WWE promoted the impressive gate from WrestleMania 31. Can they top WM3's attendance record in Dallas? They're damn sure going to try.
The Rock tweeted about meeting Kevin Owens. That's pretty big! I think Owens has a really bright future.
Sting specifically requested Charles Robinson as the referee for his match at WrestleMania. I think that was a great touch given their time in WCW together.
Some more pre-WM31 interviews: Finn Balor, Santino Marella, Ryback, and Paul Heyman. I miss Santino. I'm not going to lie. He had some pretty funny skits.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
WM31 breaks records, Rock meets NXT Champ, lots of WM notes, GFW's first TV taping set, big post-WM conference call, TNA returns to Canada, Sting update, Bray injury note, WM visitors, Impact audience, more NXT callups?, Raw angle note, Raw guest, and Questions on WWE picking the future, rebuilding Bray, TNA as WWE Lite, little people in the HoF, and mainstream acceptance
Monday, March 30, 2015
WM31 guests, AXXESS rib?, Scotty responds to Rikishi, more pre-WM press, ROH name done, Punk on Itami using the GTS, pre-WM injury, Stone Cold update, and Questions on Bray vs. Taker, WWE name generator, the HoF, what gets bumped to the pre-show, and Brock beating Reigns
Some cameos backstage at WrestleMania 31 were former WWE Creative member Freddy Prinze, Jr. and former WWE star Ted DiBiase, Jr.. I wonder if we'll see the latter ever get back in the ring.
The Ascension was booked at a lot of AXXESS sessions this weekend, leading to a rumor of them being ribbed by Management. Is their gimmick not enough of a rib? I wonder where they go from here.
Scotty 2 Hotty responded to Rikishi's Hall of Fame speech basically ignoring Too Cool. Can this please lead to the Usos vs. Too Cool at Extreme Rules or later?
John Cena did a Q&A before WrestleMania. I'm interested to see what kind of international markets they expand to in the years to come.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The Ascension was booked at a lot of AXXESS sessions this weekend, leading to a rumor of them being ribbed by Management. Is their gimmick not enough of a rib? I wonder where they go from here.
Scotty 2 Hotty responded to Rikishi's Hall of Fame speech basically ignoring Too Cool. Can this please lead to the Usos vs. Too Cool at Extreme Rules or later?
John Cena did a Q&A before WrestleMania. I'm interested to see what kind of international markets they expand to in the years to come.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
NXT live event notes, LOTS of WM press and notes, Interview with Goldberg, big guest for JR, and Questions on WWE on NBCU shows, Summerslam AXXESS, Perro's passing, elevating talents in retirement matches, and the future of Goldust
Rapper Wale and Jim Ross were in attendance at the NXT live event in San Jose. The latter had a front row seat and got big chants. I don't want to jump to conclusions, but it is great to see him attending a WWE event.
The NXT live event brought in more than 4,500 fans, with speculation they hit 5,000.That's really impressive!
Here's a list of quite a few WM31 interviews. It's a really big day for the company.
WWE has new T-shirts for all the new WWE Hall of Famers. That's pretty clever!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The NXT live event brought in more than 4,500 fans, with speculation they hit 5,000.That's really impressive!
Here's a list of quite a few WM31 interviews. It's a really big day for the company.
WWE has new T-shirts for all the new WWE Hall of Famers. That's pretty clever!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Mysterio update, possible WM cameo, NXT names booked post-WM, big names on post-WM Raw, assorted WM news, new Heyman guy teased, Smackdown audience, MMA name to WWE?, and Questions on pipebombs, WCW, and Cornette in the Hall
After the unfortunate accident during his last match, Rey Mysterio is understandably despondent about getting into the ring again. However, it is not believed he will be retiring.
Ric Flair is being considered to have a cameo at WM31. I don't think I'd mind him being involved somehow with HHH vs. Sting.
Finn Balor, Adrian Neville, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn are all booked for weeks of TV after WrestleMania, leading to speculation of at least one of them debuting. The latter two are still out hurt, so they're presumably not set to be called up yet.
Sting and The Undertaker are also booked for the Raw after WrestleMania, which I'm sure will get people talking!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Ric Flair is being considered to have a cameo at WM31. I don't think I'd mind him being involved somehow with HHH vs. Sting.
Finn Balor, Adrian Neville, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn are all booked for weeks of TV after WrestleMania, leading to speculation of at least one of them debuting. The latter two are still out hurt, so they're presumably not set to be called up yet.
Sting and The Undertaker are also booked for the Raw after WrestleMania, which I'm sure will get people talking!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 3/27/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, March 27, 2015
More on Brock, more WM press, Interviews with Owens/Hardy/Riley, new WWE deal, TNAI expands, big change to HoF, HHH previews NXT live event, WM31 match moved to pre-show, Stone Cold note, NXT participant for Mania set, and Questions on Kofi in the IC Title picture, Punk at the HoF ceremony, inducting matches, TNA at Mania weekend, and changing AXXESS
Jonathan Coachman talked about Brock Lesnar re-signing with WWE. Coach has some really good insight on the situation.
Here are some highlights from a Kevin Owens interview. I'm curious to see which of those names come to NXT and face him! Joe vs. Owens would be INSANE. The former TNA Champion has some really good matches he could work in WWE.
WWE has a new deal with Toy State. Merchandise is a BIG part of the game in 2015.
TNA announced a new TV deal in Brazil. International markets will be a big deal going forward. Who's to say they can't survive just from airing in a lot of markets?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Here are some highlights from a Kevin Owens interview. I'm curious to see which of those names come to NXT and face him! Joe vs. Owens would be INSANE. The former TNA Champion has some really good matches he could work in WWE.
WWE has a new deal with Toy State. Merchandise is a BIG part of the game in 2015.
TNA announced a new TV deal in Brazil. International markets will be a big deal going forward. Who's to say they can't survive just from airing in a lot of markets?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Interviews with Reigns/HHH/Graves/Stephanie/Nikki, WM press, Goldberg to MMA?, new WWE deals, WWE trademarks old character, GFW debut set?, more on Brock, Questions on Heyman as a wrestler, Perro's passing, WWE vs. Walking Dead, WWE Films, and Cena's promos
Roman Reigns was interviewed on Conan. Clips here and here. Can Reigns be a mainstream star in the vein of John Cena? WWE certainly hopes so.
Dana White commented on Brock Lesnar re-signing with WWE. I picture the segment Brock did in 2012 where he signed a contract for HHH.
Triple H talked about training to get in the ring at WM31. Interesting remarks about people getting time off. I think in some ways it's more about the mental break needed, and recovering from any nagging injuries. He does have some interesting thoughts about taking longer breaks from the business, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Dana White commented on Brock Lesnar re-signing with WWE. I picture the segment Brock did in 2012 where he signed a contract for HHH.
Triple H talked about training to get in the ring at WM31. Interesting remarks about people getting time off. I think in some ways it's more about the mental break needed, and recovering from any nagging injuries. He does have some interesting thoughts about taking longer breaks from the business, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
GFW teaser, Nash's inductor(?), WM press, Raw audience, Brock stays with WWE, and Questions on Punk in UFC, why Sting is facing HHH, title matches, Taker in the HoF, and WWE coverage
GFW released a short teaser about holding its first shows. They could begin holding regular tapings as soon as May. I'm ready for this to become a thing. I feel like it's been in the "it's coming and going to be a big thing" stage forever with only so much to show for it.
Mick Foley seemed to be announcing inducting Kevin Nash into the WWE Hall of Fame. That's a surprising pick. So much so I'm not 100% certain it's not a work. The other Kliq members would seem like more obvious choices. We'll see how it unfolds.
Hulk Hogan did a Q&A about WrestleMania. Some pretty dry, straightforward stuff. I wouldn't put 100% stock in his answers.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Mick Foley seemed to be announcing inducting Kevin Nash into the WWE Hall of Fame. That's a surprising pick. So much so I'm not 100% certain it's not a work. The other Kliq members would seem like more obvious choices. We'll see how it unfolds.
Hulk Hogan did a Q&A about WrestleMania. Some pretty dry, straightforward stuff. I wouldn't put 100% stock in his answers.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Interviews with Booker/Cole/Ambrose, more Network expansion, lucha star remembered, TNA touring updates, Impact main event, TNA return update, new TNA producer, WWE special changing?, WM press, another big Mania entrance, Diva returns, WM31 music, TNA audience, and Questions on Brock's contract, the NXT Tag Champs, Zayn, replacing Dunn, and WWE grudges
Booker T. talked about the Invasion, facing HHH, and more:
- I think people really underestimate just what it would have taken to make the Invasion angle work the way fantasy bookers want it to have worked. People were being paid quite a bit of money to sit at home and recover from nagging injuries, burnout, and such. I can't say I disagree with why WWF went about it the way they did.
- People are definitely still upset about WM19. It would have been one hell of a moment for Booker to win there.
- I think King Booker was the most successful he's ever been.
- I'm split on Booker's work in TNA. It felt like the inmates ran the asylum during that time.
- I do think TNA has lacked direction at times with the seemingly constant reboots.
- I agree Joe needs to earn his stripes in WWE. Remember most of the audience doesn't know him.
- I'm very glad Sting gets to have a big moment at WrestleMania. He's earned it.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- I think people really underestimate just what it would have taken to make the Invasion angle work the way fantasy bookers want it to have worked. People were being paid quite a bit of money to sit at home and recover from nagging injuries, burnout, and such. I can't say I disagree with why WWF went about it the way they did.
- People are definitely still upset about WM19. It would have been one hell of a moment for Booker to win there.
- I think King Booker was the most successful he's ever been.
- I'm split on Booker's work in TNA. It felt like the inmates ran the asylum during that time.
- I do think TNA has lacked direction at times with the seemingly constant reboots.
- I agree Joe needs to earn his stripes in WWE. Remember most of the audience doesn't know him.
- I'm very glad Sting gets to have a big moment at WrestleMania. He's earned it.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Interviews with Foley/Riley/WWE seamstress, live event notes, HHH on "Wrestling Isn't Wrestling", and Questions on champs after Mania, WWE terminology, the Hall of Fame, the IWC, and Network numbers
Mick Foley talked about some assorted WM31 topics. I don't think the Mania lineup is lackluster. I just think we see so much wrestling in a week (especially including everything on the WWE Network including NXT, other promotions, etc.) it's incredibly difficult for a card to be what WrestleMania used to be. And because there are so many talented wrestlers to choose from, it's even more difficult to get behind Reigns. He doesn't just have to be good to win some fans over. He has to be better than Ambrose, Bryan, Rollins, and maybe even Attitude Era Stone Cold because fans' expectations are insane these days with all the content out there they can be watching instead.
On live events this weekend, Finn Balor beat Tyler Breeze while Sasha Banks was on the losing end of a six-Diva tag. It's great for those names to keep getting work. I don't think they'd be on the main roster shows if they weren't considered potential call-ups for 2015. I'm not sure they should do something like call Balor up on the post-WM31 Raw just for the surprise of it, but it's an interesting idea.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
On live events this weekend, Finn Balor beat Tyler Breeze while Sasha Banks was on the losing end of a six-Diva tag. It's great for those names to keep getting work. I don't think they'd be on the main roster shows if they weren't considered potential call-ups for 2015. I'm not sure they should do something like call Balor up on the post-WM31 Raw just for the surprise of it, but it's an interesting idea.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Interview with The Rock, top Mexican name passes during Mysterio match, and Questions on taping NXT in California, British Boot Camp, titles at Mania, JoJo, and Madusa
The Rock talked about potentially working Brock next year, Reigns headlining, and more. I'd be down for a Rock/Lesnar match at WM32. Imagine Heyman's promos! I think it'd work better if we don't see Lesnar for a while after WM31, and he comes back to make an impact in Dallas.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Interviews with Henry/Ware/Usos/Paige, big AXXESS attraction, more TNA renewals, another Network clearing, NXT name to work Mania, Smackdown audience, and Questions on NXT at Mania, NXT on the road, making WWE more watchable, and Bobby Heenan
Here are highlights from a Mark Henry interview about Roman Reigns. I think he's dead on. How can we know if Reigns is ready if we don't even give him a fair chance? I feel like a lot of fans going in wanting to boo him instead of seeing what he's got.
WWE will have the Elimination Chamber at AXXESS before WM31. That's pretty cool! Especially considering how big it is.
Koko B. Ware talked about his WWE career and more. I think there's a point to be made about him going in the Hall after so many years in WWE and in the business period.
The Usos were interviewed as we approach WM31. If the site can't even be bothered to fix an obvious typo in the headline and takes that kind of attitude toward promoting the show, WWE should step in and tell them to either not suck at their jobs or just go to another site for promotion.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE will have the Elimination Chamber at AXXESS before WM31. That's pretty cool! Especially considering how big it is.
Koko B. Ware talked about his WWE career and more. I think there's a point to be made about him going in the Hall after so many years in WWE and in the business period.
The Usos were interviewed as we approach WM31. If the site can't even be bothered to fix an obvious typo in the headline and takes that kind of attitude toward promoting the show, WWE should step in and tell them to either not suck at their jobs or just go to another site for promotion.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling - 3/20/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's editions of Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Query on WWE brothers, Dixie on Joe's exit, identity of potential new TNA performer, note on HoF induction, top NXT name out, more on Network in Canada, interview with Angle, live Impact set, and Questions on duplicate Hall of Famers, booing Reigns, Reby in TNA, Balor on the main roster, Hogan's age, and NXT vs. the indies
First up, a query:
1. In addition to the Usos, Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas are also brothers. I'm glad WWE has resisted the temptation to use Wyatt and Dallas together for an angle. I don't really see any reason to put their characters together. I'm intrigued about a Dallas/Tyler Breeze tag team, though.
Dixie Carter acknowledged Samoa Joe leaving TNA ahead of his last match airing. He had been there for nearly a decade. On a mostly unrelated note, I miss the heel Dixie character. It would take away from the show now for her to be a centerpiece, but she should have a YouTube series or something. She routinely cracked me up in the role.
The following regards a spoiler of a potential new member of the TNA roster: A wrestler under the name Rios teamed with Tigre Uno at the recent Impact Wrestling tapings. Whether this was just a one-time gig remains to be seen. He's a graduate of the Team 3D Academy and works the Florida indie scene.
WWE will induct Kevin Nash under his WWF name of Diesel, since they own the rights to that name. I'm not really sure why they feel the need to do that, but I imagine they'll do a group induction of the nWo that will include Hall and Nash under their real names.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. In addition to the Usos, Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas are also brothers. I'm glad WWE has resisted the temptation to use Wyatt and Dallas together for an angle. I don't really see any reason to put their characters together. I'm intrigued about a Dallas/Tyler Breeze tag team, though.
Dixie Carter acknowledged Samoa Joe leaving TNA ahead of his last match airing. He had been there for nearly a decade. On a mostly unrelated note, I miss the heel Dixie character. It would take away from the show now for her to be a centerpiece, but she should have a YouTube series or something. She routinely cracked me up in the role.
The following regards a spoiler of a potential new member of the TNA roster: A wrestler under the name Rios teamed with Tigre Uno at the recent Impact Wrestling tapings. Whether this was just a one-time gig remains to be seen. He's a graduate of the Team 3D Academy and works the Florida indie scene.
WWE will induct Kevin Nash under his WWF name of Diesel, since they own the rights to that name. I'm not really sure why they feel the need to do that, but I imagine they'll do a group induction of the nWo that will include Hall and Nash under their real names.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
More HoF notes, more WWE Network clearance, Interviews with Bryan/Mickie/Bully Ray/Brie/Rhyno/Y2J, NXT events update, Japanese name to TNA?, Sheamus update, Mania week programming update, WWE tries to make good with Raw fans, another international stop for WWE, and another WWE conference call set
Tatsumi Fujinami will go into the WWE Hall of Fame this year after all, with Ric Flair doing the induction. They've got a pretty full class this year.
Shaw Communications has added WWE Network. More clearance is a good thing for them.
Daniel Bryan talked about the ups and downs of his life during the past year. To say he's been through a lot in a short period of time is an understatement.
Here are highlights from a recent Mickie James interview. I would like to see her get back in the ring, but she obviously has to think of her kid. I would have loved to have seen AJ vs. Mickie a few years back, but I think that ship might have sailed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Shaw Communications has added WWE Network. More clearance is a good thing for them.
Daniel Bryan talked about the ups and downs of his life during the past year. To say he's been through a lot in a short period of time is an understatement.
Here are highlights from a recent Mickie James interview. I would like to see her get back in the ring, but she obviously has to think of her kid. I would have loved to have seen AJ vs. Mickie a few years back, but I think that ship might have sailed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Uso update, another Raw guest, Raw fans asked to change clothes, battle royal update, NXT live event update, new WWE signings, Punk update, ode to wrestling fans, TNA name at Mania weekend, Raw audience, Reigns vs. detractors, and Questions on trainers in the HoF, the men who built MSG, Kerry Von Erich, Christian, Goldust, ROHaitch, Rusev, piracy, and Cena vs. Rock
Jey Uso isn't expected to be 100% by WrestleMania, but he could still be cleared for the show. Hopefully if it's a big tag team turmoil clustermess, he wouldn't have to do much. Honestly, I'm not against there being a big ending to the show with Roman and the Usos as champions. Obviously a lot of people will hate that one, though.
Bill Simmons of ESPN will be a guest commentator at Raw. Will Vince yell at him to talk about what's trending on Twitter, too? Simmons is great at what he does, and has written a number of awesome articles on wrestling at Grantland.
Update: Simmons talked about the appearance.You'd think JBL would be cool with someone with that last name.
A number of fans ringside at Raw dressed as various legends were asked to remove their costumes to avoid distractions to the viewer at home. Honestly, I can buy that argument (and it would hold up legally). I do think it sucks for the people who paid that much to sit front row, though. I don't know if WWE should have moved them somewhere else so they wouldn't be front-and-center or what. They're going to get heat for this no matter what.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Bill Simmons of ESPN will be a guest commentator at Raw. Will Vince yell at him to talk about what's trending on Twitter, too? Simmons is great at what he does, and has written a number of awesome articles on wrestling at Grantland.
Update: Simmons talked about the appearance.You'd think JBL would be cool with someone with that last name.
A number of fans ringside at Raw dressed as various legends were asked to remove their costumes to avoid distractions to the viewer at home. Honestly, I can buy that argument (and it would hold up legally). I do think it sucks for the people who paid that much to sit front row, though. I don't know if WWE should have moved them somewhere else so they wouldn't be front-and-center or what. They're going to get heat for this no matter what.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Lana update, Vince's car found, Interviews with Rhyno/Bret/Bryan/Henry/Zbyszko/Alberto, NXT lineup, notes on upcoming TNA developments, NXT live event note, WWE tag team member injured, celebrities involved in lower-card feud?, TNA audience, top NXT name under the knife, Raw guest host, WM31 guest, what happened after Raw, and Questions on the build to WM31, the Kliq hand symbol, the IC Title ladder match, the cruiserweight title, and PPV revenue
Lana has been off live events and TV to be part of an upcoming movie with Edge. She's got to still be at Mania, right?
Vince McMahon's stolen Bentley has been recovered. You know he plays his theme song on that big sound system. I'm glad he got it back.
Rhyno talked about coming back to WWE and more. I'm glad he's back in the fold helping NXT get to that next level.
Set for this week's NXT from the Arnold Classic:
- Sasha Banks vs. Alexa Bliss
- Tyler Breeze vs. Kalisto
- Charlotte (with Ric Flair) vs. Bayley
- Kevin Owens vs. Alex Riley
I'm hyped to see what they all bring to the table.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Vince McMahon's stolen Bentley has been recovered. You know he plays his theme song on that big sound system. I'm glad he got it back.
Rhyno talked about coming back to WWE and more. I'm glad he's back in the fold helping NXT get to that next level.
Set for this week's NXT from the Arnold Classic:
- Sasha Banks vs. Alexa Bliss
- Tyler Breeze vs. Kalisto
- Charlotte (with Ric Flair) vs. Bayley
- Kevin Owens vs. Alex Riley
I'm hyped to see what they all bring to the table.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, March 16, 2015
Live event notes, TNA return update, where's Gunner, Hogan Q&A, ROH on national TV?, and Questions on Vince's mindset, WWE stockholders, putting Joe with Reigns, adding value to the Network, and other companies running Mania week
FIRST OFF, ALL Y'ALL CATS NEED TO CHECK YER CALENDARS AND TAKE A BIG SWIGGA BEER FOR THE WORKIN' MAN, BECAUSE IT'S STONE COLD DAY OOOHHHHH HHHHEEELLLL YYYYYEEEAAAHHHHH.
Adrian Neville beat Curtis Axel at a live event this weekend. Also, Zack Ryder beat Brad Maddox. I would like to see more from Maddox in the ring given how we didn't get to see much of him in his previous main roster appearances. Neville's hopefully coming to the main roster right after WM31. He's ready from that standpoint. I wonder how a Neville/Zayn team would do?
Goldust and Stardust are still working against each other on live events, so the former isn't out of the picture just yet.
The other set of live events featured Tyler Breeze and Bo Dallas teaming in a loss to the Lucha Dragons, and Sasha Banks in a tag team loss. I'm eager to see some of these NXT names work the main roster. Obviously, they shouldn't all come up at once, but there are some solid names there who could make the transition to the main roster soon.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Adrian Neville beat Curtis Axel at a live event this weekend. Also, Zack Ryder beat Brad Maddox. I would like to see more from Maddox in the ring given how we didn't get to see much of him in his previous main roster appearances. Neville's hopefully coming to the main roster right after WM31. He's ready from that standpoint. I wonder how a Neville/Zayn team would do?
Goldust and Stardust are still working against each other on live events, so the former isn't out of the picture just yet.
The other set of live events featured Tyler Breeze and Bo Dallas teaming in a loss to the Lucha Dragons, and Sasha Banks in a tag team loss. I'm eager to see some of these NXT names work the main roster. Obviously, they shouldn't all come up at once, but there are some solid names there who could make the transition to the main roster soon.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Potential TNA names, Wolves update, Interviews with Stone Cold/Henry, another big Mania entrance planned, Summerslam sells out, a WWE return, a cameo at NXT, and Questions on the Dudleys, title belts in WWE, announcing Flair, Sting in WWE, and TNA's Brittany
The former Hurricane and Homicide were in Orlando recently, leading to speculation they'll be in TNA in the near future. I'd like to see both of them if they can still contribute in a meaningful way.
In regards to Eddie Edwards being injured, TNA has stripped The Wolves of the tag team championships. I'm guessing we'll see The Revolution and The Hardys feud for them for a while.
Stone Cold Steve Austin talked about C.M. Punk, and some other cats he thinks would work out in MMA. The angle between the straight-edge "best in the world" Punk going against the beer-drinking legend writes itself. Hence all the fan pitches. I wonder how Bret Hart and Chris Benoit would have done in MMA. What about Tyson Kidd? Lance Storm? Some interesting hypotheticals to play with.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
In regards to Eddie Edwards being injured, TNA has stripped The Wolves of the tag team championships. I'm guessing we'll see The Revolution and The Hardys feud for them for a while.
Stone Cold Steve Austin talked about C.M. Punk, and some other cats he thinks would work out in MMA. The angle between the straight-edge "best in the world" Punk going against the beer-drinking legend writes itself. Hence all the fan pitches. I wonder how Bret Hart and Chris Benoit would have done in MMA. What about Tyson Kidd? Lance Storm? Some interesting hypotheticals to play with.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, March 14, 2015
DeMott fires back, new TNA set, more TNA signings, another big charity, another TNA return in the works?, big Reigns interview, Smackdown audience, and Questions on Piper as WCW Champion, Alex Riley, Brutus Beefcake, pushing Cena, and Extreme Rising
Bill DeMott responded to the controversy surrounding him on Twitter. Some of what he said was recapped here. In order:
- Whether DeMott has an issue with Prichard has NOTHING to do with Prichard's thoughts on NXT and the accusations.
- DeMott's kind of, sort of right about the Stinkface incident. It was something the talents voted to do rather than something he forced them to do. Still, it doesn't look so good for him to go through with it.
- You don't have to be racist or homophobic to make those kinds of remarks.
Bob Ryder posted pictures of the new TNA set. I'm not really a fan. I'm glad they've got something more creative than WWE's set, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Whether DeMott has an issue with Prichard has NOTHING to do with Prichard's thoughts on NXT and the accusations.
- DeMott's kind of, sort of right about the Stinkface incident. It was something the talents voted to do rather than something he forced them to do. Still, it doesn't look so good for him to go through with it.
- You don't have to be racist or homophobic to make those kinds of remarks.
Bob Ryder posted pictures of the new TNA set. I'm not really a fan. I'm glad they've got something more creative than WWE's set, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 3/13/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, March 13, 2015
Former NXT trainer on DeMott, assorted WWE/Mania press, NXT live event updates, ECW original says goodbye, Interview with Bushwhacker Luke, more TNA re-signings, graphic content on Impact, upcoming TNA match set, TNA live events update, and Questions on Goldust vs. Stardust, WM31 weekend, WWE vs. Bullet Club, Santino, and Punk
Dr. Tom Prichard weighed in on the Bill DeMott allegations. I'm glad he spoke out. WWE should sign him back, since they never should have replaced him with DeMott in the first place.
WWE will have a big "Superstore" for WrestleMania 31, with several WWE names appearing. I can only imagine how many different things they'll have the Mania logo on this year.
WWE is looking to have NXT live events at the former ECW Arena in May, during the same week as some NJPW-ROH shows. I'm guessing they hope to get that same audience to stick around and watch WWE's "indie" shows (featuring some former ROH names). It will be interesting to see if any wrestlers from one set of shows attend the others.
Update: WWE would be running those shows in the same time period as the Payback PPV in Maryland. That's a good plan.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE will have a big "Superstore" for WrestleMania 31, with several WWE names appearing. I can only imagine how many different things they'll have the Mania logo on this year.
WWE is looking to have NXT live events at the former ECW Arena in May, during the same week as some NJPW-ROH shows. I'm guessing they hope to get that same audience to stick around and watch WWE's "indie" shows (featuring some former ROH names). It will be interesting to see if any wrestlers from one set of shows attend the others.
Update: WWE would be running those shows in the same time period as the Payback PPV in Maryland. That's a good plan.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Interviews with HBK/Alberto, assorted WWE press, TNA roster expanding, Eden note, TNA contracts renewed, Taker update, another Network show, and Questions on booking Reigns, TNA ratings, Sting vs. HHH, Vince vs. the crowds, and terrible finishers
Shawn Michaels talked about never returning to the ring and more. He's earned a life after wrestling. I suspect Undertaker and Sting will be joining him in that kind of life in about 13 months.
Alberto El Patron talked about Rey Mysterio joining LU and more. AAA and LU definitely have opportunities to do big things in 2015 and beyond. I don't know how far they can get on El Rey Network, but I do think they're getting a good amount of buzz from the moves they're making.
The Phoenix Suns had a WWE night. WM31 is just on the horizon!
The Rochester RazorSharks will have a WWE night, as well. I'm pretty sure they don't actually have sharks there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Alberto El Patron talked about Rey Mysterio joining LU and more. AAA and LU definitely have opportunities to do big things in 2015 and beyond. I don't know how far they can get on El Rey Network, but I do think they're getting a good amount of buzz from the moves they're making.
The Phoenix Suns had a WWE night. WM31 is just on the horizon!
The Rochester RazorSharks will have a WWE night, as well. I'm pretty sure they don't actually have sharks there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
WWE DVD notes, Warrior Award press release, note on Taker, more 2K15 DLC, WWE looking to trademark gesture, WWE scouting the indies, Interview with Bryan, Miz vs. airline, Wiz on Raw performance, Raw audience, new TNA contract, TNA audience, and Questions on putting Reigns with Heyman, Gail in the WWE HoF, veteran Divas in NXT, spoiling your own show, and AJ Lee's abilities
WWE has released a new Chris Jericho DVD, as well as their Scooby Doo DVD. I'm very curious to see how the latter does!
WWE put out a press release on the first-ever Warrior Award. That's great of them.
Update: They got press for doing so. I think it's a fantastic idea.
The Undertaker's message to Bray Wyatt on Raw referenced a Johnny Cash song. I suspect that will come into play with Taker's entrance this year.
WWE 2L15 now has DLC for Emma, The Ascension, and JBL for an NXT pack, so you can remember how good those wrestlers were before they hit the main roster and WWE had no idea what to do with them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE put out a press release on the first-ever Warrior Award. That's great of them.
Update: They got press for doing so. I think it's a fantastic idea.
The Undertaker's message to Bray Wyatt on Raw referenced a Johnny Cash song. I suspect that will come into play with Taker's entrance this year.
WWE 2L15 now has DLC for Emma, The Ascension, and JBL for an NXT pack, so you can remember how good those wrestlers were before they hit the main roster and WWE had no idea what to do with them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Interviews with Morrison/Banks+Graves, note on DeMott, special WWE magazines, TNA taping schedule set, who DA likes in TNA, Impact lineup, GFW update, another big wrestling promotion?, NXT updates, more on WWE charity, Matt Hardy update, WM31 match official, more from JR on DeMott, what happened after Raw, and Questions on Nash headlining, matches in the HoF, turning Reigns heel, Vince's booking, and Rock vs. Reigns
The former John Morrison talked about Lucha Underground and more. One of the things people like most about LU is it not trying to be WWE on a smaller scale. The wrestlers have new characters and exist in their own universe.
As expected, a lot of wrestlers were talking about Bill DeMott's resignation this weekend. It's a changing of the guard in NXT.
WWE will have some special magazines through Topix. So, WWE Magazine is done, but we'll still have some WWE magazines.
TNA will be taping new episodes of Impact Wrestling this week in Universal Studios. They've canceled their April tapings, but plan to add new tapings in May. I assume this just means they're taping enough stuff this week to get them up to May. It will be interesting to see where their stories go from here.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
As expected, a lot of wrestlers were talking about Bill DeMott's resignation this weekend. It's a changing of the guard in NXT.
WWE will have some special magazines through Topix. So, WWE Magazine is done, but we'll still have some WWE magazines.
TNA will be taping new episodes of Impact Wrestling this week in Universal Studios. They've canceled their April tapings, but plan to add new tapings in May. I assume this just means they're taping enough stuff this week to get them up to May. It will be interesting to see where their stories go from here.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, March 9, 2015
NXT event notes, JR on DeMott, NXT names put over, Albert and DeMott talk about NXT changes, and Questions on future Hall of Famers, Kane/Big Show retiring, Taker vs. Wyatt, Taker vs. Sting, and changing NXT
Here's a report from NXT at the Arnold Classic. I can see where people are comparing NXT to ECW. It's not a perfect comparison, but I think there are some important similarities.
Jim Ross gave his thoughts on the Bill DeMott controversy. That's pretty much the stance I expected him to take. I appreciate his insight nonetheless.
Hulk Hogan, Jimmy Hart, and Triple H took a picture with Kevin Owens and Sasha Banks. Both those NXT names should have big futures in WWE.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jim Ross gave his thoughts on the Bill DeMott controversy. That's pretty much the stance I expected him to take. I appreciate his insight nonetheless.
Hulk Hogan, Jimmy Hart, and Triple H took a picture with Kevin Owens and Sasha Banks. Both those NXT names should have big futures in WWE.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
NXT DVD update, Galloway "stands up for wrestling", TNA lineup change, more on DeMott, HoF update, ECW original undergoing surgery, more on NXT live event, HHH works with Arnold, WWE live event notes, and Questions on Taker vs. Wyatt, Chilly Willy, Jim Crockett, and bad wrestling venues
WWE is planning an NXT DVD to drop later this year. The brand keeps growing, which is great! I hope they really build something special there and it keeps helping the talents involved be ready for the main roster.
Drew Galloway has been "taking over" TNA's social media accounts this weekend for a "#StandUpForWrestling" campaign. That's kind of goofy, but maybe it gets people interested in the product. I'm really glad Galloway is there. The product as a whole is really worth watching lately.
Destination America has moved this weekend's edition of Impact Unlocked to debut before next Friday's new edition of Impact Wrestling. I'm not sure that's the direction they should be going. The content involved will be a week old by then, and it will be time to move toward the next show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Drew Galloway has been "taking over" TNA's social media accounts this weekend for a "#StandUpForWrestling" campaign. That's kind of goofy, but maybe it gets people interested in the product. I'm really glad Galloway is there. The product as a whole is really worth watching lately.
Destination America has moved this weekend's edition of Impact Unlocked to debut before next Friday's new edition of Impact Wrestling. I'm not sure that's the direction they should be going. The content involved will be a week old by then, and it will be time to move toward the next show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
NXT taping notes, Dreamer vs. PPV pirates, another honor for Cena, DeMott resigns, Smackdown audience, NXT live event results, and Questions on Reigns' drug test, NXT is Jericho, WWE tape libraries, Taker vs. Bray, the Network, and Joe in TNA
WWE taped the March 16 episode of NXT at the Arnold Classic. I'm glad some of that material will air soon.
Cesaro vs. Adrian Neville was taped for a future DVD. I bet that match was outstanding. Hopefully we're seeing it on the main roster in a few months.
Tommy Dreamer talked about piracy of his recent iPPV. I know we all want to live in a world of free pro wrestling and movies and all that, but the reality is this is how a lot of people make a living. There's a big difference between "sticking it to Vince" for not pushing Bryan or whatever compared to taking money from the people on the indie scene putting their bodies on the line and doing a lot of work for minimal return. I honestly find the mentality of piracy really sickening and unfair to the people who actually make the content. Is it going to affect Vince or Dana White or someone else who's worth millions of dollars? Not to a large degree. But it definitely negatively affects people lower on the food chain. People who love wrestling and movies and all that as much as we do.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Cesaro vs. Adrian Neville was taped for a future DVD. I bet that match was outstanding. Hopefully we're seeing it on the main roster in a few months.
Tommy Dreamer talked about piracy of his recent iPPV. I know we all want to live in a world of free pro wrestling and movies and all that, but the reality is this is how a lot of people make a living. There's a big difference between "sticking it to Vince" for not pushing Bryan or whatever compared to taking money from the people on the indie scene putting their bodies on the line and doing a lot of work for minimal return. I honestly find the mentality of piracy really sickening and unfair to the people who actually make the content. Is it going to affect Vince or Dana White or someone else who's worth millions of dollars? Not to a large degree. But it definitely negatively affects people lower on the food chain. People who love wrestling and movies and all that as much as we do.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Superstars and Impact Wrestling Reax - 3/6/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Superstars and Impact Wrestling.
Friday, March 6, 2015
Query on TNA's roster in 2015, Summerslam location confirmed, Russo site partner speaks out, WWE book deal, TNA expands to another country, even more on DeMott, health update on former announcer, Interviews with Titus/Cornette/Sasha/Ziggler, more on Arnold Classic, training for the indies, NXT results, Questions on Zeb, Punk chants, Madusa in the Hall, the Andre battle royal, and the WWE Network
First up, a query:
1. The TNA roster in 2015 definitely seems to be shrinking, at least as far as recognizable names who have been there a while. It's tough to predict who will be added to the roster (maybe Mickie James, on an official basis?), but I think there's a pretty good chance it's the last year there for Kurt Angle. I imagine we'll see some other departures, too, but that happens pretty much every year.
Summerslam 2015 will be in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. If someone was expecting a big change, sorry. They already had other shows in the area booked.
Vince Russo's partner for his website talked about that recent situation. Let it serve as a warning about not getting contracts in writing.
WWE will now be working with ECW Press for book releases. Pretty appropriate given the name!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. The TNA roster in 2015 definitely seems to be shrinking, at least as far as recognizable names who have been there a while. It's tough to predict who will be added to the roster (maybe Mickie James, on an official basis?), but I think there's a pretty good chance it's the last year there for Kurt Angle. I imagine we'll see some other departures, too, but that happens pretty much every year.
Summerslam 2015 will be in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. If someone was expecting a big change, sorry. They already had other shows in the area booked.
Vince Russo's partner for his website talked about that recent situation. Let it serve as a warning about not getting contracts in writing.
WWE will now be working with ECW Press for book releases. Pretty appropriate given the name!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Stewart puts WWE over, old HoF ceremonies on Network, more criticism of DeMott, Interviews with FBI/HHH/Blue Pants, more Andre battle royal entrants, WWE HQ guest, next NXT Title match set, and Questions on Rock working with Roman, WWE pay vs. the indies, Sting vs. HHH, Goldust vs. Stardust, and Rick Rude in the Hall
Jon Stewart put WWE over at the beginning of "The Daily Show" following Raw. His appearance has been very well received.
WWE put together looks back at the 1994, 1995, and 1996 Hall of Fame ceremonies, as well as the induction of Andre The Giant in 1993, for the Network. There's only so much they could do with that old footage, so this is pretty much what we're getting. I'm glad to see it.
Former NXT talent Brandon Traven released a letter he wrote in 2013 criticizing Bill DeMott. There has certainly been a lot of heat on DeMott's training based on all the negative talk of it by people who were there.
Chris Jericho put out a Tweet endorsing Bill DeMott, but deleted it. Interesting.
Ethan Carter III, who worked in NXT as Derrick Bateman, also put out a Tweet on the situation. This definitely sounds like something worth investigating by an outside agency.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE put together looks back at the 1994, 1995, and 1996 Hall of Fame ceremonies, as well as the induction of Andre The Giant in 1993, for the Network. There's only so much they could do with that old footage, so this is pretty much what we're getting. I'm glad to see it.
Former NXT talent Brandon Traven released a letter he wrote in 2013 criticizing Bill DeMott. There has certainly been a lot of heat on DeMott's training based on all the negative talk of it by people who were there.
Chris Jericho put out a Tweet endorsing Bill DeMott, but deleted it. Interesting.
Ethan Carter III, who worked in NXT as Derrick Bateman, also put out a Tweet on the situation. This definitely sounds like something worth investigating by an outside agency.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
What happened after Raw, Interview with WCCW announcer/Stevie Ray/HBK, TNA audience, new battle royal participant, WWE HoF updates, Edge working with WWE again, serious allegations against NXT head trainer, Raw audience, and Questions on TNA pay vs. the indies, podcasts, giving Reigns a manager, moving Summerslam, and keeping Orton heel
After Raw, the team of Cena, Reigns, Ziggler, and Ambrose beat the team of Big Show, Kane, Rollins, and Wyatt. Interesting Orton wasn't involved. Maybe they didn't want to give any hints of which direction his character's going?
Bill Mercer talked about WCCW and the Von Erichs. The story of that family remains tragic.
The most recent episode of Impact Wrestling dropped to 366,000 viewers in the 8 p.m. timeslot. That's not a good direction for them. I can see why people question if they're still the top promotion behind WWE.
Zack Ryder is now part of the Andre the Giant battle royal. I don't see him winning, but there's still hope, right?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Bill Mercer talked about WCCW and the Von Erichs. The story of that family remains tragic.
The most recent episode of Impact Wrestling dropped to 366,000 viewers in the 8 p.m. timeslot. That's not a good direction for them. I can see why people question if they're still the top promotion behind WWE.
Zack Ryder is now part of the Andre the Giant battle royal. I don't see him winning, but there's still hope, right?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Hogan MSG banner notes, Y2J update, big WWE charity, rumored WM31 match, Stewart press release, another guest star on Raw, post-WM lineup, HoFer pretty much confirmed, and Questions on Rikishi, Owens vs. Zayn on the main roster, booking Bray vs. Taker, Booker on commentary, and Bull Dempsey
The banner hanging in MSG for Hulk Hogan Appreciation Night wasn't there at the following night's Knicks game. Interesting! I wonder what that indicates.
Update: WWE confirmed the banner was just part of that show. They should have a Bruno banner at MSG.
Chris Jericho's deal to work live events for WWE is believed to have expired. I'm a little surprised he never appeared on TV/PPV, but this way it will mean more when he does!
Here are details on an upcoming WWE charity. Those are some pretty amazing perks!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: WWE confirmed the banner was just part of that show. They should have a Bruno banner at MSG.
Chris Jericho's deal to work live events for WWE is believed to have expired. I'm a little surprised he never appeared on TV/PPV, but this way it will mean more when he does!
Here are details on an upcoming WWE charity. Those are some pretty amazing perks!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, March 2, 2015
WWE live event reports, Brock-UFC update, Punk note, more backstage TNA departures, Russo website update, and Questions on uniting the U.S./IC Title, WWE's board of directors, Cody working with Bray, Vince retiring, and giving Divas a chance
Here are two reports from live events this weekend. I'd love to see more of Harper vs. Jericho.
UFC head Dana White commented on Brock Lesnar appearing at his show. He more or less stirred the pot of the current WWE Champion potentially returning to the octagon. I don't think Brock could really sign any kind of deal to go to UFC until his current WWE deal ends at WM31, so it's not like Dana was going to say anything concrete on that front.
WWE has added all Hall of Fame ceremonies from 2004 onward to the WWE Network. The 1994, 1995, and 1996 shows have never been broadcast in their entirety, so who knows if they'll end up there. I hope so for posterity's sake.
C.M. Punk appeared with cameras at a recent comic-con appearance, likely for a piece on his transition to UFC. He and Brock are in two very different weight classes, so we won't see them compete there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
UFC head Dana White commented on Brock Lesnar appearing at his show. He more or less stirred the pot of the current WWE Champion potentially returning to the octagon. I don't think Brock could really sign any kind of deal to go to UFC until his current WWE deal ends at WM31, so it's not like Dana was going to say anything concrete on that front.
WWE has added all Hall of Fame ceremonies from 2004 onward to the WWE Network. The 1994, 1995, and 1996 shows have never been broadcast in their entirety, so who knows if they'll end up there. I hope so for posterity's sake.
C.M. Punk appeared with cameras at a recent comic-con appearance, likely for a piece on his transition to UFC. He and Brock are in two very different weight classes, so we won't see them compete there.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
WWE live event notes, Von Erichs profiled, Interview with Dreamer, NXT names working post-WM tour, NXT action figures, Russo loses website, Lesnar update, and Questions on a new kind of ladder match, Cena beating Rusev, the Bushwhackers, reuniting the Wyatts, and Bryan vs. Joe
Here's a report from Hulk Hogan Appreciation Night in MSG. I was hoping for another cameo or two (Paul Orndorff? Roddy Piper?), but no complaints about what they did for Hogan.
ESPN's piece on the Von Erichs is now online. Theirs is a story really worth telling.
Tommy Dreamer talked about a number of topics:
- Of course Dreamer lost! He always loses!
- Get a tripod or something, guys. Jesus.
- Cool to hear the process behind booking a show.
- What about Rey Mysterio at HOH8? I don't know if Dreamer has that kind of pull or money.
- Is anyone else shocked he made a reference to McDonald's?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
ESPN's piece on the Von Erichs is now online. Theirs is a story really worth telling.
Tommy Dreamer talked about a number of topics:
- Of course Dreamer lost! He always loses!
- Get a tripod or something, guys. Jesus.
- Cool to hear the process behind booking a show.
- What about Rey Mysterio at HOH8? I don't know if Dreamer has that kind of pull or money.
- Is anyone else shocked he made a reference to McDonald's?
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
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