WWE will head to Japan for July 3 and 4 shows. That's cool. I wonder if any other Japanese names will be scouted by the company in the near future.
Brian Kendrick and Rhyno have been added to the WWE NXT roster, although there's been no word of either signing a deal. I don't see them being regulars over the long haul, but they should get a chance to show what they can teach to the trainees.
Adam Rose, The Miz, Fandango, Ryback, and Curtis Axel are all official for the Andre the Giant battle royal. I guess I'll have to root for Mizdow to win that instead of the IC Title, then.
More NXT names are likely to be included in WWE 2K16, which is great!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
WWE back to Japan, veterans added to NXT roster, Andre battle royal updates, more exposure for NXT, Interviews with Otunga/Neville, WWE comic update, more on Rey, Smackdown audience, more veterans to NXT?, MSG honors Hulk, and Questions on Joe's ROH status, Rey leaving, Jon Stewart, the state of TNA, and Kidd
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 2/27/15
Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Another option for WM33, TNA post-Joe, HHH and Steph move up in WWE, WM31 Q&A, Interview with HHH, rare Vince photos, Rey finally freed, nixed HoFer, more Network content, new Mania match, Rollins on the Daily Show, and Questions on where Bryan stands, the crazy Reigns story, Brock getting paid for walking out, what to watch on the Network, tag teams in the HoF, and Rollins cashing in
In addition to Minneapolis and Orlando, Philadelphia has expressed interest in hosting WM33. Who knows how that city would receive some WM stars. Who will be on the card then, anyway? I suspect Sting and Taker will have retired by then.
Unsurprisingly, there was a hit to the morale of TNA's locker room after Samoa Joe departed. He had been there for many years and was seen as a locker room leader. TNA will continue to exist, but things will definitely feel different with another recognizable veteran now gone.
WWE has added Triple H and Stephanie McMahon to their Board of Directors. That's a pretty big move. I imagine it comes with more pull for both of them as we continue to approach a day when they'll take over. The other addition is a good one for the company's future, too. New media are really growing as revenue streams.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Unsurprisingly, there was a hit to the morale of TNA's locker room after Samoa Joe departed. He had been there for many years and was seen as a locker room leader. TNA will continue to exist, but things will definitely feel different with another recognizable veteran now gone.
WWE has added Triple H and Stephanie McMahon to their Board of Directors. That's a pretty big move. I imagine it comes with more pull for both of them as we continue to approach a day when they'll take over. The other addition is a good one for the company's future, too. New media are really growing as revenue streams.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
TNA signs long-term deal in India, GFW meets OVW, Punk vs. Joe again?, Smackdown visitors, NXT tour update, Interview with Ambrose, killing a big Reigns rumor, potential WM33 location, WWE names talk meeting Vince, WWE Twitter feud, new WWE trademark, and Questions on Joe in ROH, Joe in NXT, Joe in TNA, WWE having one top name, and how wrestling has changed
TNA has signed a deal to air in India through 2022. They're also looking for more talent from the area. Getting more international talent could help boost the current roster.
Jeff Jarrett appeared in OVW, hinting at a future collaboration with GFW. That could be a good move. TNA losing OVW as a place to train talents was definitely a hit.
C.M. Punk sparked speculation of one last match with Samoa Joe. I wouldn't be shocked to see it happen, but I'd still put it at a pretty low probability with Punk's UFC engagements. We'll see.
Ric Flair, Fifi The Maid, Scott Hall, and Brad Maddox were all backstage at Smackdown. Maddox is still part of WWE as far as I know. I wonder what happens when his contract comes up, because they're not really using him. He had three matches in 2014, and two of them were on live events.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jeff Jarrett appeared in OVW, hinting at a future collaboration with GFW. That could be a good move. TNA losing OVW as a place to train talents was definitely a hit.
C.M. Punk sparked speculation of one last match with Samoa Joe. I wouldn't be shocked to see it happen, but I'd still put it at a pretty low probability with Punk's UFC engagements. We'll see.
Ric Flair, Fifi The Maid, Scott Hall, and Brad Maddox were all backstage at Smackdown. Maddox is still part of WWE as far as I know. I wonder what happens when his contract comes up, because they're not really using him. He had three matches in 2014, and two of them were on live events.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Rumored WM31 match, musical name at Raw, TNA house show updates, Impact lineup, Summerslam update, Henry sighting, Taker update, WWE fans support the Divas, Lesnar not at Raw, Raw audience, AJ fires at Stephanie, Network notes, Interview with Paige, and Questions on Cena "burying" people, Kane and Show turning, ousting Vince, and Rey Mysterio
A rumored match for WrestleMania is Bad News Barrett vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. R-Truth for the Intercontinental Championship, possibly in a ladder match. That sounds good to me. It seems a bit like "we need to give these people something to do at Mania", but I think it can go well.
ZZ Top's Dusty Hill was at Raw. They're fans.
There are no plans to run TNA live events any time in the near future. I don't see that changing for a while. They'll hopefully be more careful in the future to avoid the incredibly low attendance figures they had in 2014.
Set for this week's Impact Wrestling:
- TNA World Heavyweight Championship: Bobby Lashley vs. MVP
- Rampage Brown vs. Noam Dor
- Austin Aries vs. Samoa Joe
- Robbie E/Angelina Love vs. Chris Melendez/Brooke
- Rockstar Spud/Mr. Anderson vs. Tyrus/Ethan Carter III
There are two really solid matches there. I think the last one should be pretty good, too. We'll see about the other two.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
ZZ Top's Dusty Hill was at Raw. They're fans.
There are no plans to run TNA live events any time in the near future. I don't see that changing for a while. They'll hopefully be more careful in the future to avoid the incredibly low attendance figures they had in 2014.
Set for this week's Impact Wrestling:
- TNA World Heavyweight Championship: Bobby Lashley vs. MVP
- Rampage Brown vs. Noam Dor
- Austin Aries vs. Samoa Joe
- Robbie E/Angelina Love vs. Chris Melendez/Brooke
- Rockstar Spud/Mr. Anderson vs. Tyrus/Ethan Carter III
There are two really solid matches there. I think the last one should be pretty good, too. We'll see about the other two.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
WWE Network anniversary, NXT lineup, physical WWE HoF update, Impact audience, Sting note, NXT name on TV again?, more possible HoF names, Von Erichs profiled, what happened after Raw, and Questions on changing MITB, the Punk lawsuit, NXT vs. WWE, Bray vs. Taker, and changing the Rumble
WWE Network had a special "birthday" marathon to celebrate it being a year since they launched. I wonder what Year Two will hold?
Update: WWE Network was free for a day for its anniversary.
Set for this week's NXT:
- Finn Balor vs. Brian Kendrick
- Hideo Itami vs. Bull Dempsey
- The Lucha Dragons vs. Jason Jordan and Tye Dillinger
- Baron Corbin vs. Tye Dillinger
- Bayley vs. Becky Lynch
That first match sounds pretty great on paper. Becky vs. Bayley should be good as well. The rest have potential.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: WWE Network was free for a day for its anniversary.
Set for this week's NXT:
- Finn Balor vs. Brian Kendrick
- Hideo Itami vs. Bull Dempsey
- The Lucha Dragons vs. Jason Jordan and Tye Dillinger
- Baron Corbin vs. Tye Dillinger
- Bayley vs. Becky Lynch
That first match sounds pretty great on paper. Becky vs. Bayley should be good as well. The rest have potential.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 23, 2015
Network-Canada update, a Taker appearance, indie name's career in jeopardy, NXT live event results, and Questions on the Punk lawsuit, Reigns vs. Bryan, and booking Joe in WWE
WWE Network will roll out in Canada in various places in February and March. That's good news for all involved!
Update: Anyone subscribed to the terrestrial version of the Network can also access it online, in a similar fashion as HBO Go. That's a great idea!
Here's a recent appearance by The Undertaker on Instagram. I'm very curious to see what he'll look like on the road to WM31.
Prominent indie name Tim Donst has announced he has a kidney tumor, so his career might be over. That's very sad to hear. I really wish him the best.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Anyone subscribed to the terrestrial version of the Network can also access it online, in a similar fashion as HBO Go. That's a great idea!
Here's a recent appearance by The Undertaker on Instagram. I'm very curious to see what he'll look like on the road to WM31.
Prominent indie name Tim Donst has announced he has a kidney tumor, so his career might be over. That's very sad to hear. I really wish him the best.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Matt Hardy talks, more HoF talk, NXT live event results, and Questions on Punk lawsuit, why WWE picks some buildings over others, Total Divas, and the Wyatts
Matt Hardy talked about recent lawsuits against WWE. He makes some really good points. I hope people are listening. I agree with JR about financial planning classes being necessary at the WWEPC. It's something people in general should learn, but especially people in an industry who can make a lot of money very quickly.
As for him personally, I'm very glad he's taking his health and happiness as extremely important. I hope he continues to have success as a wrestler and stays on the straight and narrow.
Kevin Nash is expected to go into the WWE Hall of Fame this year, inducted by Shawn Michaels. And he only needed five moves to do it! Also expected to be inducted are the Bushwhackers. It's shaping up to be a pretty good class this year.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
As for him personally, I'm very glad he's taking his health and happiness as extremely important. I hope he continues to have success as a wrestler and stays on the straight and narrow.
Kevin Nash is expected to go into the WWE Hall of Fame this year, inducted by Shawn Michaels. And he only needed five moves to do it! Also expected to be inducted are the Bushwhackers. It's shaping up to be a pretty good class this year.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Query on WWE vs. TNA ratings in 2015, more from GFW, more on Punk lawsuit, coverage for Stewart vs. Rollins, Interview with BNB, ROH rumorkiller, Smackdown audience, and Questions on Joe at Mania, Waltman in the HoF, Butch Reed, NXT training, and Crimson
First up, a query:
1. In 2015, TNA's ratings have taken a pretty big hit relative to WWE's. Destination America isn't on a lot of people's TV packages, so it's not going to be at the same level. More people have the WWE Network in the U.S. than watch TNA on DA each week. I'd say TNA has about 15% of the audience WWE has in the States.
There are expected to be more announcements about GFW around the time of WM31. There's talk of showing another NJPW PPV, as well as potentially an AAA PPV. We could also be in for some GFW live events in 2015, and maybe even a TV show. GFW's not going to become "a thing" overnight, but maybe they can establish a good base.
The Chicago Sun-Times covered the lawsuit filed against C.M. Punk and Colt Cabana. Honestly, I think the doctor might have a case. It all depends on how serious Punk's issues were and whether the allegations against Amann have merit.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. In 2015, TNA's ratings have taken a pretty big hit relative to WWE's. Destination America isn't on a lot of people's TV packages, so it's not going to be at the same level. More people have the WWE Network in the U.S. than watch TNA on DA each week. I'd say TNA has about 15% of the audience WWE has in the States.
There are expected to be more announcements about GFW around the time of WM31. There's talk of showing another NJPW PPV, as well as potentially an AAA PPV. We could also be in for some GFW live events in 2015, and maybe even a TV show. GFW's not going to become "a thing" overnight, but maybe they can establish a good base.
The Chicago Sun-Times covered the lawsuit filed against C.M. Punk and Colt Cabana. Honestly, I think the doctor might have a case. It all depends on how serious Punk's issues were and whether the allegations against Amann have merit.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 2/20/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Impact Wrestling.
Friday, February 20, 2015
WWE lawsuits, British Bootcamp name gets press for online campaign, Orton update, another HoFer?, another veteran to NXT, Interview with Slaughters/WWE artist, Rollins vs. Jon Stewart, Goldust rumor, and Questions on TNA booking Joe, Joe at Mania, and WWE then vs. now
The widow of the former Viscera/Big Daddy V/Mabel has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against WWE, alleging his demise was the result of the punishment he took while working there. I'm interested to see how that plays out.
Update: Here's more on the lawsuit. It sounds like something of a stretch, but that's up to the court to decide.
Update: WWE officially responded. Interesting response, given the lawsuit is on official websites of where it was filed.
Grado of British Bootcamp is pushing an online campaign to get permission to use Madonna's "Like A Prayer" for his entrance music. It could come down to a money issue, and there's virtually no chance TNA would shell out that much cash for the song, especially in the shape they're in now.
Update: Time magazine covered the campaign, as did a number of UK outlets.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Here's more on the lawsuit. It sounds like something of a stretch, but that's up to the court to decide.
Update: WWE officially responded. Interesting response, given the lawsuit is on official websites of where it was filed.
Grado of British Bootcamp is pushing an online campaign to get permission to use Madonna's "Like A Prayer" for his entrance music. It could come down to a money issue, and there's virtually no chance TNA would shell out that much cash for the song, especially in the shape they're in now.
Update: Time magazine covered the campaign, as did a number of UK outlets.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
TNA stars thank Samoa Joe, assorted press, more praise for Joe, Raw audience, Brock update, praise for Vince's magazine, Smackdown guests, Cabana profiled, former WWE/WCW/ECW/TNA name retiring, and Questions on Cena's movie, the future for Owens, Hogan's biggest moments, Zayn vs. Owens, and TNA in the UK
Kurt Angle, Magnus, Mike Tenay, and Josh Mathews all said good things about Samoa Joe as he left the company. He's been an incredible talent for TNA. I hope we see more great matches from him in the future.
Update: Velvet Sky weighed in, too. The company's definitely lost a lot of talents associated with the name TNA, and a number of big outside names, too. There are still some prominent TNA Originals and big non-TNA names, but I do think from a prestige standpoint they're not what they were a few years back.
Update: PWInsider looked at Joe's ROH and TNA careers. They pretty much nailed it. He's a really special talent and it's a shame we might never see him on the big stage.
Update: Stone Cold says WWE should pick Samoa Joe up. I agree!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Velvet Sky weighed in, too. The company's definitely lost a lot of talents associated with the name TNA, and a number of big outside names, too. There are still some prominent TNA Originals and big non-TNA names, but I do think from a prestige standpoint they're not what they were a few years back.
Update: PWInsider looked at Joe's ROH and TNA careers. They pretty much nailed it. He's a really special talent and it's a shame we might never see him on the big stage.
Update: Stone Cold says WWE should pick Samoa Joe up. I agree!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Interviews with Austin Idol/Bryan, Slater Gator/PTP updates, Otunga note, match set for Smackdown, segment set for Fastlane, assorted WWE press, assorted TNA notes, Edwards update, TNA visitor, Impact audience, former TNA Champion leaves company, new WWE trademark, and Questions on Rollins missing title matches, Young's Twitter episode, DQ finishes, swerves, and Big Show's turns
Memphis legend Austin Idol talked about Jerry Lawler, Randy Savage, and more. I feel nostalgic for those days given the really serious heat that was elicited from performers. This was rasslin', not "sports entertainment".
Heath Slater put out a Tweet indicating he's officially split from Titus O'Neil. I really think the PTP reunion was something of a spur of the moment decision to give The Ascension another team to face, but I'd like to be wrong about that. Titus and Darren need to make the most of this opportunity either way.
Darren Young's tag team partner on Raw was an independent name from Las Vegas. I wonder why they didn't use a local?
David Otunga once again did the pre-show duties for Raw, so that might turn into his regular gig. They are paying him after all!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Heath Slater put out a Tweet indicating he's officially split from Titus O'Neil. I really think the PTP reunion was something of a spur of the moment decision to give The Ascension another team to face, but I'd like to be wrong about that. Titus and Darren need to make the most of this opportunity either way.
Darren Young's tag team partner on Raw was an independent name from Las Vegas. I wonder why they didn't use a local?
David Otunga once again did the pre-show duties for Raw, so that might turn into his regular gig. They are paying him after all!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Edwards update, Cesaro hacked, more on JR in WWE, more live event notes, Impact preview, Punk note, NXT names at Raw, identity of Young's tag team partner, and Questions on Goldust retiring, Bryan vs. Lesnar, the nWo, Chyna in the Hall, and Fastlane
It's believed Eddie Edwards suffered a broken foot at TNA's PPV tapings. It sucks both members of The Wolves have gone down to injury in their brief TNA run. They're both amazing wrestlers, and can be fun to watch in "demolition derby" kinds of matches.
A fan hacked into Cesaro's Twitter account to criticize his booking by WWE Management. I'm a Cesaro fan, but I don't agree with the methods employed here. I hope this doesn't turn into something about "those damn millenials on the Internet" and instead causes WWE to realize what they have with Cesaro.
Jim Ross recorded voiceover work for future WWE projects this past weekend. I look forward to hearing him call material again.
NXT's Greg Hamilton did ring announcing at some main roster live events this weekend. I wonder when/if we'll see Eden get in the ring and be replaced in her current duties.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
A fan hacked into Cesaro's Twitter account to criticize his booking by WWE Management. I'm a Cesaro fan, but I don't agree with the methods employed here. I hope this doesn't turn into something about "those damn millenials on the Internet" and instead causes WWE to realize what they have with Cesaro.
Jim Ross recorded voiceover work for future WWE projects this past weekend. I look forward to hearing him call material again.
NXT's Greg Hamilton did ring announcing at some main roster live events this weekend. I wonder when/if we'll see Eden get in the ring and be replaced in her current duties.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Query on WWE spring cleaning, live event notes, Interview with BNB, big venture for Flair, Tatsu update, TNA name injured, TNA guests, and Questions on Bryan at the Rumble, Tag Team Turmoil, Darren Young on Twitter, booking Fastlane, and changing MITB
First up, a query:
1. I wouldn't assume there will be a "spring cleaning" of releases by WWE this year, especially after the positive results from their recent financial report. I think they're more likely to let some contracts expire and decide not to renew them.
On this weekend's live events:
- Kevin Owens retained the NXT Championship against Adrian Neville
- Darren Young beat Titus O'Neil
- Sasha Banks was on the losing side of a six-Diva tag.
With some of the big names on the Middle East tour, WWE was more likely to give some other names a chance to shine. It's cool to see Owens, Neville, and Banks get that opportunity. As for Young, I don't know how much they'll push him after the recent incident on Twitter.
Update: Here's a live report from that show. Cena was just on the Middle East tour, so I can see why he wasn't at that event.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I wouldn't assume there will be a "spring cleaning" of releases by WWE this year, especially after the positive results from their recent financial report. I think they're more likely to let some contracts expire and decide not to renew them.
On this weekend's live events:
- Kevin Owens retained the NXT Championship against Adrian Neville
- Darren Young beat Titus O'Neil
- Sasha Banks was on the losing side of a six-Diva tag.
With some of the big names on the Middle East tour, WWE was more likely to give some other names a chance to shine. It's cool to see Owens, Neville, and Banks get that opportunity. As for Young, I don't know how much they'll push him after the recent incident on Twitter.
Update: Here's a live report from that show. Cena was just on the Middle East tour, so I can see why he wasn't at that event.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Assorted WWE news, Interviews with Kane/Y2J, live event note, and Questions on Zayn vs. Bryan, Chyna, TNA lighting, BNB, and Vince pushing Reigns
Dolph Ziggler and Paige will be at Wizard Con. WWE needs to make its own convention. AXXESS is only once or twice a year after all.
The artwork for the upcoming Jerry Lawler DVD has been released. He deserves a big career retrospective DVD. He's truly a living legend. I wouldn't mind him going from commentary to being a GM figure once The Authority angle is over. If they hadn't just moved him to Smackdown, that'd be the direction I'd go. Just have him use his overness (is that a word?) to put together some matches and that can be that.
Forbes put over WWE due to the Network's success. We're definitely heading into an OTT world.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The artwork for the upcoming Jerry Lawler DVD has been released. He deserves a big career retrospective DVD. He's truly a living legend. I wouldn't mind him going from commentary to being a GM figure once The Authority angle is over. If they hadn't just moved him to Smackdown, that'd be the direction I'd go. Just have him use his overness (is that a word?) to put together some matches and that can be that.
Forbes put over WWE due to the Network's success. We're definitely heading into an OTT world.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Query on Melina in TNA, Interviews with Charlotte/Ezekiel/Paige, a change coming to NXT, MacDonald remembered, new champions congratulated, segment set for Raw, WWE stock improves, NXT live event note, prominent women's star has heart attack, JR back in the fold, Middle East live event note, Smackdown audience, and Questions on the WWE Hall, ending WWE magazine, AJ on Total Divas, and Tod Gordon
First up, a query:
1. I haven't seen or heard anything about Melina coming to TNA. Mickie James, however, will be appearing on the show soon and could be back wrestling for them.
Charlotte talked about working Natalya and more. It's pretty obvious they edited the questions to make it seem like it was done after the NXT special. Tsk tsk. She is doing really well, and I hope when she makes it to the main roster, her matches really impress.
TNA has removed Homicide and Rhino from their roster. Neither had been used in months, so that's hardly a surprise. I had hoped to see Homicide again, possibly involved in some way with BDC, but it doesn't look like that's in the cards. I didn't see much reason to bring Rhino back after the angle with EC3 ended some time ago.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I haven't seen or heard anything about Melina coming to TNA. Mickie James, however, will be appearing on the show soon and could be back wrestling for them.
Charlotte talked about working Natalya and more. It's pretty obvious they edited the questions to make it seem like it was done after the NXT special. Tsk tsk. She is doing really well, and I hope when she makes it to the main roster, her matches really impress.
TNA has removed Homicide and Rhino from their roster. Neither had been used in months, so that's hardly a surprise. I had hoped to see Homicide again, possibly involved in some way with BDC, but it doesn't look like that's in the cards. I didn't see much reason to bring Rhino back after the angle with EC3 ended some time ago.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Superstars Reax - 2/13/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Superstars.
Friday, February 13, 2015
NBA name wants to get back in the ring, another international tour for WWE, live notes from NXT, Interviews with Zayn/HBK/Wuertz, UAE press conference, outside names working One Night Only shows, DA loves TNA, and Questions on the Bullet Club, the Young Bucks, and other inductees into the Hall of Fame
Karl Malone, who was once part of the main event of a WCW PPV, called out Brock Lesnar. No way does that happen.
WWE will return to Australia in August. That's cool. I hope they do well there.
Here are live notes from the recent NXT special. I was also let down by Corbin vs. Dempsey. Cara and Kalisto might try just a bit too hard. I'd rather them do a smaller number of moves really well than throw the whole kitchen sink out there.
Sami Zayn talked about being NXT Champion and more. He's done a really great job down there. The fans love him, and for good reason. I think he's dead-on about putting NXT on the Mania card. It's very different in front of a large crowd.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE will return to Australia in August. That's cool. I hope they do well there.
Here are live notes from the recent NXT special. I was also let down by Corbin vs. Dempsey. Cara and Kalisto might try just a bit too hard. I'd rather them do a smaller number of moves really well than throw the whole kitchen sink out there.
Sami Zayn talked about being NXT Champion and more. He's done a really great job down there. The fans love him, and for good reason. I think he's dead-on about putting NXT on the Mania card. It's very different in front of a large crowd.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Query on TNA in 2015, Interviews with Natalya/Flair/HBK/Zayn/Douglas, more on DDP, TNA-Germany update, Chyna vs. WWE, Takeover notes, and Questions on Heyman working with Reigns, changing the Rumble, midcard titles, and Kane
First up, a query:
1. I think TNA in 2015 will be a company finding its new identity. They'll still use the wrestlers with name value who they can make use of, but they'll have to make the most of the still-developing names, too. Ultimately it will be about keeping Destination America happy and having a full roster, live events, and all that. If they can keep making DA money, they should be fine.
Natalya talked about her family members going into the Hall of Fame. If Bruno, Warrior, and Savage can go in, I think ONE DAY we could see Owen as well.
Ric Flair talked about his memories of Houston. I'm excited for WM32 coming to Dallas given that city's history.
Shawn Michaels promoted his new book. Nice read. There's a Texas theme here...
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I think TNA in 2015 will be a company finding its new identity. They'll still use the wrestlers with name value who they can make use of, but they'll have to make the most of the still-developing names, too. Ultimately it will be about keeping Destination America happy and having a full roster, live events, and all that. If they can keep making DA money, they should be fine.
Natalya talked about her family members going into the Hall of Fame. If Bruno, Warrior, and Savage can go in, I think ONE DAY we could see Owen as well.
Ric Flair talked about his memories of Houston. I'm excited for WM32 coming to Dallas given that city's history.
Shawn Michaels promoted his new book. Nice read. There's a Texas theme here...
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Top WWE name in photo scandal, more on Rikishi, more NXT shirts, Cena update, HHH conference call, Axel remembers Perfect, Interviews with HBK, WWE seeking to fill big position, Raw audience, Darren Young vs. WWE, HHH gets awesome gift, more on Stardust vs. Goldust angle, Questions on Chyna vs. Sunny, pushing Reigns, MITB, Justin Roberts, and Cena vs. Rusev
Seth Rollins' Twitter and Instagram accounts posted a topless photo of NXT signee Zahra Schreiber. Before it was removed, Rollins' fiancee posted several nude photos of Rollins. She then made several posts on Facebook about the situation. All the pictures have been removed, and Rollins issued an apology. My main emotion about this is sympathy for these people, whose private lives are now playing out in the public sphere. I'm also disappointed Rollins is going to be talked about for this by some instead of his abilities as a wrestler. Personally I'd like to see WWE offer some kind of relationship counseling or something for those involved to get past this without lives being ruined.
As expected, this story reached a number of mainstream outlets, including some who posted the photos in question without censorship. I don't have the answer for their relationship, but I don't envy those involved at all.
Update: WWE previously had Rollins' Twitter feed on his page on WWE.com, but removed it after this. In other words, the topless picture was briefly on WWE's website before it was taken down.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
As expected, this story reached a number of mainstream outlets, including some who posted the photos in question without censorship. I don't have the answer for their relationship, but I don't envy those involved at all.
Update: WWE previously had Rollins' Twitter feed on his page on WWE.com, but removed it after this. In other words, the topless picture was briefly on WWE's website before it was taken down.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
DDP update, assorted WWE notes, '80s UK name passes, TNA audience, Interview with London, another rumored Hall of Famer, Riley update, and Questions on pushing Reigns, X-Pac in the WWE Hall, and Ryback as WWE Champion
DDP gave an update on his health. It sounds like he's doing better for the most part, which is quite good news. I hope surgery goes well.
Sami Zayn is doing promotion for WWE in the UAE. I hope he's on the main roster in 2015.
Set for Friday's Impact Wrestling:
- Lashley and Kurt Angle vs. MVP and Samoa Joe
- Awesome Kong vs. Madison Rayne
- Ethan Carter III and Tyrus vs. Rockstar Spud, Mandrews, and Jeremy Borash
- Bram vs. Crazzy Steve
- Bobby Roode vs. Austin Aries
- The return of a former champion
There's some good stuff there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sami Zayn is doing promotion for WWE in the UAE. I hope he's on the main roster in 2015.
Set for Friday's Impact Wrestling:
- Lashley and Kurt Angle vs. MVP and Samoa Joe
- Awesome Kong vs. Madison Rayne
- Ethan Carter III and Tyrus vs. Rockstar Spud, Mandrews, and Jeremy Borash
- Bram vs. Crazzy Steve
- Bobby Roode vs. Austin Aries
- The return of a former champion
There's some good stuff there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Live event notes, new Takeover match, WWE.com pits Bryan vs. Reigns, Interview with Jake+DDP, more on plane crash from 40 years ago, and Questions on Bully's future, top babyfaces, Bryan vs. Ziggler, Chyna in the Hall, and hating Roman Reigns
Jojo did ring announcing for this weekend's main roster live events, so she's still around. I wonder what the rest of her WWE career looks like, because it's obvious she's not being utilized as a wrestler.
Hideo Itami vs. Tyler Breeze has been added to Wednesday's Takeover event. I'm sure that will be really good.
WWE.com is asking who fans think is more deserving to headline WrestleMania between Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns. I'm interested to see if Vince changes plans if Bryan proves to be more popular in the poll.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Hideo Itami vs. Tyler Breeze has been added to Wednesday's Takeover event. I'm sure that will be really good.
WWE.com is asking who fans think is more deserving to headline WrestleMania between Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns. I'm interested to see if Vince changes plans if Bryan proves to be more popular in the poll.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Jeff Hardy update, Bryan does a good deed, DDP hospitalized, Interview with Coach, HHH note, live event notes including some returns, Questions on the future of Bully Ray, where's Aksana, taking shots at Punk, people who should have been WWE Champion, and tag teams
TNA put out a kayfabe update on Jeff Hardy following his crazy bump at Lockdown. I imagine he'll be back at the next TV tapings. I wonder if they can drag out The Hardys vs. The Revolution to a big Full Metal Mayhem match at Slammiversary. I think it might have run its course by then, but it's worth considering.
Daniel Bryan went to a children's hospital in Memphis. That's pretty cool. Hopefully that elevates him in the eyes of WWE brass.
Diamond Dallas Page was recently taken to the ICU due to breathing issues. That sounds really, really scary. DDP is the #*$&ing MAN and I hope everything turns out OK for him. On that note, it's just about time to put him in the Hall of Fame.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Daniel Bryan went to a children's hospital in Memphis. That's pretty cool. Hopefully that elevates him in the eyes of WWE brass.
Diamond Dallas Page was recently taken to the ICU due to breathing issues. That sounds really, really scary. DDP is the #*$&ing MAN and I hope everything turns out OK for him. On that note, it's just about time to put him in the Hall of Fame.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Interview with the bWo/Bryan/Bret Hart, another NXT live event, Smackdown audience, live event notes, and Questions on Chyna vs. Tyson, Bryan post-surgery, WM31 undercard matches, disruptive fans, and the Network's milestone
The three members of the bWo talked about their collective legacy. How have we never seen a bWo vs. nWo match on the indie scene? Even if it's Stevie and Meanie vs. X-Pac and Buff Bagwell or something, that one would seem to write itself. On that note, I wonder what the nWo members think of that group.
NXT will have a house show in Cleveland, OH, right around the time of the Arnold Classic there. I don't expect live events outside Florida to be a regular thing just yet, but maybe by the end of the year.
Daniel Bryan promoted Fast Lane in Memphis. Bryan vs. Lesnar could be really amazing. Reigns vs. Lesnar would be a very different match.
Bret Hart had a long interview about wrestling past, present, and future. I'm curious to see what he'll think of WM31, especially if they go with Reigns vs. Lesnar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT will have a house show in Cleveland, OH, right around the time of the Arnold Classic there. I don't expect live events outside Florida to be a regular thing just yet, but maybe by the end of the year.
Daniel Bryan promoted Fast Lane in Memphis. Bryan vs. Lesnar could be really amazing. Reigns vs. Lesnar would be a very different match.
Bret Hart had a long interview about wrestling past, present, and future. I'm curious to see what he'll think of WM31, especially if they go with Reigns vs. Lesnar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Lockdown Reax - 2/6/2015
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Lockdown edition of Impact Wrestling.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Interviews with Riggs/Poffo/Gangrel/BNB, Sonnen-WWE update, NXT names put over, another nWo reunion, and Questions on replacing Cena, Benoit's final days, Bryan's future, guest hosts, screwing Bret, screwing Punk, Taker's next matches, leaving WWE, and not Hating the Slater
Scotty Riggs talked about The Flock, Sting, and more. Taker vs. Sting could still happen, potentially at WM32 as Taker's final match. It's not like WWE doesn't know fans want that match.
Lanny Poffo talked about his brother's upcoming Hall of Fame induction. I'm very glad Savage is going in, but I do understand why Savage wanted his whole family to go in. I'm glad things were settled between Savage and Hulk, as well.
WWE denied inviting Chael Sonnen to WrestleMania. Technically Sonnen claimed it was a meeting over WrestleMania weekend, so it's possible they're being coy here. Or it's possible they're not meeting him at all and he made the whole thing up. We'll see.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Lanny Poffo talked about his brother's upcoming Hall of Fame induction. I'm very glad Savage is going in, but I do understand why Savage wanted his whole family to go in. I'm glad things were settled between Savage and Hulk, as well.
WWE denied inviting Chael Sonnen to WrestleMania. Technically Sonnen claimed it was a meeting over WrestleMania weekend, so it's possible they're being coy here. Or it's possible they're not meeting him at all and he made the whole thing up. We'll see.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Interviews with the bWo/HBK/Powers, Yahoo! looks at WWE, assorted WWE press, former NWA president getting big honor, and another Sonnen-WWE rumor
Stevie Richards and Nova (Simon Dean) talked about life after wrestling and more:
- Stevie's still in great shape.
- I can see why Bucci got heat given the comments he made. Entertaining guy, but sometimes you do have to keep the snide remarks and such in check.
- Great for Bucci to tell wrestlers to be planning for what to do after the wrestling days are over.
- Talk about your endorsements. Johnson probably has some heat with Russo over the firing thing, but that's probably a professional thing instead of a personal one.
- I can't blame Bucci for staying off the radar and all that.
Yahoo! Finance looked at the state of WWE. They could have toned down the goofy wrestling puns, but interesting stuff about aging talent and Vince.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Stevie's still in great shape.
- I can see why Bucci got heat given the comments he made. Entertaining guy, but sometimes you do have to keep the snide remarks and such in check.
- Great for Bucci to tell wrestlers to be planning for what to do after the wrestling days are over.
- Talk about your endorsements. Johnson probably has some heat with Russo over the firing thing, but that's probably a professional thing instead of a personal one.
- I can't blame Bucci for staying off the radar and all that.
Yahoo! Finance looked at the state of WWE. They could have toned down the goofy wrestling puns, but interesting stuff about aging talent and Vince.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Raw notes, segment set for Smackdown, JBL apologizes, Network update, Raw visitors, Chyna on HoF, upcoming NXT special gets name, Impact rating clarification, Orton finally coming back?, WWE ending text service, Black Bart update, Raw audience, and Questions on WM31's main event, the longest running weekly episodic shows on television, Taker wrestling, why WWE doesn't release people, and Daniel Bryan
Here's a live report from Monday's Raw. Kind of funny Rollins' mic failed, but it's good it wasn't too much of a problem and they could cut to commercial then.
Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns will be on MizTV for Smackdown. That could be fun.
JBL apologized for the Eddie Guerrero remark at Raw. I definitely believe JBL wouldn't insult the Guerreros intentionally. He was just trying to put over the talents of Harper.
Roman Reigns talked about football vs. WWE and more. It's funny seeing those high school pictures.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns will be on MizTV for Smackdown. That could be fun.
JBL apologized for the Eddie Guerrero remark at Raw. I definitely believe JBL wouldn't insult the Guerreros intentionally. He was just trying to put over the talents of Harper.
Roman Reigns talked about football vs. WWE and more. It's funny seeing those high school pictures.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Stone Cold podcast Reax, Plane crash anniversary, assorted WWE press, NXT lineup, more Network content, another Lockdown match, Interview with Russo, Blue Meanie remembers trainer, Impact audience, Otunga appears, Raw notes, and Questions on Axel in the Rumble, race in WWE, supporting Vince, WWE booking, and Cena vs. Rusev
Stone Cold Podcast Reax:
Interesting HHH implied there are things some fans know WWE doesn't know. It would be hard to keep track of THAT much info about the product and what the Superstars are doing, etc..
I don't think fans are upset at Reigns himself. Hopefully they understand he's just not ready for the big push he's getting. Will he ever be as good as guys like Bryan, Ambrose, or Rollins? Maybe. But they've got a big edge on him in experience. That can't be taught and isn't easy to pick up.
Good stuff from HHH about Vince picking up Hogan from the AWA. He knows his history.
Fair points about having to appeal to everyone today instead of just the vocal college-age males.
We're definitely seeing mainstream media take an insider perspective of knowing it's all fake. That's a good point.
I wonder if fans would have accepted Reigns winning in the Attitude Era. I can't think of a perfect comparison, but it would be like Austin or Rock not going to Mania when they were clearly the person to pull the trigger on.
I can't think, off the top of my head, of the last top guy who was really ready when they got their first World Title push. It's a whole different level. Bryan came into his own after winning his first World Title (during the heel turn), and Punk was in the same boat. He didn't really become who he would later be when he was a face World Champion. The feud with Jeff Hardy showed he had what he takes.
Timing is everything with a big push. Orton wasn't ready in 2004.
Vince is absolutely a workaholic. It's a good quality to be a hard worker, but maybe not THAT hard of a worker.
I like the philosophy of not playing a wrestler.
I do think now the bar is higher for a top guy to be a great wrestler AND have size AND be able to talk well, etc.. We're kind of spoiled from seeing all these talented names, and expect that from everyone.
I think it's definitely a fair criticism to not put Chyna in the HoF unless she really turns her life around for a good while. They are a family-friendly company.
It's great HHH and Warrior worked something out. Wow, did both men's careers really change from that Mania or what?
I could see Punk being very, very difficult to work with. I admire him for standing up for himself and all that, but at times, he was his own worst enemy.
Nash can definitely come across as a jackass.
I bet Bret will have something to say about HHH's comment. I agree with HHH.
Damn straight the Freebirds should be in the Hall next year!
Hahahahaha way to bury Kevin Dunn.
I like HHH's remarks about promos.
I think two hours of Raw and two hours of Smackdown should be enough for WWE in a week if they use it right. NXT doesn't count in that equation.
Based Haitch. Really good interview. He'll be fine replacing Vince.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Interesting HHH implied there are things some fans know WWE doesn't know. It would be hard to keep track of THAT much info about the product and what the Superstars are doing, etc..
I don't think fans are upset at Reigns himself. Hopefully they understand he's just not ready for the big push he's getting. Will he ever be as good as guys like Bryan, Ambrose, or Rollins? Maybe. But they've got a big edge on him in experience. That can't be taught and isn't easy to pick up.
Good stuff from HHH about Vince picking up Hogan from the AWA. He knows his history.
Fair points about having to appeal to everyone today instead of just the vocal college-age males.
We're definitely seeing mainstream media take an insider perspective of knowing it's all fake. That's a good point.
I wonder if fans would have accepted Reigns winning in the Attitude Era. I can't think of a perfect comparison, but it would be like Austin or Rock not going to Mania when they were clearly the person to pull the trigger on.
I can't think, off the top of my head, of the last top guy who was really ready when they got their first World Title push. It's a whole different level. Bryan came into his own after winning his first World Title (during the heel turn), and Punk was in the same boat. He didn't really become who he would later be when he was a face World Champion. The feud with Jeff Hardy showed he had what he takes.
Timing is everything with a big push. Orton wasn't ready in 2004.
Vince is absolutely a workaholic. It's a good quality to be a hard worker, but maybe not THAT hard of a worker.
I like the philosophy of not playing a wrestler.
I do think now the bar is higher for a top guy to be a great wrestler AND have size AND be able to talk well, etc.. We're kind of spoiled from seeing all these talented names, and expect that from everyone.
I think it's definitely a fair criticism to not put Chyna in the HoF unless she really turns her life around for a good while. They are a family-friendly company.
It's great HHH and Warrior worked something out. Wow, did both men's careers really change from that Mania or what?
I could see Punk being very, very difficult to work with. I admire him for standing up for himself and all that, but at times, he was his own worst enemy.
Nash can definitely come across as a jackass.
I bet Bret will have something to say about HHH's comment. I agree with HHH.
Damn straight the Freebirds should be in the Hall next year!
Hahahahaha way to bury Kevin Dunn.
I like HHH's remarks about promos.
I think two hours of Raw and two hours of Smackdown should be enough for WWE in a week if they use it right. NXT doesn't count in that equation.
Based Haitch. Really good interview. He'll be fine replacing Vince.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, February 2, 2015
Bryan promo footage, WWE live event notes, February comes to the Network, Interview with Bubba Ray, and Questions on Taker retiring, MLK Day, Edge vs. Y2J, and Axel in the Rumble
Footage from Daniel Bryan rehearsing his Raw promo was found online, but WWE has since removed it. It was interesting to see the process of doing a pretape, although nothing done was really surprising.
Darren Young beat Adam Rose at a WWE live event this weekend. I wonder what the odds are of Young coming back as The Bunny. I hope we do see him back in a WWE ring. I'd prefer him as a tag team guy, if that's doable.
Also at live events this weekend, Charlotte and Sasha Banks were on opposite sides of a six-Diva tag. It's good for them to get experience.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Darren Young beat Adam Rose at a WWE live event this weekend. I wonder what the odds are of Young coming back as The Bunny. I hope we do see him back in a WWE ring. I'd prefer him as a tag team guy, if that's doable.
Also at live events this weekend, Charlotte and Sasha Banks were on opposite sides of a six-Diva tag. It's good for them to get experience.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Query on HHH's Raw announcement, WWE breaks record, Interview with Kidd, Bryan flashback, team returning to TNA, legends in Memphis, and Questions on Bubba in the Rumble, Orton in the Rumble, past Rumbles, Axel in the Rumble, and Miss Elizabeth in the Rumb... I mean Hall of Fame
First up, a query:
1. I suspect HHH's announcement on Raw will be to set up something for Fast Lane where Roman has to defend his title shot, or something of the sort. I definitely anticipate The Authority throwing some roadblocks his way on the road to WM31.
WWE broke the attendance record for the Pan American Center this weekend. That's great!
Tyson Kidd promoted an upcoming WWE event. Pretty good read. Props to him for putting over NXT. Kidd's maximized his minutes lately with his new character, to where now he's more than just a great wrestler.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I suspect HHH's announcement on Raw will be to set up something for Fast Lane where Roman has to defend his title shot, or something of the sort. I definitely anticipate The Authority throwing some roadblocks his way on the road to WM31.
WWE broke the attendance record for the Pan American Center this weekend. That's great!
Tyson Kidd promoted an upcoming WWE event. Pretty good read. Props to him for putting over NXT. Kidd's maximized his minutes lately with his new character, to where now he's more than just a great wrestler.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
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