The dark match after Smackdown saw John Cena and Dean Ambrose beat Seth Rollins and Bray Wyatt. Ambrose, Rollins, and Wyatt should all be in the WWE Title picture after Mania. Rusev, too, after he beats Cena at WM31. I hope they don't pull the rug out from under Rusev in favor of another big Cena win at Mania.
Hulk Hogan has gotten some press for training Riff Raff to wrestle. I actually kind of want to see him get in the ring out of morbid curiosity.
Mick Foley was caught cheating at a wing-eating contest. Just when you think there's not another crazy story to come out of the world of wrestling.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Smackdown dark match, assorted WWE press, Interview with Goldberg, more on concussion lawsuit, WWE veteran close to retiring?, Smackdown audience, upcoming TNA matches, WWE Network getting new content, TNA vs. NXT/WWE tapings, and Questions on Tamina, alternate commentary, pushing Reigns, the fans at the Rumble, and #CancelWWENetwork
Main Event and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/30/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, January 30, 2015
Interviews with Cornette/Rollins/Swagger/Zayn, Bryan vs. Ziggler update, another free month of the Network, Hogan keeps training, more on Tara vs. TNA, Impact in Canada update, and Questions on Vince taking over WWF, Rusev vs. Cena, rebooking the Rumble, original plans for Bryan, and Velvet-TNA
Jim Cornette talked about the Young Bucks, being a manager in different territories, and more. I'm glad someone else hates the spotmonkey style of wrestling that's so popular among diehard fans. I'm impressed by the moves, but you might as well just call it a circus act or something instead of pretending it's an actual match. Clearly the whole point is to show off your cool moves instead of telling a story of one team trying to beat the other.
Daniel Bryan and Dolph Ziggler are pushing to have a match against each other at WM31 on Twitter. The Authority could easily have them face each other as some kind of punishment. Maybe the loser has to leave WWE UNLESS Sting beats HHH that same night? That way they wouldn't actually have to do the tired firing angle.
Seth Rollins talked about wanted to work with HHH, the WWEPC, and more. He had a good unique perspective on training in NXT.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Daniel Bryan and Dolph Ziggler are pushing to have a match against each other at WM31 on Twitter. The Authority could easily have them face each other as some kind of punishment. Maybe the loser has to leave WWE UNLESS Sting beats HHH that same night? That way they wouldn't actually have to do the tired firing angle.
Seth Rollins talked about wanted to work with HHH, the WWEPC, and more. He had a good unique perspective on training in NXT.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
NXT Reax - 1/28/15, Lesnar update, Main Event update, big award for Pheonix, nixed Rumble entrants, WWE high on NXT name, next HoF member, and Questions on The Ascension, Taker vs. Brock, and MLK Day
NXT:
I definitely didn't see that tag team title change coming. I'm curious as to what this means for Sin Cara and Kalisto. Both of whom are pretty talented, by the way, as was seen here. Hopefully this will make more sense in the weeks to come.
I liked the backstage Divas segment. That Fatal 4 Way has a lot of potential, and is a perfect place for a title change. I like Charlotte a lot, but it might be time to shake things up.
Are we finally going to see Solomon Crowe on NXT TV!? People have been waiting for this for months.
Neville vs. Kidd was REALLY good. Both men really brought their A-games, and it showed. I definitely think Neville's ready for the main roster as far as his wrestling ability goes.
Nice post-match interview. Neville vs. Zayn vs. Owens around the time of WM31 could be pretty fun.
Not a bad segment with Sasha and Becky. More selling for what should be a great Divas' Title match.
I'm very interested in the new tag team champions. They've got their work cut out for them after the past two teams to be champs.
Good ending to the tag team match. This feud's been built pretty well.
Good promo between Balor and Itami. I think Itami works best when he doesn't talk a lot and just delivers with awesome moves.
It's a shame Emma's more or less back to square one. Her losing to the novice Carmella isn't a good sign.
Fine enough match to keep Corbin's momentum going. Remember when Dempsey was a serious threat? I think those days are over unless he makes a big statement soon.
Nice segment with Corbin backstage. I kind of want to see Corbin and Dempsey as a team doing their thing.
That was a really good segment with Zayn and Owens. The whole "less is more" mantra really made it all mean more than them just going right into beating the hell out of each other. Takeover's going to really be something special.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I definitely didn't see that tag team title change coming. I'm curious as to what this means for Sin Cara and Kalisto. Both of whom are pretty talented, by the way, as was seen here. Hopefully this will make more sense in the weeks to come.
I liked the backstage Divas segment. That Fatal 4 Way has a lot of potential, and is a perfect place for a title change. I like Charlotte a lot, but it might be time to shake things up.
Are we finally going to see Solomon Crowe on NXT TV!? People have been waiting for this for months.
Neville vs. Kidd was REALLY good. Both men really brought their A-games, and it showed. I definitely think Neville's ready for the main roster as far as his wrestling ability goes.
Nice post-match interview. Neville vs. Zayn vs. Owens around the time of WM31 could be pretty fun.
Not a bad segment with Sasha and Becky. More selling for what should be a great Divas' Title match.
I'm very interested in the new tag team champions. They've got their work cut out for them after the past two teams to be champs.
Good ending to the tag team match. This feud's been built pretty well.
Good promo between Balor and Itami. I think Itami works best when he doesn't talk a lot and just delivers with awesome moves.
It's a shame Emma's more or less back to square one. Her losing to the novice Carmella isn't a good sign.
Fine enough match to keep Corbin's momentum going. Remember when Dempsey was a serious threat? I think those days are over unless he makes a big statement soon.
Nice segment with Corbin backstage. I kind of want to see Corbin and Dempsey as a team doing their thing.
That was a really good segment with Zayn and Owens. The whole "less is more" mantra really made it all mean more than them just going right into beating the hell out of each other. Takeover's going to really be something special.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Notes on taped Raw, Lesnar update, who's not booked on TNA UK tour, WWE Network hits big milestone, Impact preview, Raw audience, TNA back in Orlando, Interview with Bubba Ray, original ECW booker passes away, and Questions on Sting vs. HHH, booing Rock and Austin, a Benoit doc on the Network, and Breaking News segments
WWE taped the interview segments early on Monday so Brock could return to Minnesota. The announcer segments were live from WWE HQ.
Brock Lesnar will be on this week's Smackdown. I still don't expect to see him every week.
The following members of the TNA roster aren't booked for the UK tapings:
- Garett Bischoff, who hasn't been booked in forever.
- Havok, although she'll reportedly be back at the following set of tapings.
- Homicide, who may or may not be injured. He took bookings outside of TNA at the end of 2014, but hasn't wrestled yet in 2015. No word on if he's still part of TNA.
- Jeff Hardy, due to his criminal record.
- King Mo, who's also never booked.
- Knux, although the other members of The Menagerie are booked. I think it's feasible his contract could be up soon.
- Rhino, who hasn't worked in TNA since before BFG.
- Tigre Uno, who's primarily used to job anyway. I wouldn't assume his contract's coming up, but it's possible given how he's not advertised.
So, while most of the roster will be there, it's interesting to note how some names aren't scheduled for the tapings. Who will be the next name to leave TNA?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Brock Lesnar will be on this week's Smackdown. I still don't expect to see him every week.
The following members of the TNA roster aren't booked for the UK tapings:
- Garett Bischoff, who hasn't been booked in forever.
- Havok, although she'll reportedly be back at the following set of tapings.
- Homicide, who may or may not be injured. He took bookings outside of TNA at the end of 2014, but hasn't wrestled yet in 2015. No word on if he's still part of TNA.
- Jeff Hardy, due to his criminal record.
- King Mo, who's also never booked.
- Knux, although the other members of The Menagerie are booked. I think it's feasible his contract could be up soon.
- Rhino, who hasn't worked in TNA since before BFG.
- Tigre Uno, who's primarily used to job anyway. I wouldn't assume his contract's coming up, but it's possible given how he's not advertised.
So, while most of the roster will be there, it's interesting to note how some names aren't scheduled for the tapings. Who will be the next name to leave TNA?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Rumble ending fallout, Velvet-TNA update, Team 3D/Dudleys updates, Arnold to HoF official, NXT name hurt, NXT guest trainer returns, TNA audience, upcoming WWE matches/angles, Bryan note, and Questions on taking shots at Punk, pushing Reigns, busted Divas open, Taker vs. Wyatt, and feuds
#CancelWWENetwork was trending for hours internationally after the end of the Royal Rumble. There were so many people canceling, users had trouble loading the page to actually cancel it. That's quite the level of fan discontent. I hope WWE takes note of it going forward and has a Plan B (Rollins or Ambrose cashing in?) for WM31.
Update: Time covered the hashtag trending. WWE's definitely on troubled waters right now in a number of ways.
Update: So far, there doesn't seem to have been a significant drop in Network subscribers, despite all the fan outcry. It's definitely been noticed by WWE, but apparently wasn't enough to cause as much concern as the protesters hoped. Not only did WWE lose some people already subscribed to the Network, but they lost some people who might have subscribed or resubscribed in the future. I hope they consider that.
TNA "firing" Velvet Sky was a case of her contract legitimately coming to a close and not being renewed. So, no, she won't be back in the UK unless she works out a new deal. For those of you keeping score, the Knockouts division is now down to Angelina Love, Awesome Kong, Brooke, Gail Kim, Havok, Madison Rayne, Rebel, and Taryn Terrell. That's not too bad, honestly.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Time covered the hashtag trending. WWE's definitely on troubled waters right now in a number of ways.
Update: So far, there doesn't seem to have been a significant drop in Network subscribers, despite all the fan outcry. It's definitely been noticed by WWE, but apparently wasn't enough to cause as much concern as the protesters hoped. Not only did WWE lose some people already subscribed to the Network, but they lost some people who might have subscribed or resubscribed in the future. I hope they consider that.
TNA "firing" Velvet Sky was a case of her contract legitimately coming to a close and not being renewed. So, no, she won't be back in the UK unless she works out a new deal. For those of you keeping score, the Knockouts division is now down to Angelina Love, Awesome Kong, Brooke, Gail Kim, Havok, Madison Rayne, Rebel, and Taryn Terrell. That's not too bad, honestly.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, January 26, 2015
WWE's last show at the IZOD Center, Layla update, WWE release, Vince promotes Rock, HHH on Austin podcast, Orton update, and Questions on the worst WWE PPV ever, Brock vs. Rock, announcing Rumble entrants, and Baron Corbin
WWE did their last-ever show at the IZOD Center Saturday night, with the same lineup as the night before. Nothing special to mark the occasion. They could have at least have had Cena or someone say thanks for all the years WWE's run there. I guess everyone was worried about getting to Philly for the Rumble.
In a correction to a previous story, while Layla did undergo a surgery recently, it wasn't due to an in-ring injury. Nevertheless, there's no timetable for her return. Hopefully she doesn't end up as the next Tamina as far as being out for an eternity.
WWE has released Justin Gabriel. As far as I know, this isn't a cost-cutting move. Given how Gabriel had basically been working the undercard and jobbing in NXT, he might have been frustrated with the lack of upward mobility and decided to go somewhere else. He always did good work, even if it flew under the radar. He'll be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
In a correction to a previous story, while Layla did undergo a surgery recently, it wasn't due to an in-ring injury. Nevertheless, there's no timetable for her return. Hopefully she doesn't end up as the next Tamina as far as being out for an eternity.
WWE has released Justin Gabriel. As far as I know, this isn't a cost-cutting move. Given how Gabriel had basically been working the undercard and jobbing in NXT, he might have been frustrated with the lack of upward mobility and decided to go somewhere else. He always did good work, even if it flew under the radar. He'll be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
WWE live event note, latest on Nation to WWE, Interviews with Bourne/Mercer/Reigns, Bully on Velvet firing, Havok update, and Questions on Warrior on the Network, PPV picks, WWE signings, and Linda Hogan
Darren Young beat Tyson Kidd on this weekend's live events. I don't see Young returning in the Rumble match. I like him, but I don't think that would have the same impact as someone else on the roster or a surprise guest.
Uhaa Nation has been pulled from a PWG show, leading to speculation he's been signed by WWE. This story's been making the rounds for a while, but as far as I know he's not officially headed to NXT. Yet.
The former Evan Bourne talked about life after his major injury. The piece doesn't mention his two Wellness violations. That really played into him not being back on WWE TV. As for the nWo, it was a huge success financially. Weird of him to downplay that.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Uhaa Nation has been pulled from a PWG show, leading to speculation he's been signed by WWE. This story's been making the rounds for a while, but as far as I know he's not officially headed to NXT. Yet.
The former Evan Bourne talked about life after his major injury. The piece doesn't mention his two Wellness violations. That really played into him not being back on WWE TV. As for the nWo, it was a huge success financially. Weird of him to downplay that.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
WWE tryout, Interviews with Heyman/Orndorff/HHH/Phillips/Bryan/Big E/Stephanie, more on recent lawsuits, Angle on recent movie, NXT live event note, Diva injured, Smackdown audience, and Questions on buried alive matches, cage matches, Austin vs. Booker, Cena at WM31, and Austin at WM32
Lucha name Laredo Kid had a tryout before this past Monday's Raw. WWE could use some more Latino names with Del Rio gone and Rey out the door soon.
Paul Heyman talked about the future of wrestling, other Paul Heyman guys, and more:
- Heyman having a lot of experience in a lot of circumstances really helps him in the promo-cutting department. He has a lot of respect for the business and the people in it, and it shows.
- I think Heyman's right about some combinations of wrestlers and managers just aren't going to work out.
- Interesting thoughts about the future of sports entertainment.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Paul Heyman talked about the future of wrestling, other Paul Heyman guys, and more:
- Heyman having a lot of experience in a lot of circumstances really helps him in the promo-cutting department. He has a lot of respect for the business and the people in it, and it shows.
- I think Heyman's right about some combinations of wrestlers and managers just aren't going to work out.
- Interesting thoughts about the future of sports entertainment.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/23/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, January 23, 2015
Interviews with Victoria/Y2J/Carmella/Vince, WWE Network update, NXT lineup, Reigns rumor, more on WWE's shot at Punk, Questions on Taz's World Title reigns, R-Truth, the Elimination Chamber, ECW in the Rumble, and Raw Roulette
The former Victoria/Tara talked about TNA. Backstage TNA stories are the gift that keeps on giving. Hopefully things are different there now, but I don't know how much has really changed for 2015.
WWE has put more Old School episodes on the WWE Network. It's cool to see some of those old cards.
Set for next week's NXT:
- NXT Championship Contender's Tournament: Bull Dempsey vs. Baron Corbin
- NXT Championship Contender's Tournament: Adrian Neville vs. Tyson Kidd
- NXT Tag Team Championship: Lucha Dragons vs. Wesley Blake and Buddy Murphy
- Charlotte and Bayley vs. Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch
- Contract signing between Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens
That should be a pretty good card.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE has put more Old School episodes on the WWE Network. It's cool to see some of those old cards.
Set for next week's NXT:
- NXT Championship Contender's Tournament: Bull Dempsey vs. Baron Corbin
- NXT Championship Contender's Tournament: Adrian Neville vs. Tyson Kidd
- NXT Tag Team Championship: Lucha Dragons vs. Wesley Blake and Buddy Murphy
- Charlotte and Bayley vs. Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch
- Contract signing between Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens
That should be a pretty good card.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Query on WWE locker room etiquette, assorted WWE notes, Punk update, more on NXT in the Rumble, AJ return pushed back, Interviews with Zayn/JR, more Tough Enough coming, more on Sting in WWE, Black Bart update, Raw audience, WWE hiring, and Questions on NXT on Kickoff shows, the Monday Night War, ROH on UK TV, Elizabeth in the Hall, and The Ascension
First up, a query:
1. I don't know exactly what locker room etiquette is like in WWE in 2015, but it used to be pretty ritualized. You shook everyone's hand as they came in, stood up when the World Champion entered, and that kind of thing. Now it's a communal work and people are more laid-back about all that.
Shawn Michaels will be part of the Royal Rumble pre-show Sunday. That's cool by me.
WWE Network is now available online in Canada for subscribers of Rogers and Eastlink. I hope it keeps expanding.
Kevin Nash will return to Maryland Championship Wrestling on Feb. 7 after having to pull out of a December show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I don't know exactly what locker room etiquette is like in WWE in 2015, but it used to be pretty ritualized. You shook everyone's hand as they came in, stood up when the World Champion entered, and that kind of thing. Now it's a communal work and people are more laid-back about all that.
Shawn Michaels will be part of the Royal Rumble pre-show Sunday. That's cool by me.
WWE Network is now available online in Canada for subscribers of Rogers and Eastlink. I hope it keeps expanding.
Kevin Nash will return to Maryland Championship Wrestling on Feb. 7 after having to pull out of a December show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Live report from Raw, Raw notes, Rumble spots update, WM32 home officially announced, Cody Hall update, another big concussion lawsuit, Good Guy Haitch, TNA audience, and Questions on Vince, the commentary change, rigging the ring, and The Ascension
Here are off-air notes from Raw. It's still pretty cool to see Sting involved in WWE.
Ryback, Erick Rowan, and Dolph Ziggler were all backstage at Raw. That's not too big of a surprise. I wouldn't have been shocked to hear they were brought because the script was still being written and WWE might have ended up needing them.
Some Dallas Cowboys were at Raw. I wonder if WWE will try to incorporate them into WM32.
There is expected to be at least one NXT name in the Royal Rumble. I like the idea thrown around of Sami Zayn entering only to be eliminated by Kevin Owens. I also like the idea of it being a debut for someone like Adrian Neville to do his cool moves and wow the crowd.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Ryback, Erick Rowan, and Dolph Ziggler were all backstage at Raw. That's not too big of a surprise. I wouldn't have been shocked to hear they were brought because the script was still being written and WWE might have ended up needing them.
Some Dallas Cowboys were at Raw. I wonder if WWE will try to incorporate them into WM32.
There is expected to be at least one NXT name in the Royal Rumble. I like the idea thrown around of Sami Zayn entering only to be eliminated by Kevin Owens. I also like the idea of it being a debut for someone like Adrian Neville to do his cool moves and wow the crowd.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Query on Batista in WWE in 2015, live event notes, Impact preview, AJ return set, NXT preview, new VP in WWE, former WWE announcers battle, more on Sting, and Questions on Ziggler as Mr. Perfect, Rumble booking, pushing Rollins, and Roberts making a special appearance
First up, a query:
1. It's kind of funny people want Batista back in WWE after how poorly he was received during last year's return. I think he's got plenty of acting roles on his plate for now. I'm not so sure he'd drop that for one last run this year. I can see him having one last big match/feud with his former Evolution buddies, but not until his acting career has died down. He should ride that gravy train for a while if he really wants to be known beyond his WWE work.
Brie Bella replaced Nikki in a match at a live event this weekend. That's one benefit of having a sister who also wrestles.
Update: Nikki had a hamstring injury. She's still set for Sunday's show.
Dwight Howard of the Houston Rockets was involved in an angle with Lana at a live event, leading to Rusev vs. Roman Reigns. It's cool to add some local flavor to the the events.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. It's kind of funny people want Batista back in WWE after how poorly he was received during last year's return. I think he's got plenty of acting roles on his plate for now. I'm not so sure he'd drop that for one last run this year. I can see him having one last big match/feud with his former Evolution buddies, but not until his acting career has died down. He should ride that gravy train for a while if he really wants to be known beyond his WWE work.
Brie Bella replaced Nikki in a match at a live event this weekend. That's one benefit of having a sister who also wrestles.
Update: Nikki had a hamstring injury. She's still set for Sunday's show.
Dwight Howard of the Houston Rockets was involved in an angle with Lana at a live event, leading to Rusev vs. Roman Reigns. It's cool to add some local flavor to the the events.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, January 19, 2015
Live event notes, Interview with Sir Mo, Flair appearance, NBA cameo at WWE event, and Questions on the Royal Rumble, Bryan vs. Rollins, WWE booking, and endorsements
On this weekend's live events:
- Alex Riley lost to Luke Harper. He might just be filling in because Rowan, Ziggler, and Ryback are currently out-of-action. It's good he's able to still "go", though. Maybe he should wrestle some NXT stars?
- Los Matadores and El Torito beat Fandango, Titus O'Neil, and David Otunga. No Hornswoggle? Interesting. I assume Otunga will disappear again soon when Slater returns.
Sir Mo of Men on a Mission talked about working with Vince back in the day and more:
- Vince was a LOT less busy 20 years ago. Now he's leading a really large publicly traded entertainment company.
- Glad someone else hates Big Show matches. I don't think Brock's worth the amount of money it would take to work Reigns regularly. Show has been around a while, and can theoretically teach Reigns how to make it in WWE.
- Shots at Cena vs. Orton, too? I like this guy. Those two are talented, but we've seen them face off way too much.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Alex Riley lost to Luke Harper. He might just be filling in because Rowan, Ziggler, and Ryback are currently out-of-action. It's good he's able to still "go", though. Maybe he should wrestle some NXT stars?
- Los Matadores and El Torito beat Fandango, Titus O'Neil, and David Otunga. No Hornswoggle? Interesting. I assume Otunga will disappear again soon when Slater returns.
Sir Mo of Men on a Mission talked about working with Vince back in the day and more:
- Vince was a LOT less busy 20 years ago. Now he's leading a really large publicly traded entertainment company.
- Glad someone else hates Big Show matches. I don't think Brock's worth the amount of money it would take to work Reigns regularly. Show has been around a while, and can theoretically teach Reigns how to make it in WWE.
- Shots at Cena vs. Orton, too? I like this guy. Those two are talented, but we've seen them face off way too much.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Wrestlemania preview, legend at WWE live event, another name at Raw Reunion, NXT note, Interview with Y2J, and Questions on the IZOD Center
WWE's Wrestlemania preview magazine will feature Roman Reigns, John Cena, Sting, Brock Lesnar, and Daniel Bryan. So it does look like we'll see Sting again. Interesting there's no HHH or Taker.
Road Warrior Animal was at WWE's live event in St. Louis. If The Ascension was there, they should have really heeled him. I hope he does appear on WWE TV at some point as part of that. If they're going to put heat on The Ascension, go all out with it.
X-Pac has been added to Raw Reunion. They HAVE to do something between the Kliq with The Authority in power. What do HBK, Nash, Hall, and X-Pac think of Hunter now?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Road Warrior Animal was at WWE's live event in St. Louis. If The Ascension was there, they should have really heeled him. I hope he does appear on WWE TV at some point as part of that. If they're going to put heat on The Ascension, go all out with it.
X-Pac has been added to Raw Reunion. They HAVE to do something between the Kliq with The Authority in power. What do HBK, Nash, Hall, and X-Pac think of Hunter now?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Ryder update, NXT Title note, Interviews with Goldberg/Rollins/HHH, TNA signings/re-signings, more names for Raw Reunion, Smackdown audience, and Questions on the Elimination Chamber, Reigns, Dreamer, Summerslam, Dudleys in WWE, and Howard Finkel
Zack Ryder has been working out for an in-ring return, including training at the school of his former partner Curt Hawkins. I hope he can regain some momentum in 2015. It might be time for a totally new gimmick.
The next few weeks of NXT will feature a tournament to declare a new #1 Contender. I'm curious to see who that will be. I don't see why Regal would allow Owens to be in it.
Goldberg talked about potentially wrestling again and more. I REALLY doubt we see that. Is there even all that much demand for it anymore?
Despite being pulled from his upcoming Bellator bout, Lashley will still be able to work TNA's UK tour. He's one of the biggest parts of the company right now, so it's good they still have him.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The next few weeks of NXT will feature a tournament to declare a new #1 Contender. I'm curious to see who that will be. I don't see why Regal would allow Owens to be in it.
Goldberg talked about potentially wrestling again and more. I REALLY doubt we see that. Is there even all that much demand for it anymore?
Despite being pulled from his upcoming Bellator bout, Lashley will still be able to work TNA's UK tour. He's one of the biggest parts of the company right now, so it's good they still have him.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 1/16/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, January 16, 2015
Main Event update, more on NXT in Ohio, Superstars update, more on moving Summerslam, latest on Conway, Nash updates, Slater free, WWE financial updates, title match set for Rumble, more on Main Event's status, next big NXT special set, and Questions on Y2J, new stars breaking through, faces vs. heels, enhancement talent, Cena as a heel, and ECW
The Santino Marella special taking the place of Main Event this coming week will be a Royal Rumble highlight show in the vein of the Mick Foley TLC special. So, no new content there. I did kind of want to see Santino and The Cobra pick out people's Rumble numbers, but I doubt they could fill an hour with that. Save it for the Rumble pre-show or something.
NXT's presence at the Arnold Sports Festival will also feature Ric Flair, Ryback, and Big Show. Ryback vs. Show would make sense. I guess they'll rehire Ryback by then.
Update: WWE put out a press release on the event. Way to break kayfabe of Ryback being fired.
WWE Superstars will now be on Fridays on the WWE Network, which means it will be lumped with Impact Wrestling Reaxes for the time being. Why not air it after NXT? I guess this way they have two extra days to edit it. That's probably appreciated.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT's presence at the Arnold Sports Festival will also feature Ric Flair, Ryback, and Big Show. Ryback vs. Show would make sense. I guess they'll rehire Ryback by then.
Update: WWE put out a press release on the event. Way to break kayfabe of Ryback being fired.
WWE Superstars will now be on Fridays on the WWE Network, which means it will be lumped with Impact Wrestling Reaxes for the time being. Why not air it after NXT? I guess this way they have two extra days to edit it. That's probably appreciated.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
NXT Reax - 1/14/15, Nash update, Interview with Bryan, JR on Macho Man, Interview with Paige, big live event from NXT, ex-WWE name needs surgery, Raw rating, Summerslam 2015 moving?, TNA UK tour roster, and Questions on WM31 fantasy booking, Reigns, PPV homes, and general complaints
NXT:
Balor's already ready for the main roster. Just. Wow. Granted, Tyson Kidd can do great work with just about anyone and it is important for Balor to learn time cues and all that other "acclimation to WWE" stuff, but there aren't many recruits like the former Fergal Devitt.
So-so Bull promo. Honestly, I don't know how much shelf life he has at this point. He'll need to keep progressing for me to endorse him as a talent.
I don't guess I expected a long match between the two squash match kings, but that was disappointing after so much build. I would have liked some kind of DQ or something to set up future matches. I do wonder what this means for both men's futures. I think at some point they should team to go for the tag belts.
Good enough Divas' match. I definitely think there's potential in all three NXT names.
#&$*ing AMAZING match between Zayn and Neville. Neville's really damn close to being ready for the main roster with any gimmick. Both men have done a lot of really good things in the ring. I think both can be great assets on the main roster for 2015.
Based Kevin Owens. I wish they would have saved Bull vs. Baron for later and had promos from the competitors in the NXT Title match instead.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Balor's already ready for the main roster. Just. Wow. Granted, Tyson Kidd can do great work with just about anyone and it is important for Balor to learn time cues and all that other "acclimation to WWE" stuff, but there aren't many recruits like the former Fergal Devitt.
So-so Bull promo. Honestly, I don't know how much shelf life he has at this point. He'll need to keep progressing for me to endorse him as a talent.
I don't guess I expected a long match between the two squash match kings, but that was disappointing after so much build. I would have liked some kind of DQ or something to set up future matches. I do wonder what this means for both men's futures. I think at some point they should team to go for the tag belts.
Good enough Divas' match. I definitely think there's potential in all three NXT names.
#&$*ing AMAZING match between Zayn and Neville. Neville's really damn close to being ready for the main roster with any gimmick. Both men have done a lot of really good things in the ring. I think both can be great assets on the main roster for 2015.
Based Kevin Owens. I wish they would have saved Bull vs. Baron for later and had promos from the competitors in the NXT Title match instead.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Main Event Reax - 1/13/15, what happened after Raw, Discovery pushes TNA, TNA-UK updates, Warrior honored, Raw photos, Interview with Balor, more on Savage in the Hall, big name TNA wanted, Network-UK update, Lashley injured, why Main Event is pre-empted, and Questions on bringing back the Attitude Era, why WWE used Sting, Batista at WM31, how heels are booked, and The Ascension
Main Event:
Funny enough Dusts promo. I want to see Dusty Rhodes in gold facepaint now. Maybe we get that when this team eventually splits and feuds.
I guess Torito using a move was OK because he was brought into the match? Either way, the Dusts are kind of falling down the ranks. Will they need Hornswoggle as Horndust to even the odds? I actually kind of want to see that.
I don't know how they can get an hour out of the Royal Rumble lottery. A lot of the fun of that match is not knowing who will come out when, and who will be in the match period. But given the situation about the rights to Main Event, they had to do something else in that timeslot. I wonder how an hour-long NXT special or something would have done? Not one on the level of a Takeover special, but maybe NXT names vs. some of the talents we see on Superstars.
It was heelish to bury the tag teams of the past. It's not like those old teams are going to come back and feud with The Ascension, although part of me would like to see Road Warrior Animal team with Heidenreich for a special attraction feud. I might be the only one who feels that way, though.
Good squash match. Eventually this needs to actually go somewhere. Can they feud with APA to avenge JBL's brutal commentary about them?
Gabriel always has good matches. Rusev squashing him was nice. I hope they have big plans for the U.S. Champ.
Rusev's opponents need to get out of dodge once the match is over if they don't want to get further massacred.
WHAT'S LATEST 24 HOUR PERIOD DOING IN THE MAIN EVENT ZONE??? Yeah, nothing to say about that New Day promo.
I liked the main event well enough. I wish there had been a promo or backstage segment from the heels. The idea of that group working together could set up something pretty funny.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Funny enough Dusts promo. I want to see Dusty Rhodes in gold facepaint now. Maybe we get that when this team eventually splits and feuds.
I guess Torito using a move was OK because he was brought into the match? Either way, the Dusts are kind of falling down the ranks. Will they need Hornswoggle as Horndust to even the odds? I actually kind of want to see that.
I don't know how they can get an hour out of the Royal Rumble lottery. A lot of the fun of that match is not knowing who will come out when, and who will be in the match period. But given the situation about the rights to Main Event, they had to do something else in that timeslot. I wonder how an hour-long NXT special or something would have done? Not one on the level of a Takeover special, but maybe NXT names vs. some of the talents we see on Superstars.
It was heelish to bury the tag teams of the past. It's not like those old teams are going to come back and feud with The Ascension, although part of me would like to see Road Warrior Animal team with Heidenreich for a special attraction feud. I might be the only one who feels that way, though.
Good squash match. Eventually this needs to actually go somewhere. Can they feud with APA to avenge JBL's brutal commentary about them?
Gabriel always has good matches. Rusev squashing him was nice. I hope they have big plans for the U.S. Champ.
Rusev's opponents need to get out of dodge once the match is over if they don't want to get further massacred.
WHAT'S LATEST 24 HOUR PERIOD DOING IN THE MAIN EVENT ZONE??? Yeah, nothing to say about that New Day promo.
I liked the main event well enough. I wish there had been a promo or backstage segment from the heels. The idea of that group working together could set up something pretty funny.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Query on contracts ending in 2015, more live event notes, Otunga update, another NXT match, indie name to WWE update, Interview with Bret Hart, possible main event for Fast Lane, more content on WWE Network, Smackdown audience, ex-ECW name has bad diagnosis, possible Rumble spoiler, and Questions on firing angles, TNA ratings, MITB, and The Ascension
First up, a query:
1. Contracts I know of expiring in 2015 are Brock Lesnar, Rey Mysterio, and possibly Christian. I would think Sting falls into that category, too. I'm sure some other less major names whose contracts are coming up in the next 350-something days, but those are the prominent ones.
On Sunday's WWE live event:
- Los Matadores and El Torito beat David Otunga, Titus O'Neil and Hornswoggle
- Chris Jericho beat Luke Harper
I wonder what other names they'll pull out of the mothballs to team with Titus. I don't know how realistic of an option this is, but it'd be funny to have Stardust work one match while Cody Rhodes teams with Titus.
Update: Otunga wasn't booked for anything beyond those live events, and flew home before Raw. It's not a bad idea to fill him in while Slater is being cleared. If he does well and has the interest to remain wrestling, I guess they could try teaming Slater, Titus, and Otunga (and presumably Hornswoggle).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Contracts I know of expiring in 2015 are Brock Lesnar, Rey Mysterio, and possibly Christian. I would think Sting falls into that category, too. I'm sure some other less major names whose contracts are coming up in the next 350-something days, but those are the prominent ones.
On Sunday's WWE live event:
- Los Matadores and El Torito beat David Otunga, Titus O'Neil and Hornswoggle
- Chris Jericho beat Luke Harper
I wonder what other names they'll pull out of the mothballs to team with Titus. I don't know how realistic of an option this is, but it'd be funny to have Stardust work one match while Cody Rhodes teams with Titus.
Update: Otunga wasn't booked for anything beyond those live events, and flew home before Raw. It's not a bad idea to fill him in while Slater is being cleared. If he does well and has the interest to remain wrestling, I guess they could try teaming Slater, Titus, and Otunga (and presumably Hornswoggle).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, January 12, 2015
Query on WWE attendance vs. TNA attendance, WCW team reuniting, live event notes, Network additions, Jeff Hardy update, Y2J signs new deal, AJ Lee update, and Questions on liking Daniel Bryan, TNA ratings, Bull Dempsey, stables, and Reigns getting pushed
First up, a query:
1. WWE attendance is definitely much higher than that of TNA, and WWE runs shows a lot more regularly. WWE's most recent PPV, hardly a marquee event at the level of WrestleMania or the Rumble, drew 14,000 fans. TNA's biggest PPV attendance ever is listed as about 7,000. Attendance at TNA live events is more on the level of an indie promotion like ROH than of WWE.
Harlem Heat will reunite at a show for Booker T.'s wrestling promotion in February. It's the first time Stevie Ray has had a match since 2002. I hope it's worth the wait!
A WWE live event this weekend featured:
- NXT's Tyler Breeze vs. Darren Young. Big Show came out and punched both of them.
- Alex Riley losing to Sin Cara.
- Sasha Banks on the losing end of a six-Diva tag.
It's cool to see some names we don't see on the main roster are working live events. Hopefully they did well and WWE's looking at how best to fit them into the big picture of things.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. WWE attendance is definitely much higher than that of TNA, and WWE runs shows a lot more regularly. WWE's most recent PPV, hardly a marquee event at the level of WrestleMania or the Rumble, drew 14,000 fans. TNA's biggest PPV attendance ever is listed as about 7,000. Attendance at TNA live events is more on the level of an indie promotion like ROH than of WWE.
Harlem Heat will reunite at a show for Booker T.'s wrestling promotion in February. It's the first time Stevie Ray has had a match since 2002. I hope it's worth the wait!
A WWE live event this weekend featured:
- NXT's Tyler Breeze vs. Darren Young. Big Show came out and punched both of them.
- Alex Riley losing to Sin Cara.
- Sasha Banks on the losing end of a six-Diva tag.
It's cool to see some names we don't see on the main roster are working live events. Hopefully they did well and WWE's looking at how best to fit them into the big picture of things.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
WWE return, TNA audience note, TNA advertising incoming, assorted TNA-NYC notes, March TNA tapings scheduled, new WWE clothing deal, Interview with Fox, AJ on pregnancy rumors, Cena Twitter controversy, Hardy hurt, and Questions on Itami using the GTS, Impact as a success, Bo's return, WWE changing commentary, NXT Title matches, and the Network in Canada
David Otunga returned to the ring at a recent live event, teaming with Titus O'Neil in a loss to Los Matadores. I didn't see that one coming at all. My guess is he's just being used to fill in while Heath Slater's situation is being sorted out since he's still under contract, but it's worth noting they actually had him wrestle a match. I think that would be a good team as far as mic skills/intangibles go, but I don't know if they're good enough in-ring wrestlers for it to work out.
There are conflicting reports of the audience number for Wednesday's Impact Wrestling. An official press release is likely coming soon, which should give a better estimate. I went with the number being reported by more mainstream sources. It almost certainly hurts TNA to have the lower number floating around. I almost reported that number before seeing there was a dispute over it.
There is expected to be a lot of advertisement for the next episode of Impact Wrestling across Discovery's channels. There's also expected to be an ad in the "USA Today". Hopefully that all helps them!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
There are conflicting reports of the audience number for Wednesday's Impact Wrestling. An official press release is likely coming soon, which should give a better estimate. I went with the number being reported by more mainstream sources. It almost certainly hurts TNA to have the lower number floating around. I almost reported that number before seeing there was a dispute over it.
There is expected to be a lot of advertisement for the next episode of Impact Wrestling across Discovery's channels. There's also expected to be an ad in the "USA Today". Hopefully that all helps them!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
TNA attendance note, upcoming Impact match announced, WWE-iTunes/Netflix update, Interview with Bryan, NXT lineup, WWE sticks it to Punk again, assorted TNA-NYC notes, former TNA/FCW name retires, Impact audience, Matt Hardy update, and Questions on what NXT's for, HHH and Steph in charge, Reigns at WM31, mouthguards, and Stone Cold in '99
TNA is said to have sold out The Manhattan Center for at least one night of their recent tapings. A sellout's a sellout, but I doubt they hit 1,000 fans in such a small venue. I wonder how they'd do if/when they tape in Orlando again.
Update: The taping for Lockdown 2015 was sold out in advance, which is impressive.
TNA officially announced Jeff Hardy vs. Abyss in a Monster's Ball match ahead of a recent taping, so that will be on a future episode of Impact Wrestling. That should be quite the spectacle. I remember them going at it years back in a Full Metal Mayhem match.
WWE has removed the vast majority of its content from iTunes and Netflix, presumably to encourage people to subscribe to the Network to get that content instead. I can't say that's a bad idea! The contracts must have just expired.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: The taping for Lockdown 2015 was sold out in advance, which is impressive.
TNA officially announced Jeff Hardy vs. Abyss in a Monster's Ball match ahead of a recent taping, so that will be on a future episode of Impact Wrestling. That should be quite the spectacle. I remember them going at it years back in a Full Metal Mayhem match.
WWE has removed the vast majority of its content from iTunes and Netflix, presumably to encourage people to subscribe to the Network to get that content instead. I can't say that's a bad idea! The contracts must have just expired.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Interviews with RVD/Edge, more on Bryan, 2015 HoF names, TNA-NYC notes, Animal comments on Ascension, assorted WWE and TNA press, Raw audience, WWE announce teams change, and Questions on Kong in TNA, Ambrose losing, international WWE commentary, re-booking the Edge angle, and The Authority as the nWo
Rob Van Dam talked about the year 1999 for ECW. Here's the trailer. Can't wait to see that! Looks amazing.
- Ahhh, New Jack.
- It's really scary how many drugs were done in those days.
Daniel Bryan has been added to the live events before the Royal Rumble, working Kane and Luke Harper. He's expected to go work out some ring rust at the WWE Performance Center beforehand. I'm excited to have him back soon.
Update: Bryan has been announced as returning to the ring for the live edition of Smackdown next Thursday. It's happening! I'm excited.
Everything else from wrestling is after the break.
- Ahhh, New Jack.
- It's really scary how many drugs were done in those days.
Daniel Bryan has been added to the live events before the Royal Rumble, working Kane and Luke Harper. He's expected to go work out some ring rust at the WWE Performance Center beforehand. I'm excited to have him back soon.
Update: Bryan has been announced as returning to the ring for the live edition of Smackdown next Thursday. It's happening! I'm excited.
Everything else from wrestling is after the break.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Query on GFW on TV in 2015, 2015 WWE PPVs, Kaitlyn on leaving WWE, Interviews with Bryan/Dixie, ECW's Zombie passes away, Smackdown audience, TNA press, more on "fired" WWE names, and Questions on WWE booking (as always), and Pillman in the Hall
First up, a query:
1. There hasn't been anything about GFW doing any kind of TV tapings or anything just yet, but I do expect something to be announced on that front in 2015. GFW won't be a big deal overnight, but there's potential for them to get their footing in the coming year.
Here's the schedule of WWE PPVs for 2015. And you can see them all for $9.99 a month!
Former WWE Diva Kaitlyn talked about her departure. She seems to be doing pretty well for herself after wrestling.
Daniel Bryan said he wants to compete with Brock Lesnar in 2015. I definitely want to see that at WM31. There's no reason they can't have him win the Rumble and have Brock retain so Bryan can take the belt in Santa Clara. Glad to see him give props to Cesaro, too.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. There hasn't been anything about GFW doing any kind of TV tapings or anything just yet, but I do expect something to be announced on that front in 2015. GFW won't be a big deal overnight, but there's potential for them to get their footing in the coming year.
Here's the schedule of WWE PPVs for 2015. And you can see them all for $9.99 a month!
Former WWE Diva Kaitlyn talked about her departure. She seems to be doing pretty well for herself after wrestling.
Daniel Bryan said he wants to compete with Brock Lesnar in 2015. I definitely want to see that at WM31. There's no reason they can't have him win the Rumble and have Brock retain so Bryan can take the belt in Santa Clara. Glad to see him give props to Cesaro, too.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Main Event Reax - 1/6/15, what happened after Raw, Bryan update, Rollins segment set, Lesnar date announced, more on "fired" wrestlers, Interview with Dixie, and Questions on pushing Ryback, Reigns vs. Cena, dream matches, HHH taking over, and The Authority
Main Event:
Paige vs. Nikki was a lot better than I expected. I guess because they weren't crammed into a quick segment on Raw that just served to continue a story. Props to both of them. I wonder what the future holds for Paige. She's already been Divas' Champion in her rookie year. Where the heck do you go from there?
Really good segment with Rusev and Lana. I hope Rusev can be a top heel in 2015.
Good segments from the fired superstars. There's potential to get some real sympathy for the babyfaces here. Hopefully it doesn't just become another way to put all the focus on Cena.
I missed Fandango. Rosa's kind of "meh", but I've been a fan of Johnny Curtis since NXT: Redemption.
Good match, but where the heck do you go with Fandango long-term? He's kind of stuck right now. He could team with someone, but that's about all I can think of. There's no reason for him to challenge for either midcard title.
That triple threat match should be pretty good. I'm guessing Kidd and Cesaro will make their presence known.
Titus is a pretty entertaining guy. Interestingly, even though he started his wrestling career somewhat late, he now has more than 500 matches under his belt. It doesn't make him an expert or a veteran, but it does help make up for lost time.
Nice match. Titus is still getting screen time without Slater around, which is good for him and a sign WWE still sees value in him as a singles star.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Paige vs. Nikki was a lot better than I expected. I guess because they weren't crammed into a quick segment on Raw that just served to continue a story. Props to both of them. I wonder what the future holds for Paige. She's already been Divas' Champion in her rookie year. Where the heck do you go from there?
Really good segment with Rusev and Lana. I hope Rusev can be a top heel in 2015.
Good segments from the fired superstars. There's potential to get some real sympathy for the babyfaces here. Hopefully it doesn't just become another way to put all the focus on Cena.
I missed Fandango. Rosa's kind of "meh", but I've been a fan of Johnny Curtis since NXT: Redemption.
Good match, but where the heck do you go with Fandango long-term? He's kind of stuck right now. He could team with someone, but that's about all I can think of. There's no reason for him to challenge for either midcard title.
That triple threat match should be pretty good. I'm guessing Kidd and Cesaro will make their presence known.
Titus is a pretty entertaining guy. Interestingly, even though he started his wrestling career somewhat late, he now has more than 500 matches under his belt. It doesn't make him an expert or a veteran, but it does help make up for lost time.
Nice match. Titus is still getting screen time without Slater around, which is good for him and a sign WWE still sees value in him as a singles star.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Live event notes, assorted WWE press, Update on TNA on PPV, WWE content dropped from iTunes, more TNA re-signings, Rumble main event changed, Angle tease, and Questions on the fans boycotting the show, NXT vs. PPVs, Cesaro, kicking out of finishers, and long Raws
Darren Young beat Alex Riley on a recent live event. I'm surprised to see Riley getting another chance to wrestle. I'm fine with it, though. I'm curious to see what they have in mind for Young, if anything. He could theoretically team with The New Day or R-Truth or something, but it should be for a reason beyond they're all black. Young's got the fundamentals down really well and would work well with someone less experienced who might be a better promo. That's what made PTP work so well.
Also on that live event, Sasha Banks worked a six-Diva tag match. She's good, but should they be trying to bring her up before Bayley? I'm surprised she's made such a big jump so quickly. There are definitely talented Divas working NXT. Keep an eye on them in 2015.
Tyler Breeze teamed with Titus O'Neil in a loss to Los Matadores on live events. I think he's just replacing Slater while his legal issues are sorted out. It's good for him to get more ring time, though. He's someone worth watching.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Also on that live event, Sasha Banks worked a six-Diva tag match. She's good, but should they be trying to bring her up before Bayley? I'm surprised she's made such a big jump so quickly. There are definitely talented Divas working NXT. Keep an eye on them in 2015.
Tyler Breeze teamed with Titus O'Neil in a loss to Los Matadores on live events. I think he's just replacing Slater while his legal issues are sorted out. It's good for him to get more ring time, though. He's someone worth watching.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, January 5, 2015
NJPW in the U.S., Network to UK/Ireland (for real this time), NFL promo, TNA changes roster including some releases, and Questions on Heyman, Taker vs. Wyatt, The Authority, and GFW vs. WWE
NJPW will be putting on some combined shows with Ring of Honor on May 15 and May 16. I'm interested to see how the interaction between GFW, ROH, and NJPW will play out. I hope they all get along together.
WWE announced the WWE Network coming to the UK and Ireland on January 19. This means they'll be able to watch the Royal Rumble that weekend on the Network, which is great. It might be time to start transitioning HHH and Stephanie into the role of ambassadors for the company. Vince is definitely starting to show his age. He's still got some spunk, though.
Update: WWE put out an official press release on the matter. It's a big deal for the company and the market.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE announced the WWE Network coming to the UK and Ireland on January 19. This means they'll be able to watch the Royal Rumble that weekend on the Network, which is great. It might be time to start transitioning HHH and Stephanie into the role of ambassadors for the company. Vince is definitely starting to show his age. He's still got some spunk, though.
Update: WWE put out an official press release on the matter. It's a big deal for the company and the market.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Query on Sheamus, Interviews with Jarrett/Reigns, Edge on passing the torch, who to watch in 2015, and Questions on GFW, Sycho Sid, changing TNA announcing, NXT, and fans ruining wrestling
First up, a query:
1. Still no update on Sheamus. I imagine he's being saved for a return at the Royal Rumble, but it's possible he's still recovering by then.
Jeff Jarrett talked about the Bullet Club, Slap Nuts, and more. Here are some highlights:
- The nWo, Nash and Hogan in particular, were never known for their great matches from a technical standpoint.
- I was a big fan of Striker's work in WWE. He definitely knows his stuff. I particularly liked him giving nicknames to talents and their moves to add flavor to things.
- I only saw the Young Bucks in TNA, and a match or two in ROH. Phenomenal athletes, but it felt like their matches were just highlight reels of cool moves instead of one team actually trying to beat the other team.
- It is pretty great people still bring up the phrase "Slap Nuts".
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Still no update on Sheamus. I imagine he's being saved for a return at the Royal Rumble, but it's possible he's still recovering by then.
Jeff Jarrett talked about the Bullet Club, Slap Nuts, and more. Here are some highlights:
- The nWo, Nash and Hogan in particular, were never known for their great matches from a technical standpoint.
- I was a big fan of Striker's work in WWE. He definitely knows his stuff. I particularly liked him giving nicknames to talents and their moves to add flavor to things.
- I only saw the Young Bucks in TNA, and a match or two in ROH. Phenomenal athletes, but it felt like their matches were just highlight reels of cool moves instead of one team actually trying to beat the other team.
- It is pretty great people still bring up the phrase "Slap Nuts".
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, January 3, 2015
More TNA re-signings, Interview with Balor, Hulk on 2015, looking back at 2014's released, TNA marathon, and Questions on pushing Divas, tag matches being outdated, Bryan winning the Rumble, giving back to the business, and the length of Cena's career
TNA has re-signed Jessie Godderz. I thought he had been with TNA longer than he has. Either way, it's a good move for both sides to keep him. I hope he grows into being a pretty good performer. I think he's fine for where he is on the card now.
Update: TNA has also re-signed Madison Rayne. She's a good hand to have around in the Knockouts division. I hope we see some new faces in that area in 2015. I've seen Angelina, Velvet, Gail, etc. quite a few times by now.
Update: Mr. Anderson has also got a new deal. I think he's had a pretty good run there. He's a veteran now in a lot of ways, but could probably still have a big run in him (if not several). It's worth considering.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: TNA has also re-signed Madison Rayne. She's a good hand to have around in the Knockouts division. I hope we see some new faces in that area in 2015. I've seen Angelina, Velvet, Gail, etc. quite a few times by now.
Update: Mr. Anderson has also got a new deal. I think he's had a pretty good run there. He's a veteran now in a lot of ways, but could probably still have a big run in him (if not several). It's worth considering.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Lawler in the hospital, NXT moving, TNA coverage update, and Questions on Reigns, big matches on free TV, "Total Divas" stars going for the title, lifts, and Daniel Bryan
Jerry Lawler was hospitalized due to diverticulitis, and is expected to remain there for a few more days. I wish him a speedy recovery. That doesn't sound pleasant.
NXT will move to Wednesdays once Smackdown moves to Thursdays. Superstars will likely do the same, but there hasn't been an official announcement of that. So, the new schedule will be:
Mondays - Raw
Tuesdays - Main Event
Wednesdays - NXT (and Superstars)
Thursdays - Smackdown
Fridays - Impact Wrestling
Speaking of Impact Wrestling, I'm considering cutting off coverage after Lockdown or around April 1. If they're no longer a "major promotion" with big viewership, it's not really fair to cover them at the expense of similar-sized promotions I don't cover. They're in some ways just another indie promotion then, and I don't really have the time to cover TNA, ROH, DGUSA/EVOLVE, etc. in addition to WWE. Or, at least not enough time to give them their just amount of attention. I'll see how things play out for TNA in the next few months before making a decision.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT will move to Wednesdays once Smackdown moves to Thursdays. Superstars will likely do the same, but there hasn't been an official announcement of that. So, the new schedule will be:
Mondays - Raw
Tuesdays - Main Event
Wednesdays - NXT (and Superstars)
Thursdays - Smackdown
Fridays - Impact Wrestling
Speaking of Impact Wrestling, I'm considering cutting off coverage after Lockdown or around April 1. If they're no longer a "major promotion" with big viewership, it's not really fair to cover them at the expense of similar-sized promotions I don't cover. They're in some ways just another indie promotion then, and I don't really have the time to cover TNA, ROH, DGUSA/EVOLVE, etc. in addition to WWE. Or, at least not enough time to give them their just amount of attention. I'll see how things play out for TNA in the next few months before making a decision.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
BNB note, Interviews with Reigns/Miz/Paige, Assorted WWE press, TNA names sign new deals, Raw audience, Smackdown audience, Nash update, and Questions on royalties, Total Divas, MMA on wrestling sites, Nigel McGuinness, and HHH in charge
Bad News Barrett worked as a heel on a live event following Raw, teaming with The Miz and Damien Mizdow in a loss to The New Day. Whether he'll be a face or a heel full-time going forward remains to be seen. He was probably already slotted as a heel for that live event loop, and they needed him as one for the six-man tag.
Roman Reigns talked about returning from injury and more. I think pretty much any wrestler getting a big push is going to get a lot of flack from part of the audience who thinks it's "too much, too soon", "they're not ready", and that kind of thing, or that a wrestler's not good enough for that big of a push. I'm not a huge Reigns fan, but I'm not really against him being pushed, either, if the other options are the same-old, same-old.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Roman Reigns talked about returning from injury and more. I think pretty much any wrestler getting a big push is going to get a lot of flack from part of the audience who thinks it's "too much, too soon", "they're not ready", and that kind of thing, or that a wrestler's not good enough for that big of a push. I'm not a huge Reigns fan, but I'm not really against him being pushed, either, if the other options are the same-old, same-old.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)