Baron Corbin lost to Jimmy Uso at a recent WWE live event, while Tyler Breeze lost to Jack Swagger. I really hope Breeze is a hit on the main roster.
Stevie Richards appeared at an ROH live event, getting into an in-ring confrontation with Jay Lethal. That would actually be an interesting match, since apparently Richards can still go.
Chris Jericho defeated Luke Harper at WWE's show in Puerto Rico. I wonder if they'll ever do a Network special from there. They've got to at some point, right?
Cliff Compton had a seizure before his scheduled ROH match, but has been released from the hospital. Hopefully he's on the right track now.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, August 31, 2015
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Hogan on TMZ, new female trainer for NXT?, live event notes for GFW/NXT/WWE, next Takeover outside?, more on Amell, latest on TE winners, Curtain Call revisited, WWE press, big start to Raw, announce team updates, former WWE name misses ROH show, several Diva matches on Raw, and Questions on Brock-Taker heat, turning Austin heel, Orton's first title win, putting the Divas in teams, a new Ironman match, and what should have happened at Summerslam
Hulk Hogan, ever willing to play babyface, spoke to TMZ about his current relationship with WWE. I don't see WWE going back to working with him anytime soon.
Former TNA Knockout Sarita is expected to become a trainer for NXT after finishing up at EMLL in September. She was part of Tyler Breeze's Periscoped entrance at Takeover: Unstoppable, so it wouldn't be a big surprise. I think it's great they're getting more female trainers, and an accomplished one at that.
Kevin Nash put over Bullet Club at an appearance for GFW. The main event saw Jeff Jarrett assist Doc Gallows in a win. I think why Bullet Club works in NJPW is Japan isn't nearly 20 years removed from the nWo and DX like the U.S. wrestling scene. I don't know if fans here would be as receptive to seeing the gimmick as a big part of things.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Former TNA Knockout Sarita is expected to become a trainer for NXT after finishing up at EMLL in September. She was part of Tyler Breeze's Periscoped entrance at Takeover: Unstoppable, so it wouldn't be a big surprise. I think it's great they're getting more female trainers, and an accomplished one at that.
Kevin Nash put over Bullet Club at an appearance for GFW. The main event saw Jeff Jarrett assist Doc Gallows in a win. I think why Bullet Club works in NJPW is Japan isn't nearly 20 years removed from the nWo and DX like the U.S. wrestling scene. I don't know if fans here would be as receptive to seeing the gimmick as a big part of things.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Superstars Reax - 8/28/15, NXT preview, GFW guest, WWWF name passes, new tag match for ROH show, Smackdown audience, worry about next week's Raw, NXT in TNA territory, Summerslam edit, Sasha note, and Questions on Disco Inferno, Cena holding Charlotte back, rebooking the Alliance, and a new monster heel
Superstars:
Xavier Woods on commentary should be amazing.
- Ryder vs. Slater:
Good match for the time it had. I like both performers, and miss seeing more of Slater in particular.
- Ascension vs. Matadores:
This is pretty good so far. They have enough time to really tell a story of two teams trying to win. The Ascension are doing it with power and strength, while Los Matadores are using their speed and agility.
I'm not a huge fan of Torito, but this was fine overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Xavier Woods on commentary should be amazing.
- Ryder vs. Slater:
Good match for the time it had. I like both performers, and miss seeing more of Slater in particular.
- Ascension vs. Matadores:
This is pretty good so far. They have enough time to really tell a story of two teams trying to win. The Ascension are doing it with power and strength, while Los Matadores are using their speed and agility.
I'm not a huge fan of Torito, but this was fine overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, August 28, 2015
ROH on Dish update, wrestling word now officially English, Interviews with Sara Lee/Brooke, big Takeover special set, WWE press, more WCW content on Network, more dates official for Dudleys, TNA and ROH audience, announcer promotion, NXT names on the road, Dreamer-TNA update, and Questions on former WWE names keeping their Twitter names, ROH Network, Takeover viewers, and Hogan vs. Flair at WM8
An agreement has been reached for Sinclair stations to continue to be shown in homes with Dish Network. So, ROH will remain available for those homes via local stations.
"Kayfabe" has been added to the Oxford Dictionary, which is rather surprising actually. I wonder what wrestling word or phrase will be next? I'm hoping for jabroni, personally.
Tough Enough co-winner Sara Lee talked about her win. I suspect it could be a while before we see her officially have a match on NXT or WWE TV, but we'll see.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
"Kayfabe" has been added to the Oxford Dictionary, which is rather surprising actually. I wonder what wrestling word or phrase will be next? I'm hoping for jabroni, personally.
Tough Enough co-winner Sara Lee talked about her win. I suspect it could be a while before we see her officially have a match on NXT or WWE TV, but we'll see.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 8/27/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Interviews with Shaw/Ziggler, Sinclair channels dropped from Dish, Dusty Classic match at WWE taping, Beast in the Garden lineup, Barrett update, WWE seeking exec, note on Vince's birthday, Dudleyz update, and Questions on Neville vs. Stardust, Hulk's situation, TE results, mouthpieces, and WWE owning the TNA tape library
Former TNA wrestler Samuel Shaw discussed his career so far:
- Some of the Gut Check matches were pretty painful, for sure.
- I like that you had to earn your way to getting Rogers' respect.
- Honestly, Shaw wasn't really that compelling until he had trained for a while and came back with the "creepy bastard" character. He was pretty bland before then.
- I'd like to see Shaw get a shot in GFW.
Sinclair-owned channels were dropped from Dish Network following a contract dispute. ROH was still available via Destination America, other carriers, and the ROH website. This would have affected ROH to a degree if it continued, but it was soon resolved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Some of the Gut Check matches were pretty painful, for sure.
- I like that you had to earn your way to getting Rogers' respect.
- Honestly, Shaw wasn't really that compelling until he had trained for a while and came back with the "creepy bastard" character. He was pretty bland before then.
- I'd like to see Shaw get a shot in GFW.
Sinclair-owned channels were dropped from Dish Network following a contract dispute. ROH was still available via Destination America, other carriers, and the ROH website. This would have affected ROH to a degree if it continued, but it was soon resolved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Divas vs. Brooklyn, Y2J on Hogan, ROH PPV note, Raw audience, and Questions on Kane's return, magic appearances, HoF booing, Batista-WWE, and Cena's longevity
Brie and Nikki Bella, as well as Paige (in a since-deleted tweet) fired back at the crowd in Brooklyn who hijacked the Divas' match on Raw. I think it really looked bad on "smart" fans as a whole to treat the performers that way after pushing to see the likes of Paige, Charlotte, and Becky used on the main roster.
Update: WWE added an additional commercial break to the match for the West Coast feed, abruptly cutting out some of the fan behavior. It was a really embarrassing time to be a wrestling fan.
WWE has already released a new Dudley Boyz T-shirt. I guess if I hadn't seen their TNA work, I'd be more excited about them returning after such a long absence. Theoretically it could be good for the other teams to learn from the veterans if they're used in that way. I'm sure we're in for a nostalgia run, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: WWE added an additional commercial break to the match for the West Coast feed, abruptly cutting out some of the fan behavior. It was a really embarrassing time to be a wrestling fan.
WWE has already released a new Dudley Boyz T-shirt. I guess if I hadn't seen their TNA work, I'd be more excited about them returning after such a long absence. Theoretically it could be good for the other teams to learn from the veterans if they're used in that way. I'm sure we're in for a nostalgia run, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Summerslam guests, Taker hurt?, more from Amell?, Raw guest, Summerslam press, Raw returns and debut, what happened after Raw, and Questions on Sasha vs. Bayley, TE, more main roster people in NXT, Becky Lynch's gimmick, and Hogan returning to TNA
A number of NJPW stars were backstage at Summerslam. They were in the area for ROH shows that weekend, so nothing too groundbreaking there. I wouldn't assume WWE and NJPW are going to work together in the near future.
Melissa Joan Hart was also backstage at Summerslam. They had Jan Brady on Raw. Why can't they use her at some point?
A number of NXT performers and all of the remaining TE cast watched the action live.
Pat Patterson and Jey Uso also attended Summerslam.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Melissa Joan Hart was also backstage at Summerslam. They had Jan Brady on Raw. Why can't they use her at some point?
A number of NXT performers and all of the remaining TE cast watched the action live.
Pat Patterson and Jey Uso also attended Summerslam.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, August 24, 2015
ROH attendance, ROH injury, Whitmer update, ROH guest, Takeover guests, rumor of new WWE signing, identity of new NXT star, Summerslam guests, upcoming live WWE Network content, and Questions on TE contestants, heels getting along, Summerslam gripes, Eva Marie's training, and Piper as World Champ
ROH drew around 2,200 fans for Field of Honor. Not bad at all!
Alex Shelley shattered several teeth and his mouthpiece due to knee from Mark Briscoe (who wears a knee brace). That sounds really brutal.
BJ Whitmer hopes to be back in the ring for ROH at the end of the year. He's easily one of the best parts of the show.
Taeler Hendrix also visited at Field of Honor.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Alex Shelley shattered several teeth and his mouthpiece due to knee from Mark Briscoe (who wears a knee brace). That sounds really brutal.
BJ Whitmer hopes to be back in the ring for ROH at the end of the year. He's easily one of the best parts of the show.
Taeler Hendrix also visited at Field of Honor.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Smackdown audience, assorted WWE/Summerslam press, ROH name hurt, ROH on NJPW, ROH guests, NXT panel coverage, more on WWE-WWNLive, new ROH contender, NXT UK tour details, and Questions on the new Divas, Piper/Hogan, Legends roundtable, and Tough Enough
Smackdown bounced back to 2.43 million viewers this week. That's up from quite the low last week.
Cesaro talked about his amazing training.
Seth Rollins talked about working with Jon Stewart.
ESPN put over Brock Lesnar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Cesaro talked about his amazing training.
Seth Rollins talked about working with Jon Stewart.
ESPN put over Brock Lesnar.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Superstars Reax - 8/21/15, Total Divas vs. another top reality show?, Bryan Q&A, Interviews with Coachman/Austin/Rollins/JR, ROH taping notes, more on ROH-NJPW, more on Summerslam weekend, and Questions on TNA as a major promotion, Angle's TNA status, Flair appearing with Hogan, War Games, and Cena as 15x champ
Superstars:
I think Adam Rose has really run out of steam. It's time to either pair him with Slater and/or Maddox/Kingsley or just go in a completely different direction with his character. He's basically spinning his tires right now.
- Rose vs. Axel:
Yes, I still laugh at the idea of a team called "Axel Rose."
Not a bad match overall to re-establish Axel post-Axelmania. Honestly, I think I can live with Rose as a low-level intimidator in spots like this.
I wonder how the Ascension feel about being left out of the tag team title match this month. And the PPV as a whole!
- Truth/Fandango vs. Ascension:
This one's starting to pick up. I like it.
Fine match.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
I think Adam Rose has really run out of steam. It's time to either pair him with Slater and/or Maddox/Kingsley or just go in a completely different direction with his character. He's basically spinning his tires right now.
- Rose vs. Axel:
Yes, I still laugh at the idea of a team called "Axel Rose."
Not a bad match overall to re-establish Axel post-Axelmania. Honestly, I think I can live with Rose as a low-level intimidator in spots like this.
I wonder how the Ascension feel about being left out of the tag team title match this month. And the PPV as a whole!
- Truth/Fandango vs. Ascension:
This one's starting to pick up. I like it.
Fine match.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Summerslam weekend guests update, Summerslam charity, Interview with Y2J, TNA and ROH audience, and Questions on Brock vs. Taker at UFC, Y2J winning, Young Bucks having heat, Adam Cole, and NXT vs. ROH
Stone Cold is not expected to be at Summerslam itself, just weekend events promoting WWE 2K16. So, anyone expecting him to stomp a mudhole in Brock Lesnar's ass and walk it dry are going to be disappointed.
Ric Flair will be at Summerslam to see Charlotte wrestle. Kevin Nash and Scott Hall will be part of Summerslam weekend, but their current role is unknown. They would be mind-numbingly stupid to do an nWo reboot in 2015.
Stephen Amell had a special shirt made for his Summerslam match to be sold for charity. That's pretty cool.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Ric Flair will be at Summerslam to see Charlotte wrestle. Kevin Nash and Scott Hall will be part of Summerslam weekend, but their current role is unknown. They would be mind-numbingly stupid to do an nWo reboot in 2015.
Stephen Amell had a special shirt made for his Summerslam match to be sold for charity. That's pretty cool.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 8/20/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Piper cause of death, Bully-TNA update, TNA moves live event, Tough Enough contestant updates, WWE press, Smackdown dark match, new Network content, ROH injury note, Interviews with Lethal/Show/Reigns, HHH conference call, new TNA live events, city hoping for Mania, TE finals matches set, Takeover panel, WWE trademark, and Questions on predictability, overseas tours, Demolition in the HoF, Hogan merch, and Brock's promos
TMZ reported the cause of death for Roddy Piper: A blood clot, likely exacerbated by years of high blood pressure. Hopefully others with that malady do their best to keep it in check.
TNA has officially announced Bully Ray is out "indefinitely." While he's still listed on their roster page, he has parted ways with the company.
TNA moved their September 18 live event for logistical reasons. More on that after the break. Sometimes that happens.
Former Tough Enough competitors Mada and Daria are now training with Brian Kendrick. That's good for them. I hope it works out for everyone involved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA has officially announced Bully Ray is out "indefinitely." While he's still listed on their roster page, he has parted ways with the company.
TNA moved their September 18 live event for logistical reasons. More on that after the break. Sometimes that happens.
Former Tough Enough competitors Mada and Daria are now training with Brian Kendrick. That's good for them. I hope it works out for everyone involved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
What happened after Raw, Interview with Heyman, new WWE trademark, WWE press, new WWE app overseas, more on WWE working with WWNLive, WWEPC special, more matches for Takeover, Raw audience, TNA drops date from calendar, and Questions on HHH vs. Rock, Summerslam's scale, Kevin Dunn, the Curb Stomp, and Y2J beating Neville
After Raw ended, Brock Lesnar thanked his hometown fans and promised to win at Summerslam.
Paul Heyman discussed building the future of WWE, Roddy Piper's passing, and more. Smart man.
WWE has registered to trademark "Apollo Nation" for Apollo Crews, the former Uhaa Nation. I think that's a great name for his fans!
Here's press for the recent WWE night with the Brooklyn Cyclones.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Paul Heyman discussed building the future of WWE, Roddy Piper's passing, and more. Smart man.
WWE has registered to trademark "Apollo Nation" for Apollo Crews, the former Uhaa Nation. I think that's a great name for his fans!
Here's press for the recent WWE night with the Brooklyn Cyclones.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Another WWE titleholder hurt, Interviews with Balor/Khali/Show/Heyman/Cornette, Liger update, Stone Cold at Summerslam weekend, more ROH Philly matches, TNA press, more added to Summerslam, former ROH star update, and Questions on Vince+KD vs. NXT, Magnum TA as a heel, fans at the HoF, NXT-NJPW, and DDP in the HoF
Nikki Bella is nursing a back injury, hence her not being in action this weekend. I assume she'll still work Summerslam, though.
Finn Balor talked before Takeover:Brooklyn. Will this be the most attended NXT Championship match so far?
The Great Khali talked about life after WWE. I think he did some real good in spreading awareness of WWE in India.
Big Show discussed how often we see him om WWE TV and more. I think he deserves a lot of credit for how long he's lasted in the business, and I'm glad he's not just trying to soak up all the spotlight while he can. There's still a place for him; they just need to use him better.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Finn Balor talked before Takeover:Brooklyn. Will this be the most attended NXT Championship match so far?
The Great Khali talked about life after WWE. I think he did some real good in spreading awareness of WWE in India.
Big Show discussed how often we see him om WWE TV and more. I think he deserves a lot of credit for how long he's lasted in the business, and I'm glad he's not just trying to soak up all the spotlight while he can. There's still a place for him; they just need to use him better.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Dish customers to lose ROH?, ROH to Japan, NXT and WWE live event notes, ESPN to cover WWE, and Questions on Corbin vs. Joe, ORTONWINSLOL, Cena vs. Rollins, and Vince using the N word
Sinclair channels were briefly dropped from the Dish Network lineup after an agreement between the two sides expired. ROH told fans they could still watch the show via other official outlets (including DA if they had the required channel package).
Update: The two sides have signed a short contract extension. Dish customers can still see ROH on their local Sinclair station for now. I'm often quite critical of the product, but there are fans of it who wouldn't necessarily be able to see it through other legal means. So, I'm glad it might be resolved.
ROH will run shows in Japan in 2016. Obviously there's overlap between ROH and NJPW already.
Update: The plan is to partner with NJPW for a tour of two or three shows in early 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: The two sides have signed a short contract extension. Dish customers can still see ROH on their local Sinclair station for now. I'm often quite critical of the product, but there are fans of it who wouldn't necessarily be able to see it through other legal means. So, I'm glad it might be resolved.
ROH will run shows in Japan in 2016. Obviously there's overlap between ROH and NJPW already.
Update: The plan is to partner with NJPW for a tour of two or three shows in early 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
GFW live event results, Interviews with Balor/Paige, more Cena press, WWE celeb hurt, and Questions on WWE in India, Luger going to WCW, Blue Pants, and WWE-MSG
Here are results from this weekend's GFW live event, including some TV spoilers. GFW working with TNA and OMEGA, as well as setting up something for WrestleCade, is smart. They're not going to change the wrestling world overnight.
Finn Balor talked about potentially working with Paul Heyman and more. I think he'd do well on the main roster, but should stay in NXT right now as they absorb the loss of other top names.
Stephen Amell hurt himself while weight-training recently, but is expected to still compete at Summerslam. He will be working as Amell instead of Arrow, but we could still see some theatrics.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Finn Balor talked about potentially working with Paul Heyman and more. I think he'd do well on the main roster, but should stay in NXT right now as they absorb the loss of other top names.
Stephen Amell hurt himself while weight-training recently, but is expected to still compete at Summerslam. He will be working as Amell instead of Arrow, but we could still see some theatrics.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Superstars Reax - 8/14/15, Interviews with Harper/Brie/Balor, Chyna on HHH, new GFW working relationship, Cena to get press, former WWF star has surgery, wrestling in NZ, Smackdown audience, and Questions on Chyna at Piper's funeral, Taz vs. the other Taz, Ready to Rumble, Brad Maddox, and wrestling books
Superstars:
Swagger and Fandango is an interesting pairing. They could probably have some fun backstage segments.
- Swagger/Fandango vs. The Ascension:
No complaints here. Nice little match.
So-so Truth promo to set up a pretty meaningless undercard match. Really, they're only booking this show because they still have deals to air it internationally. With so much other TV to put together in t a week, it's very much a low priority.
- Dallas vs. Truth:
Not bad from a comedy perspective. Sometimes you need those to warm the crowd up at tapings.
Fine match overall. Hopefully Bo eventually gets a nice spot like Santino had.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Swagger and Fandango is an interesting pairing. They could probably have some fun backstage segments.
- Swagger/Fandango vs. The Ascension:
No complaints here. Nice little match.
So-so Truth promo to set up a pretty meaningless undercard match. Really, they're only booking this show because they still have deals to air it internationally. With so much other TV to put together in t a week, it's very much a low priority.
- Dallas vs. Truth:
Not bad from a comedy perspective. Sometimes you need those to warm the crowd up at tapings.
Fine match overall. Hopefully Bo eventually gets a nice spot like Santino had.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, August 14, 2015
ROH in Philly update, Interviews with Banks/Bryan/Reigns, WWEPC spotlighted, Chyna runs into HHH, new Summerslam match, TNA and ROH audiences, and Questions on dropping the belt before leaving NXT, more NXT specials before big WWE shows, tag team turmoils, future WWE signings, and Nikki's title reign
ROH's upcoming Philadelphia show has sold out, with standing room seats now added. That's something of a stronghold for them.
Chris Jericho recently had Sasha Banks on his podcast. I'm excited for her future.
Linda McMahon was recently at the WWE Performance Center. It just dawned on me HHH and Stephanie will probably recreate some Vince/Linda angles in 20 years.
Speaking of the WWEPC, it was profiled by Men's Fitness. It's great to see WWE get positive coverage in more mainstream outlets.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Chris Jericho recently had Sasha Banks on his podcast. I'm excited for her future.
Linda McMahon was recently at the WWE Performance Center. It just dawned on me HHH and Stephanie will probably recreate some Vince/Linda angles in 20 years.
Speaking of the WWEPC, it was profiled by Men's Fitness. It's great to see WWE get positive coverage in more mainstream outlets.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 8/13/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
New WWE ring name, GFW promotes Piper film, Liger promo, Interview with Reigns, Questions on Cena's toughness, ECW under Tod Gordon, a lack of heel tactics, Rollins being "buried," and Tough Enough
To go along with his new hair color, Brad Maddox now has a new ring name. The wrestler now known as Joshua Kingsley lost to Zack Ryder before Smackdown. It's pretty telling when you were so low on the ladder this is seen as a step up.
GFW is helping to promote the final film to feature Roddy Piper. I wonder if we would have seen Piper's Pit there like we did in the pre-Spike days of TNA.
Jushin "Thunder" Liger did a promo for his upcoming match at Takeover:Brooklyn. It's surreal he's never wrestled in WWE before.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
GFW is helping to promote the final film to feature Roddy Piper. I wonder if we would have seen Piper's Pit there like we did in the pre-Spike days of TNA.
Jushin "Thunder" Liger did a promo for his upcoming match at Takeover:Brooklyn. It's surreal he's never wrestled in WWE before.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
GFW tryout, Hogan wrestling future, Interviews with Punk/Balor, former NXT name retiring?, Kane update, more on Rousey, Raw audience, former WWE name returning to ROH, and Questions on merging the World Titles, WWE sexism, JR on commentary, the future of the U.S. Title, and Tough Enough
Future Stars of Wrestling in Las Vegas will hold a tryout for GFW on Aug. 20. At least two people from the camp will be part of an upcoming TV taping from the brand. So *presumably* they'll be on TV someday.
Hulk Hogan is still training for one day returning to the ring. I'll at least give him credit for optimism.
The former CJ Parker from NXT is retiring. That's a shame, given the plan he had when he left the brand.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Hulk Hogan is still training for one day returning to the ring. I'll at least give him credit for optimism.
The former CJ Parker from NXT is retiring. That's a shame, given the plan he had when he left the brand.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
New Field of Honor match, Ziggler returns at live event, Summerslam match official, Takeover hits big milestone, Sheamus update, Raw dark match note, ROH moves tickets, more on Maddox, TE competitor update, and Questions on a cash-in at Summerslam, Hogan missing Piper's eulogy, Owen 3:16, Russo's opinions, and Double J's legacy
RPG Vice and The Kingdom vs. ACH, Matt Sydal, and the Young Bucks has been added to Field of Honor. Highspots. Highspots everywhere. Although are they still highspots if they're the majority of the match?
Dolph Ziggler was involved at a live event this weekend, defending Lana against Rusev and Summer Rae. I assume we're in for a mixed tag at Summerslam. Lana pulling out a Zig Zag would be pretty amusing.
Update: Ziggler is expected back at next week's TV. This live event was in the same town as his filming, so he more or less made a cameo ahead of "officially" coming back at Raw.
Ryback vs. The Miz vs. Big Show is official for Summerslam following The Big Guy's return on Raw. So, the IC Title doesn't go back to Vacant at this time.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Dolph Ziggler was involved at a live event this weekend, defending Lana against Rusev and Summer Rae. I assume we're in for a mixed tag at Summerslam. Lana pulling out a Zig Zag would be pretty amusing.
Update: Ziggler is expected back at next week's TV. This live event was in the same town as his filming, so he more or less made a cameo ahead of "officially" coming back at Raw.
Ryback vs. The Miz vs. Big Show is official for Summerslam following The Big Guy's return on Raw. So, the IC Title doesn't go back to Vacant at this time.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, August 10, 2015
Reigns attacked at live event, LU update, more live event notes, WWE merch update, more Network content, Razor Ramon vs. the anti-Diva, new NXT name already getting praise, and Questions on the U.S. Title, naming 2nd-gen wrestlers, Beer Money in WWE, Bull Fit, and Owens/Cesaro
Roman Reigns was struck with a replica MITB briefcase thrown by a fan at ringside during a recent live event. Reigns was legitimately stunned from the blow and needed nearly two minutes to recover sufficiently to continue his match with Bray Wyatt. Hopefully the fan was banned from future events to discourage such behavior. That's completely inappropriate, regardless of one's feelings about Reigns.
Update: the fan was arrested and banned from future WWE events. It's a shame he felt the need to disrupt the show like that.
There's talk of El Rey Network working with Robert Rodriguez on a project directly related to AAA. How this affects a second season of LU remains to be seen. The critically-acclaimed series is rumored to have been notably over budget based on the audience it drew.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: the fan was arrested and banned from future WWE events. It's a shame he felt the need to disrupt the show like that.
There's talk of El Rey Network working with Robert Rodriguez on a project directly related to AAA. How this affects a second season of LU remains to be seen. The critically-acclaimed series is rumored to have been notably over budget based on the audience it drew.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
NXT injury update, VIP Q&A, BBC on wrestling mortality rate, and Questions on Punk leaving, the future of NXT, Ronda Rousey, chronicling the AWA, and being part of WM week
A Divas match at this weekend's NXT live event was stopped early after one competitor ended up bleeding from the nose. Billie Kay, the former Jessie McKay, is OK as far as not suffering a major injury. I think Kay, Peyton Royce (formerly KC Kassidy), and Nia Jax (formerly Lina Fanene) will be the next crop of Divas to try to make their marks on the NXT show. Along with Dana Brooke, Eva Marie, Alexa Bliss, Carmella, and Bayley, they've got a good number of women cutting their teeth. There's also Gionna Daddio, who was part of Bull Dempsey's training montages this week.
Here's a report from a Q&A from WWE's recent live event in Australia. Nothing too groundbreaking, although a team of Natalya/Emma/Dana Brooke would be interesting. Dana recently worked a live event on the main roster, but that could have been a last-minute replacement for the recently-retired Layla. She's got potential, but is still rough around the edges.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Here's a report from a Q&A from WWE's recent live event in Australia. Nothing too groundbreaking, although a team of Natalya/Emma/Dana Brooke would be interesting. Dana recently worked a live event on the main roster, but that could have been a last-minute replacement for the recently-retired Layla. She's got potential, but is still rough around the edges.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Superstars Reax - 8/7/15, TNA+ROH audiences, updated Summerslam card, Charlotte profiled, NXT to UK?, TE updates, new Field of Honor match, Diva group name change, Smackdown audience, Takeover attendance update, more on Lynn, NXT live event notes including new ring names, Questions on fewer commercials, setting up live events, the next NXT Women's Champion, WWE hitting the same towns, and Tough Enough
Superstars:
- Fandango vs. Slater:
I think these two are underrated as wrestlers. We really only get to see what they can do on Superstars and Main Event.
Not a bad ending at all. I like both men.
- Dallas vs. Swagger:
Fine stuff so far. I like how these two are meshing, with Swagger focusing on the leg for the ankle lock and Bo... well, being Bo.
Really good ending sequence. They worked together pretty well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Fandango vs. Slater:
I think these two are underrated as wrestlers. We really only get to see what they can do on Superstars and Main Event.
Not a bad ending at all. I like both men.
- Dallas vs. Swagger:
Fine stuff so far. I like how these two are meshing, with Swagger focusing on the leg for the ankle lock and Bo... well, being Bo.
Really good ending sequence. They worked together pretty well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Lynn reaches goal, WWE live event note, new WWE nickname might be changed, WWE Network tributes Piper, Diva pregnant, Takeover lineup, TNA adds more live events, more on Jerry Lynn, more Piper memories, Taz note, no WM31 special?, and Questions on WWE agents, Rousey-WM32, Field of Honor, the Cruiserweight Title, and Stardust
Jerry Lynn passed the amount of money he needed to raise for neck and back surgeries, so the excess will go to Nashville Rescue Mission. Many stars who worked with him or were influenced by him assisted in the campaign.
Update: Lynn thanked fans before going under the knife.
Finn Balor retained the NXT Championship against Neville in Australia on a main roster live event. I imagine by this time next year Balor will be a regular member of the main roster. But who will be NXT Champion?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the new group nickname for Becky Lynch, Charlotte, and Paige has led to search results related to a porn site. The porn site that has seen business increase is sending Vince McMahon a gift basket. While I can see Vince finding that hysterical, I wouldn't be shocked to see the name changed due to the connotations and WWE being a public company.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Update: Lynn thanked fans before going under the knife.
Finn Balor retained the NXT Championship against Neville in Australia on a main roster live event. I imagine by this time next year Balor will be a regular member of the main roster. But who will be NXT Champion?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the new group nickname for Becky Lynch, Charlotte, and Paige has led to search results related to a porn site. The porn site that has seen business increase is sending Vince McMahon a gift basket. While I can see Vince finding that hysterical, I wouldn't be shocked to see the name changed due to the connotations and WWE being a public company.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 8/6/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Interviews with Mysterio/Jimmy+Naomi, new WWE investor, WWE adding members of management, WWE-DA rumorkiller, Uhaa's NXT on-screen debut set, and Questions on Tough Enough as a flop, GFW replacing ROH, Barrett as WWE Champion, more Diva promotion, and Cena's booking
Rey Mysterio talked to Rolling Stone about his future, WWE, and more:
- He downplayed the heat with WWE, but Rey appeared on an AAA PPV via video with the hashtag #FreeRey while under contract.
- Eddie vs. Rey in WWE was great. It was a lot more important than "you have a title and I want to win it."
- Rey can presumably go longer just working a few shots here and there instead of full-time in WWE.
Dutch media executive John de Mol bought nearly 2 million shares in WWE, six percent of the company as a whole. He's responsible for "Big Brother" and "The Voice." WWE being a part of the bigger media world is a goal they've had for a long time/
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- He downplayed the heat with WWE, but Rey appeared on an AAA PPV via video with the hashtag #FreeRey while under contract.
- Eddie vs. Rey in WWE was great. It was a lot more important than "you have a title and I want to win it."
- Rey can presumably go longer just working a few shots here and there instead of full-time in WWE.
Dutch media executive John de Mol bought nearly 2 million shares in WWE, six percent of the company as a whole. He's responsible for "Big Brother" and "The Voice." WWE being a part of the bigger media world is a goal they've had for a long time/
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
WWE "signs fan to contract," Raw guest star official, Warrior Day set, Ziggler update, Kane update, another Taker appearance, more NXT from Brooklyn, Taker's theme part of legal battle, Rollins nose breaking T-shirt, IC Title update, TNA locker room note, TNA on ROH's status, TNA returns, another NJPW name in ROH, WWF champ's autobiography out soon, Raw audience, and Questions on the worst year of WWF vs. WCW, Lesnar's dominance, Cena vs. Rollins, Tough Enough exposing the business, and saving Hogan's career
WWE signed an 11-year-old fan who submitted a video for Tough Enough to a contract as "Drax Shadow" in a segment involving Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and the fan's favorite wrestler, Stardust. That's a really cool moment. When does he start paying his dues on the road as a member of the ring crew?
WWE put out a press release on next week's guest hosting appearance by Stephen Amell. Amell's been pushing for this for a LONG time. I hope it turns out like he hoped.
WWE will have an Ultimate Warrior day on the Saturday before Summerslam, launching the new book about the WWE Hall of Famer. They're really trying to make it an event on the level of WrestleMania.
Dolph Ziggler is expected to return to WWE for the TV tapings before Summerslam. I expect Ziggler/Lana vs. Rusev/Summer Rae at that event.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE put out a press release on next week's guest hosting appearance by Stephen Amell. Amell's been pushing for this for a LONG time. I hope it turns out like he hoped.
WWE will have an Ultimate Warrior day on the Saturday before Summerslam, launching the new book about the WWE Hall of Famer. They're really trying to make it an event on the level of WrestleMania.
Dolph Ziggler is expected to return to WWE for the TV tapings before Summerslam. I expect Ziggler/Lana vs. Rusev/Summer Rae at that event.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA No Surrender preview
Read on for how I'd book tonight's TNA special (in a world where TNA isn't already booked up to Bound For Glory).
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Stone Cold Podcast Reax - 8/3/15, Hogan makes public appearance, more Piper memories, legends battling health concerns, Ryback update, Piper funeral set, another top TNA name at GFW, Ziggler-WWE update, WWE night at site of ROH show, Cena update, HoFer at Raw, big match teased for Summerslam, and Questions on Cena's injury, inducting Heyman into the HoF, Ambrose as champion, headlining WM28, and pushing Punk in 2011
Stone Cold Podcast:
- Paige's mom took bumps when she was seven months pregnant!? That's insane!
- Going blind for six months from a dropkick is pretty intense. Damn.
- I hope the scoliosis doesn't affect her too badly. I wonder what they can do to help with that.
- It can't imagine Paige trying to fit the stereotypical Diva mold.
- Dusty Rhodes was crazy, but knew what he was teaching with promos.
- Paige having to work through those injuries is really crazy.
- Emma has really been underutilized on the main roster. She and Summer Rae could do so much more as wrestlers.
- Paige has some really big goals. I hope she achieves at least some of those. I'm split on the "Diva" name since it's such a big part of branding.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Paige's mom took bumps when she was seven months pregnant!? That's insane!
- Going blind for six months from a dropkick is pretty intense. Damn.
- I hope the scoliosis doesn't affect her too badly. I wonder what they can do to help with that.
- It can't imagine Paige trying to fit the stereotypical Diva mold.
- Dusty Rhodes was crazy, but knew what he was teaching with promos.
- Paige having to work through those injuries is really crazy.
- Emma has really been underutilized on the main roster. She and Summer Rae could do so much more as wrestlers.
- Paige has some really big goals. I hope she achieves at least some of those. I'm split on the "Diva" name since it's such a big part of branding.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Potential gimmick changes for WWE acts, WWE live event notes, more on Piper, Austin's original podcast guest, UFC boss vs. wrestling fans, and Questions on four hours of Summerslam, ROH changing channels, Rusev vs. Lana, and Sunny content on the Network
Damien Sandow spoke in rhymes in a video with Xavier Woods, leading to speculation that could be his new gimmick post-Macho Mandow. Honestly, it might be time to send him to NXT for a few months to try something new. I'm a fan of his (especially his first main roster gimmick), but the guy's really spinning his tires right now.
NXT's Dana Brooke worked a tag match on the main roster live event this weekend, teaming with Cameron in a loss to Natalya and Emma. It's way too soon to bring her to the main roster. Even if they hadn't just brought three Divas up, Dana's just now showing potential in the ring. Why put her on that stage this early instead of giving her more time to develop into someone who's got all of her bases covered?
Ronda Rousey honored Roddy Piper in two interviews after her dominant UFC win. Piper gave her permission to use the "Rowdy" moniker in her MMA career.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT's Dana Brooke worked a tag match on the main roster live event this weekend, teaming with Cameron in a loss to Natalya and Emma. It's way too soon to bring her to the main roster. Even if they hadn't just brought three Divas up, Dana's just now showing potential in the ring. Why put her on that stage this early instead of giving her more time to develop into someone who's got all of her bases covered?
Ronda Rousey honored Roddy Piper in two interviews after her dominant UFC win. Piper gave her permission to use the "Rowdy" moniker in her MMA career.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, August 2, 2015
NXT and WWE live event results, Interviews wirth Russell/Bryan/Steamboat/HTM/Mysterio/Kofi/Titus, Cena's replacement in Australia, another Cena update, and Questions on The Patriot trademark, AJ Lee, women on the Network, Alicia Fox, and Owens' next opponent
Here are results from this weekend's NXT live event:
- That might be the first match we've seen from Daddio. It will be interesting to see some new names in the Divas division there.
- I enjoyed Sawyer Fulton with Angelo Dawkins, but we'll see what he can do with LeFort.
This weekend's WWE live events began with a ten-bell salute for Roddy Piper. There's no telling how different WWE would be without Piper's involvement.
Also on live events this weekend, Chris Jericho worked with Kevin Owens. That's a pretty cool clash. I hope we see that on a Network special at some point.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- That might be the first match we've seen from Daddio. It will be interesting to see some new names in the Divas division there.
- I enjoyed Sawyer Fulton with Angelo Dawkins, but we'll see what he can do with LeFort.
This weekend's WWE live events began with a ten-bell salute for Roddy Piper. There's no telling how different WWE would be without Piper's involvement.
Also on live events this weekend, Chris Jericho worked with Kevin Owens. That's a pretty cool clash. I hope we see that on a Network special at some point.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, August 1, 2015
Superstars Reax - 7/31/15, Cena update, NXT preview, Hogan update, Bryan's book selling well, Interviews with Henry/Ole/RVD, Angelina Love update, Rollins back on the Daily Show, law student looks at WWE contracts, ROH name has surgery, new ROH action figure set, Storm finishes up with TNA, Smackdown audience, third-gen wrestler receives tryout, and Questions on Taker returning, Bryan's status, Malenko in the HoF, Vince using the N-word, and Serena in TNA
Superstars:
- Truth vs. Dallas:
Bo's more fun in the ring than a lot of flippy wrestlers because he has personality that shines through. His gimmick is perfect for him.
That was a fine little match. Good to see some fun undercard stuff.
- Barrett vs. Swagger:
I think they're doing a pretty good job so far. Both men have potential to be titleholders, but I don't see Swagger getting that kind of momentum in his corner.
I like the straight-up action here. They don't need to hit 100 highspots to tell a story.
Nice ending sequence.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break. The unfortunate passing of Roddy Piper will be covered in a separate post.
- Truth vs. Dallas:
Bo's more fun in the ring than a lot of flippy wrestlers because he has personality that shines through. His gimmick is perfect for him.
That was a fine little match. Good to see some fun undercard stuff.
- Barrett vs. Swagger:
I think they're doing a pretty good job so far. Both men have potential to be titleholders, but I don't see Swagger getting that kind of momentum in his corner.
I like the straight-up action here. They don't need to hit 100 highspots to tell a story.
Nice ending sequence.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break. The unfortunate passing of Roddy Piper will be covered in a separate post.
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