and Questions on Luger, MITB vs. IC Title, WWF vs. WCW, how big of a deal Cena is, and paying wrestlers to take dives
The current card for Sunday's Hell in a Cell PPV:
- WWE Divas' Championship: AJ Lee vs. Paige
- WWE United States Championship: Sheamus vs. The Miz
- WWE Tag Team Championship: Goldust and Stardust vs. The Usos
- Big Show vs. Rusev
- Loser becomes winner's personal assistant for a month: Brie Bella vs. Nikki Bella
- Hell in a Cell: Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins
- Hell in a Cell to determine #1 Contendership for WWE Championship: John Cena vs. Randy Orton
Honestly, I think that's a pretty good card and well worth the $9.99 for the Network.
Notable wrestling name Douglas "Ox" Baker has passed away. His is a story that's often overlooked, which is a shame. He deserves a career retrospective and a HoF nod.
Update: WWE talked about his passing. Just look at that guy! He absolutely deserves more attention.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- WWE Divas' Championship: AJ Lee vs. Paige
- WWE United States Championship: Sheamus vs. The Miz
- WWE Tag Team Championship: Goldust and Stardust vs. The Usos
- Big Show vs. Rusev
- Loser becomes winner's personal assistant for a month: Brie Bella vs. Nikki Bella
- Hell in a Cell: Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins
- Hell in a Cell to determine #1 Contendership for WWE Championship: John Cena vs. Randy Orton
Honestly, I think that's a pretty good card and well worth the $9.99 for the Network.
Notable wrestling name Douglas "Ox" Baker has passed away. His is a story that's often overlooked, which is a shame. He deserves a career retrospective and a HoF nod.
Update: WWE talked about his passing. Just look at that guy! He absolutely deserves more attention.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Live event results, WWE cameo, NXT roster note, what's next for Justin Roberts, Taker sighting, former Women's/Divas' Champ returning?, Interviews with former NXT talent/Rollins, RKO trend continues, Muta meets Rock, and Questions on advertising the Network, the future of TNA, GFW, Malenko, and Orton
Here are results from an NXT live event this weekend. There are some talented names there, and I hope they break out in the years to come.
The Boogeyman was at WWE HQ, so I suspect we'll see him pop up in some form or another for Halloween.
Carmella has been officially added to the NXT section of the WWE roster page. I've liked her so far. The key will be making sure she doesn't feel tacked on to a successful act.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The Boogeyman was at WWE HQ, so I suspect we'll see him pop up in some form or another for Halloween.
Carmella has been officially added to the NXT section of the WWE roster page. I've liked her so far. The key will be making sure she doesn't feel tacked on to a successful act.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
WWE ring announcer update, WWE live event notes, Interviews with Dallas/Rollins/Corbin/Y2J, and Questions on indies running similar cards, streaming iPPVs, international coverage, Raw guest hosts, and wrestling movies
Eden was ring announcer on the main roster this weekend. I'd definitely prefer her in that role to JoJo, although I think Eden was at one point training to wrestle. We'll see how that all turns out.
Damien Mizdow lost to Great Khali in quick fashion this weekend. I wouldn't read anything into it.
Adrian Neville defended the NXT Championship against Sami Zayn this weekend. Given the show was in Montreal, Zayn was incredibly over. He got to cut a promo in front of his hometown, which is pretty cool.
Update: Zayn posed with Ziggler and Ambrose after the main event, with his music playing. That's quite a big deal considering he's not part of the main roster yet. I hope he's brought up sooner rather than later, because he's ready to make an impact.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Damien Mizdow lost to Great Khali in quick fashion this weekend. I wouldn't read anything into it.
Adrian Neville defended the NXT Championship against Sami Zayn this weekend. Given the show was in Montreal, Zayn was incredibly over. He got to cut a promo in front of his hometown, which is pretty cool.
Update: Zayn posed with Ziggler and Ambrose after the main event, with his music playing. That's quite a big deal considering he's not part of the main roster yet. I hope he's brought up sooner rather than later, because he's ready to make an impact.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
TNA roster correction, study looks at why fans watch WWE, Interviews with Kane/Y2J/RVD/Simmons/Shields/Fandango, Justin Roberts' replacement, new NXT interviewer, Punk reappears, WWE tag team back on TV soon?, NXT surgery, Brock appearance set, talk of more NXT specials, and Questions on Maggle, upcoming episodes of Impact, Enzo/Big Cass, Charlotte, and Eugene
TNA has added Rockstar Spud back to their online roster. There was confusion over whether he was still under contract after the EC3 firing angle, but he apparently at least is for the time being. I think he can get a solid following as a face.
A study from the University of Kansas looked at why WWE fans watch. I definitely think some things need to be shaken up. New storylines and characters are part of what makes NXT so refreshing. Seeing a former WWE/WCW/ECW name go to TNA and do pretty much the same thing they did fifteen years ago is part of what has kept TNA stagnant, I think. Overall, I'm glad a formal study was done.
Kane talked about changing up his character, emerging talents, and more. How do these people find wrestlers' personal addresses? Anyway, it was a good read from someone who's been around the block in WWE. I'm really curious to see what he does in the years to come as both a character and a person.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
A study from the University of Kansas looked at why WWE fans watch. I definitely think some things need to be shaken up. New storylines and characters are part of what makes NXT so refreshing. Seeing a former WWE/WCW/ECW name go to TNA and do pretty much the same thing they did fifteen years ago is part of what has kept TNA stagnant, I think. Overall, I'm glad a formal study was done.
Kane talked about changing up his character, emerging talents, and more. How do these people find wrestlers' personal addresses? Anyway, it was a good read from someone who's been around the block in WWE. I'm really curious to see what he does in the years to come as both a character and a person.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, October 17, 2014
WWE content goes viral, Interviews with Kane/Y2J/Darren Young, Cena press, JBL on Roberts' departure, WWE financials update, Impact audience, and Questions on Cena endorsements, time zones, Team 3D's future, ads on the Network, Show vs. Russia, and JBL
"RKO Vines" have gone viral, and WWE has noticed. Pretty clever. The RKO is a pretty wicked move.
Kane talked about working with Daniel Bryan, Taker vs. Sting, and more. Nothing too revealing, but it was cool to hear him discuss the longevity of his career. If WWE does do Taker vs. Sting, I'd appreciate cameos from Flair and Kane given the history those two have had with the combatants.
Chris Jericho talked about working with C.M. Punk, pitching stories to Vince McMahon, and more. There could be a book just on various experiences working with Vince. He's one of a kind, for better or worse. I do wish Jericho vs. Wyatt would have done more for Wyatt, but obviously Vince had other plans.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Kane talked about working with Daniel Bryan, Taker vs. Sting, and more. Nothing too revealing, but it was cool to hear him discuss the longevity of his career. If WWE does do Taker vs. Sting, I'd appreciate cameos from Flair and Kane given the history those two have had with the combatants.
Chris Jericho talked about working with C.M. Punk, pitching stories to Vince McMahon, and more. There could be a book just on various experiences working with Vince. He's one of a kind, for better or worse. I do wish Jericho vs. Wyatt would have done more for Wyatt, but obviously Vince had other plans.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
TNA roster note, Raw main event note, Interviews with Piper/Kim, Roberts on WWE release, huge honor for Stephanie, another Raw match set, and Questions on Rock's return, guest hosts, Brock Lesnar, Total Divas, and John Cena
In line with the current angle of him being fired by Ethan Carter III, TNA has removed Rockstar Spud from the roster on their website. He will reappear on upcoming episodes of Impact Wrestling. Of note, the TNA roster still contains Rhino despite him being fired in a similar fashion and not working for the company since his loss to EC3. Bully Ray, Devon, and Kurt Angle are featured despite their contracts expiring, so it's not like TNA's website is the best source for roster information.
Raw's main event of Cena and Ambrose vs. Kane, Rollins, and Orton has been made into a street fight. Should be good. I wonder if Kane will have a match at Hell in a Cell.
Roddy Piper talked about C.M. Punk walking out and more. While I understand Management wants to work with talents who are easier to deal with, there are reasons to support some of the people who rock the boat.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Raw's main event of Cena and Ambrose vs. Kane, Rollins, and Orton has been made into a street fight. Should be good. I wonder if Kane will have a match at Hell in a Cell.
Roddy Piper talked about C.M. Punk walking out and more. While I understand Management wants to work with talents who are easier to deal with, there are reasons to support some of the people who rock the boat.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Main Event Reax - 10/14/14, surprising WWE name cut, Jake Roberts update, matches added to HIAC, TNA stars working another W1 event, more NXT names for 2K15 DLC, Ascension update, NXT charity, Interview with Jazz, next big NXT special, Raw audience, and Questions on Tout, Ambrose vs. Cena, burials, choking, and charity
Main Event:
I loved the Miz TV segment, as goofy as it was. "Mizdow" has been consistently entertaining.
I liked Tyson's promo. He's been really underutilized for a while now.
Good match between Tyson and R-Truth. I wish more undercard matches had stories. That's one thing the Attitude Era did a better job of, I think.
Natalya splitting from Kidd could be nice if done right.
I liked Cesaro's promo well enough. I honestly think the swing is kind of a goofy move, but the crowd cheers for it and it is pretty impressive.
Cesaro vs. Gabriel was pretty good. I do hope Cesaro gets his momentum back, because he was positioned to really get a push after WM30.
I wasn't as crazy about that Lana/Rusev promo. I do want to see Rusev crush some people, though.
Nice match between Rusev and Big E. I hope both of them are successful in the company long-term.
Good ending to the show. Rusev still has momentum if they don't blow it.
I loved the Miz TV segment, as goofy as it was. "Mizdow" has been consistently entertaining.
I liked Tyson's promo. He's been really underutilized for a while now.
Good match between Tyson and R-Truth. I wish more undercard matches had stories. That's one thing the Attitude Era did a better job of, I think.
Natalya splitting from Kidd could be nice if done right.
I liked Cesaro's promo well enough. I honestly think the swing is kind of a goofy move, but the crowd cheers for it and it is pretty impressive.
Cesaro vs. Gabriel was pretty good. I do hope Cesaro gets his momentum back, because he was positioned to really get a push after WM30.
I wasn't as crazy about that Lana/Rusev promo. I do want to see Rusev crush some people, though.
Nice match between Rusev and Big E. I hope both of them are successful in the company long-term.
Good ending to the show. Rusev still has momentum if they don't blow it.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
NXT preview, NXT release, GFW-NJPW update, Interviews with Bischoff/Swagger/Martel, new head of WWE Network, Network adds ads, Summerslam 2015 location, big names at next week's Raw, Team 3D update, BFG notes, Smackdown audience, Raw guests, next Raw main event, Flair update, Alex Riley note, and Questions on long title matches on TV, Ambrose breaking out, WWE listening to fans, the 40-man Rumble, and (of course) John Cena
Set for this week's NXT:
- Sami Zayn vs. Tyson Kidd
- Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady vs. The Legionnaires
- The Lucha Dragons vs. Wesley Blake and Buddy Murphy
- Carmella's in-ring debut
- Baron Corbin in action
Could be a pretty good show, especially that first match.
WWE has released the recently-signed Willie Mack. What? That's one of the shortest tenures of a wrestler in the big leagues ever. I hope he's OK.
Update: Mack issued a statement. Pretty vague. I was looking forward to seeing what he would do in NXT. Hopefully GFW or someone provides an outlet for him to show what he can do on a big scale.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Sami Zayn vs. Tyson Kidd
- Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady vs. The Legionnaires
- The Lucha Dragons vs. Wesley Blake and Buddy Murphy
- Carmella's in-ring debut
- Baron Corbin in action
Could be a pretty good show, especially that first match.
WWE has released the recently-signed Willie Mack. What? That's one of the shortest tenures of a wrestler in the big leagues ever. I hope he's OK.
Update: Mack issued a statement. Pretty vague. I was looking forward to seeing what he would do in NXT. Hopefully GFW or someone provides an outlet for him to show what he can do on a big scale.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, October 13, 2014
Dixie Twitter controversy, big commentary error, what was cut from BFG, Bret and Hebner bury the hatchet, why Vickie wasn't on Smackdown, Maddox returns, HoFer's daughter wrestling, territory star passes, Network show returns, WWE Malaysia press, and Questions on firing JR, pushing Ambrose, "SuperCena", Angle vs. Rusev, and the WWE Universe
Dixie Carter made a reference to the typhoon heading to Japan in promoting Bound For Glory, specifically James Storm coming there. She since deleted the Tweet and apologized. There's being a heel, and there's exploiting a natural disaster to promote a wrestling event. That really was a boneheaded move on the part of the company president, and could really hurt the company's image at a time when things already look bad for them. I am glad she apologized, but the damage could already be done.
Taz referred to The Dynamite Kid as "late" on commentary for Bound For Glory. Dynamite Kid is actually still alive. I'm willing to give Taz the benefit of the doubt on that one, as Kid has really been out of the spotlight.
As was mentioned, TNA cut out part of Team 3D's post-match promo from Bound For Glory. The team challenged NJPW's Bullet Club. That would be quite the rivalry. Maybe we see it in Jeff Jarrett's GFW?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Taz referred to The Dynamite Kid as "late" on commentary for Bound For Glory. Dynamite Kid is actually still alive. I'm willing to give Taz the benefit of the doubt on that one, as Kid has really been out of the spotlight.
As was mentioned, TNA cut out part of Team 3D's post-match promo from Bound For Glory. The team challenged NJPW's Bullet Club. That would be quite the rivalry. Maybe we see it in Jeff Jarrett's GFW?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Interview with Kharma, live event notes, WWE vs. NFL, Angle update, NXT debut notes, Mysterio update, Y2J dates confirmed, top WWE name taking time off?, and Questions on Hall and Nash in WCW, Aksana, the finish to the 2005 Rumble, and TNA airing internationally
The former Kharma talked about potentially coming back to WWE and more. I'd LOVE to see her come back and wreck all the Total Divas-related stuff they have now. She could really be a top act in the company.
For the latest WWE live event in Malaysia, Adrian Neville retained the NXT Championship over Sami Zayn, Bo Dallas, and Sin Cara. Cara is one-half of the NXT Tag Team Champions, so that makes sense in a way. Also on the show, Sheamus was apparently fine after seeming to be injured the night before, and Kofi teamed with Big E as faces. No Xavier Woods, though. It's been so long since they've all three been on TV as a unit that it might as well have not happened.
WWE issued a survey on fans' viewing habits between WWE shows and football, notably if fans switch back-and-forth between the two, watch with others, record WWE for later in the week, etc.. The NFL has been a big competitor for WWE for years now.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
For the latest WWE live event in Malaysia, Adrian Neville retained the NXT Championship over Sami Zayn, Bo Dallas, and Sin Cara. Cara is one-half of the NXT Tag Team Champions, so that makes sense in a way. Also on the show, Sheamus was apparently fine after seeming to be injured the night before, and Kofi teamed with Big E as faces. No Xavier Woods, though. It's been so long since they've all three been on TV as a unit that it might as well have not happened.
WWE issued a survey on fans' viewing habits between WWE shows and football, notably if fans switch back-and-forth between the two, watch with others, record WWE for later in the week, etc.. The NFL has been a big competitor for WWE for years now.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Smackdown moving after all, NXT and main roster live event notes, former Women's Champ hospitalized, Interviews with Cena/JR, HoFer out of the hospital, TTTT update, and Questions on BFG, Ambrose, JR, and Punk
A press release for a show on Syfy mentions it will debut 9 p.m. on a Friday, during the current timeslot for Smackdown. So, either this is a typo or Smackdown will be moving nights. Thursday nights would be fine by me if they shift around NXT and Superstars (maybe to Fridays?).
Update: Smackdown will be moving nights in January 2015, once NFL games are no longer a competitor. I hope that means the brand will get more appreciation from those booking it.
Here's a report from a recent NXT live event. I'm glad everyone there's getting practice. I wonder why we haven't seen Balor or Steen yet at live events.
The former Madusa/Alundra Blayze was hospitalized after a monster truck incident in Australia. I hope she recovers well and one day enters the WWE Hall of Fame.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
Update: Smackdown will be moving nights in January 2015, once NFL games are no longer a competitor. I hope that means the brand will get more appreciation from those booking it.
Here's a report from a recent NXT live event. I'm glad everyone there's getting practice. I wonder why we haven't seen Balor or Steen yet at live events.
The former Madusa/Alundra Blayze was hospitalized after a monster truck incident in Australia. I hope she recovers well and one day enters the WWE Hall of Fame.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Punk-TNA rumorkiller, Interviews with HHH/Eddie Edwards/McIntyre/Bram/Itami/DiBiase,Jr./Steen/Rock/Bischoff, Y2J update, WWE press, TTTT note, Impact audience, and Questions on Rollins vs. Lesnar, Rock vs. Rusev, Hogan, Sable, and Sandow turning on Miz
For whatever reason, there are stories going around about TNA making a big financial offer to C.M. Punk, and him turning it down. Multiple TNA sources deny that being the case. Either way, there's a very small chance of him returning to the ring, and I highly doubt it'd be for TNA if he did. Punk was in attendance at a recent OVW show, but it was likely just because of his friendship with Cliff Compton.
Triple H talked about NXT vs. the main roster and more. The NXT facilities are amazing, and attitude is very important in ANY job.
It's possible Chris Jericho works a few upcoming TV tapings before going back on the road with Fozzy. There's not much reason for him to work a few weeks of TV before disappearing again, but a cameo during the European tour would be nice.
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
Triple H talked about NXT vs. the main roster and more. The NXT facilities are amazing, and attitude is very important in ANY job.
It's possible Chris Jericho works a few upcoming TV tapings before going back on the road with Fozzy. There's not much reason for him to work a few weeks of TV before disappearing again, but a cameo during the European tour would be nice.
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Interviews with Ricardo/Raven, Del Rio update, Rock's Smackdown appearance, a Wyatts movie?, Rey update, and Questions on Edge hosting a show on the Network, the Russian flag angle, an angry Taker, the "30-day rule", and revamping WWE's titles
The former Ricardo Rodriguez talked about leaving WWE in detail. WWE really lost some talented people in Ricardo and Del Rio. As for Ricardo training and working in NXT, there are a lot of hardworking people behind-the-scenes and/or in limited roles that make the whole machine of the company go smoothly.
Alberto Del Rio will be working a show for Wrestle-1 in November. This naturally leads to speculation of him working with TNA given the agreement that company has with W1. There's no word on that yet. I'm under the impression Del Rio can't work in the U.S. due to legal issues with WWE, and that might extend to appearing on U.S. TV for a wrestling company (even if the show's taped in Japan). I'd love to see him in TNA since WWE's not an option, but I don't see it happening.
The segment set for Smackdown featuring The Rock was taped backstage at Raw. You can't have the 15th Anniversary of Smackdown without him. He should have plugged that appearance Monday.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Alberto Del Rio will be working a show for Wrestle-1 in November. This naturally leads to speculation of him working with TNA given the agreement that company has with W1. There's no word on that yet. I'm under the impression Del Rio can't work in the U.S. due to legal issues with WWE, and that might extend to appearing on U.S. TV for a wrestling company (even if the show's taped in Japan). I'd love to see him in TNA since WWE's not an option, but I don't see it happening.
The segment set for Smackdown featuring The Rock was taped backstage at Raw. You can't have the 15th Anniversary of Smackdown without him. He should have plugged that appearance Monday.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Impact Wrestling Reax - 10/8/14
Read on for my thoughts on last night's edition of Impact Wrestling.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Main Event Reax - 10/7/14, WWE stars in Puerto Rico, Smackdown audience, Muta vs. Rock?, Raw cameos, Interviews with Natalya+Nikki/Roman/Kharma/Stephanie/Bray, another Raw guest host, another Austin update, Raw audience, set for Smackdown and next week's Raw, and Questions on buzzwords, BROCK LESNAR, Vince listening to fans, blood on the Network, and Big Dick Johnson
Main Event:
I love Bo right now. He's come a long way from the FCW days.
I really enjoyed the first match. Ziggler brings out the best in people athletically, and Bo is definitely growing as a performer. Good work by both men.
As much as I'd love to see Tyson snap and make Kane tap out, I don't think that's what this segment's leading to. That's a shame, because that segment did more for Kane than for Tyson or Swagger.
Fine Divas handicap match for what it was. The chances of Kharma coming out and wrecking all of them are sadly nil, but that would be my ideal end to the angle.
Wow, they're all about digging at Tyson. At least he's getting screen time as a character outside NXT and Total Divas, though.
Nice to see Tyson get a win. The match was good for the time it got. I hope we see more of Tyson on the main roster now.
Fun post-match. Tyson can be a great heel.
Another weird Goldust/Stardust segment, but that's to be expected.
I liked the main event well enough. This has been a pretty good feud.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I love Bo right now. He's come a long way from the FCW days.
I really enjoyed the first match. Ziggler brings out the best in people athletically, and Bo is definitely growing as a performer. Good work by both men.
As much as I'd love to see Tyson snap and make Kane tap out, I don't think that's what this segment's leading to. That's a shame, because that segment did more for Kane than for Tyson or Swagger.
Fine Divas handicap match for what it was. The chances of Kharma coming out and wrecking all of them are sadly nil, but that would be my ideal end to the angle.
Wow, they're all about digging at Tyson. At least he's getting screen time as a character outside NXT and Total Divas, though.
Nice to see Tyson get a win. The match was good for the time it got. I hope we see more of Tyson on the main roster now.
Fun post-match. Tyson can be a great heel.
Another weird Goldust/Stardust segment, but that's to be expected.
I liked the main event well enough. This has been a pretty good feud.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Interviews with Stephanie/Cena, Dolph literally loses title, AM Raw update, Stone Cold rumorkiller, NXT lineup, Y2J update, Bryan appearance, Bruno acknowledged, Rock note, Raw notes, new guest host and Questions on talents not getting over, animal characters, Sting in WWE, Kharma, and the future of TNA
Stephanie McMahon talked about ending up with Triple H and more as she promoted Raw. Dating your boss' daughter is a pretty serious risk, but it's paid off for The Game.
Dolph Ziggler had his luggage lost, including the Intercontinental Championship. He's had a lot of fun with the unfortunate situation, at United's expense.
John Cena appeared on The Today Show. I expect a lot of appearances related to breast cancer this month.
AM Raw has been dropped by USA Network. Maybe they can bring it back for the WWE Network?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Dolph Ziggler had his luggage lost, including the Intercontinental Championship. He's had a lot of fun with the unfortunate situation, at United's expense.
John Cena appeared on The Today Show. I expect a lot of appearances related to breast cancer this month.
AM Raw has been dropped by USA Network. Maybe they can bring it back for the WWE Network?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, October 6, 2014
New LU signing, LU guest, LU video, British Boot Camp note, Interviews with Rollins/Reigns, Questions on interviewers, streaming, WWE as sports or entertainment, wrestling vs. variety shows, and Kevin Dunn
Brian Cage, who's appeared for TNA and regularly works Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, has been signed to Lucha Underground. He's a HOSS. It will be cool to see how he works in that environment.
Danny Trejo was in attendance at a recent LU taping. That's pretty cool.
Here's a video on the LU series. That looks great! I can't wait to see what the former John Morrison has in the tank.
At least some episodes of TNA's British Boot Camp series have been expanded to one hour. That's good for TNA.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Danny Trejo was in attendance at a recent LU taping. That's pretty cool.
Here's a video on the LU series. That looks great! I can't wait to see what the former John Morrison has in the tank.
At least some episodes of TNA's British Boot Camp series have been expanded to one hour. That's good for TNA.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Live event notes (including an NXT show), Interview with Rose, and Questions on the Wyatts, Kim-TNA, and TNA TV
At this weekend's main roster live events, Sami Zayn beat Tyson Kidd. The Wyatt Family also teamed in a loss to Big Show and the Usos. Zayn's worked quite a few live events and dark matches, so I wouldn't assume he's coming to the main roster anytime soon. I think the Wyatts are still set to break up soon. Live events are more or less "non-canon" in that regard.
Update: Another live event had Rowan and Harper team in a loss to the Usos, while Bray Wyatt lost to Sheamus. I believe all three members of the Family will become singles names in the near future. I'm curious to see how that works out.
Update: Another live event featured Adrian Neville beating Tyler Breeze for the NXT Championship, as well as the team of Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston teaming as faces with Big E in their corner. I'm glad the NXT names are getting experience, and WWE keeps trying with that trio. I'm eager to see the NXT names and that group on the main roster.
Everything else from Saturday is after the break.
Update: Another live event had Rowan and Harper team in a loss to the Usos, while Bray Wyatt lost to Sheamus. I believe all three members of the Family will become singles names in the near future. I'm curious to see how that works out.
Update: Another live event featured Adrian Neville beating Tyler Breeze for the NXT Championship, as well as the team of Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston teaming as faces with Big E in their corner. I'm glad the NXT names are getting experience, and WWE keeps trying with that trio. I'm eager to see the NXT names and that group on the main roster.
Everything else from Saturday is after the break.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
WWE Network notes, Smackdown main event, Wyatts note, Interview with Matt Hardy, Dreamer update, Dinsmore on WWE exit, more WWE tryouts, former TNA name retires, and Questions on banning the DDT, quick title changes, and Raw guest hosts
WWE has issued a survey asking fans to rate current WWE Network shows, and is seeking ideas for new shows. Some of those sound pretty interesting. I'd like to see the fantasy matches show myself.
The advertised main event for the next Smackdown is John Cena and Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins and Kane. That's a little underwhelming for the 15th anniversary of the show. All those men are talented, but I wish they had something bigger set.
The Wyatt Family are still advertised as working as a group for some upcoming live events. The card is always subject to change, though, so they might not all end up working together then.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
The advertised main event for the next Smackdown is John Cena and Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins and Kane. That's a little underwhelming for the 15th anniversary of the show. All those men are talented, but I wish they had something bigger set.
The Wyatt Family are still advertised as working as a group for some upcoming live events. The card is always subject to change, though, so they might not all end up working together then.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
EC3/Spud update, Smackdown Week, Interviews with Bo/Linda/DeMott/Cesaro, NXT trainer and another developmental name cut, new TNA TV deals, Impact audience, Raw guest hosts, and Questions on paying for music, Devitt's new name, Crimson, WWE making stars, and Total Divas
TNA is running an online angle where Ethan Carter III has demanded the removal of Rockstar Spud merchandise, with the goal being to get Spud fans to show their support of the latter. That's not a bad idea, honestly.
WWE Network is doing a week focused on Smackdown next week, in honor of the show's 15th anniversary. That's smart!
Bo Dallas talked about feuding with Jack Swagger and more. I'm surprised he's done this well based on his early developmental work. Can we have an nWbo?
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
WWE Network is doing a week focused on Smackdown next week, in honor of the show's 15th anniversary. That's smart!
Bo Dallas talked about feuding with Jack Swagger and more. I'm surprised he's done this well based on his early developmental work. Can we have an nWbo?
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Smackdown guest, Smackdown dark match, HIAC main events, Interviews with Rollins/Stephanie, former IC Champ back on TV?, Wyatts future, tour the Performance Center, more on Linda's charity, more on first GFW PPV, Questions on Adam Rose, PPV vs. TV, Kane, Ambrose, and the live TV experience
WWE Hall of Famer Bob Uecker was in attendance at Smackdown. He's pretty popular in the area.
Smackdown's dark match featured the Wyatt Family as a group, which got a nice reaction. I'm not really sure how much more they can accomplish as a trio, but I love the gimmick. My hope is Harper and Wyatt in particular have great futures.
The main event for Hell in a Cell looks to be the winner of John Cena vs. Dean Ambrose taking on Seth Rollins inside the Cell. I wonder where this leaves Orton and Kane, but I'm looking forward to that.
Seth Rollins talked about wrestling in front of his home town at a WWE live event. Him being a full-time wrestler while having a school is insane.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Smackdown's dark match featured the Wyatt Family as a group, which got a nice reaction. I'm not really sure how much more they can accomplish as a trio, but I love the gimmick. My hope is Harper and Wyatt in particular have great futures.
The main event for Hell in a Cell looks to be the winner of John Cena vs. Dean Ambrose taking on Seth Rollins inside the Cell. I wonder where this leaves Orton and Kane, but I'm looking forward to that.
Seth Rollins talked about wrestling in front of his home town at a WWE live event. Him being a full-time wrestler while having a school is insane.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Impact Wrestling Reax - 10/1/14
Read on for my thoughts on last night's edition of Impact Wrestling.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Main Event Reax - 9/30/14, WWE Network-UK correction, WWE reacts to Punk fans in Chicago, more NXT names in WWE 2K15, another BFG match, charity notes, JR update, Interviews with Neville/Zayn/Wyatt/Cesaro, Raw audience, Questions on putting people with Cena, Reigns compared to Ambrose, The Bellas feuding, Ryder's YouTube show, and Kane
Main Event:
Not a bad opening set of promos from Cesaro and Swagger. If Ziggler didn't just win the title back, I'd probably be OK with Cesaro holding the belt.
I liked the match between Cesaro and Swagger. Great action from two talented athletes.
I liked the Tyson angle OK. He has been doing great stuff in NXT.
Yes! Solid match with Tyson and Kofi. It looks like the alliance with Big E and Xavier will take a little longer to be back on-screen, but I enjoyed this match and hope we see more of Tyson.
I like the dynamic between Tyson and Natalya. He makes for a great jerk husband.
I'm hyped for Mark Henry's match. He's been made more human by these losses. This is what people want to see with Cena's booking.
I liked the action of the handicap match. Layla and Summer Rae make a nice team.
I see why WWE apologized, but it fit in with the story they were doing. Show was intending to disrespect Rusev, not the Russian WWE fans. They should probably make that clear in this angle.
Based Bo. I hope he does win tonight.
BAH GAWD BO DID IT! HE BEAT MARK HENRY AGAIN!! That was a pretty good story to tell of Dallas getting the win without hurting Henry. This could be a fun angle.
Mark Henry gives no quarter to anyone. I enjoyed him dishing out punishment to Dallas.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Not a bad opening set of promos from Cesaro and Swagger. If Ziggler didn't just win the title back, I'd probably be OK with Cesaro holding the belt.
I liked the match between Cesaro and Swagger. Great action from two talented athletes.
I liked the Tyson angle OK. He has been doing great stuff in NXT.
Yes! Solid match with Tyson and Kofi. It looks like the alliance with Big E and Xavier will take a little longer to be back on-screen, but I enjoyed this match and hope we see more of Tyson.
I like the dynamic between Tyson and Natalya. He makes for a great jerk husband.
I'm hyped for Mark Henry's match. He's been made more human by these losses. This is what people want to see with Cena's booking.
I liked the action of the handicap match. Layla and Summer Rae make a nice team.
I see why WWE apologized, but it fit in with the story they were doing. Show was intending to disrespect Rusev, not the Russian WWE fans. They should probably make that clear in this angle.
Based Bo. I hope he does win tonight.
BAH GAWD BO DID IT! HE BEAT MARK HENRY AGAIN!! That was a pretty good story to tell of Dallas getting the win without hurting Henry. This could be a fun angle.
Mark Henry gives no quarter to anyone. I enjoyed him dishing out punishment to Dallas.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)