WWE TLC Review

Hey everyone, I will be doing live blogging on Tables, Ladders, and Chairs tonight!

The show opened with a video package with the WWE's version of "Twas The Night Before Christmas." Got to love the WWE's production crew, they always find creative ways to make PPV hype packages different.

United States Championship: Dolph Ziggler (c) vs Zack Ryder
Ziggler started the match with a couple of leg sweep takedowns. Ziggler had control early and locked in a chin lock. Ryder fought out but ate an elbow in the corner. Ziggler hit a backdrop for two. Ryder gained control and hit a missle drop kick from the top for two. Ryder hit some clotheslines then hit the Broski boot in the corner. Ryder went for the pin but Vickie put Dolph's foot on the rope. The ref tossed Vickie from ringside. Ziggler hit Ryder for a kick, went for the ZigZag but missed. Ziggler then hit a leg drop for two. Ryder countered out of a sleeper attempt but ate a drop kick. Ryder knocked Ziggler off the top rope, then hit a hurricarrana for two. Ryder went for the Rough Ryder but Ziggler tossed him onto the turnbuckle, then rolled up Ryder for two. Ryder got up, hit a double knee, then the Rough Ryder for the win.

WINNER: Zack Ryder to win the United States Championship in 10 minutes
**1/2: Match was only 10 minutes so it didn't amount to much. The last few minutes were action packed and quick. Ryder finally wins the U.S. Title. Hopefully Ziggler moves on to a possible feud with C.M. Punk. Solid opener though.

WWE TLC Preview

Hey, there is a WWE PPV this Sunday! And if you watched the end of RAW this week, you wouldn't even know there is one. RAW ended this week with the return of Masked Kane choke-slamming John Cena. I'm all for the return of Kane with the mask, but they couldn't have waited to do that one more week? If I were the WWE, I would have been more concerned with selling my PPV on Sunday then Kane's return. At this point, I don't see how TLC does good at all in the PPV buy rate department. The build that the WWE did do on RAW this past Monday was ok, but it would have been served better had it been the main point of the show. The Slammys distracted from the TLC build. It is a problem with having a 3 hour RAW before a PPV.

RAW Review for 12/5/2011

Do You Want To Be WWE Champion? Then Come On Down!
RAW started with John Cena again. Cena kissed the WWE's Universe ass. He said they've earned the right to tell him how they feel about him. Cena said they've earned the right to chant "Fruity Pebbles" at him, and you can't find energy like that on any other show. Cena said he's been getting reactions like that forever, and it isn't a big deal to him. Cena said the only slapped that mattered last week was the referee's slap tat counted to 3 when C.M. Punk defeated Alberto del Rio last week for the WWE Title. Cena said he wanted another WWE Title match with C.M. Punk.

Alberto del Rio interrupted. He said he deserves another Title match, not Cena. ADR showed the clip of Punk using the exposed turnbuckle to get the win last week against him. ADR said he should be the new WWE Champion because of that. Vickie Guerrero interrupted with Dolph Ziggler. Vickie said Dolph deserves a Title shot. Dolph said he beat Randy Orton, is the longest reigning Champion in WWE, and has the best match on WWE night in and night out. Cena made fun of Dolph's past names. Dolph said it's not showing off if you back it up every night. Miz said he took out John Morrison & R-Truth, beat Cena at Wrestlemania, had a WWE Title reign longer than ADR, and doesn't need Vickie to get a reaction like Dolph does. John Laurinaitis interrupted. He said each man in the ring will face a Smackdown superstar, and if they win they are in the WWE Title match at TLC. Except John Cena, Cena's match is a "social experiment." Miz's match is first. He faces Randy Orton. Typical way for the WWE when they have multiple people they want to get involved in the Title picture. Dolph stood out and didn't look out of place at all. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Lets Keep Making Miz Look Strong! Oh Wait....
Back from break Miz worked over Randy Orton. He hit a neckbreaker for two. Orton fought out of a sleeper hold with a backdrop. Clotheslines than a scoop slam. Miz countered the middle rope DDT by tossing Orton over the top. Miz charged out of the ring but Orton caught him and hit a scoop slam. Wade Barrett came out. Orton stared him down. He put Miz back in the ring then chased Barrett, which got Orton counted out. Barrett than came back and took out Orton from behind. Miz can beat up Morrison and R-Truth, but he can't beat Orton clean. Way to continue Miz's strong push. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Promo for WWE Network, starting in April 2012.

Zack Ryder was backstage with John Laurinaitis. Ryder asked him about his online petition. Cena came in wearing Ryder's wig and sunglasses. Laurinaitis talked Cena's match later tonight, a "social experiment." Tonight Cena faces Zack Ryder. If Ryder wins, he gets a future United States Title match. If Cena wins, he gets put into the WWE Title match at TLC. Both men stared on in disbelief.

David Otunga talked to Kevin Nash backstage. At TLC, Nash takes on HHH in a Ladder Match, with a sledgehammer hanging above the ring. First guy to get it can use it. Nash is also in action tonight. Nash in a Ladder Match? This will be epic.

Taped Ribs? Is that Daniel Bryan or DDP?
Alberto del Rio was out next for his match. His opponent? Daniel Bryan. ADR worked over Bryan's injured ribs early. Bryan tried to lock in a submission but ADR countered by dropping Bryan rib first on the ropes. ADR immediately applied the cross armbreaker to pick up the in. Meh. Bryan's injured sure but they could have done better to protect him. At least ADR looked strong compared to Miz. Survey Says: 2/5

During a Divas of Doom promo, the 'It Begins" promo interrupted it. Apparently the announcers didn't see it. Kelly rolled up Beth to pick up the win.

How Could You Bro?
Cena got Ryder in an armbar early on. Ryder countered into a headlock. Cena got out, hit a hip toss, then applied a sleeper. Ryder countered out and hit a faceplant then applied a headlock. Cena powered out, but Ryder countered into a swinging neckbreaker for two. Another headlock. Cena countered out again, but Ryder hit a knee to the face on Cena than a missile dropkick for two. Ryder hit a tornado DDT for two. Ryder went for the Rough Ryder, but Cena ducked and went into CENA MODE. Ryder countered out of an AA than hit his knee to the face in the corner. He went for the Rough Ryder, but Cena countered into the AA for the win. Ryder seemed frustrated with Cena, asking how Cena could cost him his one shot at the US Title. Cena walked off apologizing. Alright match. You knew Ryder was jobbing, but it was better than the first two matches tonight. Still not saying much though. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Cena was backstage yelling at Laurinaitis to give Ryder a U.S. Title match. Laurinaitis said he could give him one more opportunity in another match, but Cena would have to give up his WWE Title match opportunity at TLC. Cena said he is a ten time WWE Champion, and he has had his opportunity. Now it is time for someone else to get theirs. Cena agreed to it. Laurinaitis said Ryder would have to wait to find out his opponent.

A new Kane promo aired. This time he was shown wearing his old mask.

Ryder Got What He Wanted. BUT NOT WITHOUT THE HELP OF SUPER CENA!!!
Zack Ryder was out for his next match, a No DQ Match vs Mark Henry. Henry dominated Ryder. Ryder tried to fight back, bashing Henry's injured ankle into the ringpost. He hit his knee to the corner, but Henry shoved him away. Cena came out, hit an AA on Henry, and put Ryder on top of him for the win. That was stupid. Ryder looked weak, and so did Henry. Survey Says: 1/5

Vickie said she couldn't get Laurinaitis to reverse the decision, but she did find out Ziggler's opponent for later: Sheamus. Dolph said he didn't want Jack Swagger at ringside.

Kevin Nash vs Santino. Nash hit a side slam than a boot, then finished Santino with a powerbomb. Nash grabbed the sledgehammer after and went to hit Santino, but he held back.

Are Faces The Heels Tonight?
Sheamus/Ziggler. Sheamus hit a shoulder knock down but Dolph came back with a dropkick. Sheamus came back with his chest punches and then hit a back drop for two. Ziggler countered with a neckbreaker for two then applied a sleeper hold. Sheamus hit some axe handles then some head butts in the corner. Sheamus set up the Celtic cross but Ziggler countered out of it as Sheamus missed a charge in the corner. Zack Ryder came out to the ring. It distracted Ziggler, allowing Sheamus to hit the Brogue Kick for the win. So it is ok for faces to distract heels. but not the other way around? Faces are being booked as heels tonight. Survey Says: 1.5/5

BRAWL BRAWL BRAWL!!!
All 3 men arrived for the contract signing. Punk moved the tables and chairs. He said contract signings are the biggest cliche in wrestling. Punk said Laurinaits can play Jack Tunney, they can sign the contract and get to brawling like normal. Laurinaitis said that the match at TLC will be a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs Match. Punk said all he has to do is beat they guy he's beaten twice and the guy that lost at Survivor Series. Miz asked if he's seen what he's done lately. He taken out Miz and R-Truth. Punk asked where he took them out to, the new Twilight movie. Miz said he took them to the stage and forced Morrison to get fired. Laurinaitis then looked right in the camera and wished John Morrison the best in his future endeavors. HA.

Miz said he's the most WWE Champion in WWE History, and that will make the WWE Title relevant again. Alberto del Rio chimed in. ADR said he's done everything this year, and he will win back the WWE Title. ADR was going to say why, but Punk stopped him and said if he was going to say because it is his destiny he was going to start drinking. Miz said that the one thing him and ADR agree on is that Punk is not leaving TLC WWE Champion. Everyone signed the contract. Laurinaitis wanted a photo, but Punk refused and started brawling. Punk ended up hitting a bulldog on ADR threw the table, then a GTS on Miz. Punk stood tall to end the show. Punk saved that from being a train wreck of a show, but it isn't saying much. Weird seeing Punk take out both men heading into TLC. Survey Says: 3/5

OVERALL
This was a down show compared to the last two weeks. No good wrestling on the show. They are rushing to get to TLC, so they had a lot to fit in to make people care about the PPV in two weeks. Of course that is no one's fault but the WWE's. The faces were made out to be total heels tonight, with Cena and Ryder interfering in matches to help other faces win. Miz didn't look strong after doing so the last few weeks. They did it with Alberto del Rio, but he's almost beyond repair at this point. Dolph Ziggler stood out in the beginning promo which was good. Cena's weird emotional trip continues and I still don't know exactly where it is going. Is Cena really not going to be on the PPV? And Nash/HHH in a Ladder Match: Epic. This show gets a 3 from me, for Punk and for Laurinaitis wishing John Morrison the best in his future endeavors.

And remember kids, cheating for your friends is cool, as long as you are the good guy in the situation.

Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka

The Top 10 Survivor Series Moments of All Time

In less than two weeks time, the WWE will present us with the 25th annual Survivor Series. This is not the 25th anniversary of Survivor Series, no matter what the WWE says.

I was going to put together a top 25 list of the best matches and moments in Survivor Series history, but my availability is really limited so I decided to narrow it down to the Top 10 moments in Survivor Series history. Even when going through a list of all the past Survivor Series, it is really tough to come up with a Top 25 list. Sure there were some good elimination matches, but they really don't stand out as good moments. This PPV always seemed to be more about the matches rather than moments. But that is not to say there haven't been some memorable moments at this PPV. I think this PPV in less than two weeks will be fun. Having The Rock on helps that out a lot. I like the idea of having at least two 5-on-5 elimination matches at this PPV. I wish they had a deeper roster so there could be more, but the WWE feels that those matches don't sell the PPV. But they normally result in some good wrestling, which is all we can ask for as wrestling fans.

With all of this being said, lets gets into this Top 10 list.

10. Survivor Series 1990: The Debut of the Gobbledy Gooker
-Hey, I didn't say these were all good memories. The WWF was hyping this "mystery egg" that was seen on WWF TV for weeks. Many people speculated on what it could be. Most people thought whatever was in the egg was something big because of all the hype it had been receiving. Well, Survivor Series came, and we got a giant turkey that became known as the Gobbledy Gooker. It was Hector Guerrero dressed in the costume. The Gooker never appeared on WWF TV again, so nobody knew if it ever had any further plans. The Gooker was booed out of the building. It is known in folk lore and WWE legend as one of the worst ideas ever. But it is still fun to talk about.

9. Survivor Series 1991: The Undertaker Defeats Hulk Hogan To Win The WWF Championship
-For anybody who doesn't know, Hulk Hogan rarely if ever lost in the 1980s and 1990s in the WWF. The only times he ever lost was to Ultimate Warrior at Wrestlemania 6. Hogan lost to Andre the Giant on the debut episode of "The Main Event," but that was with the help of a "crooked referee." The Undertaker was an unstoppable force in the WWF at the time. He was going through babyface undercard wrestlers with ease. He soundly defeated Jimmy Snuka at Wrestlemania 7. At Survivor Series, exactly one year after his debut, he challenged Hulk Hogan for the WWF Title. Although it came with the help of Ric Flair, Undertaker defeated Hogan to win the WWF Title. The crowd was stunned. There lied their hero in the middle of the ring having just been beaten for the WWF Title. Undertaker lost the Title six days later, but it was still quite shocking at the time to see Hogan lose.

8. Survivor Series 1994: Diesel Turns Face
-This turned out to be a pretty big deal in the long run, as it began the launch of the single's career of Kevin Nash. Nash, at the time known as Diesel, had been the bodyguard for Shawn Michaels for almost a year at this point. He started wrestling over the summer, and even captured the Intercontinental Championship. Fans started to get behind him because he looked cool and pretty much dominated all of his opponents. Nash's Jack Knife Powerbomb was one of the best finishers around at the time. Diesel had been growing tired of Shawn Michaels's antics for a bit, and he finally snapped at Survivor Series. He slowly stalked down Shawn Michaels before Michaels eventually left the arena. Less than two weeks later, Diesel won the WWF Championship from Bob Backlund. Diesel held onto that Title for over a year. He defended it successfully against the likes of Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Sid and Mabel before losing it to Hart in late 1995. This was an important event because as I said, it marked the beginning of Kevin Nash's successful singles run, which garnered him a huge contract from WCW and allowed the nWo angle to begin.

7. Survivor Series 1996: The Debut of The Rock
-Who would have thought that this young guy full of energy would go on to become one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time. Of course he didn't debut as The Rock. In his initial match, he was simply known as Rocky Maivia, and his nickname was "The Blue Chipper." He was the sole survivor of his 4-on-4 elimination match. He eliminated Crush with a crossbody and Goldust with a shoulder breaker. In the growing months fans became sick of his clean cut good guy persona, so he turned heel and joined the Nation of Domination. You knew the WWE saw something in him with the amount of hype he received from Vince McMahon and Jim Ross, but they probably didn't see The Rock taking the path he did.

6. Survivor Series 1998: Deadly Games Tournament for the WWF Title, Rock/Mankind Double Turn
-I may have this high, but I really liked the booking of this show. The Deadly Games Tournament was a unique concept that was similar to the Wrestlemania 4 Tournament. But this time, the fan favorite didn't walk out with the Title. Well, I guess The Rock was the fan favorite heading into the show. The Rock was becoming a target of Vince McMahon, similar to that of Steve Austin. But it all appeared to be an elaborate set up by Vince, Shane McMahon, and The Rock as a way to get the WWF Title on The Rock. All along it appeared Vince backed Mankind, but Mankind was not the clean-cut, corporate Champion McMahon wanted. But Vince saw that in The Rock, and that's why he screwed Mankind out of the WWE Title. Sure I was only 11 when this happened, but I didn't see the double turn coming. And I don't think most fans did either. It was good booking.

5. Survivor Series 2001: The End of The Invasion
-Just because I have this so high doesn't mean that I liked the Invasion angle. It was badly botched it isn't funny. Instead of bringing in the high priced WCW veterans, Vince McMahon brought in a bunch of mid-carders from WCW, had them align with ECW, and be lead by Steve Austin, the WWE's top star at the time. It made no sense. But Survivor Series 2001 brought  an end to this abomination of an angle in what was a pretty good 5-on-5 elimination match. I consider this an important event in WWE history for a couple reasons. The obvious being that it ended the Invasion angle. But it also lead to the brand split with RAW and Smackdown, it lead to the creation of the Undisputed Championship, and it lead to Ric Flair coming to the WWE. The Invasion could have been done so much better, but this event was one of the better things that resulted from it.

4. Survivor Series 1996: Steve Austin/Bret Hart
-Survivor Series 1996 was a pretty good PPV when you look back at it. The debut of The Rock, Undertaker/Mankind, and Shawn Michaels carried Sid to one of the best matches of his career. The show also saw the first match in what became almost a year long feud between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart. Austin had been calling out Hart for months while Hart had been away from TV. Hart returned in October and the two fought at Survivor Series in what was a very good match. These two's classic encounter at Wrestlemania 13 is considered one of the greatest matches ever, and rightfully so, but this match is no slouch either. It continued to propel Steve Austin into stardom, which showed as some fans in Madison Square Garden began cheering Austin. You can really make an argument either way as to what was Bret Hart's best feud, Steve Austin or Bret Hart.

3. Survivor Series 2002: Shawn Michaels Wins the World Heavyweight Title in the First Ever Elimination Chamber Match
-I'm glad that this year's Survivor Series is at Madison Square Garden, because as you can tell from this list, good things happen at Survivor Series at MSG. In 2002, Eric Bischoff debuted the ominous Elimination Chamber. Triple H defended the World Title in the Chamber against Booker T, Rob Van Dam, Kane, Chris Jericho, and Shawn Michaels. Michaels had just returned from a four year absence due to a back injury. He defeated Triple H in an excellent match at SummerSlam. In the Elimination Chamber, HBK was the ultimate underdog who the crowd was firmly behind. Many fans were upset that Triple H was just handed the World Title by Eric Bischoff, so they were anxious to see him lose it. The reaction Michaels got after winning the match was great. You could tell Michaels was greatful for the opportunity and thankful for the fans reactions. The match continued HBK's comeback and showed he still had it.

2. Survivor Series 1990: The Debut of The Undertaker
-Back in the 1990s, the WWF was all about the character. Look at Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, and Ted DiBiase. When The Undertaker walked down the aisle to the ring, fans were in awe of his presence. Here was this dark, ominous looking man walking towards the ring. No emotion, no expression on his face whatsoever. Sure he fit in at the time, but I doubt many people thought that The Undertaker character would have the impact it did on the WWE. Twenty years later and The Undertaker's legacy speaks for itself. He's undefeated at Wrestlemania. He's won the WWE and World Title multiple times. The mere presence of him in the ring captivates fans. The entrance is one of the best ever. I doubt many people saw this coming in 1990, but The Undertaker became a Legacy of his own in the WWE.

1. Survivor Series 1997: The Montreal Screwjob
-Come on, did you really think anything else would top this list? It's the most controversial, real life event to ever happen in the history of the WWE. If you are reading this, then you probably know the story. In 1997, Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels hated each other, on screen and off. Hart was on his way to WCW, but he was still WWF Champion at the time. Hart didn't want to lose the Title to Michaels in Montreal or Canada. A big DQ finish was planned, then Hart would either forefit the Title the next night on RAW or lose it at some point in the next few weeks to Michaels. Well, Vince McMahon didn't want that or risk having Hart show up on Nitro with the WWF Championship Belt. So McMahon, Michaels, Triple H and a few others came up with the screwjob finish. The result caused outrage among WWF wrestlers and fans, with many more questions than answers.

Many people have different opinions on the matter. Mine has always been the same. Who cares where you lose the Title. Canadian fans weren't going to think anything less of Bret Hart if he lost the Title in Montreal. And just handing over the Title the next night on RAW devalues the Title in my eyes. Having that Title doesn't mean anything to Bret? Then why should anyone else want it? Hart needed to do what was best for the WWF, but instead he did what was best for himself. I always defend Vince McMahon's actions to this day, and nothing will ever change that.

So what are your thoughts? Agree? Disagree? Will there be a Top 10 Moment at this year's Survivor Series? Feel free to share your thoughts.

Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts for 11/7/2011

Cena Opening Segment 24308705827829
Cena said it was a pumped crowd tonight. He said Rock's not there, but tonight he is teaming with a future Hall of Famer. Miz and R-Truth interrupted, and said that since Cena isn't teaming with them it can't be the case. Miz said the beat down last week will never happen again. Truth said he couldn't stand all the Little Jimmys laughing at him. Truth said Cena is getting a beat down at Survivor Series and tonight. Miz and R-Truth went in for a beat down before Zack Ryder made the save. I guess Ryder is Cena's partner. Almost a repeat of last week. Blah. Survey Says: 2/5

The Shaman of Jobbing
Ziggler/Morrison next. Lots of basic mat work early. Morrison hit a kick on Ziggler sending him to the outside, but Ziggler caught him with a quick clothesline. Back from break Ziggler was still in control. Ziggler hit a standing dropkick for two. Ziggler taunted Morrison a bit. Morrison tried to fight back a couple of times but Ziggler took care of them. Morrison finally countered a dropkick into a catapult to the turnbuckle. Morrison hit a twirling DDT for two. Ziggler countered a Starship Pain attempt into a sunset flip for two. Morrison hit a kick and had Ziggler pinned, but Vickie distracted the ref. Ziggler rolled up Morrison, but Morrison countered with a roll up for the win. Fun match. Maybe they will start a winning streak for Morrison? Doubt that. Survey Says: 3/5

Mason Ryan beat JTG with a Full Nelson Powerslam. He's not getting over WWE, no matter how hard you try. He just doesn't have it.

Michael Cole said no "Michael Cole Challenge" tonight. Jim Ross had too much of his BBQ Sauce at the airport, and when TSA took it he threw a fit and was detained.

Trying to Re-Establish Your WWE Champion
Alberto del Rio vs Kofi Kingston. ADR took it to Kofi early, selling frustration from last week. Kofi went for Trouble in Paradise but missed. ADR threw Kofi into the post. He locked in the cross arm breaker for the win. ADR reapplied it after the match. C.M. Punk came out, then they went to break? Weird.

Back from break, ADR questioned Punk's manhood. He called Punk a coward for getting his WWE Title match the way he did. ADR said no one cares about Punk just like no one cares about Liverpool. ADR said John Laurinaitis told him he could cancel his WWE Title match with Punk if he wanted to. Punk said he didn't know he had to ask ADR politely, so his bad. But Punk thought cheap shots were how stuff is done around here. Just like ADR did at SummerSlam with his MITB contract and at Hell in A Cell with a lead pipe. Punk called ADR one dimensional. Punk said at Survivor Series, he is going to make the WWE Title interesting again. ADR asked once more if he would cancel the match. Punk said no, so ADR attacked. Punk countered the ADR into the Anaconda Vice. Ricardo broke it up, then ate a GTS as ADR ran off. Well Punk contradicted himself a bit with the MITB cash in stuff, but he said it's the norm around here now so I guess it balances out. The crowd was massively behind Punk too. Good segment that added a new layer to the feud, with Punk calling ADR boring and one dimensional. Survey Says: 3/5

Jack Swagger got his win back from last week over Santino with the ankle lock. Just seemed like filler and a way to get these guys on TV, similar to the Swagger/Bourne stuff from earlier this year.

Kelly Kelly Like We've Never Seen Before? You Mean She Won't Sleep With Anyone?
King introduced Kelly Kelly, who will be on the cover of Maxim this month. Kelly said she did a lot of growing up (and sleeping around) since she came to the WWE. Beth Phoenix and Natalya came to the ring and mocked her. Kelly said she wouldn't interrupt them if they got on the cover of National Geographic. Nattie and Beth said they were going to make an example of Kelly, who isn't what a WWE Diva should be. Eve and Alicia Fox made the save. Then they revealed the cover. Not bad. Survey Says: 2/5

Kevin Nash: Best in the World (can't type that with a straight face)
John Laurinaitis introduced Kevin Nash. Nash said he doesn't own anyone an explanation except HHH. Nash said he should have buried HHH in 1995, but HBK told him to let him into their Kliq. Nash said he got the biggest pop at the Royal Rumble. Then he called HHH to put a match together, but got no response. Nash said he is still the best in the business, and he can be World Champ if he wanted to. Nash said he thought about what it would be like to hit HHH with the sledgehammer. He said he made a main event match with what he did. Nash said he showed everyone how to play the game. Nice closing line. Nash saying he was still the best in the business was funny. Nothing bad from Nash. Good set up. Survey Says: 2.5/5

John Laurinaitis was talking backstage with David Otunga. Laurinaitis said he's saving Brodus Clay's debut for America. C.M. Punk interrupted. David Otunga said he couldn't see a WWE Champion being someone who looks like they could work at a gas station. Punk said "Do you want regular or unleaded?" Then Punk attacked, but ADR stopped him and put Punk through a table of refreshments. Refs broke it up.

You Mean Ryder Didn't Get Pinned???
Tag main event next. Cena started the match for his team before a big "We Want Ryder" chant broke out. Cenag main event next. Cena started the match for his team before a big "We Want Ryder" chant broke out. Cena tagged in Ryder. He worked over R-Truth before throwing him to the outside heading to the break. Back from break Ryder tagged in Cena who was immediately worked over by Miz and R-Truth. Truth worked over Cena with some punches, then a sit down slam. Miz hit a high knee. Miz and Cena went for a double team move in the corner, but Cena moved and tagged in Ryder. Ryder and Cena hit matching knees in the corner. Ryder went for the Rough Ryder but Miz countered and Truth hit a punch. The heels worked over Ryder. Miz hit his corner clothesline. Ryder eventually made the tag to Cena who went into CENA MODE! Him and Ryder hit double five knuckle shuffles. Miz countered an Attitude Adjustment with a kick to the face. Miz pinned Cena, and Truth held down Cena's legs for the win. OK match, weak way to try to get Miz and R-Truth some heat back. Survey Says: 2.5/5

OVERALL
I thought this was a slightly above average RAW. The Morrison/Ziggler match was good. I liked everything involving C.M. Punk and Alberto del Rio. They did a good job of bringing a meaning to their feud which was lacking in the first couple of weeks. Punk was on his normal game. Kevin Nash was good for what he was. Hopefully his eventual match with HHH isn't terrible. Thank god The Rock is on next week, because I don't know how much more of this stuff I can take without him involving Cena. Rock needs to add a piece to this program with Miz and Truth that is sorely missing. I like Ryder but long run what he did tonight won't mean much. Good show though. Even the Divas stuff was passable. I'm giving it a 6.

And remember kids, becoming an Internet sensation gets you main events with John Cena. You've been warned.

NFL Week 9 Review up tomorrow.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts for 10/24/2011

Nashism, Not At It's Finest?
After a recap of the happenings of Vengeance, HHH came out. No suit and tie. Jeans and a t-shirt. HHH said the business has been tough for him, but he's made some true friends in the business. He thought Kevin Nash was one of them, but money and business now seem more important to him. HHH said last night Nash tried to break his neck, but Nash really broke his heart. AWWWWW. HHH called Nash out to the ring, because he wants to take out his frustrations on him.

John Laurinaitis came out to try and calm down HHH. HHH told him to shut up and not walk through the ropes. HHH told him that he still works for him. And Laurinaitis job tonight is to find Nash, and give him the biggest contract he can. Because if he doesn't, HHH will go to his house and find Nash, and he will get arrested for what he will do to Nash. As HHH was walking to the back, Nash took a sledgehammer to the back of HHH. He shoved security that tried to stop him. HHH struggled to get up, then collapsed in the back. Eh, nothing special. Leads to Nash/HHH, which will be bad. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Back from break, they recapped the opening segment. They showed HHH being put in an ambulance. Nash stopped him, took HHH off the gurney, and hit HHH with the Sledgehammer in the face. Ouch.

Great White? Does That Make Randy Orton "The Great Orange?"
RAW's first match featured all Smackdown wrestlers. Cody Rhodes/Christian vs Randy Orton/Sheamus. Sheamus took out Christian on the outside with a shoulder tackle. But that allowed Cody to take advantage in the ring, and lock in a sleeper heading into a break. Back from break the heels were still in control. But Sheamus countered out of a Killswitch attempt by Christian and tagged in Randy Orton. Orton cleaned house. Backdrop on Christian, middle rope DDT. Cody distracted Orton, which allowed Christian to hit his corner kick. Tag to Cody. Cody worked on Orton and hit a nice dropkick before tagging Christian back in. Orton drop-kicked Christian off a high risk maneuver, then tagged in Sheamus. Eventually all four men ended up in the ring. Sheamus miss timed a Brogue Kick on Rhodes, so he made up for it with a Celtic Cross for the win. Good enough action. Still no RAW wrestlers though. Survey Says: 3/5

Backstage, Cena complained to Laurinaits about Miz/R-Truth. Cena wanted them in a match, and Ace agreed. Cena and a partner of his choosing vs Miz and R-Truth.

Dolph Ziggler beat Santino after Swagger distracted Santino. Swagger applied the ankle lock after, but Mason Ryan made the save. Nothing worth rating.

Backstage the Bellas were talking. Zack Ryder showed up, saying Laurinaitis picked him to be Cena's partner. Woo Woo Woo.

I Demand Better From My C.M. Punk Time
Alberto del Rio came out. He said he's done with John Cena, and he is moving onto a new challenger. But he said no one is good enough to beat him. C.M. Punk interrupted. He said ADR must be mistaken, because Punk beat him four weeks ago. He said it was in Grey's Sports Almanac. Punk said he never got his one-on-one rematch after Del Rio cashed in Money in the Bank on him. Punk asked ADR to put the WWE Title up against him. ADR said Punk didn't even win his match at Vengeance, so he's at the back of the line. Punk said maybe he will put ADR to sleep anyways. John Laurinaitis interrupted. He made Punk/ADR at Survivor Series, but he said Punk has to say he respects him first. Punk asked if Laurinaitis was Aretha Franklin. Punk mocked him, then went on a rant to talk about how Laurinaitis did so little in the business but got so far up the food chain. Laurinaitis didn't like it, so he told Punk he was going to take a week to decide. Punk said while he's deciding, think of this. He attempted a GTS on ADR, but Ricardo saved him. GTS to Ricardo instead. That just seemed like a segment to get those two on TV tonight. Survey Says: 2/5

Alicia Fox upset Natalya. WHYYYY?

Young Guys Getting Time? WHAT?
John Morrison vs Wade Barrett. One year ago this match would have been interesting. Now? No. Barrett threw Morrison against the barricade outside going into a commercial. Back from break, Morrison took a big boot from Barrett. Barrett worked over Morrison in the ropes, then booted him to the outside. Morrison fought back with some punches, then an elbow to the face, some clotheslines than a knee to the jaw, which got a two count. Barrett caught Morrison with a Black Hole Slam for two. Barrett went for Wasteland, but Morrison countered with a Side Russian leg sweep. Morrison missed Starship Pain. He went for a springboard kick, but Barrett couldn't catch him properly. Barrett grabbed him and hit Wasteland for the win. Fun little match. Hopefully a sign of things to come for Barrett. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Michael Cole showed some embarrassing pictures of Jim Ross. He challenged him to the "Michael Cole Challenge" next week. Cole said if he loses, Jim Ross can have his chair back, because he will quit.

The Only Man Who Can Save the WWE's Product Will Return
Zack Ryder was being interviewed, but Miz and R-Truth attacked him. Looks like a handicap match. Miz and R-Truth said Cena got what was coming to him at Vengeance. They said that it won't be over until Cena gets got, and that's the Truth. Cena got the better of Truth early, so he tagged in Miz. Miz was able to gain the upper hand on Cena. R-Truth tagged in, worked over Cena until Cena Scoop-Slammed him. Tag to Miz. Traditional Cena offense. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment, but R-Truth hit him with the Water Bottle causing a DQ. Miz and Truth beatdown, but Laurinaitis stopped it. He said at Survivor Series, Miz and Truth will face Cena and a partner of his choosing. Cena chose The Rock. Not very suspenseful because of the promos before the match. Survey Says: 2/5

OVERALL
Not a good episode of RAW. The best part of the show was the Smackdown tag match and the Barrett win. I want to be interested in Punk/Del Rio, but that first interaction did nothing for me. The first 30 minutes was dedicated to HHH/Nash, taking me back to 2003. An HHH/Nash match will not be good, even if it is No DQ. I thought the Rock/Cena match was suppose to be a 5-on-5 elimination match, but that doesn't appear to be the case right now. Boring show that did nothing for me. Giving it a 3, just like the PPV. The Muppets should at least be entertaining next week.

And remember kids, you can't die from a broken neck, but you can die from a broken heart.

NFL Week 7 Review up tomorrow.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts for 9/5/11

OH NO IT'S SUPER SHREDDER
The show opened with a video package recapping the C.M. Punk/Triple H/Kevin Nash saga.

RAW started with C.M. Punk. He said he was different. Punk said he's the best and that he can back up what he says in the ring. He said being different has also made him a target. Punk said he's scheduled to face R-Truth tonight, but would rather kick Kevin Nash's face in. Punk called Nash the soul-crushing status quo. He's had the same music since 1996 and same hair-dye since the early 90s. He said Nash shoving HHH doesn't mean anything and that he still thinks they are buddies. Punk wanted Nash to fight him like a man, which would be different for Nash. Punk looked at his wrist and told him to hurry up.

 Kevin Nash came out. Nash said he doesn't listen to Punk and does what he wants. Punk ran through Nash's old nicknames like Vinnie Vegas, Oz, and SUPER SHREDDER! Punk said he likes "Big Complainer" best. Nash said every time he comes to the ring, he KO's Punk. Nash said HHH did Punk a favor. Punk said Nash hasn't been relevant since 1994. Nash started to walk to the ring.

Out came Triple H. Nash said he's tired of Punk and that he needs to be gone. Triple H said normally he would do that, but this week he found out the truth. He said the Staples Center had security footage of someone coming out of his office at SummerSlam. Triple H said the footage showed that the guy that sent the text to Triple H's phone was Nash. Nash said yeah it was him. Nash said the WWE Universe isn't big enough for him and Punk. HHH said he doesn't have a problem with that, but he has a problem with Nash. HHH said Nash has done nothing but lie to him since he came back, while Punk hasn't. Nash couldn't believe it. Nash and HHH are friends. Nash asked if it was about him pushing HHH down last week. Nash began pushing HHH and asked what he was going to do about it. HHH punched Nash, then fired him. Punk pointed and laughed at Nash and said "Best of luck in your future endeavors." OK start to the show. The text reveal seemed like way too much of a letdown with HHH not showing the footage. Which means it probably wasn't true. Survey Says: 3/5

Backstage Kevin Nash was shown leaving. John Laurinaitis got into the car with him.

It's Air Boom vs Can't Move
A non-title match next. Kofi Kingston/Evan Bourne vs Jinder Mahal/Great Khali. Mahal worked over Bourne early. Great Khali did the same thing then tagged Mahal back in. Bourne kicked Mahal in the face then tagged in Kingston. Mahal grabbed Kingston and told Khali to chop him, but Kingston ducked and Khali got Mahal. Kingston tagged in Bourne who hit Air Bourne for the win. Strong way to get over the tag champs by beating two bigger guys. Match was ok. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Alberto del Rio was shown arriving backstage with Ricardo Rodriguez.

Can Beth & Natalya Just Go By One Name?
Kelly Kelly came out before the break to be at the announce table for the Eve vs Beth Phoenix #1 Contender's Match. Natalya also joined in on commentary. Beth threw Eve into the ring post. Beth worked over Eve's left arm. Eve fought back with a clothesline and a front flip for two. Beth regained control and hit an ugly looking GlamSlam for the win. Well, the right Diva won. But there were some sloppy spots in there. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Backstage Drew McIntyre talked to Christian. Christian said he still deserves one more shot at the World Title. Alberto del Rio came by. ADR said it was John Cena's fault that Christian is not World Champ. Christian said I guess this is the part where ADR asks him to do his dirty work. ADR said Christian ate an AA last week, then 24 hours later had to wrestle in a cage match.ADR told Christian to think about it then walked off.

A video aired promoting Triple H's new movie Inside Out.

As JR Would Say: "Business Is Picking Up!"
R-Truth came out for his match with C.M. Punk. Truth said just when he thinks he's heard it all, he hasn't. Truth said C.M. Punk said he's different, which he isn't. Truth said he's been telling the Truth his whole life. Truth said he will go to Night of Champions and buy a ticket to sit in the audience just like Little Jimmy. Miz came out and said he had an epiphany. Miz said he knows there's a conspiracy and that HHH is in over his head. Miz said him and Truth will face Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne at NOC for the Tag Titles. Truth said Air Boom is as bad as a sneaky fart. Truth said he had an epiphany, and C.M. Punk is going to get got. Punk came out for the match as the show went to commercial.

Truth worked over Punk with a head lock early on. Punk drop kicked Truth taking him to the outside. Miz was checking on Truth when Punk hit a suicide dive on Truth to the outside. Truth worked over Punk again in the ring. Truth threw Miz to the outside where Miz chop-blocked Punk. Truth worked over Punk's left leg. Punk snuck in a roll-up and backslide for two before Truth went back to the left leg. Truth went to the top but Punk crotched him and hit a SuperPlex. Punk hit a knee then a dive from the ropes. Punk went for the GTS but his leg gave out. Truth hit a seated front slam for 2. Miz grabbed Punk's leg which caused the ref to throw him out. Truth tried to take advantage but Punk hit the GTS for the win.

HHH came out after. Punk said he still doesn't buy HHH punching Nash. HHH said he didn't care. HHH said he insulted his wife and that just pinning him won't be enough. HHH said their match at Night of Champions is now No DQ. Punk said he agrees if HHH agrees to Punk's stipulation: If HHH Loses he resigns as COO. HHH agreed and walked off. Decent match. Things just picked up for NOC. Survey Says: 3/5

ADR tried to convince Wade Barrett to take out Cena. Barrett said he doesn't need to listen to him.

WOO WOO WOO!
A recap aired of the David Otunga/Michael McGillicutty/Jerry Lawler program from last week. Lawler came out and said that he never said they weren't good athletes, just that he's seem more personality in a cadaver. Lawler introduced his partner Zack Ryder. A video package of his Internet show played. Otunga/McGillicutty worked over Ryder before tagging in Lawler. Lawler worked over the two before tagging in Ryder who hit the Rough Ryder for the win. Alright stuff. Survey Says: 2/5

ADR talked to Dolph. He said there's a rumor going around about Dolph after losing to Randy Orton last week that Vickie is looking to dump Dolph. Dolph said there's a rumor going around that ADR is scared of Cena. The Bellas showed up and ADR told them to give him 5 minutes. ADR said there's a reason Vickie is looking for a new business partner, she wants someone better to fight for her.

Because When I Think RAW Super Show, I Think Heath Slater
Randy Orton flew back from Paris early to face Heath Slater. Slater got a handful of moves in before Orton regained control, hit his usual stuff, then an RKO for the win. That served zero purpose in my opinion. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Backstage, John Cena was with Zack Ryder. Cena asked who wears sunglasses indoors, a jab at The Rock, then apparently started walking towards the ring.

IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE! NO, IT'S SUPER CENA!
John Cena came out to his normal reaction. He said he's been waiting for Alberto del Rio. Cena predicted Ricardo would come out and introduce ADR, and he did. ADR said he is trying to give Cena a fighting chance at NOC. ADR said he wasn't there last week because he was trying to protect Cena. But ADR said he couldn't say the same for these guys. Out came Wade Barrett, Dolph Ziggler, Christian and Jack Swagger to attack Cena. Alex Riley, Sheamus, and John Morrison made the save. Teddy Long made an 8 man tag elimination match. Where's the RAW GM?

Back from break Wade Barrett and Alex Riley were already going at it. Barrett hit a Black Hole Slam. He went for a kick in the corner and missed. Riley tagged in Morrison while Barrett tagged Ziggler. Morrison hit some flashy offense on everyone. Swagger tagged himself in and applied the ankle lock on Morrison, forcing Morrison to tap out and become eliminated. Vickie Guerrero came out as the show went to commercial. Back from break, the heels worked over Riley. Riley fought back. Swagger tagged in and hit a Vader Bomb then applied the ankle lock, eliminating Riley. Barrett worked over Sheamus with some nice kicks. Sheamus regained control. Sheamus hit a flying shoulder tackle. Sheamus went for the Brogue kick and missed. Barrett went for the pump handle slam but Sheamus countered with a Brogue Kick, eliminating Barrett. Christian tagged in. He slapped Sheamus which pissed off Sheamus. Sheamus chased him around the arena. Both men were counted out. Swagger worked over Cena before SUPER CENA fought back. He hit a double Five Knuckle Shuffle. Swagger hit the Vader Bomb, but Dolph tagged himself in and hit the AA on Dolph, eliminating him. Swagger applied the Ankle Lock, but Cena countered into the STF, which caused Jack to tap out. Del Rio tried a sneak attack but ate an AA. Survey Says: 2.5/5

OVERALL
Not a very good show. The wrestling was just ok. The whole HHH/Punk/Nash storyline seems to have taken a bit of a wacky turn. It really seems like Punk is losing at NOC. There's no way that HHH is getting off of TV this quickly. Unless there is some huge swerve coming, HHH seems like he is winning. Cena overcame the odds again, which is nothing new. No real advancement in the Del Rio/Cena story either. Miz & Truth were entertaining, as was Punk. The wrestling was ok at best. I'm giving the show a 4.

STORYLINE TRACKER
John Cena/Alberto del Rio: No real advancement here. Del Rio got the better of Cena two weeks ago, this week Cena gets the upper hand. I still think Del Rio goes over at NOC. Not having Del Rio WWE Champ going into Mexico would just be stupid. But there's no back story here and it seems like the same old John Cena/WWE Title Feud.

C.M. Punk/HHH/Kevin Nash: There's definitely some more intrigue added into this now. Nash is fired, or will Johnny Ace hire him back? The No DQ stipulation will probably make the match quality better, but the "If HHH loses he's done as COO" stip kind of points toward HHH winning. Unless there is something bigger planned, it seems like Punk may be losing a lot of steam at NOC. Unless this is some sort of master plan for Punk to take over the WWE, it seems like it's going nowhere good.

Dolph Ziggler/Jack Swagger/Vickie Guerrero: The one positive of the main event was that Jack Swagger looked rather strong. I would like to see him get over enough that he decides he doesn't need Vickie Guerrero and turns on her and Dolph. Swagger would make a good face if given the opportunity in my opinion, and there would be no better way to get him over than to turn on Ziggler. But sadly, that probably isn't happening.

Miz/R-Truth: These two were probably the best part of the show. They work well off of each other. I'm thinking they win the Tag Titles at NOC and continue to build on their Conspiracy Theory. Hopefully, it leads to these two being the ones who reveal something big down the line, because if it doesn't then there's no point to this.

That's all from me this week. I'll have my NFC Preview up by Wednesday night.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow me on Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts

Who's Playing Who? We May Never Know...
No pyro or intro again for RAW this week. Triple H is just saving some $$$ by having himself come out to start the show every week. HHH said it's his job to make sure this company succeeds. He said Smackdown stars will be joining RAW to create a RAW SuperShow. That's the good part. The bad part is that people also lie to him. HHH called Nash out to the ring and told him to be a man and tell him why he lied. Out came C.M. Punk instead. Punk credit his performance and told HHH to stop lying and admit he's in on everything. The old nWo music interrupted and Nash came out. Nash said he lied because he didn't finish what he had to do, taking out Punk.

Nash asked Punk what kind of man HHH was. HHH said he can't trust Nash anymore and asked him to leave. Nash said last week, while HHH was gone, John Laurinaitis signed him to a very lucrative contract. C.M. Punk mocked throwing up. Punk said congratulations the Kliq is back. That's the sound the viewers remote makes when Nash is on TV, and the sound Nash's knees make when he walks "click." Both asked for a match at Night Of Champions. Punk said to check with the Board of Directors, meaning his wife. Punk said he knew HHH didn't wear the pants in his family, but he does wear his wife's panties. HHH made the match, and said as far as Nash and Punk are concerned, he has 2 words for them. Good opening segment. Punk's involvement was short, but made it better than average. Survey Says: 4/5

Does Randy Hear Voices on Monday Too?
Randy Orton came out before the break. He was fighting Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler worked over Orton early after Orton missed a flying knee. Ziggler hit a nice dropkick. Orton went for his elevated DDT but Vickie climbed on the apron, distracting Orton and allowing Dolph to throw Orton over the top rope. Ziggler hit he ZigZag outside on Orton and Orton beat the count back into the ring at 9. Back from break Ziggler worked over Orton before Orton regained momentum. Orton hit a SuperPlex from the top rope for a near fall. Orton hit his signature moves all for near falls. Orton lined Dolph up for a punt to the head but Dolph countered with a superkick for a 2. Orton countered Dolph and hit the elevated DDT. Dolph countered an RKO attempt into a sleeper, but Orton countered into a face plant on the mat than an RKO for a victory. Fun match that made Dolph look good. Survey Says: 3.5/5

Funnel Cake Full of Farts? Really John?
John Cena came out to a surprisingly positive reaction. Cena said his reaction to Del Rio's attack last week was that he was going to kick Del Rio's teeth so far down his throat that his mouth would become his anus. Instead of Del Rio, Mark Henry came out. Henry said he came out to get some. So far he's taken out Kane, Big Show, and others. Soon he's going to join Henry's Hall of Pain. Christian interrupted. Christian said he's sick of Cena coming out whining every week. Cena made a couple lame jokes and said if they want some come get some. Sheamus came out. Cena thought it was to attack him but instead it was to aid him. Backstage Johnny Ace made a tag match for later: Christian/Henry vs Cena/Sheamus. HHH told Ace to remember that he was his boss. OK stuff. Survey Says: 3/5

Hey Oklahoma: Wake Up!
Up next was Punk/Miz. Miz said he was dropping pipe bombs long before Punk, and he was going to take action about that tonight. Miz was in control early. Other than Punk getting some kicks in it was all Miz early. Same thing going into commercial. It was weird to see Miz just dominate Punk pretty much the whole match. Back from break Punk finally got into the fight. He hit a running bulldog than his flying clothesline for a near fall. Punk hit the Macho Man Elbow then went for the GTS, but Truth interfered causing the DQ. Punk hit the GTS on Truth before Kevin Nash started walking to the ring. Miz jumped Punk from behind. Nash came in and hit the Jacknife Powerbomb. A weird match, especially because the crowd wasn't too into it, and seemed like they cheered Nash more than Punk. Survey Says: 3/5

Sin Cara? On Live TV? Uh oh...
Ten seconds in Sin Cara botched a hurricarana. He made up for it with a nice reverse moonsault off the ropes to the outside. Vickie came out to get a closer look. Dolph came out and distracted Jack Swagger. This allowed Sin Cara to regain control and hit a couple moonsaults for the win. OK stuff: Survey Says: 2/5

Hey Otunga: Can I Get Fires With That?
Tag Title rematch from last week was next. Lawler continued to rip on Otunga and McGillicutty. The Tag Champs, now called Air Boom, made some quick work of Otunga and McGillicutty. After the match Otunga and McGillicutty confronted Lawler. Otunga ripped off his headset and threw it at Lawler. Just ok. Don't really care too much about a Lawler vs Otunga/McGillicutty storyline. Survey Says: 2/5

Can We Get the Divs That Can Actually Wrestle Please?
Brie Bella took on Kelly Kelly. Eve pushed Kelly out of the way of a baseball slide, allowing the Bellas to pull some twin magic to pick up the win. Ugh. More Beth and Natalya please. Survey Says: 1/5

Where's My WWE Champion???
Tag Main event to close the show. Hnery and Christian worked over an already hurt Sheamus early on. Sheamus eventually tagged in Cena who worked over Christian and hit his normal offense routine. Sheamus and Henry went to the outside. Christian hit the spear for a two count. Christian went for the Killswitch. But Cena countered and threw Christian into a Sheamus Brogue Kick, then Cena hit the AA for the win. OK tag Main event. Kind of short. Plus no Del Rio? Survey Says: 3/5

Backstage HHH was shown watching the show. Punk came in. HHH said he called the Board of Directors, and Punk's match with Nash is off. Instead, he's facing Hunter now. Interesting...

OVERALL
Touching on the wrestling on the show first: It was good. Orton/Ziggler was a great TV match. Ziggler is an outstanding worker and should be a main eventer sometime down the line. Miz/Punk was ok as well as the tag match. I don't know why the crowd wasn't into Miz/Punk more than they were. The tag match main event should have went a bit longer. They could have eliminated the Divas stuff. It was pointless and didn't advance the Beth/Natalya storyline.

Now, storyline wise this was also good. Although there was no Del Rio, it was apparently because he was getting his work visa renewed in Mexico. But as far as HHH/Punk goes, just wow. Apparently Nash didn't do too well on his physicals and that caused the WWE to back out of the match at Night of Champions. I still wouldn't have made this match right away IMO. I would have saved HHH/Punk for Survivor Series, a show that's lacked a big time match recently. I might have just thrown Punk into the WWE Title Match for now. Of course, the selfish part of me is PUMPED to see HHH/Punk live at NOC. Good show, some questions remain. I'm giving the show a 7.

Another entertaining RAW. I might do a recap of the live Smackdown when I get home from work tonight. Depends on how I feel.

And remember kids, Pinstripes are not back in style. Nash just hasn't changed his shirt since 1996.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow me on Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts

Hello everyone. Time for another review of RAW. Who's the #1 Contender for the WWE Title. Lets find out!

Santa Claus Isn't Real???
RAW started this week with Alberto del Rio. What, no HHH to start RAW this week? They recapped Alberto taking out Rey Mysterio last week. They said Rey would miss a number of months. Before ADR could get out two words, John Cena interrupted. Cena said everyone new who ADR was, so he came out to introduce himself. He said he's John Cena, and he's here to take the WWE Title back. Cena's gonna send ADR back to his parent's house. Cena said there's only one man that can go toe-to-toe with him, and that's C.M. Punk.

Cue C.M. Punk right on time. Punk asked if this show was a re-run because John Cena wants another WWE Title match. Punk said that's not gonna happen again. He said if anyone is getting a title shot, it's going to be him. Alberto interrupted saying its his time. Punk told him not to interrupt. Punk said everyone was trying to screw him. Alberto said it was destiny. Punk said it was his destiny to cash in his rematch clause. Cena said it was his destiny to cash in his rematch clause tonight. Punk said Cena's rematch clause exists as much as Santa Claus exists. Del Rio says he was ignoring both of them.

Triple H came out to settle things. HHH told Del Rio to wipe that smug look off his face because even though he's not wrestling Punk or Cena, he has a match next. HHH told Punk and Cena that they would fight tonight to see who faces ADR at Night of Champions. It was a good segment, but it seemed like something was missing. What it was, I don't know. Just didn't seem like everyone clicked together. Survey Says: 3/5

Don't Piss Off This Mexican Aristocrat
Del Rio waited for his opponent, which turned out to be John Morrison. Morrison looked a bit more motivated than normal. He worked over Del Rio early. Morrison went for a moonsault to the outside, but ADR moved and shoved Morrison's back and neck into the guardrail. Back from break, ADR worked over Morrison's back. Del Rio charged at Morrison in the corner but Morrison back dropped him to the outside. ADR's head hit the floor kind of hard. Morrison hit a variety of moves on Del Rio back in the ring. Morrison telegraphed a back suplex. Del Rio went for the cross armbreaker, but Morrison countered into a schoolboy for a 2. DDT got another 2 for Morrison. Morrison got a 2 out of a hurricarrana reversal. He went for Starship Pain but ADR moved. He shoved Morrison into the post and applied the cross armbreaker for the win. He applied it after the match on the outside as well. Very fun match. Strong showing by both men. Survey Says: 4/5

Booty Shaking Doesn't Make the Match Better
Eve and Brie wrestled. Eve shook her butt. Eve hit a nice reverse neckbreaker for the win. Beth and Natalya came out afterwards and applauded. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Uh Oh, Riley's Already Getting the Ring Entrance During Commercial Treatment
Vickie came out and introduced her new potential client, Jack Swagger. Rematch from last week with Alex Riley. Riley hit a nice spinebuster. Dolph Ziggler came out and asked Vickie what she was doing. Dolph knocked Vickie down. Swagger forgot to watch and the ref had to remind him to turn around. Swagger confronted Dolph. Back in the ring, A-Ri rolled up Swagger for the win. Not much of a match, but at least there's some semblance of an angle going on. Survey Says: 2.5/5

Yes Kids, When You're Married You're Whipped
Triple H came out to talk with Kevin Nash. He said him and Nash talked, and he thinks everything is straightened out. He asked Nash to come out still. Nash said he thought he was doing HHH a favor, but apparently he wasn't. Nash said he was going to apologize to Punk, but after last week he's not going to. HHH said Nash doesn't work here, and he can't have Nash taking guys out. HHH told him to go take Punk out across the street at Tim Horton's, which got a big pop. He asked Nash to leave.

Punk came out and said he was going to get to the bottom of everything. Punk wanted to figure out who sent the text. He said maybe it was "Big Lazy" with the Just for Men. Or HHH with the Sledgehammer. But his money was on Stephanie McMahon with the candlestick in the library. Punk was going to kick Nash's ass. Punk went for Nash but HHH stopped him. Punk asked HHH what his problem was with him, and why he didn't want Punk to be WWE Champ. HHH said he promised not to cross any lines, but don't think he's not the same Hunter he used to be. Punk said he wouldn't want HHH to wrinkle his suit up and put it in his wife purse, where he obviously keeps his cell phone and his balls. Nash punched Punk as HHH restrained him and walked to the back. Classic Punk there. Great line to finish the segment. Survey Says: 4/5

Backstage, Nash told HHH he changed. He said 4 weeks in a suit changed him as Nash left.

Can We Now Future Endeavor David Otunga
Tag Titles were on the line next. Kofi hit his pattened mid-air cross body on McGillicutty. Kofi went for the Boom Drop but Otunga pulled him out of the way, allowing McGillicutty to regain control. Both men took turns working over Kofi. McGillicutty hit a dropkick on Kofi and he turned to Jerry Lawler, who had been calling them out for being bland, said "You Like That Jerry!" Kofi got to Bourne for the hot tag. All hell broke loose. Kofi took McGillicutty to the outside and then kicked Otunga. Bourne hit Air Bourne on Otunga for the 3. New Tag Champs. Fun little match. Maybe this is the start of something new for the Tag Team Division. Survey Says: 3/5

Backstage the new Tag Champs were interviewed. They were bathed in champagne by Zac Ryder and others.

Johnny Ace caught up with HHH backstage. He said Nash had been in a car accident and was at a local hospital. Hunter left to go check on his friend.

Spiders. Spider Web. CONSPIRACY!
Santino came out for a match, but was attacked by Miz and R-Truth. Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale in the ring. Truth said what happened to Little Jimmy is going to continue to happen to Little Jimmy. Truth said everyone was in on the conspiracy. Miz said he can't believe he was going to say this, but he agrees with R-Truth about there being a conspiracy. Miz said he went from main eventing Wrestlemania to having to pick a fight with Jared from Subway just to do something. Miz said that him and Truth were done waiting around, and they were going to create their own opportunities from now on. Miz and Truth worked well together here. They seem to have the making of a good pairing as the undercard heels who were at the top at one point, but are now forced to the bottom and don't like it. Survey Says: 4/5

Ugh. This Does Seem Like A Re-Run
Main Event Time. Alberto del Rio was ringside scouting while John Laurinaitis was ringside making sure everything went smoothly. Cena threw his shirt into the crowd 2 times and it was thrown back. Punk and Cena exchanged their basic offense early before going to commercial with Punk down on the outside. Both men went for their finishers before Punk went for his flying clothesline and shouted "I'M FLYING!" Cena eventually locked in a crossface. Punk got his foot on the ropes. Punk shoved Cena into the ring post then hit the GTS, but only scored a 2 count. Punk went for the Macho Man elbow but Cena moved. Cena hit his flying leg drop for 2. Punk countered out of the STF with a parade of elbows, then a knee to the face for 2. Cena hit a quick AA for a 2. Punk regained control over Cena and was ready to hit the GTS, but Nash came out and told Punk this wasn't over. It distracted Punk long enough to allow Cena to recover, hit the AA, and pick up the win. After the match, Del Rio attacked Cena. Johnny Ace tried to stop him but ADR lead the beatdown as the show went off the air.

Another good match between the two. Not on par with the first 2 but an above average TV match. Cena finally gets his win over Punk and now moves on to Del Rio, while Punk continues to wonder who really is out to get him in this storyline. Survey Says: 4/5

OVERALL
I thought this was another solid episode of RAW. Two solid matches in Punk/Cena and Del Rio/Morrison. Miz and Truth make a good pairing together and I'm interested to see where they are going with those two. Kofi and Evan Bourne seem to have added some new life to the tag team division as well. I also thought the announcing on this show was much more tolerable than it has been recently. I don't know what changed but Cole was toned down and everyone seemed more concerned about the product than themselves. There was some storyline progression on this show which I like, so I'm giving this show a solid 8. Keep up the good work RAW.

That's all from me this week.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka

RAW Thoughts

Hey everyone. I've decided to start posting my RAW Thoughts here as well as The Oratory. Go big or go home I say.

Innocent Until Proven Guilty

RAW started with COO Triple H walking to the ring. He said he made a mistake, and apologized to the WWE Universe and John Cena. He's gonna look John Cena in the eye later tonight and apologize man to man. He moved on to C.M. Punk. He said he had no knowledge of Kevin Nash's attack. All Triple H did was leave tickets for him at will call. I'm sure Nash didn't pick up the tickets himself. Nash will be on later. HHH said as far as Alberto del Rio goes, that's just how Money in the Bank works. Triple H said he promised the world one undisputed WWE Champion last week, and said here he is. Out came Alberto Del Rio.

Del Rio says destiny does whatever it wants. He said after what Kevin Nash did he couldn't resist cashing in. Del Rio called himself the greatest of the great. He wants to represent everyone with respect, honesty, passion. He said he will be in the lobby signing autographs and pictures. Tonight his first defense is against Rey Mysterio. ADR was happy because he said everyone loves Rey Mysterio. ADR loves beating Rey Mysterio. That's how he started his WWE career. He said when he wakes up in the morning, he asks himself what he wants to do, and he says he wants to beat Rey Mysterio. He told everyone in San Diego that they should change their area code because after their match, their new hero will be ADR. Decent start to the show. Alberto del Rio needed to get himself over on the mic and get some heat on him after he lost it the last few weeks due to poor booking. Survey Says: 3/5

They showed HHH walking into John Cena's Locker Room.

Now That's How You Use Office Furniture
John Morrison vs R-Truth in a Falls Count Anywhere Match was next. Morrison gave a really bad taped promo during his entrance. The action spilled to the outside early with Morrison hitting a spinning crossbody. Morrison hit a kick to the head off the barricade. Truth regained control and hit a seated front suplex on the floor. That looked like it hurt. Back from break, they showed how Truth gained control during the break by dumping Morrison over the turnbuckle. Truth kneed Morrison in the head, then crotched him on the barricade, then clotheslined him over. Morrison regained control with a roundhouse kick. Truth went for an announce chair, but Morrison clotheslined him. Morrison then suplexed Truth onto the chair, then hit a running knee to the face for the win. Fun match. Nice to see Morrison finally pick up a win after being back. Survey Says: 3/5

C.M. Punk was shown arriving. He looked pissed.

Miz came out next. He was here to say hi to Jared to Subway. He also said he could be a better spokesmen. He did a promo for a sub and said it was better than anything Jared ever did. He said he will be Champion again. Then did his schtick.

Kevin Nash arrived via limo. Not like he would drive himself.

I'm Running Out of Names For These Divas Segments
Divas Tag Action: Kelly Kelly & Eve vs The Bellas. Kelly hit her stinkface. The Bellas worked over Kelly's left leg until she made the hot tag to Eve. Eve reversed a suplex attempt into a nice neckbreaker. Eve then hit the moonsault from the top for a win. Afterwards Beth Phoenix & Natalya came out and glared from the stage. Ok Stuff. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Waffle House Rules
Out came Kevin Nash to no music. He said while watching SummerSlam from his seats, he got a text. It said hey big man, no matter what happens, stick the guy that wins the main event for me. He told Punk what he did was business, plain and simple. Nash said he heard HHH said he didn't know anything about it. Nash said come on HHH, it's just business.

C.M. Punk came out. Punk asked if he was suppose to believe that crap. Punk asked if HHH was suppose to jump off a bridge, would Nash do it? Cuz that would be good for business. Punk said HHH & Nash have no idea what is good for business. Nash told Punk to watch his mouth. Punk said he does whatever he wants. Punk said he doesn't believe HHH or Nash. Nash asked if he wanted to see the text. Punk said he has a text from his little sister, saying she thought he was dead. But it just must be his career. Nash ripped on Punk for barely being in the main event, then called him a short order cook from a waffle house. Punk was looking for a fight, and he walked to the ring. He was met by security. Punk was going to go look for HHH for answers in the back. It was an alright exchange. You might have expected more Nash-bashing from Punk, but I'm sure he's just saving some ammunition for future exchanges between the two. Survey Says: 3.5/5

Kevin Nash was looking for Triple H. John Laurinaitis came in and said HHH was meeting with Punk. Johnny wanted to take Nash somewhere more private to talk. Hmmm

Wait There's A Match Going On?
Dolph & Vickie were at ringside for commentary for a Jack Swagger vs Alex Riley match. Swagger worked over Riley early on. There was ABSOLUTELY NO COMMENTARY for this match. All it was was Cole, Lawler, Vickie, and Dolph talking. Vickie took JR's hat and distracted the referee. Jack Swagger took advantage and hit the gut-wrenched powerbomb for the win, even though it took 3 tries for Swagger to lift A-Ri. The commentary completely took away from the match. Survey Says: 1.5/5

Backstage, Jack Swagger thanked Vickie for what she did. He tried to convince Vickie to take him on as her manager.

After some videos from SummerSlam festivites, C.M. Punk walked into HHH's office to find Stephanie McMahon. She said it was tough to see him lose, even though he never really beat Cena since his foot was on the rope. Steph said in the end, everyone gets what they deserve.

Please Get the Tag Titles Off Of David Otunga
I do not want to see a David Otunga match when I go to Night of Champions in September. Otunga & McGillicutty worked over Bourne during the match. Bourne made the hot tag to Kofi. Bourne later made a sneak tag. Kofi hit McGillicutty with a kick than Bourne hit Air Bourne for the win. OK match. Kofi & Bourne gell well together as a team. Survey Says: 2/5

Rey Mysterio was shown backstage. Main event is next.

I'M JOHN CENA AND I'M REALLY MAD
Main event time. Del Rio was out first, with a beautiful Ricardo introduction and a nice red ferrari. Rey came out sporting Chargers colors, being in his hometown of San Diego and all. Back and forth action early. Rey set Del Rio up for a 619, but Del Rio escaped to the outside heading into a commercial. Back from break Rey and ADR exchanged having control of the match. Rey hit a nice moonsault to the outside. He hit a seated senton back in the ring. He went for a 619 but ADR clotheslined him. ADR countered a Rey hurricarana attempt into a backbreaker for a two. Del Rio hit a nice enzuguria kick on the top rope for two. Del Rio went for his cross armbreaker but Rey countered into a roll up for a 2 3/4 count. Rey hit the 619 and went for the top rope splash, but ADR lifted his knees up and got the three count for the win. Good match.

After the match Del Rio attacked Rey, working over Rey's left arm. Del Rio put Rey in the cross armbreaker. He kept it locked in until John Cena came out to make the save. Cena said he had a hell of a weekend, but he's not pissed off at HHH, he's pissed at Del Rio. He said after he and Punk gave everything in the ring, Del Rio went into business for himself. Cena said holding on to the WWE Title means everyone is targeting him. Cena said eventually ADR will have to defend the Title. Uh John, HE JUST DID! And it means that John Cena is going to kick his ass.

OK. First off the match was good. Alright first defense for Del Rio. Cena was good in his intense mode, but his logic was all over the place. Del Rio did everything he was within his right to do with the MITB contract. He also made zero sense with his: "Sooner or Later You will have to defend that title." He just did John. It was also interesting seeing Cena use the word scumbag and ass and such, not very PG. I would have liked to see Punk come out and kick Del Rio or something to close the show, just to remind everyone he still wants the WWE Title too, but that's a minor point. I thought it was a strong finish to the show. Survey Says: 4/5

OVERALL
This show was a bit all over the place. The mid-card stuff was passable at best. I liked the Morrison/Truth match and the main event. The Nash/HHH/Punk angle still leaves a ton of stuff unanswered. Punk needs to be on Night of Champions in 4 weeks so they need to reintroduce him into the title picture next week. I'm fine with all the unanswered questions as long as they keep leaving me wanting to tune in next week, which is what they did this week. I like the idea of Jack Swagger having Vickie as his manager. He needs a mouthpiece to get him over. Morrison finally picking up a win was nice. But what the hell is planned with Miz? He needs something ASAP. The positives outweighed the negatives. Giving the show a 6.

That's all from me this week.

And remember kids, office furniture is not only good for suplexs, but also, well, I leave that to your imagination.

Until next time,
Justin C
Follow me on Twitter @JCWonka