Finn Balor beat Baron Corbin on a main roster live event this weekend. I wouldn't be shocked to see that as an NXT Title program in early 2016. It's also possible one or both of them will be debuting on the main roster in a few months. I could see Corbin entering the Rumble and Balor debuting the night after WM32. That's just speculation, though. There's no word on either of them being called up yet.
The former Solomon Crowe has returned to the indies as Sami Callihan. I think he'll be happier there. He was spinning his tires in NXT.
Matt Hardy needed 38 stitches after suffering a cut during an indie event this weekend. That's INSANE. I hope he's OK now. He could be a player for TNA in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Sunday, November 29, 2015
GFW title change, Styles injured, and Questions on Sheamus as champ, WWE firing Gunn, GFW's status, AWA on the Network, and RoboCop
While their as-yet-unaired TV series declared their first champions, GFW had a title change hands at an indie event when Sonjay Dutt defeated PJ Black. It's possible Black is going to Lucha Underground and won't be able to fulfill any future GFW appearances for the time being, so they did a switch just in case. Still no update on GFW airing in the U.S..
AJ Styles was pulled off a NJPW show due to injury. It's unknown how serious of an injury it was and how much time he'll miss from here. Styles is currently scheduled to challenge Jay Lethal for the ROH Championship at Final Battle, so they're hoping he's able to work that date.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I definitely think we'll see a babyface (likely Reigns) take the title at WrestleMania, if not sooner. Sheamus as champ was just kind of the backup plan due to Rollins' injury.
2. I think there would have been heat on Gunn and on the company if there was any indication of him being shown favoritism considering the potential repercussions if a talent fails the wellness policy. I can sympathize with giving him another chance, but WWE really wanted to show that wasn't acceptable behavior for someone in his position.
3. Jarrett's in a tough position given the amount of responsibilities he directly oversees. He can't be in two places at once, so he had to choose what could potentially mean more for GFW in the future. GFW's still a thing for the time being.
4. I'm guessing AWA doesn't have as big of an audience as the stuff they're uploading beforehand. They're still in the process of digitizing old footage, and there are priorities of what gets put on the Network when.
5. I'm still sad we didn't get the new RoboCop during the HHH vs. Sting feud, especially after we got Terminators for HHH's entrance.
More wrestling tomorrow.
AJ Styles was pulled off a NJPW show due to injury. It's unknown how serious of an injury it was and how much time he'll miss from here. Styles is currently scheduled to challenge Jay Lethal for the ROH Championship at Final Battle, so they're hoping he's able to work that date.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I definitely think we'll see a babyface (likely Reigns) take the title at WrestleMania, if not sooner. Sheamus as champ was just kind of the backup plan due to Rollins' injury.
2. I think there would have been heat on Gunn and on the company if there was any indication of him being shown favoritism considering the potential repercussions if a talent fails the wellness policy. I can sympathize with giving him another chance, but WWE really wanted to show that wasn't acceptable behavior for someone in his position.
3. Jarrett's in a tough position given the amount of responsibilities he directly oversees. He can't be in two places at once, so he had to choose what could potentially mean more for GFW in the future. GFW's still a thing for the time being.
4. I'm guessing AWA doesn't have as big of an audience as the stuff they're uploading beforehand. They're still in the process of digitizing old footage, and there are priorities of what gets put on the Network when.
5. I'm still sad we didn't get the new RoboCop during the HHH vs. Sting feud, especially after we got Terminators for HHH's entrance.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Superstars Reax - 11/27/15, NXT names on main roster, Interview with Backlund, and Questions on booking Owens, WWE pushing the Network, WWE working with WWNLive, talents being called up, and watching NWA TV
Superstars:
If he's not going to hang out with the creepy bunny anymore, there's not much reason to care about Rose. His character's going nowhere.
- Rose vs. Truth:
Good enough match so far.
Fine match for Superstars.
Kind of a mixed bag with that Miz promo. It's weird to think Ryder could be back in title contention. Maybe in GFW?
- Miz vs. Ryder:
This is going pretty well so far.
This match reminds me of the ECW brand days. I miss those; they were kind of a precursor to what's NXT now.
Good match overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
If he's not going to hang out with the creepy bunny anymore, there's not much reason to care about Rose. His character's going nowhere.
- Rose vs. Truth:
Good enough match so far.
Fine match for Superstars.
Kind of a mixed bag with that Miz promo. It's weird to think Ryder could be back in title contention. Maybe in GFW?
- Miz vs. Ryder:
This is going pretty well so far.
This match reminds me of the ECW brand days. I miss those; they were kind of a precursor to what's NXT now.
Good match overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, November 27, 2015
Another TNA name retiring?, TNA officially moves India tour, territory family patriarch passes, and Questions on the Gooker, Foley stopping watching, Vince pushing Reigns (again), and War Games matches in WWE
Awesome Kong was recently announced as retiring. She has confirmed she'll no longer be wrestling in Japan, but remains under contract to TNA until January and intends to honor her commitments there. What she does after that contract ends is still up in the air. She's been one of the most successful stars TNA has ever featured, and was set for a big push in WWE. I hope she makes the right choice for her health and for her future career.
TNA sent out a press release confirming their tour of India has been moved to 2016. That was going to be a big deal for them. Hopefully they really turn things around next year after a lackluster 2015 on DA.
Territory era star Tommy Gilbert passed away at 75 on Thanksgiving morning. He was an absolute legend and will be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA sent out a press release confirming their tour of India has been moved to 2016. That was going to be a big deal for them. Hopefully they really turn things around next year after a lackluster 2015 on DA.
Territory era star Tommy Gilbert passed away at 75 on Thanksgiving morning. He was an absolute legend and will be missed.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 11/26/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
More NWA on the Network, top NXT name advertised for main roster tour, Rollins update, NXT DVD to include dark match featuring C.M. Punk, more on WWEPC shooting incident, WWE release, NXT name arrested, TNA postpones India tour, TNA World Title tournament brackets set, and Questions on how to use Cena going forward, Sheamus at Survivor Series, "Bully Ray" in WWE, and pushing Reigns
WWE is regularly adding episodes from Jim Crockett Promotions' weekly TV series to the Network. These shows come from around the time of WrestleMania I through III. I imagine it took longer to digitize those old master tapes. The amount of content they have available to upload is astonishing.
Sami Zayn is advertised for next month's UK tour with the main roster. Whether he'll be wrestling remains to be seen. I really hope he's in the Rumble in 2016. It's time for him to make that next step once he recovers.
Seth Rollins has begun physical therapy following his surgery. I'm rooting for him to return and do great things in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sami Zayn is advertised for next month's UK tour with the main roster. Whether he'll be wrestling remains to be seen. I really hope he's in the Rumble in 2016. It's time for him to make that next step once he recovers.
Seth Rollins has begun physical therapy following his surgery. I'm rooting for him to return and do great things in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
What happened after Raw, rumorkiller of former TNA Champion at Survivor Series, Interview with Cornette+Sulivan, California indie star passes, NXT star leaves, Raw audience, NWA on the Network, and Questions on the ending of Survivor Series, the Charlotte/Paige angle, and WWE burials
Roman Reigns cut a promo thanking Nashville after Raw. No dark match.
TNA star Mr. Anderson was spotted in Atlanta the night of Survivor Series, leading to speculation of him looking to return to WWE. Anderson was working for an indie promotion that night. I think he'd be good as someone credible for rising stars to work with, but he wouldn't be someone I'd be looking to push if I was WWE. Either way, he's signed to TNA now and there's no indication of that changing in the near future.
The latest edition of Back to the Territories features Jim Cornette and Kevin Sullivan discussing Florida. That should be pretty fun and educational.
California star Rising Son passed away suddenly at 33. That's a young age to go. Thoughts are with his friends, fans, and family.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA star Mr. Anderson was spotted in Atlanta the night of Survivor Series, leading to speculation of him looking to return to WWE. Anderson was working for an indie promotion that night. I think he'd be good as someone credible for rising stars to work with, but he wouldn't be someone I'd be looking to push if I was WWE. Either way, he's signed to TNA now and there's no indication of that changing in the near future.
The latest edition of Back to the Territories features Jim Cornette and Kevin Sullivan discussing Florida. That should be pretty fun and educational.
California star Rising Son passed away suddenly at 33. That's a young age to go. Thoughts are with his friends, fans, and family.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
More on Sombra-WWE, more NJPW vs. ROH, TNA TV tapings set, Diva busted open, more Surivor Series backstage notes, Cesaro update, HoFer gets surgery, Survivor Series press, Interviews with Dudleys/Edge, TLC's main event, and Questions on PPVs outside the U.S., Ahmed Johnson, Dunn as a booker, pushing Del Rio, and pushing Cesaro
The now-former La Sombra was praised for how he finished his time in Mexico. He put others over wherever he was requested to and worked hard where he was needed. EMLL praised him for how his departure was handed, so he'd be welcomed back if WWE doesn't work out. He sounds like a class act. That will hopefully carry him far in WWE.
NJPW stars will be part of ROH's 14th anniversary PPV. Shinsuke Nakamura has already been confirmed. He's a big deal to that audience.
TNA will be taping in Bethlehem, Penn. from Jan. 5 through 9. It will be interesting to see how this affects their plans of what to tape in India in December and the UK at the end of January. I'm glad they've got a new TV home in the U.S., though, and hope this boosts both TNA and Pop TV. Also of note, Kurt Angle is advertised for these events, so his contract expires closer to the middle or end of the month.
Everything else from Monday is after the break.
NJPW stars will be part of ROH's 14th anniversary PPV. Shinsuke Nakamura has already been confirmed. He's a big deal to that audience.
TNA will be taping in Bethlehem, Penn. from Jan. 5 through 9. It will be interesting to see how this affects their plans of what to tape in India in December and the UK at the end of January. I'm glad they've got a new TV home in the U.S., though, and hope this boosts both TNA and Pop TV. Also of note, Kurt Angle is advertised for these events, so his contract expires closer to the middle or end of the month.
Everything else from Monday is after the break.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Cena update, off-air notes from Survivor Series, new WWE Network shows, future Stone Cold guests, another WWE star to miss WM32 season, and Questions on James Storm, the Charlotte/Paige angle, Pope's commentary, and shaking things up in WWE
John Cena discussed taking time off from WWE. To say WWE really needs to get to where they don't need to rely on him as an important part of things is an understatement. They might not have Cena right now, but they're using Taker and Kane as part of the "old guard" in his place. They should be using guys like that to enhance the current product instead of remaining in the spotlight.
The Undertaker's family was present at Survivor Series, from his parents to his wife and children. That was a really special milestone for The Deadman. Few get that level of recognition.
Scott Hall was also at Survivor Series. There's still talk of him working backstage in NXT. Could he lead the promo class?
Dusty Rhodes' wife and one of his daughters were visiting at Survivor Series, too. It was cool to see Stardust vs. Goldust again.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
The Undertaker's family was present at Survivor Series, from his parents to his wife and children. That was a really special milestone for The Deadman. Few get that level of recognition.
Scott Hall was also at Survivor Series. There's still talk of him working backstage in NXT. Could he lead the promo class?
Dusty Rhodes' wife and one of his daughters were visiting at Survivor Series, too. It was cool to see Stardust vs. Goldust again.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Interview with Eric Young, threats at Survivor Series, more TNA to Pop, band added to TNA UK tour, TNA-India airing update, Lesnar set for TV in 2016, Goldust update, and Questions on heels who should have been champ, the next WWE statue, ROH action figures, Rousey on Stone Cold's podcast, and rings in different countries
Eric Young discussed TNA's move to Pop TV. "TNA is Nickelback?" This sounds like the paranoid Eric Young who would argue about which cereal he wanted for breakfast. I do think TNA needs to decide who they are and what they do, though. WCW was where the big boys played. ECW was EXTREME. What's TNA, really, when you break it down?
There were rumors circulating this past weekend relating to a planned ISIS attack at Survivor Series, although no specific plans were reported. I'm very glad that didn't come to pass!
Update: WWE communicated with authorities at various levels regarding security at the PPV. It's a scary world we live in sometimes.
Everything else from Saturday is after the break.
There were rumors circulating this past weekend relating to a planned ISIS attack at Survivor Series, although no specific plans were reported. I'm very glad that didn't come to pass!
Update: WWE communicated with authorities at various levels regarding security at the PPV. It's a scary world we live in sometimes.
Everything else from Saturday is after the break.
Superstars Reax - 11/20/15, Interview with Landis, ROH invades home of TNA, Strong update, more on TNA's new TV home and what it means, ROH names pulled from indie show, Network hits another big mark, Styles-NXT rumorkiller, wrestling tournaments ranked, Smackdown audience, and Questions on ROH's production values, tag team match rules, the Radicalz, X-Pac as champ, and the Charlotte angle
Superstars:
- Brie vs. Naomi:
I think Naomi's an underrated worker.
Not bad at all from one-third of Team B.A.D.
That was pretty good overall.
Funny stuff from Bo as always. He's found a nice niche for himself.
- Titus vs. Bo:
Funny stuff with Bo and Darren at ringside.
Nice match overall.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
- Brie vs. Naomi:
I think Naomi's an underrated worker.
Not bad at all from one-third of Team B.A.D.
That was pretty good overall.
Funny stuff from Bo as always. He's found a nice niche for himself.
- Titus vs. Bo:
Funny stuff with Bo and Darren at ringside.
Nice match overall.
Everything else from Friday is after the break.
WWE signs top lucha star, TNA announces new TV home, "WWE Week" on USA next month, Lana return update, a look at the Wrestling Album, WWE scholarships, TNA+ROH audiences, more on Charlotte angle, AJ penning memoir, Cena added to important WWE show, and Questions on the Rumble vs. the NFL playoffs, Tunney in the HoF, Cornette working in NXT, WWE using Rousey, and using HBK more
As was rumored to be in the works, WWE has signed the former La Sombra to begin working in NXT. He has already reported to the WWE Performance Center. He's a third-generation luchadore with a lot of titles and matches to his name, so this is definitely a big deal. I hope he does what they were hoping Mistico would do as the first Sin Cara and becomes their next big Latin star.
Update: WWE.com publicized the signing. I can't wait to see what he does there.
TNA announced Impact Wrestling will begin airing on Pop TV (the former TV Guide Network) in January. That's great! The show will be able to reach a larger audience there than on DA. I hope this is the shot in the arm they need; things were looking bleak there for a while.
Update: Coupled with this announcement is one that Paragon Pro Wrestling, which is currently airing on Pop TV, will be moving to other networks. I think there would have been a great opportunity for TNA to use some of their wrestlers to bolster its own roster. Hopefully that doesn't bury the upstart promotion.
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
Update: WWE.com publicized the signing. I can't wait to see what he does there.
TNA announced Impact Wrestling will begin airing on Pop TV (the former TV Guide Network) in January. That's great! The show will be able to reach a larger audience there than on DA. I hope this is the shot in the arm they need; things were looking bleak there for a while.
Update: Coupled with this announcement is one that Paragon Pro Wrestling, which is currently airing on Pop TV, will be moving to other networks. I think there would have been a great opportunity for TNA to use some of their wrestlers to bolster its own roster. Hopefully that doesn't bury the upstart promotion.
Everything else from Thursday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 11/19/15
Read on for my thoughts on Thursday night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Friday, November 20, 2015
News update + Survivor Series predictions
This is going to be an incredibly busy couple of days before Thanksgiving, so posting will be delayed. I should be caught up before the holiday itself, but I definitely won't be posting tonight.
So, here are my Survivor Series predictions before watching Smackdown:
- Taker and Kane beat the Wyatts (although I'd love for the Family to get the win to set up the rubber match at WM32). They could build to one last Kane/Taker match at WM32, although I don't know how well that would be received.
- I wouldn't be shocked to see Reigns take the title only for Sheamus to cash in. Or worse, Ambrose wins and Sheamus cashes in leading to Reigns getting revenge (following Ambrose's rematches) with a title win at WM32. Sheamus vs. Reigns seems like a pretty safe bet on where they'll go from here, although it's possible they turn Ambrose or Reigns and have them feud with each other for a bit. Bottom line, Reigns is set to be "the guy" in 2016.
- The babyfaces win the elimination match since it doesn't really mean much anyway.
- Charlotte beats Paige.
- Hopefully Breeze gets some momentum by beating Ziggler dirty. Breeze is a solid talent, but not as impressive as a Kevin Owens. I hope he does well, though. He's been cutting his teeth in NXT for a while now, and improving along the way.
So, here are my Survivor Series predictions before watching Smackdown:
- Taker and Kane beat the Wyatts (although I'd love for the Family to get the win to set up the rubber match at WM32). They could build to one last Kane/Taker match at WM32, although I don't know how well that would be received.
- I wouldn't be shocked to see Reigns take the title only for Sheamus to cash in. Or worse, Ambrose wins and Sheamus cashes in leading to Reigns getting revenge (following Ambrose's rematches) with a title win at WM32. Sheamus vs. Reigns seems like a pretty safe bet on where they'll go from here, although it's possible they turn Ambrose or Reigns and have them feud with each other for a bit. Bottom line, Reigns is set to be "the guy" in 2016.
- The babyfaces win the elimination match since it doesn't really mean much anyway.
- Charlotte beats Paige.
- Hopefully Breeze gets some momentum by beating Ziggler dirty. Breeze is a solid talent, but not as impressive as a Kevin Owens. I hope he does well, though. He's been cutting his teeth in NXT for a while now, and improving along the way.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
New Surivior Series match, Flair on Raw angle, Goldust update, TNA talking to former WCW Champion, TNA-TV negotiations update, NXT main event official for London, ROH-NJPW update, and Questions on using celebrities in wrestling, NXT names in the Rumble, Baron Corbin, Vince on commentary, and a continuity editor for WWE
WWE has added a five-on-five elimination match to Survivor Series. The participants will be announced on Smackdown. That's pretty underwhelming. Elimination matches should mean something.
Ric Flair discussed the recent angle on Raw referencing his son's passing. It's still a raw subject, but there's no heat between himself and WWE. He'll still be at Survivor Series. I wouldn't blame him for being upset. I don't think anyone would.
Goldust was present at this week's WWE TV tapings. It'll be interesting to see if he gets another run or if he gets slotted as a producer or something instead. I think he'd be a great hand in NXT personally.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Ric Flair discussed the recent angle on Raw referencing his son's passing. It's still a raw subject, but there's no heat between himself and WWE. He'll still be at Survivor Series. I wouldn't blame him for being upset. I don't think anyone would.
Goldust was present at this week's WWE TV tapings. It'll be interesting to see if he gets another run or if he gets slotted as a producer or something instead. I think he'd be a great hand in NXT personally.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Post-Raw dark match, WWE.com looks at BSK, Charlotte's mom discusses Paige/Charlotte angle, neglected legend gets WWE merch, Raw audience, and Questions on Becky Lynch, Breeze's debut, Crews getting a super push, Rollins returning as a face, and Show vs. Reigns
Ambrose/Cesaro/Reigns/Ziggler beat the Wyatt Family after Raw. After the match, Reigns and Ambrose promised to go to the finals of the WWE Title tournament at Survivor Series and that the two of them will remain brothers no matter who wins. A lot of people expect one of them to turn that night. We'll see what happens.
WWE.com looked at the history of the BSK, Undertaker's backstage allies against the Kliq in the '90s.
- I'm surprised they acknowledged BSK, but I guess enough time has passed.
- OMG. I would pay to hear Undertaker rap.
- The Kliq has been mythicized as holding back, like, everyone.
- I can't blame people for being upset about the Curtain Call given the climate at the time.
- Do NOT fuck with Undertaker.
- I'm glad Taker and HBK get along now.
- Imagine the BSK going to WCW!! We'd be looking at a very different wrestling world now. Although I imagine there would still be macro problems for them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
WWE.com looked at the history of the BSK, Undertaker's backstage allies against the Kliq in the '90s.
- I'm surprised they acknowledged BSK, but I guess enough time has passed.
- OMG. I would pay to hear Undertaker rap.
- The Kliq has been mythicized as holding back, like, everyone.
- I can't blame people for being upset about the Curtain Call given the climate at the time.
- Do NOT fuck with Undertaker.
- I'm glad Taker and HBK get along now.
- Imagine the BSK going to WCW!! We'd be looking at a very different wrestling world now. Although I imagine there would still be macro problems for them.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Lucha name to WWE?, big NXT taping set for 2016, TNA name and two ECW names under the knife, more on Bockwinkel, former WWE name to LU, ROH changing channels soon, matches added to Survivor Series, and Questions on Balor+Bayley being called up, WWE travel, Ronda-WM32, turning Reigns/Ambrose, and running two live event loops
There are rumors in the Mexican press about La Sombra going to WWE. He has more than 1,100 matches under his belt and is only 26. They should definitely give him a look if he's interested.
NXT will be taping TV the weekend of the Royal Rumble, which is set to be held near where NXT normally tapes. I imagine they'll have a big turnout from people coming in town to watch the Rumble.
TNA's (?) Andrew Everett will undergoing a small surgery soon for a tear in his meniscus. Hopefully we'll see him back there in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
NXT will be taping TV the weekend of the Royal Rumble, which is set to be held near where NXT normally tapes. I imagine they'll have a big turnout from people coming in town to watch the Rumble.
TNA's (?) Andrew Everett will undergoing a small surgery soon for a tear in his meniscus. Hopefully we'll see him back there in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Survival of the Fittest Night 2 results, Knockout leaves TNA, WWE HoFer passes away, and Questions on firing Billy Gunn, Taker's last match, the Tonight Show tombstone, letting wrestlers be themselves, and why Vince loves Reigns
Here are the results from the second night of Survival of the Fittest:
- Strong's an important player for ROH. I hope he's not too banged up.
- Will that title match be Elgin's last main event for ROH? He's reportedly still a free agent, although he'll be competing in ROH for the time being while he tests his options.
Update: Elgin is expected to get a shot at the ROH Championship on Jan. 4 in the Tokyo Dome. That would make sense.
Brooke Tessmacher is no longer part of TNA. Whether she's done with wrestling as a whole remains to be seen. I'd be fine with her getting another shot in WWE, although they're pretty crowded right now. She definitely improved while in TNA. As for her now-former home, I think they've still got enough Knockouts to have a competitive division. It wouldn't hurt to scout more in the months to come, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Strong's an important player for ROH. I hope he's not too banged up.
- Will that title match be Elgin's last main event for ROH? He's reportedly still a free agent, although he'll be competing in ROH for the time being while he tests his options.
Update: Elgin is expected to get a shot at the ROH Championship on Jan. 4 in the Tokyo Dome. That would make sense.
Brooke Tessmacher is no longer part of TNA. Whether she's done with wrestling as a whole remains to be seen. I'd be fine with her getting another shot in WWE, although they're pretty crowded right now. She definitely improved while in TNA. As for her now-former home, I think they've still got enough Knockouts to have a competitive division. It wouldn't hurt to scout more in the months to come, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Superstars Reax - 11/14/15, Survival of the Fittest results, Bellas note, and Questions on MIA wrestlers, the conclusion of the WWE Title tournament, Bam Bam in 2K16, and House of Hardcore
Superstars:
- Bo vs. Fandango:
Fandango's a solid undercard wrestler, and I wish he got more credit for that.
Fine match overall.
Crazy promo from the Cosmic Wasteland, as usual. If Stardust was channeling Scott Steiner with his jab at the Dudleys, he gets props from me. Steiner should have a weekly segment calling out FAAAAAAT ASSES or whomever is annoying him that week. We have enough recaps of previous shows.
- Cosmic Wasteland vs. Dudleys/Ryback:
I think Stardust is having a lot of fun out there. He's a talented guy, and I'm glad he made something out of this gimmick. I still wish they would have finished the feud with Goldust, but I also enjoyed how Stardust did in the MITB match.
Nice match overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Bo vs. Fandango:
Fandango's a solid undercard wrestler, and I wish he got more credit for that.
Fine match overall.
Crazy promo from the Cosmic Wasteland, as usual. If Stardust was channeling Scott Steiner with his jab at the Dudleys, he gets props from me. Steiner should have a weekly segment calling out FAAAAAAT ASSES or whomever is annoying him that week. We have enough recaps of previous shows.
- Cosmic Wasteland vs. Dudleys/Ryback:
I think Stardust is having a lot of fun out there. He's a talented guy, and I'm glad he made something out of this gimmick. I still wish they would have finished the feud with Goldust, but I also enjoyed how Stardust did in the MITB match.
Nice match overall.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, November 14, 2015
NXT live event notes, Network-Germany update, Interviews with Taz/Cabana, WWE trainer released, Smackdown audience, another WWEPC date set, and Questions on honoring Eddie, getting under the ring, why Hulkamania worked, more Network markets, and Gunner-WWE
Here's a report from NXT's recent live event:
- I'm glad Cameron's getting another chance to earn her keep as a wrestler.
- Eva Marie needs to be working with people better than her so she can improve. Or at least people with more experience.
- I'm impressed with Woods' accolades. I hope he's a hit.
WWE Network will launch in Germany on January 6. Their next big target after that is Japan.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- I'm glad Cameron's getting another chance to earn her keep as a wrestler.
- Eva Marie needs to be working with people better than her so she can improve. Or at least people with more experience.
- I'm impressed with Woods' accolades. I hope he's a hit.
WWE Network will launch in Germany on January 6. Their next big target after that is Japan.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, November 13, 2015
Wrestling book notes, matches set for NXT in London, ROH name finishing up?, ROH guest commentator, ROH office name leaving, TNA+ROH audiences, NXT London start time, and Questions on Abyss-WWE, Paragon Pro Wrestling, NJPW's style, what if NXT matched WWE's hours of TV, and SoCal Val-WWE
New books have been released about the history of Louisville (with Jim Cornette) and the history of NJPW. It's great there are a lot of books out there about wrestling; that definitely wasn't always the case.
Here's footage from The Undertaker on The Tonight Show. That was pretty funny. There are few people who have the kind of legacy Taker has, so it's good to see him get some mainstream respect.
WWE's European tour is said to be quite successful so far, which has raised morale for those working the events.
Baron Corbin vs. Apollo Crews is official for NXT Takeover:London. That's a very big stage for both men. I hope they deliver; both could be valuable on the main roster in the future (in different roles).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Here's footage from The Undertaker on The Tonight Show. That was pretty funny. There are few people who have the kind of legacy Taker has, so it's good to see him get some mainstream respect.
WWE's European tour is said to be quite successful so far, which has raised morale for those working the events.
Baron Corbin vs. Apollo Crews is official for NXT Takeover:London. That's a very big stage for both men. I hope they deliver; both could be valuable on the main roster in the future (in different roles).
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 11/12/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
AAA Championship update, NXT injury notes, more Taker, TNA World Title Series update, ROH 14th anniversary show set, Taker appears on Fallon, and Questions on beating Brock, Brock blading, WWE ignoring TNA, NXT's promo class, and faces vs. heels
Alberto Del Rio has been officially stripped of the AAA Championship. AAA says he was willing to come in and drop the belt in a match, but WWE made the call not to let that happen. I get wanting to keep your new U.S. Champion strong, but it's a professional courtesy to have someone finish up what they've been advertised for.
Sami Zayn did some minor workouts in the WWEPC en route to a hopeful early 2016 return. I'd love to see him in either the Rumble or on Raw the night after WM32. He's a really good talent.
Hideo Itami is still on the shelf for the time being after his shoulder surgery. He could be staying out until 2016, too. I expect him to continue working in NXT for a while after his return.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sami Zayn did some minor workouts in the WWEPC en route to a hopeful early 2016 return. I'd love to see him in either the Rumble or on Raw the night after WM32. He's a really good talent.
Hideo Itami is still on the shelf for the time being after his shoulder surgery. He could be staying out until 2016, too. I expect him to continue working in NXT for a while after his return.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Barrett note, Interview with DDP, WWE job openings, Raw audience, another live event for Brock, and Questions on introducing a new title, beating HHH, Lawler wrestling, live feeds on the TitanTron, and elimination matches at Survivor Series
WWE got press overseas for the angle with King Barrett and Wayne Rooney in the UK. That's what they were going for! WWE wants to reach people who aren't already watching wrestling. Crossing over with other popular faces can help with that.
DDP talked about his yoga performance center. His reinvention as the motivational speaker and becoming active with yoga has been a solid story. Glad he's not still taking bumps in the ring to pay the bills.
WWE is hiring for positions related to live events for the main roster and for NXT. That's a sign of how much NXT is growing. It needs its own staff to cover how much they're going to be touring in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
DDP talked about his yoga performance center. His reinvention as the motivational speaker and becoming active with yoga has been a solid story. Glad he's not still taking bumps in the ring to pay the bills.
WWE is hiring for positions related to live events for the main roster and for NXT. That's a sign of how much NXT is growing. It needs its own staff to cover how much they're going to be touring in 2016.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
JR on Montreal and Rollins, new important people at WWEPC, Network note, and Questions on building new stars, turning Reigns or Ambrose, Bray losing, and both world title tournaments
Jim Ross looked back at the Montreal Screwjob on the 18th anniversary of the event:
- Great for JR to have stopped smoking.
- Vince keeping JR's name clean was smart.
- I agree heavily about the smartphone comment.
- Good insights overall.
Ryan Katz is heading up promo classes in NXT now. He's got big shoes to fill.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Great for JR to have stopped smoking.
- Vince keeping JR's name clean was smart.
- I agree heavily about the smartphone comment.
- Good insights overall.
Ryan Katz is heading up promo classes in NXT now. He's got big shoes to fill.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, November 9, 2015
Questions on the next WWE Champion and Raw ratings
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Honestly I don't hate that idea. Strapping the rocket to a heel so Roman has to dig deep to stand a chance is old-school storytelling. I definitely think Reigns will get heat from some fans in his title chase no matter what, but maybe some people would relent this time around.
2. Considering Rollins is going to miss six-to-nine months, I think they're going to shift gears for the time being. They need a champ who can take them through Mania. Part of me wants to see Reigns win the belt at WM32 or so and have Rollins return as a babyface to beat the guy fans aren't getting behind. We'll see if that actually happens, though.
3. The main thing I dislike about that scenario is Ambrose being underneath Sheamus. If he's going to turn heel, he should do it because he's going for the belt himself. Letting Sheamus take it doesn't really seem like something Dean would do.
4. I'd definitely start the process of seeing if he's able to come back. Him actually winning the Rumble this year and/or headlining WM32 would be a big shot in the arm WWE needs.
5. I really wonder what happens if USA does demand change. Their ideas could easily be along the lines of "use Vince/HHH/Stephanie, former stars, and guest hosts more." The higher-ups there aren't wrestling people in the sense of "give HHH the reins and build new stars." They're TV people and want big TV spectacles like guest stars and big crazy soap opera angles. I might be totally misreading them, but based on history, I think the last thing we need is intervention from USA. Change needs to come from within, which is obviously much easier said than done.
Sadly, it's not as easy as "put HHH in charge." There's a whole system that needs to change for WWE to get out of its funk. It won't happen overnight, but they can start as soon as tonight's Raw.
More wrestling tomorrow.
1. Honestly I don't hate that idea. Strapping the rocket to a heel so Roman has to dig deep to stand a chance is old-school storytelling. I definitely think Reigns will get heat from some fans in his title chase no matter what, but maybe some people would relent this time around.
2. Considering Rollins is going to miss six-to-nine months, I think they're going to shift gears for the time being. They need a champ who can take them through Mania. Part of me wants to see Reigns win the belt at WM32 or so and have Rollins return as a babyface to beat the guy fans aren't getting behind. We'll see if that actually happens, though.
3. The main thing I dislike about that scenario is Ambrose being underneath Sheamus. If he's going to turn heel, he should do it because he's going for the belt himself. Letting Sheamus take it doesn't really seem like something Dean would do.
4. I'd definitely start the process of seeing if he's able to come back. Him actually winning the Rumble this year and/or headlining WM32 would be a big shot in the arm WWE needs.
5. I really wonder what happens if USA does demand change. Their ideas could easily be along the lines of "use Vince/HHH/Stephanie, former stars, and guest hosts more." The higher-ups there aren't wrestling people in the sense of "give HHH the reins and build new stars." They're TV people and want big TV spectacles like guest stars and big crazy soap opera angles. I might be totally misreading them, but based on history, I think the last thing we need is intervention from USA. Change needs to come from within, which is obviously much easier said than done.
Sadly, it's not as easy as "put HHH in charge." There's a whole system that needs to change for WWE to get out of its funk. It won't happen overnight, but they can start as soon as tonight's Raw.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Former ROH Champ signs new deal?, update on TNA TV home, TNA touring note, Impact updates, Del Rio working outside WWE, important milestone for WWE producer, Interview with Bryan, Rollins update, and Questions on Bray putting Rollins on the shelf, Survivor Series winners facing off for the title, Wahoo in the HoF, and WWE buying Hogan's movies
There have been reports of Michael Elgin signing a new contract with ROH that allows him to also take dates elsewhere, but Elgin disputes this. Either way, he's going to continue working there for the time being while he assesses his options. Elgin's OK, I guess. Not someone I'd rush to sign if I was another important promotion.
TNA remains in negotiations for a U.S. TV home in 2016. That's going to be important for them to stay in the running as being a major promotion.
TNA has plans to do more live events in 2016 after hardly doing any this year. That will presumably get people more work and make them less likely to jump ship.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
TNA remains in negotiations for a U.S. TV home in 2016. That's going to be important for them to stay in the running as being a major promotion.
TNA has plans to do more live events in 2016 after hardly doing any this year. That will presumably get people more work and make them less likely to jump ship.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Superstars Reax - 11/6/15, NXT and WWE live event notes, Wrestlemania party attendance, new Legend contract, Smackdown audience, Cena update, Angle-TNA update, and Questions on Knockouts going for the TNA Title, Brock at Survivor Series, and potential Lesnar opponents
Superstars:
- Slater vs. Neville:
I wish the ONE MAN BAAAAAAAND was a thing in NXT. He'd be great there.
Neville's matches are kind of getting repetitive. I'd like to see him involved in something new.
- Dallas vs. Ryder:
I'm not sure why Bo cracks me up, but he does.
Not bad so far.
Fine match, I think.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Slater vs. Neville:
I wish the ONE MAN BAAAAAAAND was a thing in NXT. He'd be great there.
Neville's matches are kind of getting repetitive. I'd like to see him involved in something new.
- Dallas vs. Ryder:
I'm not sure why Bo cracks me up, but he does.
Not bad so far.
Fine match, I think.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Friday, November 6, 2015
NXT injury updates, another NXT name with the main roster, more from Jerry Jarrett, Rollins injured badly, TNA+ROH audiences, WWE WrestleMania party notes, and Questions on Alberto-AAA, ROH's TV future, Charlotte's tattoo, and the Network affecting Raw's ratings
The NXT injuries of Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady are kayfabe. They should get big reactions when they return to face Dash and Dawson. The latter pair are really good lately.
Bayley is touring with the main roster in Europe. That's really good experience for the future WWE Diva.
Jerry Jarrett's new wrestling project is set to feature aspiring wrestlers in a reality series-style competition. There would be a 13-week series of tryouts at smaller events leading to a tour of live events featuring the finalists working alongside more established performers. That's a cool idea for wrestling in 2015. It's worth giving a shot.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Bayley is touring with the main roster in Europe. That's really good experience for the future WWE Diva.
Jerry Jarrett's new wrestling project is set to feature aspiring wrestlers in a reality series-style competition. There would be a 13-week series of tryouts at smaller events leading to a tour of live events featuring the finalists working alongside more established performers. That's a cool idea for wrestling in 2015. It's worth giving a shot.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Main Event and Smackdown Reax - 11/5/15
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Main Event and Smackdown.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Latest on Alberto, surprising name back on WWE Legends deal, WM31 revenue revealed, WWE enters VR world, more from WWE in India, when Smackdown moves to USA, WWE-MSG notes, WWE live event notes, and Questions on Paige's character, Taker's "workrate," why Bray attacked Taker, and WWE continuity
Alberto Del Rio wasn't at the most recent AAA TV taping, as expected. He remains the promotion's champion as of this writing.
"Superstar" Billy Graham has signed a new legends contract with WWE after speaking with Triple H and visiting at a recent Smackdown taping. This is the latest example of hell freezing over in the wrestling business. Graham had previously asked to be removed from the Hall of Fame and tried to sell his Hall of Fame ring. Now, though, he'll be attending AXXESS for WM32 and WWE will release merchandise for him in 2016. This was unexpected, but a positive surprise. I hope it bears fruit for both sides, and their relationship remains a positive one.
WWE released a statement on the impressive amount of revenue WM31 brought to the San Francisco area. That's great for all involved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
"Superstar" Billy Graham has signed a new legends contract with WWE after speaking with Triple H and visiting at a recent Smackdown taping. This is the latest example of hell freezing over in the wrestling business. Graham had previously asked to be removed from the Hall of Fame and tried to sell his Hall of Fame ring. Now, though, he'll be attending AXXESS for WM32 and WWE will release merchandise for him in 2016. This was unexpected, but a positive surprise. I hope it bears fruit for both sides, and their relationship remains a positive one.
WWE released a statement on the impressive amount of revenue WM31 brought to the San Francisco area. That's great for all involved.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Off-air Raw note, new WWE legend contract, Diva out hurt, become a professional spot monkey, Survival of the Fittest qualifiers, Interviews with Hall/Charlotte/Stone Cold, Raw audience, and Questions on Rollins vs. Reigns, the future of the Dudleys, why WWE's working with EVOLVE, selling, and Zeb working with Del Rio
There were no dark matches before or after Raw, which is somewhat surprising. It wouldn't be a bad idea to have Tyler Breeze or Brad Maddox/Joshua Kingsley get a test run before larger audiences before being part of things on a more regular basis.
Tatanka has signed a new Legends contract with WWE. I wouldn't mind him doing a few special appearances like they have guys like Slaughter do every once in a while.
Nikki Bella is working to overcome an injury. She's earned the time off after that long title reign.
ROH is doing a training seminar this weekend in Pennsylvania for aspiring flippy jabronis.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tatanka has signed a new Legends contract with WWE. I wouldn't mind him doing a few special appearances like they have guys like Slaughter do every once in a while.
Nikki Bella is working to overcome an injury. She's earned the time off after that long title reign.
ROH is doing a training seminar this weekend in Pennsylvania for aspiring flippy jabronis.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
More on Del Rio-AAA, live event note, TNA taping notes, TNA live events update, more on Tapout-WWE, Interviews with Reigns/Batista/Rousey, Network in new market, Survivor Series main set, Orton to miss time, and Questions on Charlotte's title feuds, Del Rio's reign, who faces the Wyatts, Haku vs. Lesnar, and Owens in NXT
Alberto Del Rio is still being advertised for the next AAA taping, but Konnan has stated he will not be there. I don't expect WWE to allow him to work the show, champion or not. I don't think they want to make an enemy of AAA and potentially lose more goodwill with the Latino audience.
Dolph Ziggler beat Tyler Breeze at another live event this weekend. I'm looking forward to them presumably facing off at Survivor Series.
TNA is aiming to return to NYC for TV tapings in early 2016. That will be really interesting given how much smaller their profile is now.
TNA has been in communication with several other cable networks for carrying Impact Wrestling in the U.S. in 2016. How many more channel moves can the show survive with any audience intact? This does give them a chance for another new beginning, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Dolph Ziggler beat Tyler Breeze at another live event this weekend. I'm looking forward to them presumably facing off at Survivor Series.
TNA is aiming to return to NYC for TV tapings in early 2016. That will be really interesting given how much smaller their profile is now.
TNA has been in communication with several other cable networks for carrying Impact Wrestling in the U.S. in 2016. How many more channel moves can the show survive with any audience intact? This does give them a chance for another new beginning, though.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Monday, November 2, 2015
Del Rio-AAA update, former promoter back in the mix, WWE live event note, WWE announcer in crash, and Questions on Grantland, Cena's return, Neville teaming with Cesaro, booking WM32, and ending Breeze's NXT run
AAA postponed a show in the wake of Alberto Del Rio's WWE return. It doesn't look like he'll be working there to drop the title, although WWE absolutely should do the professional thing and let them use him for at least one date in order to lose the title.
Jerry Jarrett recently announced he'll return to being a wrestling promoter. Naturally there's speculation of him being part of GFW alongside his son, but he could also be going in a totally different direction. It'll be interesting to see how he can change the game in 2015.
Tyler Breeze worked live events with the main roster this weekend, losing to Dolph Ziggler. I won't be shocked if that happens on TV as well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Jerry Jarrett recently announced he'll return to being a wrestling promoter. Naturally there's speculation of him being part of GFW alongside his son, but he could also be going in a totally different direction. It'll be interesting to see how he can change the game in 2015.
Tyler Breeze worked live events with the main roster this weekend, losing to Dolph Ziggler. I won't be shocked if that happens on TV as well.
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Superstars Reax - 10/31/15, NXT live event notes, Interview with Lashley, and Questions on TE signings, Joe's NXT contract, Poffo in armor, and the devil in wrestling
Superstars:
- Kalisto vs. Viktor:
WE GOT OURSELVES A FLYIN' LUCHA DRAGON, MAGGLE!! Kalisto can MOVE.
Really good match. Viktor selling for Kalisto made it all work.
- Bo vs. Fandango:
This is good so far.
Fandango is a really underrated performer.
Solid match!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
- Kalisto vs. Viktor:
WE GOT OURSELVES A FLYIN' LUCHA DRAGON, MAGGLE!! Kalisto can MOVE.
Really good match. Viktor selling for Kalisto made it all work.
- Bo vs. Fandango:
This is good so far.
Fandango is a really underrated performer.
Solid match!
Everything else from yesterday is after the break.
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