John Cena marked his 13th anniversary from debuting in WWE. They should have him rip off Taz's old T-shirts next.
Nikki Bella is now the second-longest reigning Divas' Champion ever, which to me means she can go ahead and lose it at Battleground or Summerslam to Charlotte. She's already had her shine.
USA Today looked at The Rock's surprise appearance at a WWE live event. I'm glad he's acknowledging his wrestling roots after so many years of focusing on Hollywood. I understand wanting to break away so he's not just "the wrestling guy who acts," but there were definitely cries of him "abandoning" the WWE fans.
Here's a piece looking at the career of Buddy Landel. I wonder if we'll ever see another Nature Boy. AJ Styles doesn't count.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
More talents working GFW shows, TNA contract rumorkillers, and Questions on Wyatt vs. Reigns, KOTM, Slick in the HoF, the new X-Division Championship, and Sid in the HoF
Santana Garrett (formerly Brittany in TNA), Colt Cabana, Cherry Bomb, and Johnny Gargano are booked for upcoming GFW live events. It looks like GFW continues to test out their roster ahead of their TV tapings. I expect we'll see people rotate in and out when the company gets enough momentum to become a more stable entity.
For unknown reasons, it was reported by several entities that Awesome Kong and Taryn Terrell had negotiated their releases from TNA. Both talents, as well as TNA executive Bob Ryder, took to Twitter to deny this. Kong's contract runs through December, while Terrell's runs through next March. We'll see where things go in the months to come. They're two of the most-pushed acts in the company, so it would hurt to lose them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
For unknown reasons, it was reported by several entities that Awesome Kong and Taryn Terrell had negotiated their releases from TNA. Both talents, as well as TNA executive Bob Ryder, took to Twitter to deny this. Kong's contract runs through December, while Terrell's runs through next March. We'll see where things go in the months to come. They're two of the most-pushed acts in the company, so it would hurt to lose them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, June 28, 2015
WWE and NXT live event notes, two (more) former World Champions departing TNA, Aries contract update, Balor reunites with the BC, Raw gets a replay, Rock makes surprise appearance, big Angle health update, new TNA Hall of Famer announced, Karen on TNA return, and Questions on TNA's taping schedule, the go-home show for Slammiversary, King What's Up, and Freddy in Memphis
Here are results from this weekend's NXT live event. Good to see new names being added to things. I hope Uhaa Nation and Solomon Crowe step up on the TV show in the months to come.
James Storm and Magnus have asked for and received their releases from TNA, effective right after Slammiversary. I would assume Mickie James is leaving as well. They've been a big part of the company's storylines lately, so that's really going to affect things going forward. Of course, Storm and Magnus are both former TNA Champions. Storm has been part of the company literally since the first show. It's almost hard to imagine the company without him in particular. Both are very talented, and I think wherever they each go next will be fortunate to have them. I hope WWE at least considers the duo (and Mickie as a trainer and/or agent?).
Update: Both men have opportunities for work outside the company. With TNA running fewer shows, they wanted to be able to pick up more regular bookings. It's entirely possible they continue to work for TNA at TV tapings, but they will be free agents and can also work elsewhere.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
James Storm and Magnus have asked for and received their releases from TNA, effective right after Slammiversary. I would assume Mickie James is leaving as well. They've been a big part of the company's storylines lately, so that's really going to affect things going forward. Of course, Storm and Magnus are both former TNA Champions. Storm has been part of the company literally since the first show. It's almost hard to imagine the company without him in particular. Both are very talented, and I think wherever they each go next will be fortunate to have them. I hope WWE at least considers the duo (and Mickie as a trainer and/or agent?).
Update: Both men have opportunities for work outside the company. With TNA running fewer shows, they wanted to be able to pick up more regular bookings. It's entirely possible they continue to work for TNA at TV tapings, but they will be free agents and can also work elsewhere.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Superstars Reax - 6/26/15, Rowan update, former World Champion re-signs with WWE, TE note, Uso update, Interview with Jarrett, Smackdown audience, KOTM update, Raw's main event, more on Jarretts-TNA-GFW, more pay issues in TNA, and Questions on the KOTM match, Chyna in the HoF, Molly Holly, and Audrey Marie
Superstars:
- Lucha Dragons vs. Bo/Slater:
Bo's gimmick remains entertaining. He's a good contrast with the high-flyers.
The Lucha Dragons are a really good team. They don't have the mic skills/charisma of PTP, but they're a good team.
- Harper vs. Cesaro:
This match is really heating up. Both men are good performers, and I hope they both see more gold in the future.
Good ending. It's great to see people with this level of experience and a different style in WWE.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Lucha Dragons vs. Bo/Slater:
Bo's gimmick remains entertaining. He's a good contrast with the high-flyers.
The Lucha Dragons are a really good team. They don't have the mic skills/charisma of PTP, but they're a good team.
- Harper vs. Cesaro:
This match is really heating up. Both men are good performers, and I hope they both see more gold in the future.
Good ending. It's great to see people with this level of experience and a different style in WWE.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, June 26, 2015
TWA remembered, Kidd under the knife, Interview with first elimination/Jake Roberts, WWE in Japan note, Young upset, another former champion leaves TNA, Jarretts-TNA-GFW updates, matches for next ROH iPPV, New Day does a good deal, another match set for next week's Impact, TNA vs. ROH Week 4, NXT at Comic-Con, KOTM match filled out, Bruno health update, and Questions on the Jarretts returning, pushing the Bellas, NXT in NYC, and Too Cool in the HoF
The former promoter of Tri-State Wrestling Alliance talked about memories of that time. Some important names made their way through that territory.
Tyson Kidd's surgery was successful. That's good to hear. I hope he doesn't miss too much time.
The first contestant dropped from Tough Enough spoke. It was the pretty standard "I'm going to try to make it again" kind of stuff. We'll see.
WWE's July 4 special for the WWE Network will also air on TV in Japan. That should be a big show!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tyson Kidd's surgery was successful. That's good to hear. I hope he doesn't miss too much time.
The first contestant dropped from Tough Enough spoke. It was the pretty standard "I'm going to try to make it again" kind of stuff. We'll see.
WWE's July 4 special for the WWE Network will also air on TV in Japan. That should be a big show!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 6/25/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Tough Enough audience, Jarrett on TNA return, ROH TV Title update, Slammiversary lineup, and Questions on Punk and Hogan's Twitter war, GFW, Dusty finishes, Brock as champion, and Chyna in the HoF
Tough Enough got 1.21 million viewers in its first week. That's really down from the 2011 version. I'm not sure what exactly that says about WWE in 2015, but it's definitely not a positive.
Jeff Jarrett posted a video about his TNA return. I assume this is just something to give him a big send-off and put him in the TNA Hall of Fame, but it's still a pleasant surprise. How many of the people he was talking to backstage will end up working for him by the end of the year?
ROH will have a tournament to declare the new #1 Contender to the TV Championship. The opening round matches, leading to an elimination match in the final, are:
- Christopher Daniels vs. Mark Briscoe
- Matt Taven vs. Bobby Fish
- Frankie Kazarian vs. ACH.
Lethal vs. the other Briscoe would make sense. Most of those guys are in tag teams anyway...
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jeff Jarrett posted a video about his TNA return. I assume this is just something to give him a big send-off and put him in the TNA Hall of Fame, but it's still a pleasant surprise. How many of the people he was talking to backstage will end up working for him by the end of the year?
ROH will have a tournament to declare the new #1 Contender to the TV Championship. The opening round matches, leading to an elimination match in the final, are:
- Christopher Daniels vs. Mark Briscoe
- Matt Taven vs. Bobby Fish
- Frankie Kazarian vs. ACH.
Lethal vs. the other Briscoe would make sense. Most of those guys are in tag teams anyway...
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Query on TNA attendance, Noble update, post-Raw match, new Chyna video, new Slammiversary match, Buddy Landel remembered, Aries note, Interviews with King Mo/Hogan, Raw audience, Slammiversary live in another country, TNA helps out DA, and Questions on ROH re-runs, Show retiring, the Bellas, WWE.com, and "burials"
First up, a query:
1. I don't know how many people attend TNA's tapings these days, but the soundstages they use seat between 900 and 1,100.
Jamie Noble either broke or fractured three ribs during the angle that closed Raw. I wonder what this means for the future of The Authority. There's probably another name or two they could use as a "stooge" in Noble's place. How about Brad Maddox or David Otunga?
After Raw, the team of Cena/Reigns/Ambrose beat the team of Rollins/Owens/Kane. That's much more compelling than a Cena vs. Kane singles match.
Chyna (now her legal name) put out a video asking to bury the hatchet with Vince and Triple H. I don't know the likelihood of that happening, although it's probably in all of their best interests to put the past behind them and move forward to have healthy lives.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. I don't know how many people attend TNA's tapings these days, but the soundstages they use seat between 900 and 1,100.
Jamie Noble either broke or fractured three ribs during the angle that closed Raw. I wonder what this means for the future of The Authority. There's probably another name or two they could use as a "stooge" in Noble's place. How about Brad Maddox or David Otunga?
After Raw, the team of Cena/Reigns/Ambrose beat the team of Rollins/Owens/Kane. That's much more compelling than a Cena vs. Kane singles match.
Chyna (now her legal name) put out a video asking to bury the hatchet with Vince and Triple H. I don't know the likelihood of that happening, although it's probably in all of their best interests to put the past behind them and move forward to have healthy lives.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
BITW notes, two territory names pass, Interviews with Hogan+Paige/WWE exec, TNA release updates, Lawsuit against WWE dropped, two more WWE injuries, Kidd update, WWE trademark news, and Questions on using Hogan and Austin at WM32, Joe's NXT song, Stardust's future, TNA dropping to one hour, and Reigns' push
ROH booker Delirious was in a car accident before Best in the World, and arrived at the show late. That could have been a disaster. I assume they all knew who was going over and all before then.
Jay Lethal is expected to hold both championships going forward. Interesting choice.
Nick Jackson banged up his ankle last weekend, and both Moose and Michael Elgin were limping after Saturday's taping. I don't see how they all do it.
Early ROH names Deranged and Azrieal were at Friday's PPV, while former WWE Creative member Kevin Eck was at the following TV. No word on any of them coming in.
Update: Anthony Greene was at TV tapings, too.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jay Lethal is expected to hold both championships going forward. Interesting choice.
Nick Jackson banged up his ankle last weekend, and both Moose and Michael Elgin were limping after Saturday's taping. I don't see how they all do it.
Early ROH names Deranged and Azrieal were at Friday's PPV, while former WWE Creative member Kevin Eck was at the following TV. No word on any of them coming in.
Update: Anthony Greene was at TV tapings, too.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, June 22, 2015
NXT and WWE live event notes, what Kaitlyn's up to now, NXT preview, another TNA release, and Questions on Dalton Castle, Gunner-WWE, Wyatt vs. Reigns, Andy Leavine, and Sasha Banks
Here are results from the most recent NXT live event. It's good to see some new names in the mix. Hopefully we'll see some of them on the TV show soon.
Brad Maddox, with something of a new look and gimmick, lost to Jack Swagger on live events this weekend. They could put him on the NXT show if they can't make use of him on the main roster. He's really been lost in the shuffle for quite some time now.
Former WWE Diva Kaitlyn's new business was profiled. It's a shame we're not seeing her work with some of the newer names, but she's probably much happier now than when she was a wrestler.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Brad Maddox, with something of a new look and gimmick, lost to Jack Swagger on live events this weekend. They could put him on the NXT show if they can't make use of him on the main roster. He's really been lost in the shuffle for quite some time now.
Former WWE Diva Kaitlyn's new business was profiled. It's a shame we're not seeing her work with some of the newer names, but she's probably much happier now than when she was a wrestler.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
HoFer at Bellator, Interviews with Hogan+Paige/Bret Hart, ROH dark match with EVOLVE star, and Questions on AJ retiring, kicking out of finishers, Dusty's influence, and fixing Bray
Road Warrior Animal accompanied Ken Shamrock for his most recent Bellator fight. That's pretty cool.
Hulk Hogan and Paige did a Q&A. I'm glad they do financial planning classes in the performance center now. It's really important for young people making a lot of money quickly.
Former EVOLVE Champion AR Fox worked a dark match at the most recent ROH taping, naturally leading to speculation of him going there. ROH's new TV presence is almost certainly going to boost them as far as being able to sign talents.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Hulk Hogan and Paige did a Q&A. I'm glad they do financial planning classes in the performance center now. It's really important for young people making a lot of money quickly.
Former EVOLVE Champion AR Fox worked a dark match at the most recent ROH taping, naturally leading to speculation of him going there. ROH's new TV presence is almost certainly going to boost them as far as being able to sign talents.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Superstars Reax - 6/19/15, new match for Slammiversary, potential WWE DVDs, more on Don West, TNA loses a TV partner, Interview with Nidia, Smackdown audience, more between NJPW and ROH, TNA departure, what happened after BITW, and Questions on former business competitors in the HoF, the Freebird rule, Foley in Cleveland, and the next NXT Champion
Superstars:
Bo's doing better than I expected in this match. He's still not a great wrestler by any means, and he's working with a very good hand in Cesaro, but I think he's improved.
That was a pretty cool ending. I hope Cesaro's not stuck as a singles guy for too long, but I'm sure he's capable.
Fun three-team match so far. WWE's tag team division's pretty solid right now other than Kidd and Jey being out.
That match really picked up at the end. Everyone worked hard. It's good to see the division repaired when it wasn't too long ago tag teams barely meant anything. I hope WWE keeps this direction up.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Bo's doing better than I expected in this match. He's still not a great wrestler by any means, and he's working with a very good hand in Cesaro, but I think he's improved.
That was a pretty cool ending. I hope Cesaro's not stuck as a singles guy for too long, but I'm sure he's capable.
Fun three-team match so far. WWE's tag team division's pretty solid right now other than Kidd and Jey being out.
That match really picked up at the end. Everyone worked hard. It's good to see the division repaired when it wasn't too long ago tag teams barely meant anything. I hope WWE keeps this direction up.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, June 19, 2015
Interviews with Maria/Adam Cole/Lashley/Jarrett/Ryback, more Dusty remembrances, live event notes, assorted notes, TNA and ROH audiences, Tough Enough note, NXT taping dark match, former TNA name to GFW?, and Questions on WCW PPVs, an NXT invasion, wrestlers mixing with politics, Sandow, and LeFort
Maria and Adam Cole talked ROH:
- The story at the time was that Maria wanted to do a fashion line. WWE wanted ownership of it, since they could argue it would be more successful because of Maria being on WWE TV. Needless to day, the two sides didn't come to an agreement on that.
- Since the business is a work, "winning" a title is just a sign of the company having faith in you to portray the role of champion, unless it's a "thank you" reign like a lifetime achievement award. That said, it's definitely impressive to have.
- I don't think they're actually in 57 million additional homes, as some of those homes already had ROH on local TV. It's definitely a big step up and into some new markets, though.
- There are definitely people who have wanted to see Cole go to WWE/NXT. It could still happen down the line.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- The story at the time was that Maria wanted to do a fashion line. WWE wanted ownership of it, since they could argue it would be more successful because of Maria being on WWE TV. Needless to day, the two sides didn't come to an agreement on that.
- Since the business is a work, "winning" a title is just a sign of the company having faith in you to portray the role of champion, unless it's a "thank you" reign like a lifetime achievement award. That said, it's definitely impressive to have.
- I don't think they're actually in 57 million additional homes, as some of those homes already had ROH on local TV. It's definitely a big step up and into some new markets, though.
- There are definitely people who have wanted to see Cole go to WWE/NXT. It could still happen down the line.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 6/18/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Smackdown dark matches, HoFer in the hospital, new HHH song?, WWE press, Chyna update, Cody's eulogy, and Questions on the Bellas, PPVs, Cena's wrestling ability, Eva Marie, and Dusty angles
Before WWE taped Main Event and Smackdown, Brad Maddox lost to Zack Ryder. Talk about a guy they're not really utilizing. At least have him work NXT if you don't have any ideas for him on the main roster. I think he'd be a good manager for the right act.
After Smackdown, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns beat Seth Rollins and Bray Wyatt. I suspect we're not too far from Wyatt challenging for the WWE Championship. I think we could easily see Reigns vs. Wyatt in the fall.
WWE Hall of Famer Blackjack Mulligan is in critical condition after having a heart attack while going in for brain surgery. He's the grandfather of Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
After Smackdown, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns beat Seth Rollins and Bray Wyatt. I suspect we're not too far from Wyatt challenging for the WWE Championship. I think we could easily see Reigns vs. Wyatt in the fall.
WWE Hall of Famer Blackjack Mulligan is in critical condition after having a heart attack while going in for brain surgery. He's the grandfather of Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Interview with Daniels, Chyna note, what happened after Raw, Slammiversary notes, TNA title gets makeover, Owens fallout, Dusty press, Raw audience, and Questions on Kidd's injury, how good Owens is, and Brock vs. Austin
Christopher Daniels talked about the upcoming match involving Samoa Joe and more:
- I'll take Daniels' word for it, but I would have thought for sure they'd have all been in a match together during their TNA runs. On that note, the idea of four people who have been champions in TNA having a match on the competition's show is really intriguing. I wonder what it will mean for the audience of both shows.
- I can only imagine who else will make the jump to NXT/WWE. It's been a big few years for them.
- Daniels in NXT would be pretty cool, but I don't think WWE would invest in him beyond helping that brand out at his age.
- I seem to remember Carlito debuting with a dirty pinfall win on Cena, but that was WAAAAYYYYY back and not as big as Owens' win. Hell, Brock didn't pin Cena in his first match back.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- I'll take Daniels' word for it, but I would have thought for sure they'd have all been in a match together during their TNA runs. On that note, the idea of four people who have been champions in TNA having a match on the competition's show is really intriguing. I wonder what it will mean for the audience of both shows.
- I can only imagine who else will make the jump to NXT/WWE. It's been a big few years for them.
- Daniels in NXT would be pretty cool, but I don't think WWE would invest in him beyond helping that brand out at his age.
- I seem to remember Carlito debuting with a dirty pinfall win on Cena, but that was WAAAAYYYYY back and not as big as Owens' win. Hell, Brock didn't pin Cena in his first match back.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Live report from MITB, Lesnar dates, Interview with Bryan, more NXT shows set, new match for BITW, and Questions on people barred from the HoF, NXT's Four Horsewomen, Rollins' title run, ROH on DA, and replacing Zayn and Itami
Here's a live report from MITB. I don't remember hearing any "Please retire" chants for Show then, but it's a sentiment I can understand. He'd probably be more effective as a part-time guy saved for when they have a good angle for him. Otherwise, let some other people get some character development. I think having him elevate Ryback is a good use of him, for what that's worth.
Brock Lesnar is booked pretty for almost every Raw from now to Summerslam, and of course the Battleground PPV. I didn't expect him to work a match on a "B" PPV before Summerslam, but obviously they're going in a different direction than I figured.
Daniel Bryan talked about Dusty, his favorite WWE memory, and more. No real update on when he'll be back in the ring, sadly. Rollins vs. Bryan for the title would have really been something.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Brock Lesnar is booked pretty for almost every Raw from now to Summerslam, and of course the Battleground PPV. I didn't expect him to work a match on a "B" PPV before Summerslam, but obviously they're going in a different direction than I figured.
Daniel Bryan talked about Dusty, his favorite WWE memory, and more. No real update on when he'll be back in the ring, sadly. Rollins vs. Bryan for the title would have really been something.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, June 15, 2015
NXT live event notes, TNA PPV update, more on Dusty, and Questions on combining entrance music, Chyna vs. Sunny, a Network show on angles, Kofi winning MITB, and the future of Stardust
Here's a report from the most recent NXT live event. That first match sounds pretty funny. Bull's new gimmick is apparently over, for what that's worth. I wonder if it's a rib on anyone.
Slammiversary will air live in the UK and France. Naturally some are speculating this will be TNA's final live PPV, especially if they do Bound For Glory overseas again. I wouldn't automatically assume that to be the case, but it's not out of the realm of being possible.
Here's a reprint of Dusty Rhodes' obituary. The family asking for donations for charities instead of money going to themselves is very selfless.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Slammiversary will air live in the UK and France. Naturally some are speculating this will be TNA's final live PPV, especially if they do Bound For Glory overseas again. I wouldn't automatically assume that to be the case, but it's not out of the realm of being possible.
Here's a reprint of Dusty Rhodes' obituary. The family asking for donations for charities instead of money going to themselves is very selfless.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
More Dusty remembrances, Y2J back in action, and Questions on ROH's action figures, HHH suing Chyna, Tough Enough, NXT vs. WWECW, and GFW attendance
Ric Flair discussed Dusty Rhodes on Busted Open. It looks more likely Goldust will start working NXT when he recovers. I think that's great.
Jim Ross also talked to Busted Open about Dusty. Talk about the passion Dusty had for the business.
Chris Jericho returned to WWE at live events this weekend to beat Luke Harper. I'm sure those were solid matches.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jim Ross also talked to Busted Open about Dusty. Talk about the passion Dusty had for the business.
Chris Jericho returned to WWE at live events this weekend to beat Luke Harper. I'm sure those were solid matches.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, June 12, 2015
Tough Enough notes, watch Slammiversary online, ROH and Impact audiences, match set for Slammiversary, NXT live event notes, and Questions on great gimmick matches, sending main roster talents to NXT, and the TV Title
WWE is posting a lot of content in relation to the Tough Enough training camp on WWE.com and the Tough Enough site. A lot of eliminations have already leaked out on social media, for those who are interested in spoiling themselves.
Slammiversary will be available on the Flipps app as it airs. I don't see any way people spend $40 for a TNA PPV in 2015, especially in the post-Network era.
ROH drew 161,000 viewers in the opening timeslot on DA, with another 138,000 on the replay. The replay number was higher than in Week 1. I'm really interested to see how things change for the first taping of the DA era.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Slammiversary will be available on the Flipps app as it airs. I don't see any way people spend $40 for a TNA PPV in 2015, especially in the post-Network era.
ROH drew 161,000 viewers in the opening timeslot on DA, with another 138,000 on the replay. The replay number was higher than in Week 1. I'm really interested to see how things change for the first taping of the DA era.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes passes away
I've only really seen Dusty since he was a booker in TNA about a decade ago. I've since seen some of his classic material and read about what an impact he's had on things. Of course, I've also seen his appearances in WWE since he returned there. Definitely a really compelling promo man with a real mind for the business. He's one of the most influential men in the history of the business, and he leaves behind an incredible legacy. It's very sad for him to be gone when he still had a regular role behind-the-scenes in WWE.
Read on for reflections from those in the business.
Read on for reflections from those in the business.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 6/11/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, June 11, 2015
WWE legend has surgery, more backstage TNA departures, Interview with Eli Drake, WWE working with top indie company?, Heyman on Austin, HHH on Chyna, and Questions on wrestling on DA+TNA working with ROH, Ambrose as this generation's Austin, Owens' future, WWE's momentum, and Rollins' finisher
Mick Foley underwent a minor back surgery recently. There's a reason he does standup instead of taking bumps now. I'm glad he has enough money to where he doesn't have to be thrown around a ring for a living.
Two of TNA's producers and editors have given notice to the company, both of whom had been there for years. It's a shame no matter how great the product is in 2015 from a wrestling standpoint, it's going to be damn near impossible to succeed with everything that's going on from a business standpoint (being shifted from Spike to Fridays on a lesser channel, backstage departures left and right, pay issues, etc.). If they do get canceled in September, I think they might as well turn those January dates in the UK into a farewell tour uthey're somehow doing well enough with their international deals to keep treading water.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Two of TNA's producers and editors have given notice to the company, both of whom had been there for years. It's a shame no matter how great the product is in 2015 from a wrestling standpoint, it's going to be damn near impossible to succeed with everything that's going on from a business standpoint (being shifted from Spike to Fridays on a lesser channel, backstage departures left and right, pay issues, etc.). If they do get canceled in September, I think they might as well turn those January dates in the UK into a farewell tour uthey're somehow doing well enough with their international deals to keep treading water.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA Destination X Reax - 6/10/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's special edition of Impact Wrestling.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Query on the last TNA Champion of 2015, what happened after Raw, Dudleys respond to 3D on Raw, Austin vs. Lesnar update, Interviews with Dempsey/Bliss, ROH PPV note, Joe-ROH update, Raw audience, and Questions on Twin Magic, Joe as a Heyman guy, the Dangerous Alliance, MEM in WWE, and a WWE vs. NXT show
First up, a query:
1. Call me crazy, but here's a theory of how the TNA Title will go for the rest of the year (includes spoilers for tonight's show): ECIII beats Angle for the strap at Slammiversary, then takes his first-ever pinfall loss to Rockstar Spud in an upset at BFG. I think that would work great from a story perspective if they can build Spud up as someone who, in the right time and the right place, can be in the same league as ECIII. They can have a special referee or something to protect ECIII in the loss and set up rematches, but I think that's a realistic option.
John Cena defeated Bray Wyatt after Raw. Talk about a character not doing anything right now. I can see him challenging Ryback for the IC Title given their recent feud.
The Dudley Boys responded to the use of the 3D on Raw by Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, leading to a challenge for a match. Bubba Ray has been angling for a WWE return for a good while now, including pitching himself vs. Brock Lesnar. I think the reunited Wyatt Family vs. the Dudleys and Rhyno would make a good match for Summerslam, personally. I just don't know if WWE will even acknowledge that move is the 3D and set that feud up.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
1. Call me crazy, but here's a theory of how the TNA Title will go for the rest of the year (includes spoilers for tonight's show): ECIII beats Angle for the strap at Slammiversary, then takes his first-ever pinfall loss to Rockstar Spud in an upset at BFG. I think that would work great from a story perspective if they can build Spud up as someone who, in the right time and the right place, can be in the same league as ECIII. They can have a special referee or something to protect ECIII in the loss and set up rematches, but I think that's a realistic option.
John Cena defeated Bray Wyatt after Raw. Talk about a character not doing anything right now. I can see him challenging Ryback for the IC Title given their recent feud.
The Dudley Boys responded to the use of the 3D on Raw by Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, leading to a challenge for a match. Bubba Ray has been angling for a WWE return for a good while now, including pitching himself vs. Brock Lesnar. I think the reunited Wyatt Family vs. the Dudleys and Rhyno would make a good match for Summerslam, personally. I just don't know if WWE will even acknowledge that move is the 3D and set that feud up.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Story on new NXT signings, WWE hits big social media milestone, Physical HoF on the way?, Tough Enough auditioner profiled, TNA names visit at ROH show, Cena update, matches added to MITB, Tough Enough notes, Scott Hall update, details on Tough Enough contestants, and Questions on Warrior as a worker, concussions, ROH's TV deal, Cena vs. Owens, and faces overcoming the odds
WWE's recent signings from India were profiled:
- It's probably best for Khali's health to not be on the road full-time given the state of his health. He was having trouble walking to the ring.
- The idea of Khali as a manager or something for the new Indian signings might work, but there would be the risk of the bigger man overshadowing them. And that could be a lot to pay for him to be in their corner.
WWE has surpassed 500 million followers on social media. I'm guessing people who follow them on Twitter and like them on Facebook are counted twice, but that's still really impressive. This is a pretty big area for them to invest in going forward, and they want to turn those followers into Network subscribers, merchandise buyers, and so on.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- It's probably best for Khali's health to not be on the road full-time given the state of his health. He was having trouble walking to the ring.
- The idea of Khali as a manager or something for the new Indian signings might work, but there would be the risk of the bigger man overshadowing them. And that could be a lot to pay for him to be in their corner.
WWE has surpassed 500 million followers on social media. I'm guessing people who follow them on Twitter and like them on Facebook are counted twice, but that's still really impressive. This is a pretty big area for them to invest in going forward, and they want to turn those followers into Network subscribers, merchandise buyers, and so on.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Matches added to ROH PPV, ROH TV preview, Kidd update, Mickie lives, GFW contract update, WWE press, more Network content, Interview with Ryder, Questions on Matt Striker, choosing what to cover, Joe vs. Cesaro, free months on the Network, and Owens as a heel
Added to the June 19 ROH PPV:
- Mark Briscoe w/ ODB vs. Donovan Dijak w/ Truth Martini.
- No Disqualification match for the ROH Tag Team Championship: The Addiction vs. ReDRagon
I didn't miss ODB a bit, but she's over so I see why they're using her.
Set for this week's ROH TV:
- ROH Tag Team Championship: The Addiction vs. ReDRagon
- Dalton Castle vs. Jushin "Thunder" Liger
- Brutal Bob vs. Cheeseburger
- Mike Bennett/Matt Taven of The Kingdom vs. Doc Gallows/Karl Anderson of Bullet Club
I'm looking forward to seeing what ROH brings to the table this week. I have mixed opinions of last week's show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Mark Briscoe w/ ODB vs. Donovan Dijak w/ Truth Martini.
- No Disqualification match for the ROH Tag Team Championship: The Addiction vs. ReDRagon
I didn't miss ODB a bit, but she's over so I see why they're using her.
Set for this week's ROH TV:
- ROH Tag Team Championship: The Addiction vs. ReDRagon
- Dalton Castle vs. Jushin "Thunder" Liger
- Brutal Bob vs. Cheeseburger
- Mike Bennett/Matt Taven of The Kingdom vs. Doc Gallows/Karl Anderson of Bullet Club
I'm looking forward to seeing what ROH brings to the table this week. I have mixed opinions of last week's show.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, June 7, 2015
GFW updates, NXT live event notes, and Questions on PPV footage on TV, best finishers, roster cuts, the muscle buster, and TNA vs. ROH
The former Amber O'Neil has been added to some GFW dates. More dates are expected to be added to the Grand Slam tour shortly. I wonder how the upcoming TV tapings will go.
Here are results from an NXT live event this weekend. The shows are lacking without Owens, Balor, Itami, and Zayn. Not bad, just lacking.
Update: here are results from another NXT show. This one had more people working matches.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Here are results from an NXT live event this weekend. The shows are lacking without Owens, Balor, Itami, and Zayn. Not bad, just lacking.
Update: here are results from another NXT show. This one had more people working matches.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, June 6, 2015
Superstars Reax - 6/5/15, WWEPC fantasy camp?, more on Monday Night War DVD, Interviews with Lawler/Justin Roberts, former Knockout retiring, Smackdown audience, more names at WWE tryout, a WWE cruise?, and Questions on Kane turning, WWE vs. AJ, Brock in Japan, Cena "not putting talent over," and older announcers on the Network
Superstars:
Nice opening match so far. I always enjoy the contrast of the power of The Ascension with the agility and technique of the Lucha Dragons.
One fun thing about Superstars is the talents get to show more of what they can do in the ring.
Really enjoyable ending. The Lucha Dragons are really good athletes, and The Ascension are better when they're not just supposed to be big guys squashing their opponents.
Nice second match. I've missed Rowan and Harper as a team. It was worth trying them out as singles stars, but I think this works better for them for now.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Nice opening match so far. I always enjoy the contrast of the power of The Ascension with the agility and technique of the Lucha Dragons.
One fun thing about Superstars is the talents get to show more of what they can do in the ring.
Really enjoyable ending. The Lucha Dragons are really good athletes, and The Ascension are better when they're not just supposed to be big guys squashing their opponents.
Nice second match. I've missed Rowan and Harper as a team. It was worth trying them out as singles stars, but I think this works better for them for now.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, June 5, 2015
Interview with Goldberg, more on July 4 event, more on WWE in Italy, Kidd injured, Interview with new NXT signing, Smackdown visitor, more WWE dates, more WWE tryouts including current TNA name, ROH and Impact audiences, Mickie update, TNA-India note, NXT live event updates, and Questions on Zayn's status, Terrell's arrest, and turning Bray
Goldberg talked about returning to the ring on his own terms:
- I bet GFW would love to have him do one last match for them, but it sounds like he's not willing to do that.
- It's a shame someone who made such a splash in wrestling is somewhat dismissing it.
- I think Goldberg had a fine run in WWE. He wrestled on a number of PPVs including WrestleMania, and held the World Heavyweight Championship for several months. He really has nothing to be upset about on that end.
Here's the complete card for the July 4 live event in Japan that will be shown on the Network. Neville vs. Jericho should really be good.
Here's the official press release for WWE's new TV deal in Italy, confirming Main Event taking the place of Superstars there. It also confirms PPV isn't going by the wayside as a medium yet.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- I bet GFW would love to have him do one last match for them, but it sounds like he's not willing to do that.
- It's a shame someone who made such a splash in wrestling is somewhat dismissing it.
- I think Goldberg had a fine run in WWE. He wrestled on a number of PPVs including WrestleMania, and held the World Heavyweight Championship for several months. He really has nothing to be upset about on that end.
Here's the complete card for the July 4 live event in Japan that will be shown on the Network. Neville vs. Jericho should really be good.
Here's the official press release for WWE's new TV deal in Italy, confirming Main Event taking the place of Superstars there. It also confirms PPV isn't going by the wayside as a medium yet.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 6/4/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, June 4, 2015
Itami merch update, Tyrus-GFW note, Interview with Jarrett, assorted WWE press, AJ Styles note, another WWE Network special announced, and Questions on WWE using ROH footage, using blood, Nash as a booker, WWE buying TNA, and more live events on the Network
Fight Network promoted TNA's move to Wednesdays. It will be really interesting to see how things go for the show internationally going forward.
WWE has released the corrected Hideo Itami T-shirt. I miss him already...
Tyrus has been pulled from upcoming GFW live events, presumably due to TNA not wanting him to work for another company with a potential TV presence. That's a shame. It'd be different if TNA was taping TV or something and the dates conflicted, but they're basically preventing him from supplementing his TNA income on some indie dates. A lot of talents are taking outside bookings, but obviously there's still heat on TNA's end toward Jarrett for starting his own promotion. Once some contracts come due, it will be really interesting to see if GFW picks up some current NXT names.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE has released the corrected Hideo Itami T-shirt. I miss him already...
Tyrus has been pulled from upcoming GFW live events, presumably due to TNA not wanting him to work for another company with a potential TV presence. That's a shame. It'd be different if TNA was taping TV or something and the dates conflicted, but they're basically preventing him from supplementing his TNA income on some indie dates. A lot of talents are taking outside bookings, but obviously there's still heat on TNA's end toward Jarrett for starting his own promotion. Once some contracts come due, it will be really interesting to see if GFW picks up some current NXT names.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
More on Joe in WWE, match announced for Smackdown, more WWE.com content, another TNA conference call, Aries update, Impact in Canada note, Interviews with Jarrett/Goldberg/Raven, what happened after Raw, new NXT signings, Raw audience, DA promotion, TNA HoF note, Heyman update, guests at NXT live events, new merch, and Questions on Angle answering Cena's challenge, potential HoFers, a new era for WWE, Dixie trying to save TNA, and beating Lesnar
Samoa Joe will finish out his currently-booked independent dates before heading to WWE. This includes working ROH's TV taping on June 20. I would imagine WWE wouldn't be able to do business with Styles, Daniels, or Kazarian now that ROH is on TV, unless they just use those names for NXT live events. That's honestly not a bad idea. And who knows, maybe it would end up leading to something more?
Update: Joe is booked for some upcoming NXT live events, which is good.
Update: Joe will work his currently-booked dates only if he's not needed for a WWE show on the same date. If that happens, he'll be rescheduled. He's got a couple of independent dates booked in August, so he won't be completely a WWE guy for another few months.
Update: Joe is expected to remain in NXT for the time being. Honestly, with Zayn and Itami injured and Owens potentially leaving, that's probably the right move.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Joe is booked for some upcoming NXT live events, which is good.
Update: Joe will work his currently-booked dates only if he's not needed for a WWE show on the same date. If that happens, he'll be rescheduled. He's got a couple of independent dates booked in August, so he won't be completely a WWE guy for another few months.
Update: Joe is expected to remain in NXT for the time being. Honestly, with Zayn and Itami injured and Owens potentially leaving, that's probably the right move.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Stone Cold podcast Reax - 6/1/15, Another free month of the Network, ROH-DA update, new match for ROH PPV, ROH TV preview, ROH live event note, new international TNA TV deal, Interviews with Rollins/Darren Young/Lawler, Itami note, Amell update, legendary tag team name passes, Mania map, Impact audience, Raw dark match, Joe signs WWE deal, and Questions on a female Shield, ROH and TNA on the same network, Dr. James Andrews in the HoF, indies on TV changing WWE, and Balor
Stone Cold podcast:
- Austin was definitely one hell of a talent. He had fire few could match.
- It's funny to look back at blond Austin after being used to him as Stone Cold.
- Brock is an absolute beast.
- Brock loves the business, but not the travel, the politics, and being in the public eye.
- It's a shame Heyman working with Cesaro and Axel didn't work out. Both men are very technically sound, but lacking in the promo department.
- Heyman's right about protecting moves.
- I think in a lot of ways Vince Jr. was the right guy at the right time. Not that he's not a genius and a fighter, but he came along at just the right time to make a change and had the resources to do it.
- December to Dismember 2006 was the least-bought PPV of its era, possibly of all-time before the Network changed PPVs. It was a trainwreck.
- I'd love to see Stone Cold vs. Brock Lesnar if Austin can bring out the Stone Cold of his prime.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Austin was definitely one hell of a talent. He had fire few could match.
- It's funny to look back at blond Austin after being used to him as Stone Cold.
- Brock is an absolute beast.
- Brock loves the business, but not the travel, the politics, and being in the public eye.
- It's a shame Heyman working with Cesaro and Axel didn't work out. Both men are very technically sound, but lacking in the promo department.
- Heyman's right about protecting moves.
- I think in a lot of ways Vince Jr. was the right guy at the right time. Not that he's not a genius and a fighter, but he came along at just the right time to make a change and had the resources to do it.
- December to Dismember 2006 was the least-bought PPV of its era, possibly of all-time before the Network changed PPVs. It was a trainwreck.
- I'd love to see Stone Cold vs. Brock Lesnar if Austin can bring out the Stone Cold of his prime.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, June 1, 2015
Interviews with Y2J/Zayn, Stone Cold-WWE update, NXT preview, NXT/ROH live event notes, and Questions on changing the Divas' division, New Day, Taker vs. Balor, Cena's open challenges, and AJ Styles in NXT
Chris Jericho talked about potentially returning to WWE and more. Other than working with the likes of Zayn, Owens, and Balor, I can't say I'm especially itching for him coming back to the ring. He's pretty much done everything I care to see him do as a wrestler.
Sami Zayn talked about growing NXT and more in a hockey interview. I don't know how long he'll miss due to his injury. Hopefully it's not too much longer before he's working the main roster TV shows.
Stone Cold's podcasts are believed to be a recurring part of the Network going forward. Apparently he'll be talking to Undertaker and Sting in future episodes. I look forward to both of those.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sami Zayn talked about growing NXT and more in a hockey interview. I don't know how long he'll miss due to his injury. Hopefully it's not too much longer before he's working the main roster TV shows.
Stone Cold's podcasts are believed to be a recurring part of the Network going forward. Apparently he'll be talking to Undertaker and Sting in future episodes. I look forward to both of those.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
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