We're about one month away from the start of Wrestlemania season. Usually you could say that Wrestlemania season starts with the Royal Rumble. I'm saying it starts in January this year because one of the key players in this year's Wrestlemania, The Rock, will be around in January to build to his WWE Title Match at the Royal Rumble with C.M. Punk.
If you ask me, this is a critical Wrestlemania season for the WWE. The Rock and Brock Lesnar, two stars known outside of just the world of wrestling, will be back and should bring in some more viewers. With ratings down, that could be huge. That also means it is a time for the WWE to try and make some new stars that appeal to the viewers who come back during Wrestlemania season. Make guys like Kofi Kingston, Wade Barrett and Dolph Ziggler more appealing to the casual viewer. Make them seem like interesting guys that you want to watch. That's something the WWE has never done well during Wrestlemania season. Ok, you want your top stars in the big matches. I get it. But make the undercard seem important as well.
Showing posts with label Randy Orton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Randy Orton. Show all posts
Monday, December 10, 2012
Monday, September 24, 2012
The WWE RAW Truth Review for 9/24/12
I'm baaaccckkk! After missing last week's show I return to review RAW this week. Enjoy!
Get Out Here Scab!
RAW started with Paul Heyman and C.M. Punk in the ring. Heyman said RAW would not start until justice is served. Heyman replayed the footage of Punk's foot being on the ropes last week. Heyman invited the referee to the ring and demanded he tender his resignation. The ref came to the ring and said he made a mistake and that he feels terrible. The ref refused to resign. Punk interrupted him and said he didn't care how he feels. Punk asked how he got his job. He said when RAW expanded to 3 hours, A.J. called him and said they needed more officials. Heyman gave him a blindfold with a WWE and NFL logo and said he should wear it when he goes to sleep. Punk said A.J. should come to the ring and fire him.
Get Out Here Scab!
RAW started with Paul Heyman and C.M. Punk in the ring. Heyman said RAW would not start until justice is served. Heyman replayed the footage of Punk's foot being on the ropes last week. Heyman invited the referee to the ring and demanded he tender his resignation. The ref came to the ring and said he made a mistake and that he feels terrible. The ref refused to resign. Punk interrupted him and said he didn't care how he feels. Punk asked how he got his job. He said when RAW expanded to 3 hours, A.J. called him and said they needed more officials. Heyman gave him a blindfold with a WWE and NFL logo and said he should wear it when he goes to sleep. Punk said A.J. should come to the ring and fire him.
Monday, September 10, 2012
The RAW Truth Review for 9/10/12
RAW is live in Montreal tonight. Bret Hart is there for the first time on WWE TV since the infamous Montreal Screwjob. So even though he has made amends with everyone involved, expect it to be brought up numerous times tonight.
I Don't Know If Even C.M. Punk Could Have Saved WCW
Bret Hart came out to a pretty loud ovation. Bret said that the last time he was in Montreal it was a pretty dark day. But Bret said it was the people of Montreal that got him through those dark days and he thanked the crowd for their support. C.M. Punk interrupted. Punk said that everything Bret Hart talked about was already overblown in his book. If he wrote a book, it would be called What If. What if C.M. Punk wrestled Bret Hart instead of Shawn Michaels. Hart said he would have beaten Punk in less than a minute. Punk said he would have beaten Bret and wouldn't have needed Vince's help. Punk said he would have changed the course of the WWE, there would be no Attitude Era, and he would have jumped to WCW. Hart said at least he showed up every night, unlike Punk last week. Punk said he was in a hurry to enjoy his day off. Punk asked if Hart asked Cena to be his white knight. Hart said he asked Cena to come out first as a show of respect. Punk said to not talk about respect, and if he knew anything about respect he wouldn't talk down to the WWE Champion. Punk said just like Cena, Bret Hart is over-rated and he will put Cena to sleep at Night of Champions. Hart said just like he is putting these fans to sleep right now. Punk said he will leave Cena a beat down shell of a man just like Bret Hart is.
I Don't Know If Even C.M. Punk Could Have Saved WCW
Bret Hart came out to a pretty loud ovation. Bret said that the last time he was in Montreal it was a pretty dark day. But Bret said it was the people of Montreal that got him through those dark days and he thanked the crowd for their support. C.M. Punk interrupted. Punk said that everything Bret Hart talked about was already overblown in his book. If he wrote a book, it would be called What If. What if C.M. Punk wrestled Bret Hart instead of Shawn Michaels. Hart said he would have beaten Punk in less than a minute. Punk said he would have beaten Bret and wouldn't have needed Vince's help. Punk said he would have changed the course of the WWE, there would be no Attitude Era, and he would have jumped to WCW. Hart said at least he showed up every night, unlike Punk last week. Punk said he was in a hurry to enjoy his day off. Punk asked if Hart asked Cena to be his white knight. Hart said he asked Cena to come out first as a show of respect. Punk said to not talk about respect, and if he knew anything about respect he wouldn't talk down to the WWE Champion. Punk said just like Cena, Bret Hart is over-rated and he will put Cena to sleep at Night of Champions. Hart said just like he is putting these fans to sleep right now. Punk said he will leave Cena a beat down shell of a man just like Bret Hart is.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Looking Ahead To Wrestlemania 29
Yes, it is still 7 months away. But I always love looking ahead to try and figure out next year's Wrestlemania card. And you know that the WWE is already planning ahead to the event as well. But of course, the WWE changes things almost hourly, so anything they would do know is more than likely going to be scrapped anyways. It is always good to have an initial idea and try to figure out how to get there, however. The WWE's problem is that they always lose faith in someone so quickly that they feel the need to make things change because of it.
Now if it were up to me, as you know, I would have booked this Brock Lesnar angle completely differently. My main event matches would have been The Rock vs C.M. Punk and Brock Lesnar vs John Cena for the WWE Championship. But since Lesnar/Cena is not happening, we have to go with something else. Because this year's show is in the backdrop of New York City, the WWE will want to have as many big name matches as possible.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Re-Booking Brock Lesnar
Remember back in April when rumors started to surface of a Brock Lesnar return to the WWE? The internet was a buzz with talk of Lesnar coming back. People were excited about the possible matches he would have with John Cena, C.M. Punk, Undertaker, and hell, even Triple H. Many thought Lesnar would be a boost to WWE TV and get former fans who left for UFC back into the product. With the $5 million dollar contract the WWE gave Lesnar, even they were expecting big things from him.
But be honest, how many people are actually satisfied with what Lesnar has done so far? The intrigue was there with Cena, but his feud with HHH just didn't click at all. And what is the worst part? We will more than likely be getting another rematch. But not before weeks of "speculation" on whether Triple H will retire or not. But the Triple H debacle is another story. The fact is, Lesnar's limited dates are affecting his perception among WWE fans. We get that he doesn't want to be around every week. And I agree with that. If you want to make Lesnar a big deal and a money draw for you, you don't have him appear every week. But they should have tried to get a few more dates out of him.
But be honest, how many people are actually satisfied with what Lesnar has done so far? The intrigue was there with Cena, but his feud with HHH just didn't click at all. And what is the worst part? We will more than likely be getting another rematch. But not before weeks of "speculation" on whether Triple H will retire or not. But the Triple H debacle is another story. The fact is, Lesnar's limited dates are affecting his perception among WWE fans. We get that he doesn't want to be around every week. And I agree with that. If you want to make Lesnar a big deal and a money draw for you, you don't have him appear every week. But they should have tried to get a few more dates out of him.
Monday, July 30, 2012
The RAW Truth Review for 7/30/12
The first regular three hour RAW of the WWE Era. C.M. Punk will start the show, whenever that is. Apparently the RAW set started on fire and the building had to be evacuated. See, it is all proof that God doesn't want RAW to be three hours.
RAW: Now With Promos On Tables
After an extended recap of last week's show and video of the set fire from earlier, C.M. Punk came out to a decent response. C.M. Punk said that everyone talks about wanting a Wrestlemania Moment, but last week he had a RAW Moment. Before he explained his actions, C.M. Punk addressed how Jerry Lawler ended last week's RAW. He said Punk turned his back on the WWE Universe. Punk went to the announce table. He asked Lawler how he jumped to such a conclusion. Punk said The Rock is not the WWE Universe. He's one delusional movie star who showed him a lack of respect. Rock interrupted him, ignored him, and acted like he was just going to take the WWE Title from him. Then at the end of the night, Dwayne tried to make the show all about him. Then at the end of the show Punk put him in his place. And now what? Rock has stayed silent and the 1000th episode of RAW ended how every show should end, with the spotlight on the WWE Champion.
RAW: Now With Promos On Tables
After an extended recap of last week's show and video of the set fire from earlier, C.M. Punk came out to a decent response. C.M. Punk said that everyone talks about wanting a Wrestlemania Moment, but last week he had a RAW Moment. Before he explained his actions, C.M. Punk addressed how Jerry Lawler ended last week's RAW. He said Punk turned his back on the WWE Universe. Punk went to the announce table. He asked Lawler how he jumped to such a conclusion. Punk said The Rock is not the WWE Universe. He's one delusional movie star who showed him a lack of respect. Rock interrupted him, ignored him, and acted like he was just going to take the WWE Title from him. Then at the end of the night, Dwayne tried to make the show all about him. Then at the end of the show Punk put him in his place. And now what? Rock has stayed silent and the 1000th episode of RAW ended how every show should end, with the spotlight on the WWE Champion.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
A Look at This Week's WWE News 6/4/12-6/9/12
It is that time of the week again. Time to look back at this week's news in the WWE. You can expect to see these kinds of postings on a semi regular basis. Or if I don't have an idea for an original column due to writer's block. On PPV weekends you'll get a Preview and that's all. Or on weeks like this one. I started a new job this week and am still working part time at my previous job, so my postings may come at various times throughout the summer. Expect my PPV Preview to come out around Thursday next week. I will be busy almost all weekend next week from Friday through Sunday evening. But I will more than likely be covering No Way Out live next Sunday.
So with all that in mind, lets take a look at some of the WWE's happenings this week, with some of my insight added at the end.
So with all that in mind, lets take a look at some of the WWE's happenings this week, with some of my insight added at the end.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
A Look at This Week's WWE News
Rather than my normal column on one specific piece of wrestling, I decided to take a look at all the on goings that have taken place in the WWE in the last week. There have been some newsworthy topics to talk about, so lets get right to it.
Chris Jericho Suspended 30 Days for Kicking Brazil Flag
This story is a little over a week old but I never really touched on it. Chris Jericho was suspended after kicking the Brazil flag on a recent tour of South America last weekend. Nobody knew the incident was illegal, so there really is no one to blame here. It is a traditional heel move by a wrestler so you can't fault Jericho. There were apparently police officers waiting to arrest Jericho after the match. I understand that each country has its own set of laws, but they do know that the WWE is only entertainment right? Jericho wasn't trying to make a political statement. It sucks that Jericho is gone now, especially with the way the roster is, but I understand why the WWE suspended Jericho from a P.R. standpoint. Especially with Linda McMahon running for Senate. We still don't exactly know when Jericho is leaving. I believe Jericho is advertised for live events through SummerSlam. That would be a good exit for him on the second biggest PPV of the year.
Chris Jericho Suspended 30 Days for Kicking Brazil Flag
This story is a little over a week old but I never really touched on it. Chris Jericho was suspended after kicking the Brazil flag on a recent tour of South America last weekend. Nobody knew the incident was illegal, so there really is no one to blame here. It is a traditional heel move by a wrestler so you can't fault Jericho. There were apparently police officers waiting to arrest Jericho after the match. I understand that each country has its own set of laws, but they do know that the WWE is only entertainment right? Jericho wasn't trying to make a political statement. It sucks that Jericho is gone now, especially with the way the roster is, but I understand why the WWE suspended Jericho from a P.R. standpoint. Especially with Linda McMahon running for Senate. We still don't exactly know when Jericho is leaving. I believe Jericho is advertised for live events through SummerSlam. That would be a good exit for him on the second biggest PPV of the year.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
The Brock Lesnar Fallout: One Week Later
The majority of the time, I try to keep my cool while writing. I don't like to over react to any one event. It's bad and makes me come off as rash and hostile, at least in my opinion. As a writer one needs to stay objective and observe things from the big picture rather than giving a split second reaction. Any time a writer reacts quickly and negatively it can come off as rash and unprofessional.
All of that is what I did last week after Brock Lesnar lost at Extreme Rules to John Cena. At the time, I was pissed and confused at the same time. Here is the guy you brought in to make you money. He was here to go up against the top guys and improve your ratings and PPV buys. And what happens in his first match back? He loses top John Cena. I was furious. What I thought had been a great PPV up until that point went down in my eyes after this result. I let it drag down my review of the show at the end. It went from being a 9 to a 7.
All of that is what I did last week after Brock Lesnar lost at Extreme Rules to John Cena. At the time, I was pissed and confused at the same time. Here is the guy you brought in to make you money. He was here to go up against the top guys and improve your ratings and PPV buys. And what happens in his first match back? He loses top John Cena. I was furious. What I thought had been a great PPV up until that point went down in my eyes after this result. I let it drag down my review of the show at the end. It went from being a 9 to a 7.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Yes, Why I'm Already Thinking About Wrestlemania 29
Wrestlemania 28 is a week away. One of the most anticipated matches of all time, The Rock vs John Cena, i taking place. Triple H and The Undertaker are going to go at it inside Hell In A Cell. Chris Jericho and C.M. Punk should put on a very good 20 minute wrestling match and Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus should be good at well. When it is all set and done, this may be one of the better Wrestlemanias of all time.
The problem is, as those who read my RAW reviews can figure out, I haven't been a fan of much of the build. Outside of C.M. Punk/Chris Jericho, nothing is standing out to me. HHH/Undertaker is boring, Rock/Cena hasn't gotten out of second gear, and I couldn't care less about this whole GM storyline. While all the matches will deliver, which is what people will remember most, the lacking build will always stick out in my mind.
The problem is, as those who read my RAW reviews can figure out, I haven't been a fan of much of the build. Outside of C.M. Punk/Chris Jericho, nothing is standing out to me. HHH/Undertaker is boring, Rock/Cena hasn't gotten out of second gear, and I couldn't care less about this whole GM storyline. While all the matches will deliver, which is what people will remember most, the lacking build will always stick out in my mind.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
20 Things That Should Happen in the WWE in 2012
Hello everyone, and Happy New Year to you all. 2012 has started off great for me. I only had to pay $108.75 on a car repair that would have costs $1500 if it wasn't under warranty. Hopefully that is a sign of things to come.
But enough about me, lets look ahead to 2012 in the WWE. It has already started with a bang with the return of Chris Jericho. Of course, many of you didn't really like the return. I did, and I explained it in my RAW Review this past week. Jericho will boost the in ring product and the entertainment side of the WWE. He knows what he is doing and I trust him to make whatever he does in the WWE work.
It has been a bit of an up and down year in the WWE. The year started off well with The Rock's return and the build to Wrestlemania. It took a down turn for a couple months but then got much better in the summer with the main event run of C.M. Punk. It hit another lull after SummerSlam and it looked to be picking up even though towards the end of the year even though the ratings didn't show that.
I've come to the point after being a wrestling fan for 20 years that the WWE is incapable of putting on a solid years worth of programming. It just isn't in their blood. They focus so much on building up to Wrestlemania that they are destined for a down couple of months after. History pretty much shows this is the case. Over the Limit has been one of the worst PPVs in the WWE the last two years.
The WWE always shows promise at the beginning of the year but then lets us down in the end. We expect big things from certain stars but they never happen. If anything, injuries to Alberto del Rio, Randy Orton, and Mark Henry showed that the WWE needs to do a better job of building up mid-carders in case they need to step in if a main eventer gets injured. There are other things that need to get done too, and that is why I have a list of 20 things that the WWE should do to keep me interested for the entire year.
1. Someone Other Then Randy Orton Should Win the Royal Rumble
I know Randy Orton is considered the favorite to win the Royal Rumble. The PPV is in his hometown, he will be coming back from injury a week or two before the Rumble, and the fans love him. But I've maintained forever that the Rumble should be used to build someone up and give someone their first major main event push. Even though he didn't win at Wrestlemania last year, it helped Alberto del Rio. It helped launch the careers of Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, and Chris Benoit (gasp).
Randy Orton doesn't need to win the Royal Rumble. He's already the #1 guy on Smackdown and doesn't need the win. If the WWE really wants to get Randy Orton in the World Title Match at Wrestlemania, there are other ways to do it. I know people don't like Triple Threat matches, but I would be ok with it this year. Why not have Wade Barrett win the Rumble, and then find a way to get Orton into the World Title match as well. Don't pull the trigger on a Daniel Bryan heel turn right away. Have him play a tweener heading into Wrestlemania, and if the WWE decided to turn him, turn him either right before or right after. After almost a year of Randy Orton being in the World Title scene, can he finally stay away for an extended period of time?
2. Alberto del Rio should re-debut on Smackdown
I thought Del Rio's move to Smackdown in the Draft last year was a dumb one. He seemed destined to be a top heel on that Brand, but he was immediately moved to RAW and struggled in his first few months there. Del Rio should be on the "wrestling" show of the two brands. Even now, when he comes back, he will be lost in the shuffle behind Kane, Chris Jericho, and even Miz. Del Rio could move to Smackdown and have a variety of fresh programs with Sheamus, Daniel Bryan and even Randy Orton. Del Rio needs Smackdown as much as Smackdown needs him. I think Del Rio could also be re-established as a serious threat on Smackdown more so than he could on RAW.
3. Arn Anderson should be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame
This is something that should have happened already. I know the WWE is running out of people to put in the Hall of Fame, but Arn Anderson should have gone in last year in Atlanta. Anderson is one of the best in ring workers to ever step foot inside the squared circle. He never wowed you with his flash and he was never an exotic character. Anderson did all of his business in the ring. He was a true master of the ring. He won't be a headliner, but he deserves to get in this year. So should the rest of the Four Horsemen at some point.
4. Daniel Bryan Should Turn Heel, Eventually
I know the signs are there for a heel turn, but a quick one won't really do it for me. Even as World Champion, you could still argue that Bryan is the #4 face on Smackdown behind Randy Orton, Sheamus and Big Show. At the Smackdown house show I went to last week, Big Show was cheered more than Bryan. Bryan almost got no reaction. Like I said in my first point, Bryan should be more of a tweener in a Triple Threat match at Wrestlemania. After Mania, or at Mania itself, I would turn Bryan full heel. Have him snap on Randy Orton if he wins the World Title. I know the WWE just did this with Christian, but they need to turn Bryan into more of a serious, bad ass heel rather than a wimp like Christian.
5. Someone Besides Triple H Should Fight Undertaker at Wrestlemania
I know that the WWE thinks this is the best match-up possible for Undertaker at Wrestlemania. And you know what, they are probably right. Especially if they can get Shawn Michaels involved somehow in the match. Triple H and Undertaker put on a great spectacle last year, but can it be topped? I don't know. They would have to have another No Holds Barred type match because I don't know how well of an in ring match they could have. That brings me to my main point: Someone else needs to face Undertaker at Wrestlemania.
I'm in the camp that Undertaker's streak should never be broken. Without the streak, Taker is just remembered as a mystifying character who has done some weird things in wrestling. And in the Undertaker's dying days of his career, he should be using the streak to give younger guys a rub rather than facing someone like HHH. I think the perfect person to face Undertaker at Wrestlemania would be Dolph Ziggler. He's cocky about his talent in the ring, and he has improved on the mic to the point where he could make people believe he could beat Taker at Mania. I wouldn't book Ziggler to win, but I think just having him in the same ring with Taker would be a good enough rub for Dolph.
6. John Cena Should Take Some Time Off After Wrestlemania
John Cena gets shoved down our throats constantly. People get sick of it. It is part of the reason many people have grown to hate Cena. It isn't just his corny, stupid act. It is also the fact that WWE pushes him down our throats to the point where he becomes unbearable. This whole program with Kane has done nothing for me. I don't care about it. I haven't cared about what Cena has done in a long time. Even when he feuded with C.M. Punk, it was more about Punk against the establishment rather than Punk against Cena.
Now come February, Cena will be getting shoved down our throats because of his match against the Rock at Wrestlemania. I will probably be fine with it because The Rock will be a part of it. But after Wrestlemania, win or lose, I think Cena needs at least two months away from TV. I know it is a big ratings risk for the WWE, but if they really want more people to like Cena, this may be the best way to do it. Cena could, gasp, come back fresh and just in time for the summer months in the WWE. Can you imagine Cena away from WWE TV for two months? It can give more younger stars the opportunity to get over. This works especially if Rey Mysterio is back from injury by then, as he can satisfy the younger viewing audience being on with Cena gone.
I would also like to point out that there should be some type of mandatory break for all wrestlers on the WWE roster. Even if it is for only a month it could work. They can spread out the top stars enough to keep ratings up and not lose fans.
7. Dolph Ziggler Should Be WWE or World Champion By June
Every year we always wonder who will be the first wrestler to win a Title that never has before. Last year many people pegged John Morrison for that spot, but he came crashing and burning down thanks to his own personal problems. This year, I think the clear cut favorite has to be Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler is already in the WWE Title match at the Royal Rumble with C.M. Punk. I think that's a sign that WWE management has faith in Ziggler. They could have done that with Morrison but they didn't. Ziggler has the WWE's backing.
Now if the WWE won't put Ziggler against The Undertaker at Wrestlemania, than the next best ting would probably be to have him win the Money in the Bank match, which is suppose to be returning this year at Wrestlemania. And if it is the type of briefcase that can be cashed in on RAW or Smackdown, then I would love to see Ziggler walk out of Wrestlemania as World Champ. The booking is simple: Randy Orton wins, Bryan attacks post match, Ziggler comes out and cashes in.
Even if that isn't how it happens, Ziggler has shown enough in ring that he can handle his time at the top. He's improved drastically on the mic, and with Vickie Guerrero at his side he is guaranteed to have some heat. If Ziggler isn't Champion by the end of the year, then the WWE has truly screwed something up.
8. Smackdown Should Move to Tuesday Night
I almost think this is a no-brainer for the WWE. Smackdown struggles on SyFy on Fridays. It does alright, but I think it could do better on Tuesday. Friday is more of an out night for people, whereas Tuesdays people are more apt to stay in. Smackdown stars have been on RAW to help them get more exposure. A move to Tuesday could eliminate the Supershow aspect of RAW, and maybe actually redefine the brand split. Tuesday ratings will also be higher for the WWE.
9. Michael Cole Should Leave the Broadcast Booth
It has only taken a full year for the WWE to realize that Michael Cole constantly burying talent in the broadcast booth doesn't work. He's started to tone down his act in recent weeks, but it is still annoying as hell. Cole is an average announcer, but he is no Jim Ross. Now I know Vince McMahon loves to embarrass Ross for some reason, but what he doesn't realize is having Ross in the announce booth and Cole as a heel manager is the best of both worlds. It gets the best play-by-play man in wrestling history back in the announce booth. It also gets Michael Cole out, and gives him the ability to get someone over as their manager. Similar to Vickie Guerrero, Cole will garner instant heel heat for whoever he is with. Cole's act may be growing thin, so it's a move the WWE needs to make sooner rather than later.
10. The WWE Should Establish A Solid Mid-Card
I'm talking about the mid-card at the mid-point of this list, pretty funny Huh? Huh?
The WWE does a good job of building up one or two guys every year. But the WWE needs to have a solid all around mid-card. You never know when a rash of injuries can happen. It appears that they are ready to bring up Seth Rollins (Tyler Black) and Dean Ambrosse (Jon Moxley) from FCW. They already have Claudio Castagnoli down there and may have Chris Hero and other Ring of Honor workers in the near future. If the WWE gives them a decent character and gives them time to develop, the mid-card could become relevant again. It's necessary for the WWE as a whole, but it could also help not lose viewers when the top stars aren't on.
11. The WWE Network Should Be A Big Part of Business by the End of the Year
Everyone in the WWE is rushing to get the Network ready by April 1st for Wrestlemania. There's a lot to get done by that time. If they try to rush everything into the debut, it may fail before it can ever get off the ground. If the WWE execs don't think the Network will be ready before April 1, then they should push back the launch date. It will be better for business in the long run. They need to get as many cable providers and deals made as possible.
But if the WWE gets everything in order in time for the Network Launch, then it should be very profitable for the WWE if they don't screw it up. Fans everywhere will buy the Network, especially if it will have 8 or 9 PPVs on it a year. Some of the first run program they have lined up sounds interesting. I like the idea of the Legends House, and there is also an idea to follow the WWE road crew around from arena to arena. That sounds interesting. The WWE shouldn't rush things on the Network. It has huge potential, but if done wrong it could be just another XFL idea that Vince and Co. severely mis-managed.
12. The Push of C.M. Punk Should Continue
I know ratings have been down with C.M. Punk, but the fact of the matter is that he sells a lot of merchandise. Look in the crowd at the next RAW, I think you will notice a lot more C.M. Punk shirts in the crowd than John Cena shirts. As long as Punk keeps selling t-shirts and apparel, he isn't going anywhere. I think a potential feud between Punk and Chris Jericho is the best thing for both men. Punk keeping the WWE Title until Wrestlemania will also help fans who don't like him now make a decision on him. Maybe Punk will grow on them. I also think Punk's continued interaction with John Laurniaitis will also help, because Laurinaitis is such a good heel that fans can't help but be on Punk's side. C.M. Punk isn't going anywhere, and it is the best thing for the WWE in the long run.
13. Chris Jericho Should Primarily Be Used to Put Young Talent Over
Chris Jericho is an all world talent. He knows exactly what he is doing in the ring and with his storylines. I'm looking forward to what happens next after his RAW segment from this past week. I'm still assuming that we will get Jericho/Punk at Wrestlemania, and that will be awesome. But after that, I really think Jericho should start a program with some of the younger talent in the WWE and help get them over with the crowd. A Jericho program with Miz would be fun no matter who ends up being the face or heel. I think Jericho/Sheamus would be fun. And of course a Jericho/Bryan program would be as well. We don't want to see Jericho/Cena, or Jericho/Big Show. Jericho being back gives the WWE a whole new batch of storylines and programs to explore and keep fans interested.
14. Sheamus Should Be the Face of Smackdown By the End of the Year
I for one am shocked at how over Sheamus has gotten since becoming a face. I didn't see it happening. I thought he might be a decent mid-card face, but he could get plugged into the main event on Smackdown right now and he wouldn't look out of place at all. I would never wish injury on someone, but if Orton was out for six months it would have been nice to see Sheamus get moved to the top of the show. But I think either way by the end of the year Sheamus is the guy on Smackdown. He's good in the ring and is arguably the best big man the WWE has right now. Sheamus can cut a decent promo as well. If there is a Draft, Sheamus should not be moved to RAW. Sheamus should get a continued push, and should be the top star of Smackdown and one of the bigger stars in the WWE by the end of 2012.
15. Brodus Clay Should Finally Debut, And Should End Up Flopping
The WWE had hyped up Brodus Clay for weeks a few months ago. Well, it's January and he has still yet to see WWE TV. Now the latest word is that he will debut at the Royal Rumble. But my question is: Will anyone even care at that point? Clay has now become a running joke among some fans with his continued promise debut than never happening. The WWE hasn't even shown video packages for him in the last month and a half. The only time he gets brought up is when John Laurinaitis is saying that Clay will debut next week, then the next week, then the week after that.
In addition to Clay's continued non-debuts, the other thing that fails to be mentioned is that there is already a Brodus Clay type character in the WWE, and his name is Mark Henry. Henry is already what the WWE hopes Clay can be: an unstoppable monster that runs through opponents with ease. You can't have two of those types of characters in the company at the same time. It is over kill. There styles will be very similar and fans won't care for Clay since they already have Henry. I just don't see Brodus Clay working out with the WWE, and I expect his eventual release come summer time.
16. Kane Should Retire By the End of the Year
Kane the man, known as Glen Jacobs, is a smart man. I'm sure he has his pennies saved and is ready for a post-WWE life. The Kane character has pretty much gone as far as it can. You could argue that the Kane character should have been done with years ago. The stuff they come up with Kane nowadays is ridiculous. The WWE has even managed to ruin Kane returning in a mask within the first weeks of him being back. Hopefully, this is the last year Kane is around as a character. I'm sure Glen Jacobs is a great guy, but with so little left for him to do, I think 2012 will be the last year of relevance for the Big Red Monster.
17. Kharma Should Return And Have An Extended Program with Beth Phoenix and Natalya
When Kharma debuted it looked like a sign of good things to come for the Divas division. All of that came to sudden halt when Kharma left the WWE to have a child. Assuming Kharma returns in mid-2012, a program with Beth Phoenix over the Divas title should be the first thing that happens. Kharma and Beth may be able to put on some of the best Divas matches the WWE has seen since the days of Trish Stratus and Lita. I would have no problem with a summer long program between Beth and Kharma, with a little bit of Natalya thrown in there as well.
18. The Tag Team Division Should Pretty Much Remain Unchanged
The WWE was lucky with the pairing of Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne working out for them. But those two can't carry the whole division by themselves. The WWE is trying to establish Primo and Epico as a tag team, but the only reason they interest me is because of Rosa Mendes. Yummmmm. They gave The Usos some attention for one week, but we haven't heard anything from them since.I don't see the tag division getting any better. Vince McMahon doesn't seem to care for it. I don't mind them taking guys that can't get over as singles wrestlers and making them teams. Why not try pairings like Justin Gabriel and Ted DiBiase, Tyson Kidd and Heath Slater, and Santino and Zack Ryder. Yes, I know Ryder is over right now. But sooner or later his shine will wear off , if it hasn't already. But status quo is likely what will remain for the tag division in 2012.
19. Wade Barrett and Cody Rhodes Should Be WWE or World Champion By Year's End
Yes, it seems like I keep saying a lot of these guys should win Titles by the end of the year. But we know Vince and Co. like to hot shot the Title back and forth, so it is quite conceivable that all of these men could be WWE or World Champion by the end of the year.
First lets look at Wade Barrett. After being reduced to nothing this summer, Barrett has been built back up quite well. His program with Randy Orton has been very entertaining and has helped establish Barrett as a credible threat. As I said earlier, I would love to see Barrett win the Rumble. He could use the rub from it more than Orton could. Barrett is very good on the mic and fans instantly hate him when he begins to talk because of how highly he speaks of himself. Barrett also has a very good skills set in the ring. His power moves look like they make an impact and it makes fans take him seriously. The Barrett Barrage should get to the top by the summer of 2012, if not sooner.
Then there is Cody Rhodes. Rhodes, as I say every time I talk about him, took a character that I thought was a joke and turned it into a serious threat. Rhodes is outstanding on the mic and his in ring work has improved every year since he has been with the WWE. Rhodes's program with Booker T is really helping him get over, and I think his eventual program with his brother Goldust will continue to do that, and bring credibility back to the Intercontinental Championship. Rhodes is a prime candidate to win a Money in the Bank briefcase at the PPV in July. I think Barrett's time will come first, and Rhodes looks prime for a World Title run come fall of 2012.
20. Brock Lesnar Should Return and Work Matches at SummerSlam, Survivor Series and Wrestlemania 29
It has been the talk of the wrestling world since Brock Lesnar lost his UFC fight last weekend and announced his retirement from UFC. There were rumblings of a Brock Lesnar return last year when he had a "confrontation" with Undertaker at a UFC fight. Lesnar would never come back and work a full WWE schedule. He doesn't need the money I'm sure and he didn't like that lifestyle before and there is no way he would probably like it now.
But there is no denying that Lesnar is a huge money draw. Not only that, but he may bring over some UFC fans to WWE programming and get them re-interested in the product. Who Lesnar would fight in his comeback matches would be intriguing to think about. Three choices I would throw out would be The Undertaker, C.M. Punk, and John Cena. Lesnar and Taker already have some history so that is easy to play off of. C.M. Punk can make any program he does work and could easily rip on Lesnar for not being able to handle the WWE lifestyle. Cena is obvious because of the amount of attention that match would draw with Cena being the top star in the Company. Cena/Lesnar almost seems like a Wrestlemania match guaranteed. I also can see Lesnar fighting Randy Orton, Sheamus, and even Wadr Barrett. No matter who Lesnar faces, if handled right, the WWE could profit greatly from his return.
So there you have it, 20 things I think should happen in the WWE this year. Agree? Disagree? Share your thoughts and ideas!
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
But enough about me, lets look ahead to 2012 in the WWE. It has already started with a bang with the return of Chris Jericho. Of course, many of you didn't really like the return. I did, and I explained it in my RAW Review this past week. Jericho will boost the in ring product and the entertainment side of the WWE. He knows what he is doing and I trust him to make whatever he does in the WWE work.
It has been a bit of an up and down year in the WWE. The year started off well with The Rock's return and the build to Wrestlemania. It took a down turn for a couple months but then got much better in the summer with the main event run of C.M. Punk. It hit another lull after SummerSlam and it looked to be picking up even though towards the end of the year even though the ratings didn't show that.
I've come to the point after being a wrestling fan for 20 years that the WWE is incapable of putting on a solid years worth of programming. It just isn't in their blood. They focus so much on building up to Wrestlemania that they are destined for a down couple of months after. History pretty much shows this is the case. Over the Limit has been one of the worst PPVs in the WWE the last two years.
The WWE always shows promise at the beginning of the year but then lets us down in the end. We expect big things from certain stars but they never happen. If anything, injuries to Alberto del Rio, Randy Orton, and Mark Henry showed that the WWE needs to do a better job of building up mid-carders in case they need to step in if a main eventer gets injured. There are other things that need to get done too, and that is why I have a list of 20 things that the WWE should do to keep me interested for the entire year.
1. Someone Other Then Randy Orton Should Win the Royal Rumble
I know Randy Orton is considered the favorite to win the Royal Rumble. The PPV is in his hometown, he will be coming back from injury a week or two before the Rumble, and the fans love him. But I've maintained forever that the Rumble should be used to build someone up and give someone their first major main event push. Even though he didn't win at Wrestlemania last year, it helped Alberto del Rio. It helped launch the careers of Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, and Chris Benoit (gasp).
Randy Orton doesn't need to win the Royal Rumble. He's already the #1 guy on Smackdown and doesn't need the win. If the WWE really wants to get Randy Orton in the World Title Match at Wrestlemania, there are other ways to do it. I know people don't like Triple Threat matches, but I would be ok with it this year. Why not have Wade Barrett win the Rumble, and then find a way to get Orton into the World Title match as well. Don't pull the trigger on a Daniel Bryan heel turn right away. Have him play a tweener heading into Wrestlemania, and if the WWE decided to turn him, turn him either right before or right after. After almost a year of Randy Orton being in the World Title scene, can he finally stay away for an extended period of time?
2. Alberto del Rio should re-debut on Smackdown
I thought Del Rio's move to Smackdown in the Draft last year was a dumb one. He seemed destined to be a top heel on that Brand, but he was immediately moved to RAW and struggled in his first few months there. Del Rio should be on the "wrestling" show of the two brands. Even now, when he comes back, he will be lost in the shuffle behind Kane, Chris Jericho, and even Miz. Del Rio could move to Smackdown and have a variety of fresh programs with Sheamus, Daniel Bryan and even Randy Orton. Del Rio needs Smackdown as much as Smackdown needs him. I think Del Rio could also be re-established as a serious threat on Smackdown more so than he could on RAW.
3. Arn Anderson should be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame
This is something that should have happened already. I know the WWE is running out of people to put in the Hall of Fame, but Arn Anderson should have gone in last year in Atlanta. Anderson is one of the best in ring workers to ever step foot inside the squared circle. He never wowed you with his flash and he was never an exotic character. Anderson did all of his business in the ring. He was a true master of the ring. He won't be a headliner, but he deserves to get in this year. So should the rest of the Four Horsemen at some point.
4. Daniel Bryan Should Turn Heel, Eventually
I know the signs are there for a heel turn, but a quick one won't really do it for me. Even as World Champion, you could still argue that Bryan is the #4 face on Smackdown behind Randy Orton, Sheamus and Big Show. At the Smackdown house show I went to last week, Big Show was cheered more than Bryan. Bryan almost got no reaction. Like I said in my first point, Bryan should be more of a tweener in a Triple Threat match at Wrestlemania. After Mania, or at Mania itself, I would turn Bryan full heel. Have him snap on Randy Orton if he wins the World Title. I know the WWE just did this with Christian, but they need to turn Bryan into more of a serious, bad ass heel rather than a wimp like Christian.
5. Someone Besides Triple H Should Fight Undertaker at Wrestlemania
I know that the WWE thinks this is the best match-up possible for Undertaker at Wrestlemania. And you know what, they are probably right. Especially if they can get Shawn Michaels involved somehow in the match. Triple H and Undertaker put on a great spectacle last year, but can it be topped? I don't know. They would have to have another No Holds Barred type match because I don't know how well of an in ring match they could have. That brings me to my main point: Someone else needs to face Undertaker at Wrestlemania.
I'm in the camp that Undertaker's streak should never be broken. Without the streak, Taker is just remembered as a mystifying character who has done some weird things in wrestling. And in the Undertaker's dying days of his career, he should be using the streak to give younger guys a rub rather than facing someone like HHH. I think the perfect person to face Undertaker at Wrestlemania would be Dolph Ziggler. He's cocky about his talent in the ring, and he has improved on the mic to the point where he could make people believe he could beat Taker at Mania. I wouldn't book Ziggler to win, but I think just having him in the same ring with Taker would be a good enough rub for Dolph.
6. John Cena Should Take Some Time Off After Wrestlemania
John Cena gets shoved down our throats constantly. People get sick of it. It is part of the reason many people have grown to hate Cena. It isn't just his corny, stupid act. It is also the fact that WWE pushes him down our throats to the point where he becomes unbearable. This whole program with Kane has done nothing for me. I don't care about it. I haven't cared about what Cena has done in a long time. Even when he feuded with C.M. Punk, it was more about Punk against the establishment rather than Punk against Cena.
Now come February, Cena will be getting shoved down our throats because of his match against the Rock at Wrestlemania. I will probably be fine with it because The Rock will be a part of it. But after Wrestlemania, win or lose, I think Cena needs at least two months away from TV. I know it is a big ratings risk for the WWE, but if they really want more people to like Cena, this may be the best way to do it. Cena could, gasp, come back fresh and just in time for the summer months in the WWE. Can you imagine Cena away from WWE TV for two months? It can give more younger stars the opportunity to get over. This works especially if Rey Mysterio is back from injury by then, as he can satisfy the younger viewing audience being on with Cena gone.
I would also like to point out that there should be some type of mandatory break for all wrestlers on the WWE roster. Even if it is for only a month it could work. They can spread out the top stars enough to keep ratings up and not lose fans.
7. Dolph Ziggler Should Be WWE or World Champion By June
Every year we always wonder who will be the first wrestler to win a Title that never has before. Last year many people pegged John Morrison for that spot, but he came crashing and burning down thanks to his own personal problems. This year, I think the clear cut favorite has to be Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler is already in the WWE Title match at the Royal Rumble with C.M. Punk. I think that's a sign that WWE management has faith in Ziggler. They could have done that with Morrison but they didn't. Ziggler has the WWE's backing.
Now if the WWE won't put Ziggler against The Undertaker at Wrestlemania, than the next best ting would probably be to have him win the Money in the Bank match, which is suppose to be returning this year at Wrestlemania. And if it is the type of briefcase that can be cashed in on RAW or Smackdown, then I would love to see Ziggler walk out of Wrestlemania as World Champ. The booking is simple: Randy Orton wins, Bryan attacks post match, Ziggler comes out and cashes in.
Even if that isn't how it happens, Ziggler has shown enough in ring that he can handle his time at the top. He's improved drastically on the mic, and with Vickie Guerrero at his side he is guaranteed to have some heat. If Ziggler isn't Champion by the end of the year, then the WWE has truly screwed something up.
8. Smackdown Should Move to Tuesday Night
I almost think this is a no-brainer for the WWE. Smackdown struggles on SyFy on Fridays. It does alright, but I think it could do better on Tuesday. Friday is more of an out night for people, whereas Tuesdays people are more apt to stay in. Smackdown stars have been on RAW to help them get more exposure. A move to Tuesday could eliminate the Supershow aspect of RAW, and maybe actually redefine the brand split. Tuesday ratings will also be higher for the WWE.
9. Michael Cole Should Leave the Broadcast Booth
It has only taken a full year for the WWE to realize that Michael Cole constantly burying talent in the broadcast booth doesn't work. He's started to tone down his act in recent weeks, but it is still annoying as hell. Cole is an average announcer, but he is no Jim Ross. Now I know Vince McMahon loves to embarrass Ross for some reason, but what he doesn't realize is having Ross in the announce booth and Cole as a heel manager is the best of both worlds. It gets the best play-by-play man in wrestling history back in the announce booth. It also gets Michael Cole out, and gives him the ability to get someone over as their manager. Similar to Vickie Guerrero, Cole will garner instant heel heat for whoever he is with. Cole's act may be growing thin, so it's a move the WWE needs to make sooner rather than later.
10. The WWE Should Establish A Solid Mid-Card
I'm talking about the mid-card at the mid-point of this list, pretty funny Huh? Huh?
The WWE does a good job of building up one or two guys every year. But the WWE needs to have a solid all around mid-card. You never know when a rash of injuries can happen. It appears that they are ready to bring up Seth Rollins (Tyler Black) and Dean Ambrosse (Jon Moxley) from FCW. They already have Claudio Castagnoli down there and may have Chris Hero and other Ring of Honor workers in the near future. If the WWE gives them a decent character and gives them time to develop, the mid-card could become relevant again. It's necessary for the WWE as a whole, but it could also help not lose viewers when the top stars aren't on.
11. The WWE Network Should Be A Big Part of Business by the End of the Year
Everyone in the WWE is rushing to get the Network ready by April 1st for Wrestlemania. There's a lot to get done by that time. If they try to rush everything into the debut, it may fail before it can ever get off the ground. If the WWE execs don't think the Network will be ready before April 1, then they should push back the launch date. It will be better for business in the long run. They need to get as many cable providers and deals made as possible.
But if the WWE gets everything in order in time for the Network Launch, then it should be very profitable for the WWE if they don't screw it up. Fans everywhere will buy the Network, especially if it will have 8 or 9 PPVs on it a year. Some of the first run program they have lined up sounds interesting. I like the idea of the Legends House, and there is also an idea to follow the WWE road crew around from arena to arena. That sounds interesting. The WWE shouldn't rush things on the Network. It has huge potential, but if done wrong it could be just another XFL idea that Vince and Co. severely mis-managed.
12. The Push of C.M. Punk Should Continue
I know ratings have been down with C.M. Punk, but the fact of the matter is that he sells a lot of merchandise. Look in the crowd at the next RAW, I think you will notice a lot more C.M. Punk shirts in the crowd than John Cena shirts. As long as Punk keeps selling t-shirts and apparel, he isn't going anywhere. I think a potential feud between Punk and Chris Jericho is the best thing for both men. Punk keeping the WWE Title until Wrestlemania will also help fans who don't like him now make a decision on him. Maybe Punk will grow on them. I also think Punk's continued interaction with John Laurniaitis will also help, because Laurinaitis is such a good heel that fans can't help but be on Punk's side. C.M. Punk isn't going anywhere, and it is the best thing for the WWE in the long run.
13. Chris Jericho Should Primarily Be Used to Put Young Talent Over
Chris Jericho is an all world talent. He knows exactly what he is doing in the ring and with his storylines. I'm looking forward to what happens next after his RAW segment from this past week. I'm still assuming that we will get Jericho/Punk at Wrestlemania, and that will be awesome. But after that, I really think Jericho should start a program with some of the younger talent in the WWE and help get them over with the crowd. A Jericho program with Miz would be fun no matter who ends up being the face or heel. I think Jericho/Sheamus would be fun. And of course a Jericho/Bryan program would be as well. We don't want to see Jericho/Cena, or Jericho/Big Show. Jericho being back gives the WWE a whole new batch of storylines and programs to explore and keep fans interested.
14. Sheamus Should Be the Face of Smackdown By the End of the Year
I for one am shocked at how over Sheamus has gotten since becoming a face. I didn't see it happening. I thought he might be a decent mid-card face, but he could get plugged into the main event on Smackdown right now and he wouldn't look out of place at all. I would never wish injury on someone, but if Orton was out for six months it would have been nice to see Sheamus get moved to the top of the show. But I think either way by the end of the year Sheamus is the guy on Smackdown. He's good in the ring and is arguably the best big man the WWE has right now. Sheamus can cut a decent promo as well. If there is a Draft, Sheamus should not be moved to RAW. Sheamus should get a continued push, and should be the top star of Smackdown and one of the bigger stars in the WWE by the end of 2012.
15. Brodus Clay Should Finally Debut, And Should End Up Flopping
The WWE had hyped up Brodus Clay for weeks a few months ago. Well, it's January and he has still yet to see WWE TV. Now the latest word is that he will debut at the Royal Rumble. But my question is: Will anyone even care at that point? Clay has now become a running joke among some fans with his continued promise debut than never happening. The WWE hasn't even shown video packages for him in the last month and a half. The only time he gets brought up is when John Laurinaitis is saying that Clay will debut next week, then the next week, then the week after that.
In addition to Clay's continued non-debuts, the other thing that fails to be mentioned is that there is already a Brodus Clay type character in the WWE, and his name is Mark Henry. Henry is already what the WWE hopes Clay can be: an unstoppable monster that runs through opponents with ease. You can't have two of those types of characters in the company at the same time. It is over kill. There styles will be very similar and fans won't care for Clay since they already have Henry. I just don't see Brodus Clay working out with the WWE, and I expect his eventual release come summer time.
16. Kane Should Retire By the End of the Year
Kane the man, known as Glen Jacobs, is a smart man. I'm sure he has his pennies saved and is ready for a post-WWE life. The Kane character has pretty much gone as far as it can. You could argue that the Kane character should have been done with years ago. The stuff they come up with Kane nowadays is ridiculous. The WWE has even managed to ruin Kane returning in a mask within the first weeks of him being back. Hopefully, this is the last year Kane is around as a character. I'm sure Glen Jacobs is a great guy, but with so little left for him to do, I think 2012 will be the last year of relevance for the Big Red Monster.
17. Kharma Should Return And Have An Extended Program with Beth Phoenix and Natalya
When Kharma debuted it looked like a sign of good things to come for the Divas division. All of that came to sudden halt when Kharma left the WWE to have a child. Assuming Kharma returns in mid-2012, a program with Beth Phoenix over the Divas title should be the first thing that happens. Kharma and Beth may be able to put on some of the best Divas matches the WWE has seen since the days of Trish Stratus and Lita. I would have no problem with a summer long program between Beth and Kharma, with a little bit of Natalya thrown in there as well.
18. The Tag Team Division Should Pretty Much Remain Unchanged
The WWE was lucky with the pairing of Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne working out for them. But those two can't carry the whole division by themselves. The WWE is trying to establish Primo and Epico as a tag team, but the only reason they interest me is because of Rosa Mendes. Yummmmm. They gave The Usos some attention for one week, but we haven't heard anything from them since.I don't see the tag division getting any better. Vince McMahon doesn't seem to care for it. I don't mind them taking guys that can't get over as singles wrestlers and making them teams. Why not try pairings like Justin Gabriel and Ted DiBiase, Tyson Kidd and Heath Slater, and Santino and Zack Ryder. Yes, I know Ryder is over right now. But sooner or later his shine will wear off , if it hasn't already. But status quo is likely what will remain for the tag division in 2012.
19. Wade Barrett and Cody Rhodes Should Be WWE or World Champion By Year's End
Yes, it seems like I keep saying a lot of these guys should win Titles by the end of the year. But we know Vince and Co. like to hot shot the Title back and forth, so it is quite conceivable that all of these men could be WWE or World Champion by the end of the year.
First lets look at Wade Barrett. After being reduced to nothing this summer, Barrett has been built back up quite well. His program with Randy Orton has been very entertaining and has helped establish Barrett as a credible threat. As I said earlier, I would love to see Barrett win the Rumble. He could use the rub from it more than Orton could. Barrett is very good on the mic and fans instantly hate him when he begins to talk because of how highly he speaks of himself. Barrett also has a very good skills set in the ring. His power moves look like they make an impact and it makes fans take him seriously. The Barrett Barrage should get to the top by the summer of 2012, if not sooner.
Then there is Cody Rhodes. Rhodes, as I say every time I talk about him, took a character that I thought was a joke and turned it into a serious threat. Rhodes is outstanding on the mic and his in ring work has improved every year since he has been with the WWE. Rhodes's program with Booker T is really helping him get over, and I think his eventual program with his brother Goldust will continue to do that, and bring credibility back to the Intercontinental Championship. Rhodes is a prime candidate to win a Money in the Bank briefcase at the PPV in July. I think Barrett's time will come first, and Rhodes looks prime for a World Title run come fall of 2012.
20. Brock Lesnar Should Return and Work Matches at SummerSlam, Survivor Series and Wrestlemania 29
It has been the talk of the wrestling world since Brock Lesnar lost his UFC fight last weekend and announced his retirement from UFC. There were rumblings of a Brock Lesnar return last year when he had a "confrontation" with Undertaker at a UFC fight. Lesnar would never come back and work a full WWE schedule. He doesn't need the money I'm sure and he didn't like that lifestyle before and there is no way he would probably like it now.
But there is no denying that Lesnar is a huge money draw. Not only that, but he may bring over some UFC fans to WWE programming and get them re-interested in the product. Who Lesnar would fight in his comeback matches would be intriguing to think about. Three choices I would throw out would be The Undertaker, C.M. Punk, and John Cena. Lesnar and Taker already have some history so that is easy to play off of. C.M. Punk can make any program he does work and could easily rip on Lesnar for not being able to handle the WWE lifestyle. Cena is obvious because of the amount of attention that match would draw with Cena being the top star in the Company. Cena/Lesnar almost seems like a Wrestlemania match guaranteed. I also can see Lesnar fighting Randy Orton, Sheamus, and even Wadr Barrett. No matter who Lesnar faces, if handled right, the WWE could profit greatly from his return.
So there you have it, 20 things I think should happen in the WWE this year. Agree? Disagree? Share your thoughts and ideas!
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
Monday, November 28, 2011
WWE Raw Review 11/28/2011
How Did That Slap Taste Cena?
Piper talked about the energy of the fans, and how the energy of them drives them to doing what he did when he was an active wrestler. He called out John Cena, who he said doesn't get the fans energy. Piper talked about the fans reactions toward Cena. Cena questioned Piper about the energy of the fans. Piper brought up legendary names that got all cheers. Then he said John Cena, which got a mixed response. Cena said he used to it by now. Cena talked about how he doesn't care what the fans think. There's a group of people who hate him, but he does what he does for the kids, for the WWE Universe fans that respect him and love him. Piper told Cena that if he doesn't get everything off his chest with the fans that hate him, he will regret it and live in denial the rest of his life. Cena told him he's in a good place. Piper slapped him and told him to feel the energy. Cena handed Piper back his Hall of Fame ring and walked out. So they are trying to make fans think Cena is going to go off and turn heel? Nice try WWE, but I'm not buying it. But it was a strong segment that probably got some fans to buy into it. Survey Says: 3.5/5
They showed John Morrison talking to Alex Riley. Match with Miz is next.
Wishing John Morrison The Best In His Future Endeavors
As Morrison came to the ring, he was attacked by Miz with a lead pipe. Morrison still walked to the ring. He tried to get the better of Miz, but Miz attacked his leg. Miz grabbed a kendo stick and used it on Morrison. Morrison grabbed the stick though and started beating Miz. Morrison followed Miz up the ramp. Morrison went to hit Miz, but Miz threw him into the WWE logo. Miz delivered a Skull Crushing Finale to Morrison. The ref stopped the match. and named Miz the winner. Morrison was stretchered away as John Laurinaitis came out and checked on him. Morrison is done with the WWE, for those that don't know.
Miz took the mic. Last week, R-Truth. Tonight, John Morrison. Next week, we'll see. Miz said the only person who can make this kind of impact is him. Because he's the Miz, and he's awesome. Trying to re-establish Miz and book him like he should have been booked as WWE Champ? We will see where this goes. Survey Says: 2.5/5
Divas Time. Another subliminal message in the Twitter box. Kelly and Alicia Fox beat the Bellas. Beth Phoenix and Natlaya randomly ran around the ring.
Backstage, John Laurinaitis told David Otunga Brodus Clay's debut is pushed back another week. Laurinaitis said it would only anger him more. Alberto del Rio walked in. Laurinaitis asked Del Rio if he was ready for his match. C.M. Punk came in. He said he did a Google search on Laurinaitis and spineless, and 156,000 hits came up. He said Del Rio and boring came up with 918,000 hits. Punk told Otunga that when he typed his name into Google, the only thing that came up was Jennifer Hudson. This all lead to Laurinaitis saying if Punk got intentionally disqualified, he would lose the WWE Title.
Orton Putting More People Over? WHAT DA HELL???
Wade Barrett came to ringside to do commentary for the Randy Orton/Dolph Ziggler match. They did a quick exchange before restarting. Orton hit a hip toss then did a Garvin stomp. Orton went for the knee to the head but missed. Ziggler hit a dropkick on Orton sending him to the outside. Ziggler worked over Orton in the corner. Neckbreaker by Ziggler. Ziggler went to the top but Orton knocked him off. Superplex by Orton. Back from break, Orton fought back with typical Orton offense.He went for the Mid Rope DDT, but Ziggler countered out. Barrett went on the apron but Orton drop kicked him off. This allowed Ziggler to hit the ZigZag for the win. Not as good as last week, but nice to see Ziggler get the win. The Barrett/Orton saga continues. Survey Says: 3/5
Daniel Bryan: Serious World Title Contender?
Michael Cole was in the ring with Daniel Bryan. Cole said he was given a World Title match, but Bryan said that he earned it by winning a Fatal 4 Way. Bryan called Cole the worst announcer in the WWE. Bryan asked for Cole's respect. Cole called him a hypocrite for attempting to cash in MITB last week. Cole said he would have stripped Bryan of his MITB briefcase. Bryan said he saw an opportunity and he took it. Bryan said he's taking the World Title Tuesday on Smackdown. Mark Henry came out and criticized Teddy Long for making him defend the World Title in a steel cage. Henry said Bryan can't beat him. Bryan came up the ramp and kicked Henry's injured leg. Nice build for tomorrow. Bryan came off a bit heelish at the end. Kind of threw me off there. Survey Says: 2.5/5
Zack Ryder beat Jack Swagger with the Rough Ryder. Nothing too much here. Ryder rebounds nicely after last week's squash to Del Rio. Swagger continues to flounder.
Mick Foley came out and did a Christmas poem about tomorrow's Smackdown.
Josh Matthews interviewed C.M. Punk. Punk said it is clear that Laurinaitis is starting from the bottom. Punk said after tonight, Laurinaitis can kiss his bottom. Which means he can kiss Punk's ass.
Kiss My Butt Funkhouser!
WWE Title time. Del Rio worked over Punk's arm early. A couple arm holds to set up the cross armbreaker later. Punk regained control and tossed Del Rio to the outside. Punk hit a dive on Del Rio heading into commercial. Back from break, ADR had control after knocking Punk off the top during the break. More arm work from Del Rio. Del Rio hit an axe handle to Punk's arm off the top rope. A couple long arm locks from Del Rio. Del Rio went to the top again but Punk caught him with a kick. The two exchanged punches and kicks. Punk went for his running bulldog but ADR countered into his knee drop armbreaker for two. ADR countered a GTS attempt into a pin for two.
ADR tried tu undo the turnbucble pad. The ref caught him. Ricardo got a chair. ADR hit the chair on the mat, then tossed it in Punk's hands. Punk tossed it back and went to the ground. The ref saw this and went to DQ ADR, but Punk rolled him up for two. ADR hit the backbreaker for two. ADR took Punk to the turnbuckle, but Punk countered and dropped ADR on the exposed turnbuckle and pinned him for the win. Ricardo argured, but ate a GTS for his troubles. Alright match. Not as good as Survivor Series. ADR was in control for the most part while Punk fought back. Something will probably come from the finish, and we will see another match between these two. Survey Says: 3/5
OVERALL
Another above average episode of RAW. They're trying to rebuild The Miz, which is a good start to a supposed main event push. Ziggler going over Orton was nice to see. They did a strong sell job for the live Smackdown tomorrow night. They built up Daniel Bryan about as well as they good. Nothing really advanced much on the RAW side. They are trying to get people to buy a potential John Cena heel turn, but I'm not believing it. It seems like they are just throwing Cena out there so he can get on TV because he has nothing going with anyone currently on the RAW roster. Punk and Del Rio seem destined for a rematch, so it leaves nothing currently for Cena at TLC. But I think RAW has been better because of it. Don't over expose Cena. Let some others take the spotlight. I'm giving RAW a 6. Good action albeit short, but few new storyline developments.
NFL Review tomorrow.
And remember kids, walking away after getting bitch slapped will get you ridiculed at school. Don't back down, don't rise above hate. Put your boots to that kid's ass.
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
Piper talked about the energy of the fans, and how the energy of them drives them to doing what he did when he was an active wrestler. He called out John Cena, who he said doesn't get the fans energy. Piper talked about the fans reactions toward Cena. Cena questioned Piper about the energy of the fans. Piper brought up legendary names that got all cheers. Then he said John Cena, which got a mixed response. Cena said he used to it by now. Cena talked about how he doesn't care what the fans think. There's a group of people who hate him, but he does what he does for the kids, for the WWE Universe fans that respect him and love him. Piper told Cena that if he doesn't get everything off his chest with the fans that hate him, he will regret it and live in denial the rest of his life. Cena told him he's in a good place. Piper slapped him and told him to feel the energy. Cena handed Piper back his Hall of Fame ring and walked out. So they are trying to make fans think Cena is going to go off and turn heel? Nice try WWE, but I'm not buying it. But it was a strong segment that probably got some fans to buy into it. Survey Says: 3.5/5
They showed John Morrison talking to Alex Riley. Match with Miz is next.
Wishing John Morrison The Best In His Future Endeavors
As Morrison came to the ring, he was attacked by Miz with a lead pipe. Morrison still walked to the ring. He tried to get the better of Miz, but Miz attacked his leg. Miz grabbed a kendo stick and used it on Morrison. Morrison grabbed the stick though and started beating Miz. Morrison followed Miz up the ramp. Morrison went to hit Miz, but Miz threw him into the WWE logo. Miz delivered a Skull Crushing Finale to Morrison. The ref stopped the match. and named Miz the winner. Morrison was stretchered away as John Laurinaitis came out and checked on him. Morrison is done with the WWE, for those that don't know.
Miz took the mic. Last week, R-Truth. Tonight, John Morrison. Next week, we'll see. Miz said the only person who can make this kind of impact is him. Because he's the Miz, and he's awesome. Trying to re-establish Miz and book him like he should have been booked as WWE Champ? We will see where this goes. Survey Says: 2.5/5
Divas Time. Another subliminal message in the Twitter box. Kelly and Alicia Fox beat the Bellas. Beth Phoenix and Natlaya randomly ran around the ring.
Backstage, John Laurinaitis told David Otunga Brodus Clay's debut is pushed back another week. Laurinaitis said it would only anger him more. Alberto del Rio walked in. Laurinaitis asked Del Rio if he was ready for his match. C.M. Punk came in. He said he did a Google search on Laurinaitis and spineless, and 156,000 hits came up. He said Del Rio and boring came up with 918,000 hits. Punk told Otunga that when he typed his name into Google, the only thing that came up was Jennifer Hudson. This all lead to Laurinaitis saying if Punk got intentionally disqualified, he would lose the WWE Title.
Orton Putting More People Over? WHAT DA HELL???
Wade Barrett came to ringside to do commentary for the Randy Orton/Dolph Ziggler match. They did a quick exchange before restarting. Orton hit a hip toss then did a Garvin stomp. Orton went for the knee to the head but missed. Ziggler hit a dropkick on Orton sending him to the outside. Ziggler worked over Orton in the corner. Neckbreaker by Ziggler. Ziggler went to the top but Orton knocked him off. Superplex by Orton. Back from break, Orton fought back with typical Orton offense.He went for the Mid Rope DDT, but Ziggler countered out. Barrett went on the apron but Orton drop kicked him off. This allowed Ziggler to hit the ZigZag for the win. Not as good as last week, but nice to see Ziggler get the win. The Barrett/Orton saga continues. Survey Says: 3/5
Daniel Bryan: Serious World Title Contender?
Michael Cole was in the ring with Daniel Bryan. Cole said he was given a World Title match, but Bryan said that he earned it by winning a Fatal 4 Way. Bryan called Cole the worst announcer in the WWE. Bryan asked for Cole's respect. Cole called him a hypocrite for attempting to cash in MITB last week. Cole said he would have stripped Bryan of his MITB briefcase. Bryan said he saw an opportunity and he took it. Bryan said he's taking the World Title Tuesday on Smackdown. Mark Henry came out and criticized Teddy Long for making him defend the World Title in a steel cage. Henry said Bryan can't beat him. Bryan came up the ramp and kicked Henry's injured leg. Nice build for tomorrow. Bryan came off a bit heelish at the end. Kind of threw me off there. Survey Says: 2.5/5
Zack Ryder beat Jack Swagger with the Rough Ryder. Nothing too much here. Ryder rebounds nicely after last week's squash to Del Rio. Swagger continues to flounder.
Mick Foley came out and did a Christmas poem about tomorrow's Smackdown.
Josh Matthews interviewed C.M. Punk. Punk said it is clear that Laurinaitis is starting from the bottom. Punk said after tonight, Laurinaitis can kiss his bottom. Which means he can kiss Punk's ass.
Kiss My Butt Funkhouser!
WWE Title time. Del Rio worked over Punk's arm early. A couple arm holds to set up the cross armbreaker later. Punk regained control and tossed Del Rio to the outside. Punk hit a dive on Del Rio heading into commercial. Back from break, ADR had control after knocking Punk off the top during the break. More arm work from Del Rio. Del Rio hit an axe handle to Punk's arm off the top rope. A couple long arm locks from Del Rio. Del Rio went to the top again but Punk caught him with a kick. The two exchanged punches and kicks. Punk went for his running bulldog but ADR countered into his knee drop armbreaker for two. ADR countered a GTS attempt into a pin for two.
ADR tried tu undo the turnbucble pad. The ref caught him. Ricardo got a chair. ADR hit the chair on the mat, then tossed it in Punk's hands. Punk tossed it back and went to the ground. The ref saw this and went to DQ ADR, but Punk rolled him up for two. ADR hit the backbreaker for two. ADR took Punk to the turnbuckle, but Punk countered and dropped ADR on the exposed turnbuckle and pinned him for the win. Ricardo argured, but ate a GTS for his troubles. Alright match. Not as good as Survivor Series. ADR was in control for the most part while Punk fought back. Something will probably come from the finish, and we will see another match between these two. Survey Says: 3/5
OVERALL
Another above average episode of RAW. They're trying to rebuild The Miz, which is a good start to a supposed main event push. Ziggler going over Orton was nice to see. They did a strong sell job for the live Smackdown tomorrow night. They built up Daniel Bryan about as well as they good. Nothing really advanced much on the RAW side. They are trying to get people to buy a potential John Cena heel turn, but I'm not believing it. It seems like they are just throwing Cena out there so he can get on TV because he has nothing going with anyone currently on the RAW roster. Punk and Del Rio seem destined for a rematch, so it leaves nothing currently for Cena at TLC. But I think RAW has been better because of it. Don't over expose Cena. Let some others take the spotlight. I'm giving RAW a 6. Good action albeit short, but few new storyline developments.
NFL Review tomorrow.
And remember kids, walking away after getting bitch slapped will get you ridiculed at school. Don't back down, don't rise above hate. Put your boots to that kid's ass.
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
Saturday, November 26, 2011
What Might Wrestlemania 28 Look Like?
Well, we have almost reached the quarter pole in the build to Wrestlemania. We are just a little over 4 months away until the WWE invades Miami for Wrestlemania 28. Unlike any other Wrestlemania before, we actually know what the main event willl be with The Rock facing off against John Cena. I don't like what the WWE has done with the build so far. Granted, Rock has only been around for two live shows since the match announcement, but I think they could have done a bit better with the Rock/Cena interaction at Survivor Series. I don't think this match will be for the WWE Title, and that's a smart thing. Why waste the WWE Title in a match that doesn't need it?
The one positive about Rock/Cena is that it allows the WWE to take some risks in their other matches. Rock/Cena should get the Wrestlemania buy rate over 1 million, unless the WWE really screws it up. That means the WWE can take risks with the WWE and World Title matches. Now, we know that Daniel Bryan is suppose to cash in his Money in the Bank World Title opportunity at Wrestlemania. It will be a real stretch if actually keeps it that long. The WWE has just started building up Bryan, and I don't know if they can make him into a threat in time for Wrestlemania. But like I said, the WWE can take a chance like that.
Then of course their is The Undertaker. We haven't seen The Undertaker since Wrestlemania 27. He's had hip and back surgery during his break, but it is rumored that he is healthy and ready to go for Wrestlemania 28. That's another big match for Wrestlemania. The Undertaker is looking at 20-0 if he wins this year. My guess is that this could be his final Wrestlemania, so either Undertaker retires 20-0 or someone goes down in history as the man who ended the streak.
And finally, there is that whole "It Begins" YouTube video that hijacked the WWE Twitter pop-up on RAW this past Monday? Who's it for? No one really knows. It could be for The Undertaker again. It could be Chris Jericho. It could be someone we aren't even thinking about. Some people say Chris Jericho isn't coming back after a stall in contract negotiations. Others think that those are just rumors thrown out there to get people off the trail. There is no real hint in that video to give people an idea of who it is.
So, lets take a look at a possible Wrestlemania 28 Match Card.
Divas Championship: Beth Phoenix (c) vs Kharma
If I'm doing my math right, Kharma should be back right in time for Wrestlemania. There is no one else that would really interest me in a Divas contest at Wrestlemania. You could turn Natalya or Beth face, but it wouldn't do as much as having Kharma back would. Kharma and Beth could actually have a good Divas match and should keep the crowd entertained, unlike a Kelly Kelly or Eve match. This would probably be the best match possible, as it involves the two Divas fans would care most about in a match.
Sheamus vs Alberto del Rio- Winner Gets A World/WWE Title Shot at Extreme Rules
This is a simple case of two guys pretty much having nothing else going for them. Sheamus has been getting a monster push as a face, but the Smackdown main event already has two faces in it for me. Alberto del Rio, meanwhile, can't get an extended reign as WWE Champion. Del Rio can't get past the shadow of C.M. Punk or John Cena. It's almost like Del Rio has peaked as a character. The move from Smackdown to RAW really hurt ADR, while the move from RAW to Smackdown has helped Sheamus. It is a fresh match-up here as these two have never faced off one-on-one to my knowledge. I'm sure these two could put on a good match. The added stipulation makes fans care about the match more.
Intercontinental Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs Goldust: Title vs Career
This is a match that Goldust, aka Dustin Rhodes, has been campaigning for. Dustin wants to close this last chapter in his career and what better way for him to go out than on the big stage against his baby brother. Rhodes is a start on the rise in the WWE and he is trying to bring the IC Title back to respectability. Dustin Rhodes won the IC Title multiple times as Goldust in his WWE Career, so having him try to regain the Title while putting his career on the line would be something interesting. Now of course, Cody would win this match. He is suppose to feud with Booker T in the coming months, and of course Booker and Goldust have a history. Another situation of right place, right time for these two.
Shaquille O'Neal, Big Show, Zack Ryder vs The Miz, Christian, Jack Swagger
The WWE likes to have some kind of celebrity involvement every year at Wrestlemania. Rumor has it that they were pushing for NBA stars Dwayne Wade and Lebron James at one point, but NBA Labor talks are on-going again and there is hope that the season can be saved. That leaves limited options. Shaq is retired from the NBA, is a fan of the WWE, and is still in shape enough to move around in the ring. Throw in Big Show, and you have two of the tallest athletes in the world. Zack Ryder would be perfect to interact with Shaq as well. On the heel side, Miz can talk a big game and Christian can play the cocky heel well. Swagger gets added because of the Awesome Truth break-up, otherwise R-Truth would be here. Shaq would definitely get the WWE the positive PR they love.
World Heavyweight Championship: Mark Henry (c) vs Daniel Bryan vs Randy Orton
Oh Randy Orton, you just love to find your way into our World Title matches. I had a tough time deciding what to do with Orton. At one point I had him up against Alberto del Rio. Then I had him against Brodus Clay before I decided to take Clay off the card. If Chris Jericho were coming back, I might have him against Orton because Orton is the one who put Jericho out of the WWE with his punt to the head. But I don't think Jericho is coming back, so I put Orton in the World Title match. Orton could fight Bryan for the right to be added to the World Title match at Wrestlemania. Despite the opportunity to take a risk leaving Bryan in this match one-on-one, I think Vince McMahon will like it better if Orton is in it as well to add to the star power of the match. I don't know if Bryan wins or not. He has the makings of the first MITB winner to cash in and lose. At this point, Henry would be considered dominant and losing the Title here would be a big story, but it would be bigger if it was Bryan winning.
WWE Championship: C.M. Punk (c) vs Wade Barrett
Yes, the Barrett Barrage is in full effect. If I were a betting man, I would put my money on Wade Barrett winning the 2012 Royal Rumble. It seems that the WWE is finally fully behind pushing Barrett as a future main eventer. What better way to complete than to have Barrett win the Royal Rumble and co-headline Wrestlemania? Again, it is a risk that the WWE can take with Rock/Cena already happening. Punk is winning over more fans as the days go on. Ideally, I would have hoped that the WWE would stretch Punk/HHH all the way out here, but they shot that storyline to hell. There's also a bit of history between Punk and Barrett, as Punk was the man who kicked Barrett out of the original Nexus. I've always been high on Barrett, and I think if the WWE keeps up this push of his, people would buy him as a main eventer come Wrestlemania. Punk is obviously a great worker and should get the best out of Barrett.
The Undertaker vs Dolph Ziggler
Sure, this probably sounds a bit nuts. Why would Undertaker return to take on Dolph Ziggler? Well, who else do you think Taker would face at this point. With HHH wrestling as much as he has, the mystique of a Taker/HHH rematch is gone. I thought of Alberto del Rio, but he is already an established main eventer that doesn't need the rub of facing Taker at Wrestlemania. I thought about Barrett and Cody Rhodes, but I think the matches I have them in make more sense. You would think Taker would want to face a big star, but there is no one left. C.M. Punk is a possibility I guess, but Punk is turning into a big babyface, and I think the fans would actually end up booing Taker in this instance. Then you look at Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler has pulled double duty the last two PPVs. He put on a great match with C.M. Punk this past Monday on RAW. You could argue that he is the second best worker in the WWE right now behind C.M. Punk. Ziggler has improved greatly on the mic as well. All Ziggler needs to do is come out and challenge Taker, do it for a couple weeks before Taker shows signs of being around. While Ziggler isn't a main eventer, he's a young guy who you might think could break the streak because he could use the rub to launch him into stardom. I'm sure the match itself would be just fine as Taker always brings his A game to Mania, and Dolph has been on fire in the ring lately. Do I think Dolph ends the streak? Probably not. I think the Streak is Taker's legacy, and it is never broken. But just facing Undertaker at Wrestlemania will do wonders for Dolph's career.
The Rock vs John Cena
Obviously this is happening. It is one of the few dream matches that has not happened yet but will on April 1, 2012 in Miami. I'm interested to see how often The Rock appears on WWE TV in the build to Wrestlemania. I think he would have to appear at least every other week in order for the build and match to be worth it. If Survivor Series is any indication, Cena will get booed out of the building in Miami. Survivor Series also showed that Rock still has it in the ring and that the match definitely will be fun to watch. I still give credit to Vince McMahon and whoever else it was that convinced The Rock to come back for this. The match will be good, and the atmosphere in Miami will be electric. It's the big type of match that warrants the main event of Wrestlemania label.
Couple of Notes
-I left HHH off because I don't think he's needed here, plus I couldn't think of anything for him at all.
-I don't know if Rey Mysterio will be back in time from his knee injury to take part in Mania this year.
-The person I'm disappointed I left off most was R-Truth, but again, I couldn't find anything for him.
That's all from me today.
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
The one positive about Rock/Cena is that it allows the WWE to take some risks in their other matches. Rock/Cena should get the Wrestlemania buy rate over 1 million, unless the WWE really screws it up. That means the WWE can take risks with the WWE and World Title matches. Now, we know that Daniel Bryan is suppose to cash in his Money in the Bank World Title opportunity at Wrestlemania. It will be a real stretch if actually keeps it that long. The WWE has just started building up Bryan, and I don't know if they can make him into a threat in time for Wrestlemania. But like I said, the WWE can take a chance like that.
Then of course their is The Undertaker. We haven't seen The Undertaker since Wrestlemania 27. He's had hip and back surgery during his break, but it is rumored that he is healthy and ready to go for Wrestlemania 28. That's another big match for Wrestlemania. The Undertaker is looking at 20-0 if he wins this year. My guess is that this could be his final Wrestlemania, so either Undertaker retires 20-0 or someone goes down in history as the man who ended the streak.
And finally, there is that whole "It Begins" YouTube video that hijacked the WWE Twitter pop-up on RAW this past Monday? Who's it for? No one really knows. It could be for The Undertaker again. It could be Chris Jericho. It could be someone we aren't even thinking about. Some people say Chris Jericho isn't coming back after a stall in contract negotiations. Others think that those are just rumors thrown out there to get people off the trail. There is no real hint in that video to give people an idea of who it is.
So, lets take a look at a possible Wrestlemania 28 Match Card.
Divas Championship: Beth Phoenix (c) vs Kharma
If I'm doing my math right, Kharma should be back right in time for Wrestlemania. There is no one else that would really interest me in a Divas contest at Wrestlemania. You could turn Natalya or Beth face, but it wouldn't do as much as having Kharma back would. Kharma and Beth could actually have a good Divas match and should keep the crowd entertained, unlike a Kelly Kelly or Eve match. This would probably be the best match possible, as it involves the two Divas fans would care most about in a match.
Sheamus vs Alberto del Rio- Winner Gets A World/WWE Title Shot at Extreme Rules
This is a simple case of two guys pretty much having nothing else going for them. Sheamus has been getting a monster push as a face, but the Smackdown main event already has two faces in it for me. Alberto del Rio, meanwhile, can't get an extended reign as WWE Champion. Del Rio can't get past the shadow of C.M. Punk or John Cena. It's almost like Del Rio has peaked as a character. The move from Smackdown to RAW really hurt ADR, while the move from RAW to Smackdown has helped Sheamus. It is a fresh match-up here as these two have never faced off one-on-one to my knowledge. I'm sure these two could put on a good match. The added stipulation makes fans care about the match more.
Intercontinental Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs Goldust: Title vs Career
This is a match that Goldust, aka Dustin Rhodes, has been campaigning for. Dustin wants to close this last chapter in his career and what better way for him to go out than on the big stage against his baby brother. Rhodes is a start on the rise in the WWE and he is trying to bring the IC Title back to respectability. Dustin Rhodes won the IC Title multiple times as Goldust in his WWE Career, so having him try to regain the Title while putting his career on the line would be something interesting. Now of course, Cody would win this match. He is suppose to feud with Booker T in the coming months, and of course Booker and Goldust have a history. Another situation of right place, right time for these two.
Shaquille O'Neal, Big Show, Zack Ryder vs The Miz, Christian, Jack Swagger
The WWE likes to have some kind of celebrity involvement every year at Wrestlemania. Rumor has it that they were pushing for NBA stars Dwayne Wade and Lebron James at one point, but NBA Labor talks are on-going again and there is hope that the season can be saved. That leaves limited options. Shaq is retired from the NBA, is a fan of the WWE, and is still in shape enough to move around in the ring. Throw in Big Show, and you have two of the tallest athletes in the world. Zack Ryder would be perfect to interact with Shaq as well. On the heel side, Miz can talk a big game and Christian can play the cocky heel well. Swagger gets added because of the Awesome Truth break-up, otherwise R-Truth would be here. Shaq would definitely get the WWE the positive PR they love.
World Heavyweight Championship: Mark Henry (c) vs Daniel Bryan vs Randy Orton
Oh Randy Orton, you just love to find your way into our World Title matches. I had a tough time deciding what to do with Orton. At one point I had him up against Alberto del Rio. Then I had him against Brodus Clay before I decided to take Clay off the card. If Chris Jericho were coming back, I might have him against Orton because Orton is the one who put Jericho out of the WWE with his punt to the head. But I don't think Jericho is coming back, so I put Orton in the World Title match. Orton could fight Bryan for the right to be added to the World Title match at Wrestlemania. Despite the opportunity to take a risk leaving Bryan in this match one-on-one, I think Vince McMahon will like it better if Orton is in it as well to add to the star power of the match. I don't know if Bryan wins or not. He has the makings of the first MITB winner to cash in and lose. At this point, Henry would be considered dominant and losing the Title here would be a big story, but it would be bigger if it was Bryan winning.
WWE Championship: C.M. Punk (c) vs Wade Barrett
Yes, the Barrett Barrage is in full effect. If I were a betting man, I would put my money on Wade Barrett winning the 2012 Royal Rumble. It seems that the WWE is finally fully behind pushing Barrett as a future main eventer. What better way to complete than to have Barrett win the Royal Rumble and co-headline Wrestlemania? Again, it is a risk that the WWE can take with Rock/Cena already happening. Punk is winning over more fans as the days go on. Ideally, I would have hoped that the WWE would stretch Punk/HHH all the way out here, but they shot that storyline to hell. There's also a bit of history between Punk and Barrett, as Punk was the man who kicked Barrett out of the original Nexus. I've always been high on Barrett, and I think if the WWE keeps up this push of his, people would buy him as a main eventer come Wrestlemania. Punk is obviously a great worker and should get the best out of Barrett.
The Undertaker vs Dolph Ziggler
Sure, this probably sounds a bit nuts. Why would Undertaker return to take on Dolph Ziggler? Well, who else do you think Taker would face at this point. With HHH wrestling as much as he has, the mystique of a Taker/HHH rematch is gone. I thought of Alberto del Rio, but he is already an established main eventer that doesn't need the rub of facing Taker at Wrestlemania. I thought about Barrett and Cody Rhodes, but I think the matches I have them in make more sense. You would think Taker would want to face a big star, but there is no one left. C.M. Punk is a possibility I guess, but Punk is turning into a big babyface, and I think the fans would actually end up booing Taker in this instance. Then you look at Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler has pulled double duty the last two PPVs. He put on a great match with C.M. Punk this past Monday on RAW. You could argue that he is the second best worker in the WWE right now behind C.M. Punk. Ziggler has improved greatly on the mic as well. All Ziggler needs to do is come out and challenge Taker, do it for a couple weeks before Taker shows signs of being around. While Ziggler isn't a main eventer, he's a young guy who you might think could break the streak because he could use the rub to launch him into stardom. I'm sure the match itself would be just fine as Taker always brings his A game to Mania, and Dolph has been on fire in the ring lately. Do I think Dolph ends the streak? Probably not. I think the Streak is Taker's legacy, and it is never broken. But just facing Undertaker at Wrestlemania will do wonders for Dolph's career.
The Rock vs John Cena
Obviously this is happening. It is one of the few dream matches that has not happened yet but will on April 1, 2012 in Miami. I'm interested to see how often The Rock appears on WWE TV in the build to Wrestlemania. I think he would have to appear at least every other week in order for the build and match to be worth it. If Survivor Series is any indication, Cena will get booed out of the building in Miami. Survivor Series also showed that Rock still has it in the ring and that the match definitely will be fun to watch. I still give credit to Vince McMahon and whoever else it was that convinced The Rock to come back for this. The match will be good, and the atmosphere in Miami will be electric. It's the big type of match that warrants the main event of Wrestlemania label.
Couple of Notes
-I left HHH off because I don't think he's needed here, plus I couldn't think of anything for him at all.
-I don't know if Rey Mysterio will be back in time from his knee injury to take part in Mania this year.
-The person I'm disappointed I left off most was R-Truth, but again, I couldn't find anything for him.
That's all from me today.
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Re-Booking the RAW Main Event Scene
Let me start of by saying one thing: Unlike a lot of people, I don't absolutely hate where this entire Triple H/COO/Walk Out storyline is at right now. The WWE could be in a lot worse shape right now. Some people hated the walk out. I didn't. It was something different. Some say the babyface wrestlers are made to look like wimps by doing this. I don't think that at all. To me, that is just marks over-analyzing things. If you don't like the place and/or environment you are working in, you do something about it. In this case, it was unified showing of no confidence in Triple H. I also like the uproar Miz and R-Truth are causing. Their arrest scene from Hell in A Cell is something that brought back shades of the Attitude Era with cops taking them off in handcuffs.
But, to say that the WWE didn't screw a few things up during these past few months would be wrong. For one, they brought back C.M. Punk too soon. They also hot shoted the WWE Title one too many times, which just makes the Title look like a toy prop rather than something with meaning too it. And while I'm still waiting to see where the walk out storyline is going, it could have been played out longer or been held off for a bit or not done at all. So, with that being said, I'm going to re-book the WWE, starting from after Money in the Bank. I would keep the ending of Money in the Bank exactly as it was, with C.M. Punk leaving as WWE Champion.
-After Money in the Bank, Vince McMahon announces a WWE Title Tournament to name a new Champion. Instead of having two rounds of matches in one night. The end of the night ends with Vince McMahon in the ring, about to fire John Cena. But Triple H comes out and announces that he is COO, and Vince has been relieved of his duties. The next week is the semi finals and finals of the WWE Championship Tournament. But instead of Rey Mysterio winning, it is Alberto del Rio. As Del Rio is celebrating his Title win, Triple H comes out at the end of the show to congratulate him. He also names ADR's opponent for SummerSlam, a man who was held out of the Tournament and has every right to have his re-match for the WWE Title. Obviously, that man is John Cena. Triple H, meanwhile, doesn't get too involved with things yer as COO. He just sits back for a while and makes some few minor changes.
-At SummerSlam, Del Rio and John Cena go one-on-one. I would book it very similar to their match at Night og Champions. In the end, however, Ricardo's interference backfires, and Del Rio eats an AA and John Cena picks up the win. The next night on RAW, Rey Mysterio has his match for the WWE Championship with John Cena. Cena wins, and at the end of the match, C.M. Punk returns and has his staredown with John Cena to close RAW. I know they wrote off Rey Mysterio with his match against Alberto del Rio, but you could do that the next week with Del Rio taking out Rey by a vicious attack. I would probably keep Del Rio off of RAW after SummerSlam then have him attack Rey the next week.
-Night of Champions arrives and we get Punk/Cena 2. Having this match here probably would have helped spike the buyrate a bit more than Punk/HHH did. HHH is still the special guest referee. During the build to NOC, Miz and R-Truth are still going on about their Conspiracy angle. During the match, Miz and R-Truth make their way down to the ring. HHH goes out to stop them. During this time, Cena gives Punk an AA and has him pinned, but HHH is distracted. After Cena pleads his case, Punk hits the GTS on Cena for the win. Miz & Truth go for a post match beatdown on Punk, but HHH, Punk, and Cena all fight them off. As Punk stands alone in the ring, Kevin Nash appears and Powerbombs Punk, allowing Del Rio to come out and cash in his Money in the Bank contract on Punk and regain the WWE Championship.
-With only two weeks to book Hell in A Cell, Triple H still announces the Triple Threat Match. Kevin Nash still states that he received a text message saying to take out the winner of the WWE Championship match, but instead of not saying who, Nash says it was John Laurinaitis. Laurinaitis denies it. HHH warns Nash to stay away from Hell in A Cell. On RAW, Miz & Truth attack Cena and Punk again. HHH suspends Miz & Truth for their actions at NOC and RAW. At Hell in A Cell, Del Rio retains the WWE Title just like he did at the PPV. With the Cell raised, Cena makes his way back in, but so do Miz, R-Truth, and Kevin Nash. WWE officials, security, and superstars try to get in to the Cell, but are unable to until the bolt cutters arrive. Nash, Truth, and Miz surrender and are arrested. Surprisingly, however, Del Rio is left untouched by the attack. But no one notices because of the chaos the three men caused.
-With Vengeance approaching in three weeks, it is still too short of a time to lead to something big. Some people begin to question whether or not HHH can be COO. HHH makes Cena/Del Rio at Vengeance, as well as Kevin Nash/C.M. Punk with two stipulations: If Nash wins, he gets a contract. If Punk wins, he gets a WWE Title shot at Survivor Series. Triple H warns Miz & Truth not to interfere or their indefinite suspension turns into a permanent firing. Punk defeats Nash. In the WWE Title match, two men in masks and hoodies jump Cena with the ref down, and put Del Rio on top of Cena for the win. Triple H rushes the ring to try to prove that it is Miz & R-Truth, but Truth and Miz come in through the crowd and stare down HHH as he watches on in shock not knowing what to think.
-With Survivor Series approaching, John Cena starts to interact with The Rock more. But he also has a problem with Miz & R-Truth. The Rock says that he agrees with Cena that Miz & R-Truth need to be stopped. The two men from Vengeance and Miz and R-Truth jump Rock and Cena in the ring. As the show ends, it is revealed that the two men are Cody Rhodes and Wade Barrett. The next week on RAW, HHH announces that at Survivor Series it will be the team of Miz/R-Truth/Nash/Rhodes/Barrett against a team of Rock/Cena and whoever else they recruit to join their team. If Miz and Truth's team wins, they get their jobs back. Rock and Cena choose Randy Orton, Daniel Bryan, and Zack Ryder. As HHH continues to point the finger at Laurinaitis, C.M. Punk begins to question whether HHH really is the one to look at here.
-Survivor Series arrives. During the WWE Title match, Punk hits the GTS on Del Rio for the apparent win, but the referee misses Del Rio's foot on the ropes. HHH comes out and points it out on a replay to the referee. He orders the match re-started, and Del Rio picks up the win with the cross arm breaker after Punk puts up a valiant fight to get out of it. The 5-on-5 match gets down to Rock/Cena against Miz/Truth/Nash. Nash gets eliminated after an AA/People's Elbow combo. All four men left are in the ring. Cena goes for a shoulder tackle to Miz but he ducks, and Cena takes out Rock instead. Miz hits the Skull Crushing Finale and Rock is eliminated. Cena gets Truth to tap out to the STF. While it is down to Miz and Cena, the ref gets taken out by another missed Cena shoulder tackle. HHH comes out to get a better look. With both men down, HHH enters the ring. But instead of taking out Miz, HHH pedigrees Cena and throws Miz on top for the win. Punk comes out to take out HHH, but Del Rio attacks and the rest of Team Miz comes out. The show closes with HHH, Miz, R-Truth, Nash, Alberto del Rio, Cody Rhodes, and Wade Barrett standing in the ring, arms raised, as the New Corporation is formed. HHH fires Laurinaitis the next night as he wants total control over the WWE.
-At TLC, Punk upsets Del Rio in a Ladder Match to win the WWE Title. Despite HHH's best attempts, Punk retains the Title at the Royal Rumble before finally losing it to Del Rio at Elimination Chamber. Cena and Rock team again at the Royal Rumble to take on Miz and R-Truth, but this time it is Rock who accidentally takes out Cena and allows Miz and Truth to pick up the win. Of course during all of this Punk continues to go at HHH on the mic. Punk challenges HHH to a match at Wrestlemania, but HHH says he has to go through Miz, R-Truth, Cody Rhodes, and Wade Barrett to get to him. Punk does successfully, and we get the FIRST Punk/HHH match at Wrestlemania, with HHH's COO Title and Punk's job on the line. Del Rio takes on Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. Cody Rhodes & Wade Barrett team up to take on Sheamus & Sin Cara. And Miz? He challenges The Undertaker.
-So if I had booked the WWE, my Wrestlemania would look like this:
The Rock vs John Cena
C.M. Punk vs Triple H: IF Triple H loses, he is forced out as COO
WWE Championship: Alberto del Rio vs Randy Orton
World Heavyweight Championship: Mark Henry vs Daniel Bryan
The Undertaker vs The Miz w/R-Truth
Sheamus & Sin Cara vs Wade Barrett & Cody Rhodes
Throw in some mid-card and Divas matches, and there is your Wrestlemania. Again, this obviously won't happen because I didn't book the WWE this year. As stated earlier, I have no problem with the walk out angle. I just would have done things differently. I hope you enjoyed this piece. I had a fun time writing it.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka
But, to say that the WWE didn't screw a few things up during these past few months would be wrong. For one, they brought back C.M. Punk too soon. They also hot shoted the WWE Title one too many times, which just makes the Title look like a toy prop rather than something with meaning too it. And while I'm still waiting to see where the walk out storyline is going, it could have been played out longer or been held off for a bit or not done at all. So, with that being said, I'm going to re-book the WWE, starting from after Money in the Bank. I would keep the ending of Money in the Bank exactly as it was, with C.M. Punk leaving as WWE Champion.
-After Money in the Bank, Vince McMahon announces a WWE Title Tournament to name a new Champion. Instead of having two rounds of matches in one night. The end of the night ends with Vince McMahon in the ring, about to fire John Cena. But Triple H comes out and announces that he is COO, and Vince has been relieved of his duties. The next week is the semi finals and finals of the WWE Championship Tournament. But instead of Rey Mysterio winning, it is Alberto del Rio. As Del Rio is celebrating his Title win, Triple H comes out at the end of the show to congratulate him. He also names ADR's opponent for SummerSlam, a man who was held out of the Tournament and has every right to have his re-match for the WWE Title. Obviously, that man is John Cena. Triple H, meanwhile, doesn't get too involved with things yer as COO. He just sits back for a while and makes some few minor changes.
-At SummerSlam, Del Rio and John Cena go one-on-one. I would book it very similar to their match at Night og Champions. In the end, however, Ricardo's interference backfires, and Del Rio eats an AA and John Cena picks up the win. The next night on RAW, Rey Mysterio has his match for the WWE Championship with John Cena. Cena wins, and at the end of the match, C.M. Punk returns and has his staredown with John Cena to close RAW. I know they wrote off Rey Mysterio with his match against Alberto del Rio, but you could do that the next week with Del Rio taking out Rey by a vicious attack. I would probably keep Del Rio off of RAW after SummerSlam then have him attack Rey the next week.
-Night of Champions arrives and we get Punk/Cena 2. Having this match here probably would have helped spike the buyrate a bit more than Punk/HHH did. HHH is still the special guest referee. During the build to NOC, Miz and R-Truth are still going on about their Conspiracy angle. During the match, Miz and R-Truth make their way down to the ring. HHH goes out to stop them. During this time, Cena gives Punk an AA and has him pinned, but HHH is distracted. After Cena pleads his case, Punk hits the GTS on Cena for the win. Miz & Truth go for a post match beatdown on Punk, but HHH, Punk, and Cena all fight them off. As Punk stands alone in the ring, Kevin Nash appears and Powerbombs Punk, allowing Del Rio to come out and cash in his Money in the Bank contract on Punk and regain the WWE Championship.
-With only two weeks to book Hell in A Cell, Triple H still announces the Triple Threat Match. Kevin Nash still states that he received a text message saying to take out the winner of the WWE Championship match, but instead of not saying who, Nash says it was John Laurinaitis. Laurinaitis denies it. HHH warns Nash to stay away from Hell in A Cell. On RAW, Miz & Truth attack Cena and Punk again. HHH suspends Miz & Truth for their actions at NOC and RAW. At Hell in A Cell, Del Rio retains the WWE Title just like he did at the PPV. With the Cell raised, Cena makes his way back in, but so do Miz, R-Truth, and Kevin Nash. WWE officials, security, and superstars try to get in to the Cell, but are unable to until the bolt cutters arrive. Nash, Truth, and Miz surrender and are arrested. Surprisingly, however, Del Rio is left untouched by the attack. But no one notices because of the chaos the three men caused.
-With Vengeance approaching in three weeks, it is still too short of a time to lead to something big. Some people begin to question whether or not HHH can be COO. HHH makes Cena/Del Rio at Vengeance, as well as Kevin Nash/C.M. Punk with two stipulations: If Nash wins, he gets a contract. If Punk wins, he gets a WWE Title shot at Survivor Series. Triple H warns Miz & Truth not to interfere or their indefinite suspension turns into a permanent firing. Punk defeats Nash. In the WWE Title match, two men in masks and hoodies jump Cena with the ref down, and put Del Rio on top of Cena for the win. Triple H rushes the ring to try to prove that it is Miz & R-Truth, but Truth and Miz come in through the crowd and stare down HHH as he watches on in shock not knowing what to think.
-With Survivor Series approaching, John Cena starts to interact with The Rock more. But he also has a problem with Miz & R-Truth. The Rock says that he agrees with Cena that Miz & R-Truth need to be stopped. The two men from Vengeance and Miz and R-Truth jump Rock and Cena in the ring. As the show ends, it is revealed that the two men are Cody Rhodes and Wade Barrett. The next week on RAW, HHH announces that at Survivor Series it will be the team of Miz/R-Truth/Nash/Rhodes/Barrett against a team of Rock/Cena and whoever else they recruit to join their team. If Miz and Truth's team wins, they get their jobs back. Rock and Cena choose Randy Orton, Daniel Bryan, and Zack Ryder. As HHH continues to point the finger at Laurinaitis, C.M. Punk begins to question whether HHH really is the one to look at here.
-Survivor Series arrives. During the WWE Title match, Punk hits the GTS on Del Rio for the apparent win, but the referee misses Del Rio's foot on the ropes. HHH comes out and points it out on a replay to the referee. He orders the match re-started, and Del Rio picks up the win with the cross arm breaker after Punk puts up a valiant fight to get out of it. The 5-on-5 match gets down to Rock/Cena against Miz/Truth/Nash. Nash gets eliminated after an AA/People's Elbow combo. All four men left are in the ring. Cena goes for a shoulder tackle to Miz but he ducks, and Cena takes out Rock instead. Miz hits the Skull Crushing Finale and Rock is eliminated. Cena gets Truth to tap out to the STF. While it is down to Miz and Cena, the ref gets taken out by another missed Cena shoulder tackle. HHH comes out to get a better look. With both men down, HHH enters the ring. But instead of taking out Miz, HHH pedigrees Cena and throws Miz on top for the win. Punk comes out to take out HHH, but Del Rio attacks and the rest of Team Miz comes out. The show closes with HHH, Miz, R-Truth, Nash, Alberto del Rio, Cody Rhodes, and Wade Barrett standing in the ring, arms raised, as the New Corporation is formed. HHH fires Laurinaitis the next night as he wants total control over the WWE.
-At TLC, Punk upsets Del Rio in a Ladder Match to win the WWE Title. Despite HHH's best attempts, Punk retains the Title at the Royal Rumble before finally losing it to Del Rio at Elimination Chamber. Cena and Rock team again at the Royal Rumble to take on Miz and R-Truth, but this time it is Rock who accidentally takes out Cena and allows Miz and Truth to pick up the win. Of course during all of this Punk continues to go at HHH on the mic. Punk challenges HHH to a match at Wrestlemania, but HHH says he has to go through Miz, R-Truth, Cody Rhodes, and Wade Barrett to get to him. Punk does successfully, and we get the FIRST Punk/HHH match at Wrestlemania, with HHH's COO Title and Punk's job on the line. Del Rio takes on Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. Cody Rhodes & Wade Barrett team up to take on Sheamus & Sin Cara. And Miz? He challenges The Undertaker.
-So if I had booked the WWE, my Wrestlemania would look like this:
The Rock vs John Cena
C.M. Punk vs Triple H: IF Triple H loses, he is forced out as COO
WWE Championship: Alberto del Rio vs Randy Orton
World Heavyweight Championship: Mark Henry vs Daniel Bryan
The Undertaker vs The Miz w/R-Truth
Sheamus & Sin Cara vs Wade Barrett & Cody Rhodes
Throw in some mid-card and Divas matches, and there is your Wrestlemania. Again, this obviously won't happen because I didn't book the WWE this year. As stated earlier, I have no problem with the walk out angle. I just would have done things differently. I hope you enjoyed this piece. I had a fun time writing it.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka
Monday, October 3, 2011
WWE Hell in A Cell Review
I stayed up late to watch this last night before it got taken down from somewhere. Wanted to get this review in just for you guys!
During Chrisitan's entrance, Miz & Truth were shown sitting in the front row. They were promptly thrown out by John Laurinaitis.
Sheamus defeated Christian: **1/2
Sheamus dominated the match early before Sheamus tried going to the top, only for Christian to push him off the top rope. Christian ended up slapping Sheamus around a bit, which pissed off Sheamus and got him fighting back. Back and forth action. Sheamus countered a Celtic Cross attempt. Christian hit a nice tornado DDT from the corner. Sheams recovered and hit a flying shoulder tackle. Sheamus went for the Broge Kick but Christian went outside the ring. Christian hit a Spear outside the ring, but Sheamus made it back in before the count of 10. Christian hit a Spear inside the ring for a two. Christian went for a high risk move but missed. Sheamus countered a Killswitch attempt. Christian went for the Spear but ate the ringpost, allowing Shemaus to connect with the Brogue Kick for the win. OK opening match. Sheamus works much better with the crowd behind him. Right man went over too, as I think they will transition Sheamus into a World Title feud with Mark Henry as Randy Orton will move onto Cody Rhodes.
Backstage, Mark Henry was interviewed by Matt Striker. Henry told Striker to shut up. Henry said he knew what Striker was going to ask him: about Mark Henry never being in a Hell in A Cell match. Henry said it didn't matter, because Randy Orton will join the Hall of Pain.
Good Sin Cara defeated EVILLLLL Sin Cara: *1/2
Quick counters early on by Good Sin Cara, frustrating EVILLLLL Sin Cara. Dueling head scissors by both men. Good Sin Cara hit a Swanton to the outside. He went for a moonsault but missed. EVILLLLL Sin Cara applied a sleeper in the ring. EVILLLLL Sin Cara remained in control inside the ring. Good Sin Cara countered a Razor's Edge then hit a flying crossbody on the outside. Good Sin Cara connected with an armdrag from the top rope. Good Sin Cara countered a powerbomb attempt into a roll up for the win. It was ok. Crowd wasn't into it. But there were some flashy spots that were good.
Backstage David Otunga approached C.M. Punk. Punk pretty much told him to get lost.
Air Boom (Kofi Kingston & Evan Bounre) defeated Dolph Ziggler & Jack Swagger to retain the World Tag Team Championships: **1/4
Bonus match here for the Tag Titles. After some early action between Kofi and Swagger the heels worked over Evan Bourne. Bourne made the hot tag to Kofi but Dolph and Swagger quickly regained some control with work behind the ref's back. Dolph and Swagger continued to make quick tags and worked over Kofi. Kofi finally hit a DDT on Swagger and tagged in Bourne. Bourne hit a handful of kicks on Dolph. Quick action. Swagger locked the ankle lock in on Bourne. Kofi broke it up. Dolph hit Kofi with the Zig Zag. Swagger tagged in. Swagger set Bourne up in the corner for a power bomb, but Bourne countered into a hurricarrana for the win, as Kofi grabbed Dolph's legs from the outside. Alright action. Crowd was more into this then Cara/Cara. Right team won. No reason for the Tag Champs to lose yet.
Mark Henry defeated Randy Orton to retain the World Heavyweight Championship: **1/2
Randy Orton took it to Mark Henry immediately. He countered a bulldog and pushed Henry into the Cell. Orton jumped from the apron, but Henry caught him and rammed him into two sides of the Cell and the ring post. Henry hit a powerslam in the ring, then another on the floor outside of the ring. Henry rammed Orton into the Cell again, then went to throw the steps into Orton against the Cell. Orton moved. Orton tried fighting back inside the ring, but Henry countered with a splash in the corner then a giant splash for a two count. Henry put Orton in a bear hug. Orton fought out but eventually found himself in another bear hug.
Henry went for the World's Strongest Slam on the steps, but Orton was able to counter by grabbing onto the Cell. Orton was then able to hit a DDT onto the steps on the outside. Back in the ring Orton hit a Lou Thesz press. Top rope drop kick into the second rope DDT by Orton. Orton set-up for and hit the RKO, but only got a 2. Orton lined up for the punt, but Henry immediately got up and hit the World's Strongest Slam for the win. After the match, Henry hit another World's Strongest Slam. He put a chair on Orton's ankle. Henry went for a splash but missed. Orton grabbed the chair and chased Henry up the ramp with it. Orton got some shots in before Henry ran off.
Nothing really too special with this Cell match. It really wasn't needed for this match, as it didn't do anything to settle the score between these two, as the Cell should. Henry retains, but Orton gets some of his heat back in the post match. I would expect another re-match at Vengeance, but Orton could use some time away from the Title scene after that. The actual match was ok. Nothing ground breaking. The basic match you would expect from Henry. But the match told a great story. It still established Henry as a monster.
Backstage, Alberto del Rio was interviewed. He said Cena and Punk don't know what they're getting into.
Cody Rhodes defeated John Morrison to retain the Intercontinental Championship: *3/4
Suddenly Cody Rhodes came out. He said people who didn't accept his paper bags should be figuratively euthanized. Cody then introduced the Classic IC Title belt. It was a bit different than the old one, but it was close enough. Cody said he would defend the Title night in and night out. John Laurinaitis interrupted. He said by orders of HHH, Cody had to defend the IC Title right now. John Morrison's music hit. Morrison went for a quick early pinfall. Cody escaped to the outside, but Morrison hit a drop kick through the ropes. Cody tried to hang on to the ringpost and get counted out, but Morrison kicked him in the back. Cody regained control inside the ring. Cody locked in a figure four a couple minutes later. Morrison fought back. He hit a reverse Rock Bottom for a two. Morrison went for Starship Pain but Cody grabbed his leg. Morrison went for a flying kick but missed, allowing Cody to roll him up for the win. OK stuff. Cody will hopefully continue to defend the Title. Morrison is stuck in jobber hell right now.
Backstage, John Laurinaitis told HHH that Miz & R-Truth were in the back. They were shown beating up Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne.
Beth Phoenix defeated Kelly Kelly to win the Divas Championship: *1/4
Kelly 'hit" a Lou Thesz Press early, but it was all Beth after. She bulldoged Kelly into the corner. Kelly surprised Beth with a quick roll-up, but only for two. Beth then went for a power bomb, but countered into a pinfall for two again. Couple more counters. Kelly hit Beth with a top rope bulldog for two. Natalya tried to interfere, Eve tried to stop her, but ate the guardrail instead. Beth put Kelly in her submission finisher but got to the ropes. Natalya hit Kelly with the mic, then Beth hit the GlamSlam for the win. This should have happened in Buffalo two weeks ago. There was almost no reaction to Beth's win. It also would have been nice to see a clean win for Beth. Why should Kelly be protected?
Alberto del Rio defeated John Cena and C.M. Punk to win the WWE Championship: ***
Cena and Punk took turn working over Del Rio early in the match. With ADR on the outside, it left Cena and Punk to go at it. Both men teased finishers before Cena went to the outside. ADR tried to intervene. Cena went for the AA, But Punk dove through the ropes. Punk got a chair on the outside. Cena threw Punk to the the steps but Punk jumped on them and taunted Cena, but ADR pushed Punk into the cell. In the ring, ADR set a chair up in between the ropes. ADR went for the cross arm breaker, but Punk stopped him, then hit a DDT on Cena and ADR at the same time. Punk set a table up on the outside. He kneed Cena, but Cena countered and threw Punk into the Cell.
In the ring, Alberto del Rio hit a backbreaker onto a chair set up in the ring. ADR set Cena up in the Tree of Woe in the corner. ADR charged but Cena moved. Cena went for his top rope leg drop, but Punk grabbed the ropes and Cena fell off. ADR had Punk in a side headlock, but Cena broke it up. Cena and Punk exchanged kicks before ADR came in with a chair and used it on Cena and Punk. ADR then hit a seated Senton on Punk and Cena with a chair in between them. Punk then tossed Cena over the turnbuckle onto the steps. Cena hit the AA on Punk but ADR broke up the count. ADR went for the cross armbreaker on Cena but Punk broke it up. Punk hit the GTS on Cena, but ADR pulled Punk out of the ring during the pin and tossed him into the cell. ADR through Punk into the steps.
Cena surprised ADR with an inside cradle in the ring for two. Del Rio took care of Cena on the outside. In ring Punk took control. He connected with the Macho Man Elbow Drop. Cena came back in. Punk went for the Elbow drop on Cena, but ADR pushed Punk off onto the table setup outside. Cena locked in the AA, but Ricardo knocked down the ref and unlocked the Cell. Cena stopped him, but ADR hit Cena with the lead pipe key, then locked him out of the Cell. Brilliant! Punk and Cena exchanged near falls in the ring. Punk finally regained control with some knees and kicks. Del Rio regained control and hit Punk with the lead pipe. Punk tried the GTS, but ADR connected with the lead pipe for the win.
After the match, Miz & R-Truth came from underneath the ring and attacked everyone. The Cell was lowered as the entire roster came out to try and get in. Eventually bolt cutters were used to unlock the Cell. Miz and R-Truth were arrested, but HHH got some shots in on them before the show went off the air.
I'm really up in the air about all of this. The actual match itself was good. Punk sold well for Del Rio, and the finish was very creative with Cena being locked out of the Cell. Del Rio looked like a bad ass with the pipe and it was nice to see him win the WWE Title back. But you have to wonder what the point of Cena winning the Title last month was. The Title could have been kept on Del Rio, even through a DQ finish. I'm assuming we're getting some kind of match again between these three at Vengeance.
I really liked the Miz/R-Truth stuff. It is a great way to push them as top level threats and anti-authority figures with the entire roster trying to get into the Cell to stop them. Of course the question remains about who lowered the Cell to allow Truth & Miz to do their damage. I thought it was a strong ending to a show that was just average up until the end.
OVERALL
While I liked the end to the PPV and most of the action was decent, I still think it was a PPV that did not need to happen. All of this could have happened in a week or two. The World Title Match told a great story about Henry's dominance. The WWE Title Match was a good match with a solid ending getting all players involved. It was almost a throwback to the Attitude Era with the cops showing up to arrest Miz and Truth. The Sheamus/Christian opener was fun. It was also GREAT to see Cody Rhodes bring back the old school Intercontinental Title Belt. I thought it was a good enough PPV justifying me staying up until 3 a.m. to finish this. I'm giving it a 6.5.
OVERALL PPV RANKINGS
1. Money in the Bank
2. SummerSlam
3. Elimination Chamber
4. Extreme Rules
5. Wrestlemania 27
6. Hell in A Cell
7. Night of Champions
8. Royal Rumble
9. Capitol Punishment
10. Over the Limit
With another PPV in three weeks, I would expect another handful of re-matches at Vengeance. Henry/Orton may be No DQ. A WWE Title rematch may be something with a stipulation as well.
That's all for this Review. RAW & NFL Review up tomorrow.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka
During Chrisitan's entrance, Miz & Truth were shown sitting in the front row. They were promptly thrown out by John Laurinaitis.
Sheamus defeated Christian: **1/2
Sheamus dominated the match early before Sheamus tried going to the top, only for Christian to push him off the top rope. Christian ended up slapping Sheamus around a bit, which pissed off Sheamus and got him fighting back. Back and forth action. Sheamus countered a Celtic Cross attempt. Christian hit a nice tornado DDT from the corner. Sheams recovered and hit a flying shoulder tackle. Sheamus went for the Broge Kick but Christian went outside the ring. Christian hit a Spear outside the ring, but Sheamus made it back in before the count of 10. Christian hit a Spear inside the ring for a two. Christian went for a high risk move but missed. Sheamus countered a Killswitch attempt. Christian went for the Spear but ate the ringpost, allowing Shemaus to connect with the Brogue Kick for the win. OK opening match. Sheamus works much better with the crowd behind him. Right man went over too, as I think they will transition Sheamus into a World Title feud with Mark Henry as Randy Orton will move onto Cody Rhodes.
Backstage, Mark Henry was interviewed by Matt Striker. Henry told Striker to shut up. Henry said he knew what Striker was going to ask him: about Mark Henry never being in a Hell in A Cell match. Henry said it didn't matter, because Randy Orton will join the Hall of Pain.
Good Sin Cara defeated EVILLLLL Sin Cara: *1/2
Quick counters early on by Good Sin Cara, frustrating EVILLLLL Sin Cara. Dueling head scissors by both men. Good Sin Cara hit a Swanton to the outside. He went for a moonsault but missed. EVILLLLL Sin Cara applied a sleeper in the ring. EVILLLLL Sin Cara remained in control inside the ring. Good Sin Cara countered a Razor's Edge then hit a flying crossbody on the outside. Good Sin Cara connected with an armdrag from the top rope. Good Sin Cara countered a powerbomb attempt into a roll up for the win. It was ok. Crowd wasn't into it. But there were some flashy spots that were good.
Backstage David Otunga approached C.M. Punk. Punk pretty much told him to get lost.
Air Boom (Kofi Kingston & Evan Bounre) defeated Dolph Ziggler & Jack Swagger to retain the World Tag Team Championships: **1/4
Bonus match here for the Tag Titles. After some early action between Kofi and Swagger the heels worked over Evan Bourne. Bourne made the hot tag to Kofi but Dolph and Swagger quickly regained some control with work behind the ref's back. Dolph and Swagger continued to make quick tags and worked over Kofi. Kofi finally hit a DDT on Swagger and tagged in Bourne. Bourne hit a handful of kicks on Dolph. Quick action. Swagger locked the ankle lock in on Bourne. Kofi broke it up. Dolph hit Kofi with the Zig Zag. Swagger tagged in. Swagger set Bourne up in the corner for a power bomb, but Bourne countered into a hurricarrana for the win, as Kofi grabbed Dolph's legs from the outside. Alright action. Crowd was more into this then Cara/Cara. Right team won. No reason for the Tag Champs to lose yet.
Mark Henry defeated Randy Orton to retain the World Heavyweight Championship: **1/2
Randy Orton took it to Mark Henry immediately. He countered a bulldog and pushed Henry into the Cell. Orton jumped from the apron, but Henry caught him and rammed him into two sides of the Cell and the ring post. Henry hit a powerslam in the ring, then another on the floor outside of the ring. Henry rammed Orton into the Cell again, then went to throw the steps into Orton against the Cell. Orton moved. Orton tried fighting back inside the ring, but Henry countered with a splash in the corner then a giant splash for a two count. Henry put Orton in a bear hug. Orton fought out but eventually found himself in another bear hug.
Henry went for the World's Strongest Slam on the steps, but Orton was able to counter by grabbing onto the Cell. Orton was then able to hit a DDT onto the steps on the outside. Back in the ring Orton hit a Lou Thesz press. Top rope drop kick into the second rope DDT by Orton. Orton set-up for and hit the RKO, but only got a 2. Orton lined up for the punt, but Henry immediately got up and hit the World's Strongest Slam for the win. After the match, Henry hit another World's Strongest Slam. He put a chair on Orton's ankle. Henry went for a splash but missed. Orton grabbed the chair and chased Henry up the ramp with it. Orton got some shots in before Henry ran off.
Nothing really too special with this Cell match. It really wasn't needed for this match, as it didn't do anything to settle the score between these two, as the Cell should. Henry retains, but Orton gets some of his heat back in the post match. I would expect another re-match at Vengeance, but Orton could use some time away from the Title scene after that. The actual match was ok. Nothing ground breaking. The basic match you would expect from Henry. But the match told a great story. It still established Henry as a monster.
Backstage, Alberto del Rio was interviewed. He said Cena and Punk don't know what they're getting into.
Cody Rhodes defeated John Morrison to retain the Intercontinental Championship: *3/4
Suddenly Cody Rhodes came out. He said people who didn't accept his paper bags should be figuratively euthanized. Cody then introduced the Classic IC Title belt. It was a bit different than the old one, but it was close enough. Cody said he would defend the Title night in and night out. John Laurinaitis interrupted. He said by orders of HHH, Cody had to defend the IC Title right now. John Morrison's music hit. Morrison went for a quick early pinfall. Cody escaped to the outside, but Morrison hit a drop kick through the ropes. Cody tried to hang on to the ringpost and get counted out, but Morrison kicked him in the back. Cody regained control inside the ring. Cody locked in a figure four a couple minutes later. Morrison fought back. He hit a reverse Rock Bottom for a two. Morrison went for Starship Pain but Cody grabbed his leg. Morrison went for a flying kick but missed, allowing Cody to roll him up for the win. OK stuff. Cody will hopefully continue to defend the Title. Morrison is stuck in jobber hell right now.
Backstage, John Laurinaitis told HHH that Miz & R-Truth were in the back. They were shown beating up Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne.
Beth Phoenix defeated Kelly Kelly to win the Divas Championship: *1/4
Kelly 'hit" a Lou Thesz Press early, but it was all Beth after. She bulldoged Kelly into the corner. Kelly surprised Beth with a quick roll-up, but only for two. Beth then went for a power bomb, but countered into a pinfall for two again. Couple more counters. Kelly hit Beth with a top rope bulldog for two. Natalya tried to interfere, Eve tried to stop her, but ate the guardrail instead. Beth put Kelly in her submission finisher but got to the ropes. Natalya hit Kelly with the mic, then Beth hit the GlamSlam for the win. This should have happened in Buffalo two weeks ago. There was almost no reaction to Beth's win. It also would have been nice to see a clean win for Beth. Why should Kelly be protected?
Alberto del Rio defeated John Cena and C.M. Punk to win the WWE Championship: ***
Cena and Punk took turn working over Del Rio early in the match. With ADR on the outside, it left Cena and Punk to go at it. Both men teased finishers before Cena went to the outside. ADR tried to intervene. Cena went for the AA, But Punk dove through the ropes. Punk got a chair on the outside. Cena threw Punk to the the steps but Punk jumped on them and taunted Cena, but ADR pushed Punk into the cell. In the ring, ADR set a chair up in between the ropes. ADR went for the cross arm breaker, but Punk stopped him, then hit a DDT on Cena and ADR at the same time. Punk set a table up on the outside. He kneed Cena, but Cena countered and threw Punk into the Cell.
In the ring, Alberto del Rio hit a backbreaker onto a chair set up in the ring. ADR set Cena up in the Tree of Woe in the corner. ADR charged but Cena moved. Cena went for his top rope leg drop, but Punk grabbed the ropes and Cena fell off. ADR had Punk in a side headlock, but Cena broke it up. Cena and Punk exchanged kicks before ADR came in with a chair and used it on Cena and Punk. ADR then hit a seated Senton on Punk and Cena with a chair in between them. Punk then tossed Cena over the turnbuckle onto the steps. Cena hit the AA on Punk but ADR broke up the count. ADR went for the cross armbreaker on Cena but Punk broke it up. Punk hit the GTS on Cena, but ADR pulled Punk out of the ring during the pin and tossed him into the cell. ADR through Punk into the steps.
Cena surprised ADR with an inside cradle in the ring for two. Del Rio took care of Cena on the outside. In ring Punk took control. He connected with the Macho Man Elbow Drop. Cena came back in. Punk went for the Elbow drop on Cena, but ADR pushed Punk off onto the table setup outside. Cena locked in the AA, but Ricardo knocked down the ref and unlocked the Cell. Cena stopped him, but ADR hit Cena with the lead pipe key, then locked him out of the Cell. Brilliant! Punk and Cena exchanged near falls in the ring. Punk finally regained control with some knees and kicks. Del Rio regained control and hit Punk with the lead pipe. Punk tried the GTS, but ADR connected with the lead pipe for the win.
After the match, Miz & R-Truth came from underneath the ring and attacked everyone. The Cell was lowered as the entire roster came out to try and get in. Eventually bolt cutters were used to unlock the Cell. Miz and R-Truth were arrested, but HHH got some shots in on them before the show went off the air.
I'm really up in the air about all of this. The actual match itself was good. Punk sold well for Del Rio, and the finish was very creative with Cena being locked out of the Cell. Del Rio looked like a bad ass with the pipe and it was nice to see him win the WWE Title back. But you have to wonder what the point of Cena winning the Title last month was. The Title could have been kept on Del Rio, even through a DQ finish. I'm assuming we're getting some kind of match again between these three at Vengeance.
I really liked the Miz/R-Truth stuff. It is a great way to push them as top level threats and anti-authority figures with the entire roster trying to get into the Cell to stop them. Of course the question remains about who lowered the Cell to allow Truth & Miz to do their damage. I thought it was a strong ending to a show that was just average up until the end.
OVERALL
While I liked the end to the PPV and most of the action was decent, I still think it was a PPV that did not need to happen. All of this could have happened in a week or two. The World Title Match told a great story about Henry's dominance. The WWE Title Match was a good match with a solid ending getting all players involved. It was almost a throwback to the Attitude Era with the cops showing up to arrest Miz and Truth. The Sheamus/Christian opener was fun. It was also GREAT to see Cody Rhodes bring back the old school Intercontinental Title Belt. I thought it was a good enough PPV justifying me staying up until 3 a.m. to finish this. I'm giving it a 6.5.
OVERALL PPV RANKINGS
1. Money in the Bank
2. SummerSlam
3. Elimination Chamber
4. Extreme Rules
5. Wrestlemania 27
6. Hell in A Cell
7. Night of Champions
8. Royal Rumble
9. Capitol Punishment
10. Over the Limit
With another PPV in three weeks, I would expect another handful of re-matches at Vengeance. Henry/Orton may be No DQ. A WWE Title rematch may be something with a stipulation as well.
That's all for this Review. RAW & NFL Review up tomorrow.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka
Thursday, September 29, 2011
WWE Hell in a Cell Preview
Hello everyone. After a couple of days off, it's time to jump back into everything with my Hell in a Cell Preview. It's the WWE's second PPV in the span of two weeks, which I still maintain is a dumb idea. You can't continue to charge $50 a PPV, have 3 in the span of 5 weeks, and think people will continue to buy them, especially with some of the stuff WWE has done in the last few weeks. I think the product has gone downhill a bit since before Night of Champions. Then, John Cena won and C.M. Punk lost. Back to status quo in the WWE.
Hell In A Cell doesn't have quite the buzz to it. Again, the Cell is being used just as a gimmick and not as a blow off to a hot feud like it should be. Sure the Cell might pop a few more buyrates, but it should be used as the final match to a long feud. Plus, just like SummerSlam, there are only 5 matches currently announced for the card. But unlike SummerSlam, there is no big time match that makes you want to buy this PPV. SummerSlam had Cena/Punk and Orton/Christian No Holds Barred. Those matches had some intrigue and were guaranteed to be good. Hell in a Cell doesn't have that added on to it. Plus, the WWE's top angle, their big Conspiracy Angle, is pretty much a non factor in this match. Although I guess it could play into the WWE Championship match.
But, with all of that being said, lets dive into the Preview for the show.
Divas Championship: Kelly Kelly (c) vs Beth Phoenix
So, is the third time the charm for Beth Phoenix? Beth failed to win the Title at SummerSlam, then failed again to win it in her hometown of Buffalo at Night of Champions. Now the WWE just seems to be spinning circles with Kelly/Eve and the Divas of Doom, or Destruction, or whatever they are being called now. The WWE apparently feels that Kelly is getting over as Champion, but that doesn't mean the WWE can't change things up every now and then. I really think Beth should have won the Title at NOC, but Kelly won the exact same way she did at SummerSlam, with a roll up during a GlamSlam attempt by Beth. Kelly tries to do the same thing here, but Beth kicks out of it. Kelly goes for her finisher, but Beth counters into a GlamSlam and FINALLY wins the Divas Championship. If for some reason she doesn't, expect Natalya to get the next shot. But I think Beth finally wins here.
WINNER: Beth Phoenix
*Smackdown Spoiler ALERT!!!*
EVILLLLL Sin Cara vs GOOD Sin Cara
EVILLLLL Sin Cara vs GOOD Sin Cara
This is a battle over? Yeah your guess is as good as mine. There have been two Sin Caras for the last couple of weeks on WWE TV. The original Sin Cara was suspended, so the WWE got developmental talent Hunico to portray Sin Cara until the original Sin Cara came back. Now they are both around and like pointing at each other and try to get the crowd on their side. The good Sin Cara has a bleach blond mohawk sticking out of his mask. But now, as evident on Smackdown, EVILLLLL Sin Cara is now wearing all black, just to show that he is EVILLLLL. This feud can't go on much longer with the two men just pointing at each other and interrupting each other on a constant basis. Neither man can really speak English, especially GOOD Sin Cara. Everyone keeps talking about a potential Mask vs Mask match when the WWE hits up Mexico in October. I could see that happening. And if that is the case, i think EVILLLLL Sin Cara wins here. There'd be no reason for GOOD Sin Cara to win then decide to put his mask on the line.
WINNER: EVILLLLL Sin Cara
There has been something brewing between these two for weeks now. Sheamus called out Christian a while ago for being a whiner and complainer. As much as I hate to admit it, I'm also starting to get bored with Christian as well. They need to move Christian away from the World Title picture for a bit. I think Christian getting involved with this potential new Lawsuit Angle is a good thing, especially if it A) Gets him away from the World Title picture and B) Exposes him more to the audience on RAW. Christian, just like EVERY wrestler (I'm looking at you John Cena), needs time away from the Title scene so when they get back into it they are fresh and not old and stale.
Who would have ever thought Sheamus would be this good as a face? I think this is some of his best work so far in his career. I liked his first WWE Title run, but this is probably right behind it. Sheamus seems to be enjoying himself more as a face as well. The crowd buys into him too, which is the most important thing. I think if the WWE wanted too, they could transition from Randy Orton to Sheamus in a World Title program. There's still some unfinished business between the two. They put on two quality big man matches at SummerSlam and on Smackdown, and I think they could do the same on PPV. If they want to put Randy Orton on Rock/Cena's team at Survivor Series, they could do Sheamus/Mark Henry for the World Title. I'm giving Sheamus the win here because of that.
WINNER: Sheamus
World Heavyweight Championship: Mark Henry (c) vs Randy Orton
I was quite surprised the WWE decided to pull the trigger on Mark Henry's World Title win at Night of Champions. With so many PPVs in the coming weeks, I thought for sure they would hold off until here at Hell in A Cell to give Henry the win. I was expecting a DQ finish at NOC. But I was quite pleasantly surprised to see Henry win. The WWE had to pull the trigger on the Henry Title win otherwise it would have been a complete waste of the whole summer for Henry, who is easily doing the best work of his 15 year career right now. Now it is up to the WWE to show continued faith in Mark Henry and allow him to continue to do what he is doing as World Champion. If the WWE gives Henry a monster run with the World Title, then whoever takes it off of him will become an instant star in the eyes of the fans. Smackdown also had one of its highest ratings this past week in quite sometime, which can easily be attributed to the run Mark Henry has had.
Now I have to admit, Randy Orton has been no slouch these last couple of months either. He had a great series of matches with Christian, and his match with Mark Henry at Night of Champions, while not a technical master piece, was good and told a great story. I've always maintained that Orton is at his best as a face when he is chasing the Title. He was very good in the month after Money in the Bank when he lost the World Title to Christian, and he was good again last week on Smackdown during his attack on Cody Rhodes. Orton finally got the better of Mark Henry on Smackdown this week, connecting with an RKO. It gives Orton fans a glimmer of hope heading into Sunday.
So who wins here? Mark Henry for multiple reasons. One: There is no reason for another quick Title change again. Two: A title loss here, even inside the Cell, would damage Mark Henry's push. Three: Just like Christian, Randy Orton could use some time away from the Title scene as well. I expect Orton to be involved with the Title match at Vengeance, but after that I would slowly transition Orton away from the Title scene, and put him in a program with Cody Rhodes, leading to their involvement with the Rock/Cena Elimination Match at Survivor Series. So Henry wins here again, after a World's Strongest Slam onto the steel steps.
WINNER: Mark Henry
WWE Championship: C.M. Punk vs John Cena (c) vs Alberto del Rio
A triple threat match? Inside a hell in a cell? Oh my! Again, this match doesn't need the cell. I can't begin to explain how much the WWE has ruined gimmick matches over the last few years. But alas, these three men do battle inside the Cell this Sunday for the WWE Championship. The main issue here is really between John Cena and Alberto del Rio. C.M. Punk is pretty much the third wheel in this match. They tried to make him fit in this week on RAW, but I don't think they did a good job. The whole "Conspiracy Angle" still needs to be fully played out, and C.M. Punk will be a key part of that when it does. For this PPV, however, Punk needed a spot on the card and this seemed like the only logical place for him.
The WWE has really been all over the place the last couple of months. C.M. Punk was the guy in July and August. Alberto del Rio was the guy in late August to Night of Champions, and now the focus is back on John Cena. Vince just can't make up his mind about who to keep on top. The ratings weren't great with Del Rio on top, but that can't all be put on Del Rio's shoulders. The WWE has done a poor job of booking him as Champion. And Del Rio couldn't get over because of that. Del Rio seemed to be a product of the "anti-Cena crowd." People didn't like Del Rio, they hated Cena. So they cheered against Cena, not for Del Rio. The opposite would be said about C.M. Punk. People cheered him AND booed Cena.
So who walks out with the WWE Championship? I would take C.M. Punk out almost immediately. When he wins the WWE Title back, in needs to be a major happening. It shouldn't happen in a Triple Threat Match and on a secondary PPV. Alberto del Rio deserves another run with the WWE Title, but I don't think the Title changes hands here. Cena just won the Championship two weeks ago, he probably isn't losing it again this quickly. But I wouldn't put it out of the question to see Del Rio win the Title in Mexico in a few weeks. Something major needs to happen with Del Rio there. If you are not going to have him walk in with the Title, you should probably have him walk out with it. Plus Del Rio ended RAW on top, which more than likely means he isn't winning. The WWE needed to build him up as a credible threat for the match, and they did a good job of it. John Cena walks out with the WWE Title here. There's no reason for Cena to lose it quickly, and quick Title changes make the Title seem worthless.
WINNER: John Cena
Well there you have it. There's a rumor that another match may be added, possibly Air Boom vs Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger. I think Air Boom wins either way, causing more friction between Dolph & Swagger.
I won't be watching the PPV live. Blame work. I will try to watch it either late Sunday night or early Monday, then have a review up Monday afternoon.
NFL Picks Saturday morning.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow Me on Twitter @JCWonka
Friday, September 23, 2011
The Monster Mark Henry: What Took So Long?
They say good things come to those who wait. Sometimes you have to wait a bit longer to get what you want. It takes a lot of patience, but in the end, if you work hard, you will ultimately get what you desire. Sometimes it takes months, or a few years. But for Mark Henry, it took 15 years for the WWE to finally realize how to properly use him. But for Henry now, that 15 year wait was worth it, as he is now the World Heavyweight Champion for the first time in his professional career.
Henry debuted in the WWE in 1996 after competing in the 96 Summer Olympics. His first match was against Jerry Lawler. Upon his debut, Henry was billed as "The World's Strongest Man." In his first two years in the WWE, Henry was basically squashing opponents because he wasn't ready to work regular matches in the ring. In 98, Henry turned heel and joined the Nation of Domination. After spending the early part of 1998 in the group, Henry eventually broke away. He was awarded the European Title by Jeff Jarrett after Henry helped him win that Title as well as the Intercontinental Title.
After his heel turn, Henry turned face and was given the infamous "Sexual Chocolate" gimmick. Looking back on it, it was one of the more embarrassing gimmicks the WWE ever did. Henry engaged in on air relationships with Chyna and Mae Young. He also was seduced by a transvestite. During his relationship with Young, the couple announced that Young was pregnant and expecting a child. In one of the most memorable moments in WWE history, Young gave birth to a full grown hand on TV. Sure, this gimmick fit the Attitude Era booking, but it was a demeaning gimmick that made Henry look like a fool. He left wrestling briefly after this to get more training and focus on his weight lifting.
Despite the smile, I'm sure Mark Henry didn't think this was one of his best moments
Henry returned in 2002 but was rarely used. In 2003, he had a short program with Goldberg as well as Shawn Michaels and Booker T. He tore his quadriceps in early 2004 and did not return to WWE TV until late 2005. Henry looked to finally be receiving a main event push in early 2006, as a program with World Champion Batista seemed on the horizon. Batista, however, was injured during a match with Henry. Henry fought Kurt Angle for the World Title at the Royal Rumble, losing. Henry went on to feud with The Undertaker leading to a casket match at Wrestlemania, which Henry also lost. Henry then went on his "Path of Destruction," which was very similar to what he is doing today. Henry caused injuries to the likes of Chris Benoit and Rey Mysterio. During this time, Batista returned and a big match between the two was imminent, but Henry suffered tore his patella tendon completely off the bone, putting him out of action for almost a year.
Henry returned in 2008 and eventually started his feud back up with The Undertaker. He then moved over to the ECW brand, where he won the ECW Title, his first Title win since being awarded the European Title in 1999. After losing the Title, Henry moved over to the RAW brand and turned face, forming tag teams with various partners for almost a whole year and a half. In my opinion, Henry never worked well as a face. sure, everyone loves a big lovable monster. But there's no money in that. Nobody wants to see the big giant good guy win the World Title. There's always more money in big men being pushed as monster heels. Henry as a face could have worked in only two scenarios. The first being if Henry was actually a very good wrestler for his size, which he wasn't. The second would have been if the WWE had taken Henry's story of being in the company for 10+ years and never winning the World Title and used it as a face. Crowds can get behind stories like that. The reason it didn't work for Rey Mysterio was because they were exploiting Eddie Guerrero's death with it as well. But while doing that as a face might have worked, what was in store for Henry in 2011 was much better.
In April 2011 Henry was drafted to the Smackdown brand. On his last night on RAW, Henry turned heel on his partners John Cena and Christian in a 6 man tag match. His first program at Smackdown was with the Big Show. Henry constantly attacked Show before and after matches. He performed the World's Strongest Slam on Show, putting him through a table. He also put Show through the side of a steel cage, knocking the cage side off completely. Henry beat Big Show at Money in the Bank, then storyline "snapped" his ankle after Henry jumped on a chair over Show's ankle. Henry also put Kane out of action. At SummerSlam, Henry beat Sheamus via countout after putting Sheamus through the ringside barrier. Henry then won a Battle Royal to become #1 Contender for the World Title.
Once Henry won the Battle Royal, it was make or break time for him. It was time to see just how serious the WWE was about this push. If it wasn't for the C.M. Punk, the story of Henry being pushed like he was would have been the talk of the WWE this past summer for many reasons. The first reason is because Henry had been around for 15 years, and the WWE had never gotten this serious about a Mark Henry push. They might have in 2006, but injuries derailed that opportunity. It was also a nice surprise to not see Henry get injured. Henry has had a string of bad luck with injuries throughout his career so to see him stay healthy for this extended period of time was great.
But perhaps the best thing about seeing Henry get the push that he is getting is the simple fact that the WWE rarely gets behind pushing a heel as a true monster anymore. When was the last time a heel has looked as dominant as Henry has? Henry seems to be right out of the late 80s/early 90s brand of heel. A monster who the faces know is a serious threat to them. There has not been one time in the last 6 months when Henry has looked weak. Even when Henry has lost or not gotten the best of his opponent, there was a good reason for it. I also love the fact that the announcers hype up Henry every time he is out there. They don't say he is lucky or make excuses for his opponents. They hype Henry up as a true monster and a serious threat to anyone he steps in the ring with.
So when Night of Champions came around, it was the first test to see how serious the WWE was about Mark Henry's push. With 3 PPVs in just over a month's time, even I thought having Henry win the World Title this early may have been a bit premature. I thought some kind of DQ or countout was coming. While I advocated for a long Mark Henry title reign, even I thought the WWE should wait to pull the trigger. But to my pleasant surprise, Henry continued his dominant push and won the World Heavyweight Title. The reason it was so surprising is because Henry beat Randy Orton clean. Orton rarely if ever loses cleanly. But that right there showed just how serious the WWE is about Mark Henry's push. The WWE didn't feel the need to protect Orton. They wanted to push Henry as such a serious threat that the WWE wasn't concerned about protecting Orton. The crowd, surprisingly, was also very receptive to Henry's win. Maybe they were happy to see Henry finally win the World Title? Maybe they were all just fans of Henry's push. But the WWE did the smart thing about having him attack Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler Monday. He has to stay a heel, that is what Henry is best at.
Now of course, everything I just said could mean nothing in a week's time. Henry could lose the World Title to Orton at Hell in A Cell and the push could be over. That would be stupid on multiple levels. First, it would kill Henry's momentum. Second it would be ANOTHER World Title change, which is just another one too many. But I honestly don't think that is happening any time soon. I really think this Henry push is for real. And it is well deserved. Sure, Henry hasn't put on 5 star wrestling classics, but all of his matches in the last few months have been watchable. They've been on the shorter side, and have shown off Henry's brute force type of offense that he is good at.
Mark Henry's impact moves are what he is best at, as evident at this past year's SummerSlam
So how do I want to end this piece? I guess by saying thanks. Thank you to the WWE for finally getting serious about pushing Mark Henry and doing it the right way. Thank You Vince McMahon for not changing your mind half way through this push. And thank you to Mark Henry. You've had some crap thrown at you throughout your career, but you surprisingly stuck with it and didn't quit. You waited your turn to get to the top and now you are there. You've been a refreshing change of pace in the WWE and I hope your monster push continues. From everything I've heard your a great guy backstage and one of the nicest people around. But your bad ass monster heel push has been great. Keep up the awesome work.
Until next time,
Justin C
Follow me on Twitter @JCWonka
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