I should make this clear: I am a night owl. I do my best work between 5pm and 2am which is why my posts are so late at night. I'm not a slacker I'm not procrastinating I just work better at night. Also, I've decided to move my feature posts to every 2 weeks. That will give me more time to write them and make them as good as possible for you guys.
Here's this week's Smackdown review.
We have T'Lo starting things off in the ring. He talks about Bragging Rights and announces that there will be qualifying matches tonight. We already have Big Show captaining for some reason and we'll find out the other members soon.
Match 1: Rey Mysterio vs. Cody Rhodes
Rey counters an Alabama Slam into the 619 for the win.
Rating: 7/10. Pretty good athleticism but it was lacking a certain level of excitement.
Backstage with Kaval and Big Show. Kaval wants on Team Smackdown and Show says no. They eventually come to an agreement: if Kaval can last 5 minutes in the ring with Show, he's on Team SD.
We now have Paul Bearer talking about Undertaker's final reckoning. It's going to be a buried alive match at Bragging Rights.
Show's at ringside for the next Bragging Rights qualifier.
Match 2: Swagger vs. MVP
Somewhere along the way the Eagle gets taken out. The men are back in the ring and MVP taps to the ankle lock.
Rating: 6/10. It served it's purpose, but not much more.
Undertaker is standing on a balcony or something outside the arena. He's just standing there and that's all the segment was.
Match 3: Del Rio vs. Chris Masters
Del Rio counters the Masterlock attempt into the cross arm breaker into an armbar for the win.
Rating: 5/10. Figured. NEXT!
Match 4: Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler
Dolph jumps Edge's Spear attempt, leaps to the turnbuckle and dives at Edge. Edge catches him midair with a Spear for the victory.
Rating: 8/10. Great work from both men. Hope to see more matches of this calibre.
Match 5: Kaval vs. Big Show, 5 minute challenge
Long story short, Kaval lasts the full 5 minutes.
Rating: 4/10. Meh.
After the match Tyler Reks (yes the surfer from ECW) appears and takes on Kaval for his spot on Team SD.
Match 6: Kaval vs. Tyler Reks
Reks hits an inverted Death Valley Driver for the win.
Rating: 4/10. Why did they even bother having Kaval win then? Better yet, why didn't they just have Kaval vs. Reks in the first place?
Back from commercials and we have a Cody Rhodes beauty segment. Something about fingernails. I didn't really pay attention.
Match 7: Drew Mac vs. Kofi
Drew kicks out of a pin and delivers a series of punches to Kofi. Drew Irish whips Kofi, who rebounds and rolls over Drew's back. Drew turns around into Trouble in Paradise. Kofi gets the pinfall victory.
Rating: 8/10. Great match but I'm kinda not liking Kofi so much anymore. Dunno why.
Undertaker is now in the arena. Again we just see him walking through a door in an "eerie" purple light.
Kane and Bearer are in the ring. More stuff about Kane being superior to the Undertaker. It's the same old stuff but Kane does manage to make it sound new every week. I'll give him credit for that. The man can talk.
Here comes Taker now.
Intense staredown for what seems like forever. Finally Taker starts throwing punches. He beats Kane down pretty good before Kane is able to slip under the ropes.
As Kane and Bearer stumble back up the ramp, Undertaker make's Kane's ring pyro motion and the ringposts ignite. Kane and Bearer make it to the stage and Taker raises his arms. Lightning strikes in front of Kane and Bearer.
The show fades out from there.
Average match rating: 6/10 (+0.2)
I was hoping the rating would be higher given a lack of Divas this week, but the whole Big Show/Kaval/Reks crap pulled the rating down from what would have been an easy 7.
Match of the Night: Edge vs. Dolph
Overall show rating: 7/10 (+1)
It was a decent show but I would have liked to see something other than Bragging Rights qualifiers in terms of matches and maybe some different promos. Other than that, a typical episode of Smackdown.
Next friday will be my feature post on hypocrisies in pro wrestling as I mentioned earlier on. I'm still working out the kinks in my posting schedule so please, bear with me.
October 17, 2010
October 14, 2010
WWE NXT Review: Oct. 12/10
Here's my thoughts on this week's NXT. Sound worked this week thankfully so there's no issues there. Without further ado, here it is.
We start off the show with a "name that tune" contest. Basically they play clips of superstars themes and the girls have to guess whose theme it is.
AJ gets literally all but 2 of them. Naomi had one, and the other one nobody got. Striker was trying not to laugh and was constantly having the air horn buzzers blown in his ears. I can see where AJ would be good at this given how hyper she is.
In the end, she won it 1900 points to Naomi's 100. Everyone else had zero.
Best line ever: *Vince's theme* Striker: "If you don't get this one, I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours."
Match 1: Naomi vs. Alicia Fox
Alicia wins after hitting her finisher.
Rating: 4/10
Still kinda on the fence about Naomi, but the biggest problem is the fact that Alicia won. I mean sure, it's believable given that Naomi is only a "rookie" compared t Alicia, but I don't think there should be pro vs. rookie matches at all, unless your pro can't wrestle like Vickie.
We have another segment talking about Aksana's potential deportation. I care why?
Back from commercials and another competition. The girls have one minute to talk about a subject of their choice.
Naomi is first. She rants about Michael Cole. Sweet.
We have AJ with a personal ad. Come over to her place, turn off the lights light some candles and play some Xbox and Playstation. She's already ordered some pizza and there's action movies on tap.
Kaitlyn is making fun of Vickie again. What's new?
Aksana kissing up to America. Yay for Double Double E reference! I'm too busy looking at her double double D's to listen closely.
Maxine talking about disrespect. Hornswoggle, pie, big deal.
Backstage now with Vickie and Kaitlyn. Vickie wants to make amends, on the condition that Kaitlyn has absolutely zero contact with Dolph.
Competition #3 now. This time, the girls are testing their punching power.
Naomi: 801
AJ: 362
Kaitlyn: 22
Aksana: 666
Maxine: 604
Kaitlyn whiffed on her punch and wanted a second try, but didn't get one. I will also no longer be using Aksana's name. From now on, she will be referred to as Borat's wife.
We're back and we have another match.
Match 2: Borat's Wife vs. AJ "my future wife" Lee
Okay, Josh Matthews just ruined Pepper Potts for me (Tony Stark's secretary). Apparently Cole is the Pepper Potts to the Raw GM's Ironman.
Anyways, on with the match.
AJ floats over Borat's Wife into a small package for the win.
Rating: 6/10
AJ is great and Aksana isn't bad but the matches are never long enough. I can't stress that enough.
Now we have Goldust consoling Borat's Wife. Holy shit! Goldilocks just proposed to Aksana. Something about visas and the like to get her out of her immigration troubles.
She says yes. Alrighty then.
That does it for this week's show.
Average match rating: 5/10
Pretty self explanatory
Overall show rating: 6/10
Interesting twist at the end with Aksana and Goldust but other than that, just another episode of pointless contests.
Tomorrow will bring my post on the hypocrisies of pro wrestling.
We start off the show with a "name that tune" contest. Basically they play clips of superstars themes and the girls have to guess whose theme it is.
AJ gets literally all but 2 of them. Naomi had one, and the other one nobody got. Striker was trying not to laugh and was constantly having the air horn buzzers blown in his ears. I can see where AJ would be good at this given how hyper she is.
In the end, she won it 1900 points to Naomi's 100. Everyone else had zero.
Best line ever: *Vince's theme* Striker: "If you don't get this one, I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours."
Match 1: Naomi vs. Alicia Fox
Alicia wins after hitting her finisher.
Rating: 4/10
Still kinda on the fence about Naomi, but the biggest problem is the fact that Alicia won. I mean sure, it's believable given that Naomi is only a "rookie" compared t Alicia, but I don't think there should be pro vs. rookie matches at all, unless your pro can't wrestle like Vickie.
We have another segment talking about Aksana's potential deportation. I care why?
Back from commercials and another competition. The girls have one minute to talk about a subject of their choice.
Naomi is first. She rants about Michael Cole. Sweet.
We have AJ with a personal ad. Come over to her place, turn off the lights light some candles and play some Xbox and Playstation. She's already ordered some pizza and there's action movies on tap.
Kaitlyn is making fun of Vickie again. What's new?
Aksana kissing up to America. Yay for Double Double E reference! I'm too busy looking at her double double D's to listen closely.
Maxine talking about disrespect. Hornswoggle, pie, big deal.
Backstage now with Vickie and Kaitlyn. Vickie wants to make amends, on the condition that Kaitlyn has absolutely zero contact with Dolph.
Competition #3 now. This time, the girls are testing their punching power.
Naomi: 801
AJ: 362
Kaitlyn: 22
Aksana: 666
Maxine: 604
Kaitlyn whiffed on her punch and wanted a second try, but didn't get one. I will also no longer be using Aksana's name. From now on, she will be referred to as Borat's wife.
We're back and we have another match.
Match 2: Borat's Wife vs. AJ "my future wife" Lee
Okay, Josh Matthews just ruined Pepper Potts for me (Tony Stark's secretary). Apparently Cole is the Pepper Potts to the Raw GM's Ironman.
Anyways, on with the match.
AJ floats over Borat's Wife into a small package for the win.
Rating: 6/10
AJ is great and Aksana isn't bad but the matches are never long enough. I can't stress that enough.
Now we have Goldust consoling Borat's Wife. Holy shit! Goldilocks just proposed to Aksana. Something about visas and the like to get her out of her immigration troubles.
She says yes. Alrighty then.
That does it for this week's show.
Average match rating: 5/10
Pretty self explanatory
Overall show rating: 6/10
Interesting twist at the end with Aksana and Goldust but other than that, just another episode of pointless contests.
Tomorrow will bring my post on the hypocrisies of pro wrestling.
October 13, 2010
Raw Review: Oct. 11/10
We start out with, surprise surprise, Cena.
I'll spare you the drivel. Thank god for Miz.
He says that he's taken it upon himself to captain Team Raw. Sadly he has to offer Cena a spot on the team.
Cena then goes on about how he should lead Team Raw instead. Barrett cuts him off. He tells Cena that the only thing he'll be doing at Bragging Rights is being in Barrett's corner. Cena says he could do both. Barrett says no.
Alex Riley spoils the fact that Miz will cash in MITB at Bragging Rights. First email.
Basically the GM says that there will be a series of matches to determine the make up of Team Raw. The GM wants the best team possible. The main event will be Miz vs. Cena for captaincy.
There's some more lip flapping, a beatdown and Barrett yelling at Cena as we go to commercial.
Commercials are over and Ted DiBiase and Maryse are in the ring. This is the first Team Raw qualifier.
Match 1: The $500,000 man vs. R Truth
DiBiase has Truth down when Goldust interrupts. Truth capitalizes on the distraction. Ted kicks out the first pin, but Truth catches him with the Lie Detector.
Rating: 6/10. It was an okay match. Ted looked good as always, but Truth brought him down. The ending wasn't that surprising.
Commercials are over and we have Team Raw qualifier #2.
Match 2: JoMo vs. Tyson Kidd
Kidd in control. Several pin reversals. Out of nowhere, Morrison with a backflip uranage. Morrison gets the pin.
Rating: 7/10. I'm normally not a Morrison fan, but this was an impressive match. The outcome was again predictable but it was still a good match. I don't mind that Kidd lost because I'm sure it means there's plans for the tag titles at Bragging Rights.
We have a backstage segment with Nexus. Nexus is grilling McGillicutty and Harris. Barrett comes in and says that someone needs to face Orton tonight. Otunga says he'd do it, but points out that Gabriel's 450 would hurt Orton more. It's settled. Gabriel is facing Orton tonight.
Back from commercials and we have qualifier #3.
Match 3: Santino vs. Zack Ryder
Santino is in control and hits the Cobra.
Rating: 5/10. What happened to "the best possible team?"
Tamina runs out and celebrates with Santino and kinda overpowers him. Didn't they do the same thing with him and Beth?
Are there more commercials than usual tonight?
Gabriel (with Nexus) makes his way to the ring now for his match with Orton.
Match 4: Gabriel vs. Orton
Nexus (Slater and Otunga) get tossed from ringside early on.
Gabriel with a slingshot moonsault on a downed Orton, who kicks out of the pin. Gabriel remains in control, stomping Orton in the corner. Orton fights his way out and drops Gabriel with an uppercut. Gabriel with a jawbreaker followed by a dropkick.
Near fall for Gabriel. Orton fights his way out of a submission. He runs off the ropes, but Gabriel catches him with a knee to the gut. Another near fall. Back to the submission hold for Gabriel. Orton gets out again and slams Gabriel. Orton waits for Gabriel to get back up. Gabriel misses with a jumping back kick and Orton nails a backbreaker.
Orton whips Gabriel off the ropes. Gabriel rolls over Orton's back, but Orton hits a clothesline. Powerslam by Orton. Gabriel is down. Orton picks him up for another slam and a near fall. Gabriel kicks Orton's leg out of his leg and goes for the 450.
Orton (yes Jakob, ORTON) botches it and doesn't roll far enough. Gabriel lands on Orton's side/back/shoulder. Orton sells a shoulder injury. Out of nowhere he hits the RKO for the win and suddenly his arm is all better.
Rating: 8/10. Everything until the ending was awesome. I only docked points for the botch.
Commercials are done and we have our 4th Team Raw qualifier.
Match 5: Daniel Bryan Danielson vs. Sheamus
Danielson dives over the ropes at Sheamus but the Celtic Warrior catches him. Sheamus is going to run him into the ring post, but Danielson slips out of his grasp. Back in the ring, Danielson tries for a pin. Sheamus kicks out.
Sheamus is in control now. He clotheslines Danielson and covers. Kick out at 1. Irish Curse and a submission hold by Sheamus now. Danielson breaks the hold but isn't out of the woods yet. Irish whip by Sheamus, but Danielson gets away and drops him with an elbow. Danielson on the offensive with a flurry of kicks.
Danielson with a pin attempt but Sheamus kicks out. Danielson to the top rope for a missile dropkick. Danielson tries for his submission hold but Sheamus takes control.
High Cross attempt and Danielson rolls through for another near fall. Both men are back up and Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick for the pin.
Rating: 8/10. Another awesome match. I'm surprised there's been this much good action. That said, is Danielson going to win a match ever again?
Backstage with Cena and Truth. More useless crap.
We have our next Team Raw qualifier up now after seemingly endless commercials.
Match 6: Evan "That Little Shit" Bourne vs. CM Punk
Punk comes over from Smackdown in place of Edge. Good trade in my mind.
Punk is out of the ring. Bourne dives off the apron for a hurricanrana, but Punk stays upright and slams Bourne into the barricade. Punk tosses Bourne back into the ring and tries for a pin. Bourne kicks out.
Flurry of punches by Punk and another pin attempt. Bourne kicks out again. Bourne counters a suplex and both men end up in opposite corners. Bourne dodges a running knee and hits a series of kicks. Punk counters an Irish whip and Bourne rebounds with a spinning kick.
Punk ducks a kick but Bourne hits the back kick. Bourne is up for the shooting star, but Punk knocks him down. he lifts Bourne off the turnbuckle and hits the GTS for the win.
Rating: 8/10. This match was a little short for my liking but overall it was still great. I was hoping Bourne would win but Punk is still good.
After the match, Punk beats Bourne down. I guess this is how they're writing Bourne off TV so he can have that shoulder surgery.
Commercials are over and Natalya is in the ring talking about LayCool. Of course LayCool cuts her off. They go on their typical insult tirade. Here comes a picture of Natalya with her dad's chin tail. This was only a matter of time in my mind.
They sling a couple more insults before backing up the entrance ramp and into a wall of divas. The Bellas, Melina, Gail Kim and Eve chase LayCool back into the ring. Natalya grabs Layla and locks in the sharpshooter.
McCool pulls Layla out of the ring and LayCool runs off.
Cena vs. Miz is up now and it'll be no DQ.
Match 7: Cena vs. Miz
Here we go. This'll be a good time for a bathroom break.
Cena has Miz up for the AA but Harris and McGillicutty interfere and Miz gets the pin.
Rating: 5/10. Glad Miz won, but was it really necessary to have the match if Barrett told Cena no?
Cena attacks Harris and McGillicutty. Barrett runs in and pulls Cena off of them.
Email.
Next week, the main event will be Harris and McGillicutty vs. Cena and Randy Orton.
Barrett is adding his own twist. If Cena loses, Harris and McGillicutty will be inducted into Nexus.
Barrett is taunting Cena now, practically ordering Cena to hit him. Barrett now says Cena's let everyone down by not hitting him. I'll admit I wanted to see him to it too, if only for the fact it would get him fired. Cena walks out but Barrett tells him to stop.
Barrett mocks Cena with his own "you can't see me" as Cena continues to leave. That's the show for this week.
Average Match Rating: 6.7/10 (+6.7)
There were many great matches tonight, but there were still a couple that dragged the rating down. All in all the best wrestling I've seen on Raw in a long time.
Overall Show Rating: 7/10 (+7)
There were a few good segments, but in the end it was just more of Cena sulking. Team Raw is looking a little weak at this point but that's Santino pulling the rest down. If they find a way to get rid of him and maybe R Truth things will look better.
Match of the Night: Bourne vs. Punk
Thursday will of course bring my NXT review and Friday will see my feature post talking about the hypocrisies of pro wrestling. See you then.
I'll spare you the drivel. Thank god for Miz.
He says that he's taken it upon himself to captain Team Raw. Sadly he has to offer Cena a spot on the team.
Cena then goes on about how he should lead Team Raw instead. Barrett cuts him off. He tells Cena that the only thing he'll be doing at Bragging Rights is being in Barrett's corner. Cena says he could do both. Barrett says no.
Alex Riley spoils the fact that Miz will cash in MITB at Bragging Rights. First email.
Basically the GM says that there will be a series of matches to determine the make up of Team Raw. The GM wants the best team possible. The main event will be Miz vs. Cena for captaincy.
There's some more lip flapping, a beatdown and Barrett yelling at Cena as we go to commercial.
Commercials are over and Ted DiBiase and Maryse are in the ring. This is the first Team Raw qualifier.
Match 1: The $500,000 man vs. R Truth
DiBiase has Truth down when Goldust interrupts. Truth capitalizes on the distraction. Ted kicks out the first pin, but Truth catches him with the Lie Detector.
Rating: 6/10. It was an okay match. Ted looked good as always, but Truth brought him down. The ending wasn't that surprising.
Commercials are over and we have Team Raw qualifier #2.
Match 2: JoMo vs. Tyson Kidd
Kidd in control. Several pin reversals. Out of nowhere, Morrison with a backflip uranage. Morrison gets the pin.
Rating: 7/10. I'm normally not a Morrison fan, but this was an impressive match. The outcome was again predictable but it was still a good match. I don't mind that Kidd lost because I'm sure it means there's plans for the tag titles at Bragging Rights.
We have a backstage segment with Nexus. Nexus is grilling McGillicutty and Harris. Barrett comes in and says that someone needs to face Orton tonight. Otunga says he'd do it, but points out that Gabriel's 450 would hurt Orton more. It's settled. Gabriel is facing Orton tonight.
Back from commercials and we have qualifier #3.
Match 3: Santino vs. Zack Ryder
Santino is in control and hits the Cobra.
Rating: 5/10. What happened to "the best possible team?"
Tamina runs out and celebrates with Santino and kinda overpowers him. Didn't they do the same thing with him and Beth?
Are there more commercials than usual tonight?
Gabriel (with Nexus) makes his way to the ring now for his match with Orton.
Match 4: Gabriel vs. Orton
Nexus (Slater and Otunga) get tossed from ringside early on.
Gabriel with a slingshot moonsault on a downed Orton, who kicks out of the pin. Gabriel remains in control, stomping Orton in the corner. Orton fights his way out and drops Gabriel with an uppercut. Gabriel with a jawbreaker followed by a dropkick.
Near fall for Gabriel. Orton fights his way out of a submission. He runs off the ropes, but Gabriel catches him with a knee to the gut. Another near fall. Back to the submission hold for Gabriel. Orton gets out again and slams Gabriel. Orton waits for Gabriel to get back up. Gabriel misses with a jumping back kick and Orton nails a backbreaker.
Orton whips Gabriel off the ropes. Gabriel rolls over Orton's back, but Orton hits a clothesline. Powerslam by Orton. Gabriel is down. Orton picks him up for another slam and a near fall. Gabriel kicks Orton's leg out of his leg and goes for the 450.
Orton (yes Jakob, ORTON) botches it and doesn't roll far enough. Gabriel lands on Orton's side/back/shoulder. Orton sells a shoulder injury. Out of nowhere he hits the RKO for the win and suddenly his arm is all better.
Rating: 8/10. Everything until the ending was awesome. I only docked points for the botch.
Commercials are done and we have our 4th Team Raw qualifier.
Match 5: Daniel Bryan Danielson vs. Sheamus
Danielson dives over the ropes at Sheamus but the Celtic Warrior catches him. Sheamus is going to run him into the ring post, but Danielson slips out of his grasp. Back in the ring, Danielson tries for a pin. Sheamus kicks out.
Sheamus is in control now. He clotheslines Danielson and covers. Kick out at 1. Irish Curse and a submission hold by Sheamus now. Danielson breaks the hold but isn't out of the woods yet. Irish whip by Sheamus, but Danielson gets away and drops him with an elbow. Danielson on the offensive with a flurry of kicks.
Danielson with a pin attempt but Sheamus kicks out. Danielson to the top rope for a missile dropkick. Danielson tries for his submission hold but Sheamus takes control.
High Cross attempt and Danielson rolls through for another near fall. Both men are back up and Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick for the pin.
Rating: 8/10. Another awesome match. I'm surprised there's been this much good action. That said, is Danielson going to win a match ever again?
Backstage with Cena and Truth. More useless crap.
We have our next Team Raw qualifier up now after seemingly endless commercials.
Match 6: Evan "That Little Shit" Bourne vs. CM Punk
Punk comes over from Smackdown in place of Edge. Good trade in my mind.
Punk is out of the ring. Bourne dives off the apron for a hurricanrana, but Punk stays upright and slams Bourne into the barricade. Punk tosses Bourne back into the ring and tries for a pin. Bourne kicks out.
Flurry of punches by Punk and another pin attempt. Bourne kicks out again. Bourne counters a suplex and both men end up in opposite corners. Bourne dodges a running knee and hits a series of kicks. Punk counters an Irish whip and Bourne rebounds with a spinning kick.
Punk ducks a kick but Bourne hits the back kick. Bourne is up for the shooting star, but Punk knocks him down. he lifts Bourne off the turnbuckle and hits the GTS for the win.
Rating: 8/10. This match was a little short for my liking but overall it was still great. I was hoping Bourne would win but Punk is still good.
After the match, Punk beats Bourne down. I guess this is how they're writing Bourne off TV so he can have that shoulder surgery.
Commercials are over and Natalya is in the ring talking about LayCool. Of course LayCool cuts her off. They go on their typical insult tirade. Here comes a picture of Natalya with her dad's chin tail. This was only a matter of time in my mind.
They sling a couple more insults before backing up the entrance ramp and into a wall of divas. The Bellas, Melina, Gail Kim and Eve chase LayCool back into the ring. Natalya grabs Layla and locks in the sharpshooter.
McCool pulls Layla out of the ring and LayCool runs off.
Cena vs. Miz is up now and it'll be no DQ.
Match 7: Cena vs. Miz
Here we go. This'll be a good time for a bathroom break.
Cena has Miz up for the AA but Harris and McGillicutty interfere and Miz gets the pin.
Rating: 5/10. Glad Miz won, but was it really necessary to have the match if Barrett told Cena no?
Cena attacks Harris and McGillicutty. Barrett runs in and pulls Cena off of them.
Email.
Next week, the main event will be Harris and McGillicutty vs. Cena and Randy Orton.
Barrett is adding his own twist. If Cena loses, Harris and McGillicutty will be inducted into Nexus.
Barrett is taunting Cena now, practically ordering Cena to hit him. Barrett now says Cena's let everyone down by not hitting him. I'll admit I wanted to see him to it too, if only for the fact it would get him fired. Cena walks out but Barrett tells him to stop.
Barrett mocks Cena with his own "you can't see me" as Cena continues to leave. That's the show for this week.
Average Match Rating: 6.7/10 (+6.7)
There were many great matches tonight, but there were still a couple that dragged the rating down. All in all the best wrestling I've seen on Raw in a long time.
Overall Show Rating: 7/10 (+7)
There were a few good segments, but in the end it was just more of Cena sulking. Team Raw is looking a little weak at this point but that's Santino pulling the rest down. If they find a way to get rid of him and maybe R Truth things will look better.
Match of the Night: Bourne vs. Punk
Thursday will of course bring my NXT review and Friday will see my feature post talking about the hypocrisies of pro wrestling. See you then.
October 12, 2010
Fantasy Storylines: WWE Title gets a little more awesome, Part 2
Okay, here's part 2 of the Miz storyline. Forgot this weekend was thanksgiving and ended up spending most of it with family. Gobble gobble. On to business. I'd also like to clarify that for the purposes of this storyline, the Cena/Nexus angle didn't happen.
When we left off, the Raw GM made a stipulation that if anyone interfered with Randy Orton's matches on behalf of Miz, Miz would lose his title shot at Bragging Rights. Wade Barrett has done just that, and we'll find out why this week.
Week 4: Monday Night Raw:
The anonymous GM sends in an email.
Cole: "And I quote:
Due to Wade Barrett's actions last week, I hereby strip Miz of his WWE Title match at Bragging Rights. To find a new contender, there will be a battle royal tonight. The winner will take Miz's place at Bragging Rights."
Miz makes his way out to the ring and he looks like he's about to blow.
Miz: "Hold on for just one minute! I never asked Wade Barrett to do anything for me. You really think I'd cost myself a match for the WWE Title? How stupid do you think I am?"
Another email.
Cole: "And I quote:
Miz, I do agree that it would be a very dumb move, but I would not put it past you. However, since I'm feeling generous tonight, if you can prove that it wasn't you who hired Barrett, I'll reinstate your title match at Bragging Rights."
Miz: "Just be prepared to start apologizing."
Later on in the show, we see Barrett talking to someone whom we can't see.
Barrett: "I did what you asked last week. Now I understand you'll help me win the battle royal tonight? ...... Perfect. Thank you."
The battle royal is up next.
A bunch of people get tossed out. It comes down to Barrett, Sheamus and Cena. Sheamus and Cena instantly go after Barrett, who manages to fight them off. They go right back on the offense and almost have Barrett out when Orton's music hits.
The men stop trying to eliminate Barrett as Orton hits the ring. He RKO's Cena and Sheamus. Orton punts Cena and helps Barrett toss him over the ropes. Barrett hits the Wasteland on Sheamus over the top rope and wins the battle royal becoming the new #1 contender.
Orton and Barrett celebrate in the ring before getting interrupted by Miz.
Miz: "I think we just proved that it wasn't me who hired Barrett last week. This battle royal is meaningless now. I'm taking back my spot at Bragging Rights."
*email*
Cole: "And I quote:
Miz, I do apologize. I hereby reinstate your match at Bragging Rights. Furthermore, while the match may be no disqualification, I can adjust that slightly. If Nexus interferes on behalf of Orton, he will automatically lose the WWE Title to Miz."
Miz: "Thank you. I knew my innocence would be proven here tonight. And Orton, I knew you hadn't changed. You're the same manipulative worm you've always been."
The show goes off the air.
Week 5: Monday Night Raw
We're less than a week away from Bragging Rights. Miz is in the ring now.
Miz: "Last week, your hero turned his back on each and every one of you. Not only that, but he tried to pin his actions on me. He did that in order to get out of facing me this Sunday at Bragging Rights. He knows that I'm going to win, and tried to worm his way out of it like the coward he is. I'm going to decimate him this Sunday, and everything I do will be legal because it's no disqualifications. I actually welcome Nexus to interfere. It would just make my victory that much easier."
Nexus music hits and Orton makes his way out along with Nexus. Orton joins Miz in the ring and Nexus surrounds them on the apron. Orton tells them to wait there.
Orton: "You think I'm a coward for ensuring that my WWE title stays where it belongs? For protecting its prestige by making sure only the most worthy were given title shots? Miz, you got lucky at Money in the Bank when you won that contract. I made sure that you didn't get lucky again at Hell in a Cell, and you certainly won't get lucky at Bragging Rights."
Miz: "Nothing up to this point has been luck for me. I am where I am because of my undeniable talent. Because I'm the Miz, and III'MMM -- "
Orton: "Let me stop you right there. If I have to hear you call yourself awesome one more time I'm going to break. Your. Skull. Your only talent is getting yourself into situations where luck is the only way out. Take this sunday for instance. You'll be lucky to leave with your head intact let alone my WWE Title."
Miz: "Am I supposed to be scared? Threatened? There is nothing you could say or do that would make me fear you or your ragtag group of thugs."
At this point, Nexus starts to move in. Orton steps out of the ring as Nexus charges Miz. He fights them off, and they all scramble, except for Otunga who is in Miz's clutch. Miz sends him to the mat with a Skullcrushing Finale.
Later on in the night, Miz is in the main event against Sheamus.
After some back and forth action, Miz has Sheamus beaten down pretty good. The match is about to come to an end when Nexus hits the ring. The match is tossed and Nexus begins their beatdown of Miz. Orton now joins them.
Slater and Gabriel are holding Miz up. They push him towards Orton who delivers an RKO. The show ends with Orton and Nexus standing tall over Miz.
Week 5: Bragging Rights
It's time for the WWE Championship match between Miz and Orton.
The men fight their way around ringside, using anything and everything as a weapon. There are a few near falls for both competitors. They're circling one another in the ring when Nexus makes an appearance. Remember the stipulation that if they interfere on behalf of Orton, he instantly loses the WWE title.
Nexus is surrounding the ring on the apron now. Orton is screaming for them to leave, but they don't move. Instead, they enter the ring. They look at Miz, who steps aside. Nexus now corners Orton, who is still screaming at them to leave.
Slater makes the first move and Orton is down. The ref is confused as hell but lets them continue. Barrett drops Orton with the Wasteland followed by a 450 from Gabriel. Nexus exits the ring as Miz drags Orton out of the corner. He picks Orton up and puts him right back down with the Skullcrushing Finale.
The ref makes the count and we have a new WWE champion.
The show fades out to stunned silence from the crowd and Miz and Nexus in the ring.
Week 6: Monday Night Raw
King: "Last night at Bragging Rights, we witnessed the most shocking event in recent memory. Nexus turned on their leader Randy Orton to help Miz win the WWE title. I still can't believe we have a new WWE Champion."
Cole: "I agree, King. It certainly was shocking. We can only hope that Nexus offers an explanation tonight."
Miz comes out to the ring with Nexus. He's wearing the Nexus armband and a new t shirt that says "Miz" in Nexus font with the "M" on a yellow background. He's also using the Nexus theme with his "AWESOME!" at the start (can you say "epic mashup?").
The crowd has reached Vickie Guerrero levels of booing.
Miz: "What happened last night was pure poetry. My genius has finally paid off. You see, I knew that I was never going to be able to jump through all of the general managers ridiculous hoops to get my title match, so I came up with the most brilliant plan in the history of the WWE
It all started several weeks ago when Barrett interfered in Randy's match. It was in fact me who recruited him, but not to directly interfere. I had him make an offer to Orton to interfere on Orton's own behalf, and act like Nexus was aligned with him.
That of course got me kicked from the title match, but when it was discovered that Orton was behind the attack the following week during the battle royal, I was allowed back in at Bragging Rights. The stipulation of Orton losing the title if Nexus interfered for him was added, and everything came together perfectly.
Of course I had to take a couple of bumps to keep up appearances. But it was all worth it in the end.
Nexus was working for me all along. Orton was never leading Nexus, Orton didn't make them do anything. They were all acting under my direction. I knew Orton wouldn't pass up an opportunity to make his life easier, he's still the coward he's always been. Deep down, he's still the Randy Orton of old. He can try and mask it all he wants, but I definitively exposed it.
That's right. I played each and every one of you for fools. You actually thought that Orton had turned on you. I didn't think it would be that easy to fool you, but I guess I gave everyone too much credit. I'm most disappointed in you, though Randy. I thought you would have at least suspected that something wasn't right.
The only wild card, the only variable was how our esteemed general manager would act, and I was pleasantly surprised. He did everything right and actually fixed the problems that were in front of him for a change."
*email*
Cole: "And I quote:
Congratulations Miz. No, really. I underestimated your ability to put something like the together. That said, we have a problem to resolve, and this time, I won't allow myself to be taken for a ride. We have a former WWE champion in need of a rematch, and that match will be tonight."
Orton comes out now.
Orton: "Miz, I will give you credit. It's not every day that someone gets the better of the Viper, but again, it came down to luck. I have my demons under control now, and these past few weeks were a moment of weakness. I allowed myself to be caught up in the path of least resistance. Now that my mind is clear I will never take the easy way out again.
Tonight, there will be no easy way out for you. I'll take my WWE Title back and make sure people like you never have the chance to get near it again. I'll see you later tonight, in the steel cage."
The rematch for the WWE Title is on now. The steel cage is lowered and the men go at it.
Orton dominates early on, with Miz coming back for a near fall. Orton takes control again and almost makes it out of the cage before Miz pulls him down. Orton dodges a running knee in the corner and goes for the RKO. Miz counters into the Skullcrushing Finale for the clean win.
The cage is raised as Nexus hits the ring. Miz is in Orton's face as he's laying on the mat.
Miz: "WHO'S LUCKY NOW ORTON? WHO'S LUCKY NOW?"
Miz and Nexus stand tall in the ring as the Age of Awesome and Nexus are cemented as a force to be reckoned with.
End part 2.
I hope you all enjoyed that. It feels good to let the creative juices flow again. Tune in tomorrow for my Raw review. This week's feature post will discuss the many hypocrisies of pro wrestling.
When we left off, the Raw GM made a stipulation that if anyone interfered with Randy Orton's matches on behalf of Miz, Miz would lose his title shot at Bragging Rights. Wade Barrett has done just that, and we'll find out why this week.
Week 4: Monday Night Raw:
The anonymous GM sends in an email.
Cole: "And I quote:
Due to Wade Barrett's actions last week, I hereby strip Miz of his WWE Title match at Bragging Rights. To find a new contender, there will be a battle royal tonight. The winner will take Miz's place at Bragging Rights."
Miz makes his way out to the ring and he looks like he's about to blow.
Miz: "Hold on for just one minute! I never asked Wade Barrett to do anything for me. You really think I'd cost myself a match for the WWE Title? How stupid do you think I am?"
Another email.
Cole: "And I quote:
Miz, I do agree that it would be a very dumb move, but I would not put it past you. However, since I'm feeling generous tonight, if you can prove that it wasn't you who hired Barrett, I'll reinstate your title match at Bragging Rights."
Miz: "Just be prepared to start apologizing."
Later on in the show, we see Barrett talking to someone whom we can't see.
Barrett: "I did what you asked last week. Now I understand you'll help me win the battle royal tonight? ...... Perfect. Thank you."
The battle royal is up next.
A bunch of people get tossed out. It comes down to Barrett, Sheamus and Cena. Sheamus and Cena instantly go after Barrett, who manages to fight them off. They go right back on the offense and almost have Barrett out when Orton's music hits.
The men stop trying to eliminate Barrett as Orton hits the ring. He RKO's Cena and Sheamus. Orton punts Cena and helps Barrett toss him over the ropes. Barrett hits the Wasteland on Sheamus over the top rope and wins the battle royal becoming the new #1 contender.
Orton and Barrett celebrate in the ring before getting interrupted by Miz.
Miz: "I think we just proved that it wasn't me who hired Barrett last week. This battle royal is meaningless now. I'm taking back my spot at Bragging Rights."
*email*
Cole: "And I quote:
Miz, I do apologize. I hereby reinstate your match at Bragging Rights. Furthermore, while the match may be no disqualification, I can adjust that slightly. If Nexus interferes on behalf of Orton, he will automatically lose the WWE Title to Miz."
Miz: "Thank you. I knew my innocence would be proven here tonight. And Orton, I knew you hadn't changed. You're the same manipulative worm you've always been."
The show goes off the air.
Week 5: Monday Night Raw
We're less than a week away from Bragging Rights. Miz is in the ring now.
Miz: "Last week, your hero turned his back on each and every one of you. Not only that, but he tried to pin his actions on me. He did that in order to get out of facing me this Sunday at Bragging Rights. He knows that I'm going to win, and tried to worm his way out of it like the coward he is. I'm going to decimate him this Sunday, and everything I do will be legal because it's no disqualifications. I actually welcome Nexus to interfere. It would just make my victory that much easier."
Nexus music hits and Orton makes his way out along with Nexus. Orton joins Miz in the ring and Nexus surrounds them on the apron. Orton tells them to wait there.
Orton: "You think I'm a coward for ensuring that my WWE title stays where it belongs? For protecting its prestige by making sure only the most worthy were given title shots? Miz, you got lucky at Money in the Bank when you won that contract. I made sure that you didn't get lucky again at Hell in a Cell, and you certainly won't get lucky at Bragging Rights."
Miz: "Nothing up to this point has been luck for me. I am where I am because of my undeniable talent. Because I'm the Miz, and III'MMM -- "
Orton: "Let me stop you right there. If I have to hear you call yourself awesome one more time I'm going to break. Your. Skull. Your only talent is getting yourself into situations where luck is the only way out. Take this sunday for instance. You'll be lucky to leave with your head intact let alone my WWE Title."
Miz: "Am I supposed to be scared? Threatened? There is nothing you could say or do that would make me fear you or your ragtag group of thugs."
At this point, Nexus starts to move in. Orton steps out of the ring as Nexus charges Miz. He fights them off, and they all scramble, except for Otunga who is in Miz's clutch. Miz sends him to the mat with a Skullcrushing Finale.
Later on in the night, Miz is in the main event against Sheamus.
After some back and forth action, Miz has Sheamus beaten down pretty good. The match is about to come to an end when Nexus hits the ring. The match is tossed and Nexus begins their beatdown of Miz. Orton now joins them.
Slater and Gabriel are holding Miz up. They push him towards Orton who delivers an RKO. The show ends with Orton and Nexus standing tall over Miz.
Week 5: Bragging Rights
It's time for the WWE Championship match between Miz and Orton.
The men fight their way around ringside, using anything and everything as a weapon. There are a few near falls for both competitors. They're circling one another in the ring when Nexus makes an appearance. Remember the stipulation that if they interfere on behalf of Orton, he instantly loses the WWE title.
Nexus is surrounding the ring on the apron now. Orton is screaming for them to leave, but they don't move. Instead, they enter the ring. They look at Miz, who steps aside. Nexus now corners Orton, who is still screaming at them to leave.
Slater makes the first move and Orton is down. The ref is confused as hell but lets them continue. Barrett drops Orton with the Wasteland followed by a 450 from Gabriel. Nexus exits the ring as Miz drags Orton out of the corner. He picks Orton up and puts him right back down with the Skullcrushing Finale.
The ref makes the count and we have a new WWE champion.
The show fades out to stunned silence from the crowd and Miz and Nexus in the ring.
Week 6: Monday Night Raw
King: "Last night at Bragging Rights, we witnessed the most shocking event in recent memory. Nexus turned on their leader Randy Orton to help Miz win the WWE title. I still can't believe we have a new WWE Champion."
Cole: "I agree, King. It certainly was shocking. We can only hope that Nexus offers an explanation tonight."
Miz comes out to the ring with Nexus. He's wearing the Nexus armband and a new t shirt that says "Miz" in Nexus font with the "M" on a yellow background. He's also using the Nexus theme with his "AWESOME!" at the start (can you say "epic mashup?").
The crowd has reached Vickie Guerrero levels of booing.
Miz: "What happened last night was pure poetry. My genius has finally paid off. You see, I knew that I was never going to be able to jump through all of the general managers ridiculous hoops to get my title match, so I came up with the most brilliant plan in the history of the WWE
It all started several weeks ago when Barrett interfered in Randy's match. It was in fact me who recruited him, but not to directly interfere. I had him make an offer to Orton to interfere on Orton's own behalf, and act like Nexus was aligned with him.
That of course got me kicked from the title match, but when it was discovered that Orton was behind the attack the following week during the battle royal, I was allowed back in at Bragging Rights. The stipulation of Orton losing the title if Nexus interfered for him was added, and everything came together perfectly.
Of course I had to take a couple of bumps to keep up appearances. But it was all worth it in the end.
Nexus was working for me all along. Orton was never leading Nexus, Orton didn't make them do anything. They were all acting under my direction. I knew Orton wouldn't pass up an opportunity to make his life easier, he's still the coward he's always been. Deep down, he's still the Randy Orton of old. He can try and mask it all he wants, but I definitively exposed it.
That's right. I played each and every one of you for fools. You actually thought that Orton had turned on you. I didn't think it would be that easy to fool you, but I guess I gave everyone too much credit. I'm most disappointed in you, though Randy. I thought you would have at least suspected that something wasn't right.
The only wild card, the only variable was how our esteemed general manager would act, and I was pleasantly surprised. He did everything right and actually fixed the problems that were in front of him for a change."
*email*
Cole: "And I quote:
Congratulations Miz. No, really. I underestimated your ability to put something like the together. That said, we have a problem to resolve, and this time, I won't allow myself to be taken for a ride. We have a former WWE champion in need of a rematch, and that match will be tonight."
Orton comes out now.
Orton: "Miz, I will give you credit. It's not every day that someone gets the better of the Viper, but again, it came down to luck. I have my demons under control now, and these past few weeks were a moment of weakness. I allowed myself to be caught up in the path of least resistance. Now that my mind is clear I will never take the easy way out again.
Tonight, there will be no easy way out for you. I'll take my WWE Title back and make sure people like you never have the chance to get near it again. I'll see you later tonight, in the steel cage."
The rematch for the WWE Title is on now. The steel cage is lowered and the men go at it.
Orton dominates early on, with Miz coming back for a near fall. Orton takes control again and almost makes it out of the cage before Miz pulls him down. Orton dodges a running knee in the corner and goes for the RKO. Miz counters into the Skullcrushing Finale for the clean win.
The cage is raised as Nexus hits the ring. Miz is in Orton's face as he's laying on the mat.
Miz: "WHO'S LUCKY NOW ORTON? WHO'S LUCKY NOW?"
Miz and Nexus stand tall in the ring as the Age of Awesome and Nexus are cemented as a force to be reckoned with.
End part 2.
I hope you all enjoyed that. It feels good to let the creative juices flow again. Tune in tomorrow for my Raw review. This week's feature post will discuss the many hypocrisies of pro wrestling.
October 10, 2010
Smackdown Review: Oct. 8/10
I'm still getting into a good schedule for posting, so bear with me. Like I've said before, my work schedule changes weekly, so I don't know until thursday or friday when I'll be free for the following week.
Here's my Smackdown review for Oct. 8/10.
Dammit! Cole's on commentary. Can someone please get him out of the WWE?
Teddy Long start off the show introducing Edge, who was traded to SD on monday. It's nice to see the trench coat and sunglasses look again.
Match 1: Edge vs. Swagger w/ The Swagger Soaring Eagle
Before the match, Swagger talks about Edge spearing his mascot last week. Do you know how hard it is for an eagle to get medical insurance?
At one point, Edge knocks the eagle off the apron. He got stretchered out during the commercial break.
Near fall for Edge. Swagger counters an Irish whip. Edge ducks on the rebound. Swagger catches Edge and drops him onto his knee. Swagger goes for a springboard splash in the corner, but Edge rolls out of the way.
Edge connects with a DDT for another near fall. Belly to belly by Swagger off the turnbuckle and a near fall. Edge bounces Swagger off the top rope and drops out of the ring. Edge back in now and thinking Spear. Swagger counters, and Edge counters him into a unique pin attempt. Swagger kicks out.
Edge counters an ankle lock and gets another near fall. Edge slips out of Swagger's grip and gets the Spear for the win.
Rating: 9/10. One of the best matches I've seen in a while. PPV quality for free. If the rest of the roster could perform like these 2 just did the WWE would be in better shape.
Match 2: Kelly vs. Layla
There was a comment from one of the commentators about how Kelly Kelly is improving in the ring. Yeah, right, so is Cena.
Rating: 3/10.
Layla goes after Natalya, who tries for a sharpshooter. McCool breaks it up.
Back from commercials and Big Show is in the ring. Apparently he's the Team Smackdown captain for Bragging Rights.
Hornswoggle is the mascot for team SD. Joy.
Now the Dudebusters are in the ring. They're trying to get onto team SD. Show says no. They say they could get themselves traded to Raw to join the Miz's team. Some more lip flapping and it ends with a double chokeslam. Nothing special.
Commercials are over and Cody Rhodes is on his way to the ring with Drew McIntyre for a match.
Match 3: Rhodes and McIntyre vs. Kaval and Kofi
Rhodes drops Kaval across the top rope and hits Cross Rhodes for the win.
Rating: 5/10. Not bad, but it could have been a lot better. Also, is Kaval going to win any time soon?
Back from commercial and Paul Bearer is in the ring looking fat as ever. He introduces Kane who makes his way out now.
He's talking about the same basic stuff he has for weeks. It's getting repetitive, but that doesn't take away from the fact that he's good on the mic. The eerie music is a nice touch.
Match 4: MVP vs. Dolph Ziggler
This must be a rematch from last week when they were interrupted by Nexus.
Dolph and Vickie start arguing. Vickie storms off as we go to commercials.
MVP reverses an Irish whip, but Ziggler holds on to the ropes. Ziggler walks right into a big boot just as Kaitlyn makes her way to ringside. Ziggler is down. Kaitlyn grabs MVP's leg and Dolph hits the Zig Zag for the win.
Rating: 6/10. Alright match, but it did more to further the Dolph/Vickie/Kaitlyn thing than anything else. They need a proper storyline for the IC title.
Back from commercials and Josh is backstage with Alberto Del Rio. He basically insults Rey the same way he's been doing. I'm not big on his mic skills either. Already time for more commercials.
It's time for the main event.
Match 5: Rey "Yo quiero Taco Bell" Mysterio vs. Alberto "Dog Lover" Del Rio
Rey on the top rope. Hurricanrana to Del Rio, who lands on the middle rope. Rey's going for the 619, but Tattoo (Rodriquez) distracts Rey. Tattoo is on the apron now. Rey drops Del Rio onto the second rope, knocking Tattoo off the apron.
619 connects and Rey wins.
Rating: 6/10. Being a Rey Mysterio match, there were a few high spots but aside from that it didn't excite me that much.
Average match Rating: 5.8/10
The saving grace was by far Edge vs. Swagger. I can't wait to see what they do at the PPV. Again the divas match and other mediocre matches brought the rating down. Admittedly I was kind of holding the matches to the standard set by Edge and Swagger so I may have been a little harsh but then I want to consistently see good performances from everyone. Is that too much to ask?
Overall Rating: 6/10 (-1)
Kane's segment was great as always, if it was a little repetitive, but the crap with Show and Hornswoggle and that killed it for me. Show has been irrelevant on Smackdown until tonight. Why give him the captaincy? I would personally have given it to Edge given what went down on Raw this past monday. Other than that, good show.
I'll do my best to have the finish to the Miz storyline up by monday. Again, it's taking longer to write than I had hoped.
Here's my Smackdown review for Oct. 8/10.
Dammit! Cole's on commentary. Can someone please get him out of the WWE?
Teddy Long start off the show introducing Edge, who was traded to SD on monday. It's nice to see the trench coat and sunglasses look again.
Match 1: Edge vs. Swagger w/ The Swagger Soaring Eagle
Before the match, Swagger talks about Edge spearing his mascot last week. Do you know how hard it is for an eagle to get medical insurance?
At one point, Edge knocks the eagle off the apron. He got stretchered out during the commercial break.
Near fall for Edge. Swagger counters an Irish whip. Edge ducks on the rebound. Swagger catches Edge and drops him onto his knee. Swagger goes for a springboard splash in the corner, but Edge rolls out of the way.
Edge connects with a DDT for another near fall. Belly to belly by Swagger off the turnbuckle and a near fall. Edge bounces Swagger off the top rope and drops out of the ring. Edge back in now and thinking Spear. Swagger counters, and Edge counters him into a unique pin attempt. Swagger kicks out.
Edge counters an ankle lock and gets another near fall. Edge slips out of Swagger's grip and gets the Spear for the win.
Rating: 9/10. One of the best matches I've seen in a while. PPV quality for free. If the rest of the roster could perform like these 2 just did the WWE would be in better shape.
Match 2: Kelly vs. Layla
There was a comment from one of the commentators about how Kelly Kelly is improving in the ring. Yeah, right, so is Cena.
Rating: 3/10.
Layla goes after Natalya, who tries for a sharpshooter. McCool breaks it up.
Back from commercials and Big Show is in the ring. Apparently he's the Team Smackdown captain for Bragging Rights.
Hornswoggle is the mascot for team SD. Joy.
Now the Dudebusters are in the ring. They're trying to get onto team SD. Show says no. They say they could get themselves traded to Raw to join the Miz's team. Some more lip flapping and it ends with a double chokeslam. Nothing special.
Commercials are over and Cody Rhodes is on his way to the ring with Drew McIntyre for a match.
Match 3: Rhodes and McIntyre vs. Kaval and Kofi
Rhodes drops Kaval across the top rope and hits Cross Rhodes for the win.
Rating: 5/10. Not bad, but it could have been a lot better. Also, is Kaval going to win any time soon?
Back from commercial and Paul Bearer is in the ring looking fat as ever. He introduces Kane who makes his way out now.
He's talking about the same basic stuff he has for weeks. It's getting repetitive, but that doesn't take away from the fact that he's good on the mic. The eerie music is a nice touch.
Match 4: MVP vs. Dolph Ziggler
This must be a rematch from last week when they were interrupted by Nexus.
Dolph and Vickie start arguing. Vickie storms off as we go to commercials.
MVP reverses an Irish whip, but Ziggler holds on to the ropes. Ziggler walks right into a big boot just as Kaitlyn makes her way to ringside. Ziggler is down. Kaitlyn grabs MVP's leg and Dolph hits the Zig Zag for the win.
Rating: 6/10. Alright match, but it did more to further the Dolph/Vickie/Kaitlyn thing than anything else. They need a proper storyline for the IC title.
Back from commercials and Josh is backstage with Alberto Del Rio. He basically insults Rey the same way he's been doing. I'm not big on his mic skills either. Already time for more commercials.
It's time for the main event.
Match 5: Rey "Yo quiero Taco Bell" Mysterio vs. Alberto "Dog Lover" Del Rio
Rey on the top rope. Hurricanrana to Del Rio, who lands on the middle rope. Rey's going for the 619, but Tattoo (Rodriquez) distracts Rey. Tattoo is on the apron now. Rey drops Del Rio onto the second rope, knocking Tattoo off the apron.
619 connects and Rey wins.
Rating: 6/10. Being a Rey Mysterio match, there were a few high spots but aside from that it didn't excite me that much.
Average match Rating: 5.8/10
The saving grace was by far Edge vs. Swagger. I can't wait to see what they do at the PPV. Again the divas match and other mediocre matches brought the rating down. Admittedly I was kind of holding the matches to the standard set by Edge and Swagger so I may have been a little harsh but then I want to consistently see good performances from everyone. Is that too much to ask?
Overall Rating: 6/10 (-1)
Kane's segment was great as always, if it was a little repetitive, but the crap with Show and Hornswoggle and that killed it for me. Show has been irrelevant on Smackdown until tonight. Why give him the captaincy? I would personally have given it to Edge given what went down on Raw this past monday. Other than that, good show.
I'll do my best to have the finish to the Miz storyline up by monday. Again, it's taking longer to write than I had hoped.
October 7, 2010
WWe NXT review: Oct. 5/10
I had audio issues so I'm going to use the coverage from WZ to do this. Sorry about that, I have no idea what happened. I just lost sound after the first competition. I still watched it, but it wasn't the same.
Matt is on the stage and he brings out the six rookies. Matt reminds them that this is the biggest night of their careers because the WWE Universe and the pros will determine which one of them will no longer be a part of the competition. Matt reminds AJ that she has won three competitions and is closer to immunity. Kaitlyn, Naomi, and Jamie can still get immunity.
It is time for the first challenge and it is time to get the mechanical bull out for a Mechanical Bull Riding Competition. The person who stays on the bull the longest will win the competition. Matt wants someone to demonstrate so the Bellas volunteer. They ride first and it is on super slow. Then it speeds up and they are finally thrown from the mechanical bull.
Naomi is first and her time is 12.5 seconds. The next rookie is Aksana and her time 17.9 seconds so she in lead. AJ is the next to mount the mechanical monster and after commiserating with Kaitlyn before donning Kurt Angle’s cowboy hat. AJ with a time of 9.6 seconds. Jamie is the next one to go and her time is 10.9 seconds. Maxine gets to be on top . . . of the bull and she lasts 9.8 seconds. Kaitlyn is the final one to challenge the bull and she ends up with 10 seconds.
Aksana gets her first win in competition and then she will face Maxine in the ring.
We are back and Did You Know that a lot of children are going to do the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge?
We see footage from last night when Goldust was revealed as the one who left the messages for Ted DiBiase and Maryse because he wants the Million Dollar Belt.
Match Number One: Aksana versus Maxine
They lock up and Aksana with a hammer lock and Maxine with an elbow and forearms. Maxine with a kick and she misses a charge into the corner. Aksana takes Maxine down and gets a near fall. Aksana works on the arm but Maxine with a neck breaker for a near fall. Maxine with a side head lock into a submission hold but Aksana gets a near fall. Aksana with a clothesline followed b a boot to the head for a near fall. Aksana with an Irish whip but Maxine with a clothesline and Aksana floats over and gets the three count.
Winner: Aksana
Rating: 5/10. I wasn't that impressed with either girl to be honest.
Michael Cole wants to talk about last night’s Raw when he saw John Cena working with Nexus. Who wants a Raw Rebound?
We are told that there is going to be a Talent show when we come back from commercial.
We are back and the rookies are in the ring with Matt Striker. Matt reminds us that Aksana rode the bull the best. Matt also reminds us that AJ is in the immunity lead now but Naomi and Kaitlyn can tie her.
Aksana is the first to show her talent and her talent is push ups. Aksana does some unorthodox push ups.
Naomi is next and her talent is rap and she goes freestyle.
AJ says that she is going to give Michael Cole some personality and then she says that her talent is flexibility. AJ does some stretching on the mat. Jamie is next and her talent is turning men on. Jamie tells Matt that since the first time she saw him, she thought he was hot and then Jamie kisses Matt.
Kaitlyn is next and her talent is art. She has Striker assisting her with her easel. She shows a stick figure drawing of Vickie Guerrero. Kaitlyn says that she can’t wait to get Vickie on the canvas after putting Vickie on her canvas. Maxine is next and her talent is . . . Maxine says that she wants to apologize to Hornswoggle. She says that they had a little mishap and we see Hornswoggle go down and go down hard. Maxine has a pie and she made it just for Hornswoggle. Hornswoggle stops to hug AJ before going to Maxine and her special pie. She says that she is truly sorry and she gives him the pie she specially made for him. She puts some of the pie in Hornswoggle’s face and then he gives the rest of it to Maxine.
It is time to find out who Topeka liked the most. The winner is Kaitlyn and she has tied AJ with three wins.
It is now up to the WWE Universe to decide who gets immunity. The people of Kansas like Kaitlyn and she has immunity.
It is time for the Make a Wish Foundation video package.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Goldust tells Aksana that he has longed to hold it so tight. Someone from Immigration stops by to talk to Aksana. He tells her that she has four weeks before her application is up for review. Goldust says that she has been here for a while. The agent says that it doesn’t matter if she is the Russian Trish Stratus. Goldust says that they will take care of things and then he comments on the agent’s hair.
It is time to take a look back at the decades long . . . well, weeks long rivalry between Kaitlyn and Vickie Guerrero.
Match Number Two: Vickie Guerrero with Dolph Ziggler versus Kaitlyn
Vickie wants the referee to wait until she has warmed up. Vickie does some stretching and then it is time to wrestle . . . or is it because Vickie’s shoulder is a bit tight. Vickie does some meditation too.
Kaitlyn wants to know what is going on and Vickie pushes Kaitlyn but Kaitlyn with a drop toe hold and Vickie says that she is bleeding from her lip. Vickie yells at Kaitlyn and then she tries to slap Kaitlyn but Kaitlyn blocks it. Vickie connects but so does Kaitlyn. Vickie goes to the floor and Dolph kind of checks on her but Vickie pulls Kaitlyn to the floor and sends her into the ringside barrier a few times. Vickie kicks Kaitlyn as she tells Kaitlyn to get up.
They get back into the ring and Vickie kicks Kaitlyn and she taunts her rookie. Vickie sends Kaitlyn into the turnbuckles a few times. Vickie chokes Kaitlyn in the ropes. Vickie yells at Dolph and then she chokes Kaitlyn some more. Vickie works on Kaitlyn’s back but Vickie cannot get Kaitlyn up for a slam. Kaitlyn slams Vickie but can only get a near fall. Vickie sends Kaitlyn into the ropes and then she tells Dolph to help her but Vickie gets rolled up by Kaitlyn for the three count.
Winner: Kaitlyn
Rating: 4/10. Why did they have to put Vickie in the ring?
After the match, Kailtyn celebrates with Dolph right in front of Vickie and Dolph pushes her away. Vickie screeches at both of them and then she leaves the ring.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Matt is at ringside with the rookies and one of them is going home, other than Kaitlyn who earned immunity.
It is time for the random Rookie Eliminator 2010 and the unlucky rookie is Jamie.
Jamie gets her last name back before she gives her exit promo. She thanks everyone so much. She says that the WWE has the best fans and the most supportive people. She thanks the Bellas. She tells the rookies that she wishes them the best of luck.
Average match rating: 4.5/10
The matches weren't long enough to really make an impression, plus Vickie wrestling is like Cena rapping (or wrestling, or making movies).
Overall show rating: 6/10 (+1)
I'm surprised Maxine didn't get eliminated, but I'm glad AJ and Kaitlyn are still in it. The talent show was a good concept, but there were some dumb talents. I also still want to fuck AJ.
This week I'll finish off my storyline form last week. Will Miz ever face Orton for the title?
Matt is on the stage and he brings out the six rookies. Matt reminds them that this is the biggest night of their careers because the WWE Universe and the pros will determine which one of them will no longer be a part of the competition. Matt reminds AJ that she has won three competitions and is closer to immunity. Kaitlyn, Naomi, and Jamie can still get immunity.
It is time for the first challenge and it is time to get the mechanical bull out for a Mechanical Bull Riding Competition. The person who stays on the bull the longest will win the competition. Matt wants someone to demonstrate so the Bellas volunteer. They ride first and it is on super slow. Then it speeds up and they are finally thrown from the mechanical bull.
Naomi is first and her time is 12.5 seconds. The next rookie is Aksana and her time 17.9 seconds so she in lead. AJ is the next to mount the mechanical monster and after commiserating with Kaitlyn before donning Kurt Angle’s cowboy hat. AJ with a time of 9.6 seconds. Jamie is the next one to go and her time is 10.9 seconds. Maxine gets to be on top . . . of the bull and she lasts 9.8 seconds. Kaitlyn is the final one to challenge the bull and she ends up with 10 seconds.
Aksana gets her first win in competition and then she will face Maxine in the ring.
We are back and Did You Know that a lot of children are going to do the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge?
We see footage from last night when Goldust was revealed as the one who left the messages for Ted DiBiase and Maryse because he wants the Million Dollar Belt.
Match Number One: Aksana versus Maxine
They lock up and Aksana with a hammer lock and Maxine with an elbow and forearms. Maxine with a kick and she misses a charge into the corner. Aksana takes Maxine down and gets a near fall. Aksana works on the arm but Maxine with a neck breaker for a near fall. Maxine with a side head lock into a submission hold but Aksana gets a near fall. Aksana with a clothesline followed b a boot to the head for a near fall. Aksana with an Irish whip but Maxine with a clothesline and Aksana floats over and gets the three count.
Winner: Aksana
Rating: 5/10. I wasn't that impressed with either girl to be honest.
Michael Cole wants to talk about last night’s Raw when he saw John Cena working with Nexus. Who wants a Raw Rebound?
We are told that there is going to be a Talent show when we come back from commercial.
We are back and the rookies are in the ring with Matt Striker. Matt reminds us that Aksana rode the bull the best. Matt also reminds us that AJ is in the immunity lead now but Naomi and Kaitlyn can tie her.
Aksana is the first to show her talent and her talent is push ups. Aksana does some unorthodox push ups.
Naomi is next and her talent is rap and she goes freestyle.
AJ says that she is going to give Michael Cole some personality and then she says that her talent is flexibility. AJ does some stretching on the mat. Jamie is next and her talent is turning men on. Jamie tells Matt that since the first time she saw him, she thought he was hot and then Jamie kisses Matt.
Kaitlyn is next and her talent is art. She has Striker assisting her with her easel. She shows a stick figure drawing of Vickie Guerrero. Kaitlyn says that she can’t wait to get Vickie on the canvas after putting Vickie on her canvas. Maxine is next and her talent is . . . Maxine says that she wants to apologize to Hornswoggle. She says that they had a little mishap and we see Hornswoggle go down and go down hard. Maxine has a pie and she made it just for Hornswoggle. Hornswoggle stops to hug AJ before going to Maxine and her special pie. She says that she is truly sorry and she gives him the pie she specially made for him. She puts some of the pie in Hornswoggle’s face and then he gives the rest of it to Maxine.
It is time to find out who Topeka liked the most. The winner is Kaitlyn and she has tied AJ with three wins.
It is now up to the WWE Universe to decide who gets immunity. The people of Kansas like Kaitlyn and she has immunity.
It is time for the Make a Wish Foundation video package.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Goldust tells Aksana that he has longed to hold it so tight. Someone from Immigration stops by to talk to Aksana. He tells her that she has four weeks before her application is up for review. Goldust says that she has been here for a while. The agent says that it doesn’t matter if she is the Russian Trish Stratus. Goldust says that they will take care of things and then he comments on the agent’s hair.
It is time to take a look back at the decades long . . . well, weeks long rivalry between Kaitlyn and Vickie Guerrero.
Match Number Two: Vickie Guerrero with Dolph Ziggler versus Kaitlyn
Vickie wants the referee to wait until she has warmed up. Vickie does some stretching and then it is time to wrestle . . . or is it because Vickie’s shoulder is a bit tight. Vickie does some meditation too.
Kaitlyn wants to know what is going on and Vickie pushes Kaitlyn but Kaitlyn with a drop toe hold and Vickie says that she is bleeding from her lip. Vickie yells at Kaitlyn and then she tries to slap Kaitlyn but Kaitlyn blocks it. Vickie connects but so does Kaitlyn. Vickie goes to the floor and Dolph kind of checks on her but Vickie pulls Kaitlyn to the floor and sends her into the ringside barrier a few times. Vickie kicks Kaitlyn as she tells Kaitlyn to get up.
They get back into the ring and Vickie kicks Kaitlyn and she taunts her rookie. Vickie sends Kaitlyn into the turnbuckles a few times. Vickie chokes Kaitlyn in the ropes. Vickie yells at Dolph and then she chokes Kaitlyn some more. Vickie works on Kaitlyn’s back but Vickie cannot get Kaitlyn up for a slam. Kaitlyn slams Vickie but can only get a near fall. Vickie sends Kaitlyn into the ropes and then she tells Dolph to help her but Vickie gets rolled up by Kaitlyn for the three count.
Winner: Kaitlyn
Rating: 4/10. Why did they have to put Vickie in the ring?
After the match, Kailtyn celebrates with Dolph right in front of Vickie and Dolph pushes her away. Vickie screeches at both of them and then she leaves the ring.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Matt is at ringside with the rookies and one of them is going home, other than Kaitlyn who earned immunity.
It is time for the random Rookie Eliminator 2010 and the unlucky rookie is Jamie.
Jamie gets her last name back before she gives her exit promo. She thanks everyone so much. She says that the WWE has the best fans and the most supportive people. She thanks the Bellas. She tells the rookies that she wishes them the best of luck.
Average match rating: 4.5/10
The matches weren't long enough to really make an impression, plus Vickie wrestling is like Cena rapping (or wrestling, or making movies).
Overall show rating: 6/10 (+1)
I'm surprised Maxine didn't get eliminated, but I'm glad AJ and Kaitlyn are still in it. The talent show was a good concept, but there were some dumb talents. I also still want to fuck AJ.
This week I'll finish off my storyline form last week. Will Miz ever face Orton for the title?
October 6, 2010
Raw will not be reviewed this week
I have decided that based on the absolutely horrible quality of Raw this past Monday night, I shall not soil my blog with it. Here are the highlights:
Edge traded to Smackdown
Goldust was sending messages to the Million Dollar Title
Cena's fired if he doesn't listen to Barrett
Maryse got smacked out of her dress by the Jackass giant hand
Barrett is the #1 contender and is facing Orton at Bragging Rights
Rating: 0/10 (-7)
There you have it folks. That was this week's Raw. I hope you don't waste your time like I did and watch it. I want my 2 hours back.
Edge traded to Smackdown
Goldust was sending messages to the Million Dollar Title
Cena's fired if he doesn't listen to Barrett
Maryse got smacked out of her dress by the Jackass giant hand
Barrett is the #1 contender and is facing Orton at Bragging Rights
Rating: 0/10 (-7)
There you have it folks. That was this week's Raw. I hope you don't waste your time like I did and watch it. I want my 2 hours back.
October 4, 2010
Hell in a Cell Recap: Oct. 3/10
Welcome to my Hell in a Cell recap. As always, I'm using Wrestlezone's coverage.
We start off with Danielson defending his US title against Miz and Morrison.
Match 1: Danielson vs. Miz vs. Morrison, US Title, Submissions count anywhere
Miz gets on the mic and says he is the mentor of both Daniel Bryan and John Morrison. He says he never tapped out. Match is underway. Early on, Morrison is thrown to the floor, where he remains for a bit, allowing Bryan and Miz some one-on-one time in the ring. A few minutes in, all three guys brawled their way into the audience of Dallas fans. Miz slams Morrison onto the steel guardrail, and follows it up by ramming Bryan through another guardrail. Up near the stage, Miz attempts to slam a crate into Morrison. Morrison blocks it with his foot and counters, leaping over it and nailing Miz. Moments later, Miz recovers and hits a Skull Crushing Finale on Morrison on the floor. Next up is a one-on-one brawl with Miz and Daniel Bryan on the stage. Both guys go for submissions at times, but neither can finish the job. Morrison is climbing the site, and doing so pretty fast. Morrison is up onto the lighting deck and dives off it onto both Miz and Bryan on the stage. Crowd pops huge for that. Morrison applies a Texas Cloverleaf on Miz. Out of nowhere, Alex Riley comes out and breaks things up. Bryan is up now and rams Riley into a camera, knocking him off the stage completely. Bryan secures his LeBell Lock on Miz on the stage. Miz taps. Crowd goes nuts.
Rating: 8/10. Sounds like it was a great match, but the outcome was rather predictable.
Match 2: Orton vs. Sheamus, WWE Title, HIAC
Video package airs, showcasing the history of the Orton-Sheamus feud. Our WWE Championship match, and first Hell In A Cell match of the night, is getting underway now. Both guys go at it immediately. Orton clotheslines Sheamus into the cage on the floor outside the ring. Sheamus returns favor by whipping Orton back-first into the cell. Sheamus is grabbing the ringside steps to use as a weapon. Orton stops the attempt and winds up nailing Sheamus with the ringside steps himself. Back in the ring, Sheamus hits a huge shoulder-block on Orton, blasting him into the cell. Sheamus attempts a pinfall, but only gets two. Sheamus removes the top turnbuckle padding, exposing the steel from within it. He misses an attempt to slam Orton into it face-first. Turnbuckle padding remains off as the match moves away from that particular corner of the ring. Orton ends up dodging a Sheamus attack, resulting in Sheamus slamming himself into the exposed steel in the ringside corner. Later on, the ringside steps come into play again, this time with Orton hitting a sweet snap-slam on Sheamus onto the steps which were placed in the middle of the ring. Sheamus focusing his attack on the ribs of Orton, which he is beginning to sell big now. Add shoulder to the list. Orton selling the shoulder now, while the announcers remind everyone of his past problems. Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick and almost gets the win off of that, but Orton managed to kick out at 2 1/2. Sheamus goes to the floor and pulls a chair out from under the ring. Sheamus nails Orton across the back with the chair repeatedly, setting up another nearfall. Out of nowhere, Orton hits the RKO on Sheamus. Orton goes for the punt kick, but Sheamus avoids it and counters with the Brogue Kick. Sheamus goes for the pin but Orton again manages to kick out at 2 1/2. Crowd popped big for that, as they begin to rally behind Orton. Orton avoids a Sheamus attack and hits an RKO out of nowhere for the clean pin. And it's over that sudden.
Rating: 7/10. Predictable ending, and the cell was almost as useless as I thought it would be. Other than that, it looks like it was a great match.
Albert Del Rio comes to the ring in street clothes. He gets on the mic and says this is his PPV debut and he wants to make it special. He shows a shot of the dog he had in the Rey Mysterio mask on Smackdown. He says he's richer than Mark Cuban and more handsome than Tony Romo. He tells the crowd he is better than they are. Edge's music hits and out he comes. He mentions that he's not here to defend Mysterio, Texas or Christian, he's here to fight against stupidity. He says Del Rio's dog mask is stupid. Del Rio and Edge square off, but are interupted by Jack Swagger's theme music. Swagger complains that Edge roughed up his mascot on Smackdown. Edge says he'll pay for the mascot's medical bills. Edge attacks Swagger, but Swagger and Del Rio team up and begin the two-on-one beatdown of Edge. The anonymous general manager chime sounds. Michael Cole announces that Edge must apologize to the general manager on Raw tomorrow night. He also must face Jack Swagger tonight. This leads us to our next match.
Match 3: Edge vs. Swagger
Early on, Swagger is bleeding from the mouth from an Edge attack. Edge sends Swagger to the floor. From the floor, Swagger grabs Edge by the leg and attempts an ankle lock from the floor. Edge ultimately escapes and flips Swagger into the ringside steps in the process. Crowd dug that. Edge goes to the top rope, but Swagger quickly leaps to the top rope and suplexes him down below, ala Kurt Angle. Swagger attempts a Swagger Bomb, but Edge blocks with a kick to the gut. He follows up with a DDT and a big spear. One more spear shortly thereafter and Edge secures the pinfall for the victory.
Rating: 7/10. For a last minute add-on it was decent, if a little short. I would liked to have seen Swagger win, but Edge winning is cool too.
Match 4: Barrett vs. Cena, join vs. disband
For those unaware, the rules state that Nexus must disband if Barrett loses. If he wins, John Cena must join Nexus. Cena and Barrett are both in the ring, and this match with big repercussions is underway. Cena goes for the Attitude Adjustment early on, but the rest of Nexus hit the ringside area to distract him, allowing Barrett to escape and nail Cena. Barrett goes out to yell at the rest of Nexus. He reminds them who is in charge. Barrett back in the ring now, in firm control of the action. Cena begins making a comeback as Nexus surrounds the ring during the set up of his Five Knuckle Shuffle. Before you know it, out comes Big Show, MVP, Daniel Bryan, the Hart Dynasty, Dolph Ziggler, John Morrison, Goldust, Kofi Kingston, Evan Bourne and Chris Masters. All of the WWE guys rough up four of the Nexus wrestlers, chasing them off as Cena smiles in the ring. The WWE guys head backstage. Cena signals to Barrett that it's "one-on-one" now and smiles big. Cena goes for the Attitude Adjustment, but Barrett escapes and hits a suplex. Both guys fight on the top rope before Barrett is knocked off. Cena follows in with a leg drop off the top. Cena again goes for the Attitude Adjustment, but Barrett again avoids it and hits his own finisher. He attempts a pin there, but Cena kicks out. Out of nowhere, Cena finally hits the Attitude Adjustment. He goes for the pin but Barrett manages to kick out at 2 1/2. Cena locks in the STF when a "fan" (maybe Michael McGillicutty) enters the ring, distracting both Cena and the ref. Another "fan" (maybe Husky Harris) hits the ring and nails Cena with a lead pipe. Barrett makes the cover and gets the three count. Wade Barrett wins.
Rating: 8/10. I never thought I would rate a Cena match that high, but with Barrett winning, I had to stop myself from giving it a 10. My biggest gripe is that Cena still managed to save face because it took outside interference for Barrett to win and therefore isn't good enough to win when it really is 1-on-1.
After the match, the rest of Nexus comes out to celebrate with Barrett while Cena laid in the ring. Nexus heads to the stage, stopping to look back at Cena in the ring with smiles on their faces. As they make their way backstage, Cena is shown sitting in a corner in the ring with a discouraged look on his face. Fans are shown individually on-camera with stunned and depressed looks on their faces. Cena continues to look on in disbelief before slowly walking to the back. He stops at one point and rubs a small kid on the head. Good stuff.
Match 5: McCool vs. Natalya, Diva's title
McCool is accompanied by Layla. Natalya is out now and this one is getting started. Natalya had the match won at one point, but Layla stood on the ring apron to break up the pinfall count. As Natalya continued her assault of McCool, Layla again manages to interfere during a finish attempt, distracting the ref. Out of nowhere, Natalya locks in the Sharpshooter on McCool. Layla goes to interfere again. This time the ref disqualifies McCool. Pretty quick match, thank god.
Rating: 4/10. Bullshit. I knew that DQ would be the only chance Natalya stood at winning.
Match 6: Kane vs. Taker, WHC, HIAC
As he was entering the Hell In A Cell structure, Undertaker was attacked by Kane. No dramatic in-ring introductions for this main event, as these two are duking it out now. Both guys fight outside the ring on the floor, where Kane attacks Taker's knee with a chair. Kane slams Taker's knee with the heavy ringside steps. Kane continues to work over the left knee of Taker, as the two work their way back inside the squared-circle. Kane suffered a cut on the top of his head, which was bleeding on camera a bit. Kane continues the assault of Taker's leg as the action resumes. Taker and Kane exchange punches, with the crowd "boo'ing" and popping for Kane and Taker, respectively. Taker hits his infamous diving clothesline off the ropes. Taker goes for Old School but Kane yanks Taker down, hurting his knee in the process, the same knee he's been working on the majority of the contest. Kane hits a top-rope clothesline on Taker. Taker slaps on Hell's Gate out of nowhere, but Kane ultimately breaks the hold by falling to the floor at ringside. When the action resumes in the ring, both Taker and Kane land a simaltaneous big boot to the other. Taker hits a Chokeslam on Kane. Paul Bearer is heard freaking out at ringside. Kane avoids the pin. Taker hits a Last Ride on Kane for a nearfall. Taker goes for the Tombstone, but Kane counters and hits a Tombstone of his own. Taker kicks out of a pin attempt. Kane hits the referee out of nowhere, dropping him. Paul Bearer enters the ring. Kane looks at Bearer and decides to go after him. Bearer runs as Kane chases him around. As Kane nears getting his hands on Bearer, Taker does his infamous sit-up and chokeslams Kane. Taker does his throat-slicing gesture and a bunch of lightning flashed and struck in the arena. Taker picks Kane up for the Tombstone. During this, Paul Bearer opens the urn up and flashes a light into the eyes of Taker, who releases the hold. Bearer stands between Kane and Taker. Bearer eventually hands Kane the urn and Kane uses it to blast Taker with. Kane follows up with a Chokeslam and pins Taker, 1-2-3.
Rating: 7/10. The cell was useless again. I was hoping for SOME decent use of the cell from the guy that made the damn match famous. I'm glad Kane won, but Bearer turning was the most unoriginal way to do it.
After the match, Kane and Paul Bearer leave the ring together. Bearer held open the urn in front of his face as the glowing light shined while they stood on the stage. The light shines, they look on at Taker laid out in the ring, and the show fades off on that note.
Average match rating: 6.8/10 (-0.2) (rating change is based on the last PPV. In this case, Night of Champions)
The Diva's match brought the rating way down (what's new?) and there were several predictable endings, but other than that it was a great PPV, with Barrett winning the highlight of the night for me.
Overall show rating: 8/10
A decent PPV from WWE for a change. Good segment between Edge Swagger and Del Rio. I expect good things from Edge and Swagger in the future.
Tune in tomorrow evening for my Raw review. See you then.
October 3, 2010
Smackdown Review: Oct. 1/10
We're live for Smackdown's first broadcast on SyFy. they changed their theme song. I miss the old one.
The action starts right away with Dolph vs. MVP for the Intercontinental title
Match 1: MVP vs. Dolph, IC Title
Alright match, but I guess it was really only used to set up the Nexus appearance.
Rating: 4/10. It served it's purpose but it was a waste of a potentially good match.
Nexus (minus Barrett) takes Dolph out first to cause the match to be tossed. MVP is now taking the beating. They pretty much finish him off when Big Show comes running out. He also gets beaten down.
Here comes Cena. He gets his ass handed to him before Show comes back in and decks Slater with a chair. Show chases them off and now Barrett is up on the screen.
He says that since he's good friends with the network owner (or whoever it was) he's suggested some matches.
First off, Big Show will face Nexus in a 5-on-1 handicap match, and Cena will face Kane with Nexus as lumberjacks. This will be a fun night /sarcasm.
Aw shit, Cole is on commentary. This sucks.
Here comes LayCool, Maryse and Alicia Fox. Their opponents are Kelly Kelly, Natalya and the Bellas.
Match 2: LayCool, Maryse and Alicia Fox vs. Kelly, Natalya and the Bellas
Hornswoggle drags Layla under the ring. She runs off with little Horny chasing her. He runs right into Michelle's foot. Nice. Meanwhile in the ring, Maryse taps to Natalya's sharpshooter.
Rating: 5/10. Hornswoggle didn't help and neither did the Bellas.
We return to Swagger's homecoming ceremony. He's using Boomer Sooner as his entrance music tonight. He has an eagle mascot with him.
Pretty decent pop. He kills that pretty fast by dissing the state of Oklahoma. He says him and his mascot (the Swagger Soaring Eagle) have moved to Texas. He also proclaims himself the king of Oklahoma.
Edge cuts him off. Edge says that he's on a mission to rid the WWE of everything that's stupid.
Edge says he's going to start his mission right now. Edge drops his mic and Swagger ducks behind his mascot. Edge knocks the mascot away and Swagger slides out of the ring. It looks like Edge is going to spear the eagle. He does and Swagger is heading up the ramp.
Backstage Nexus segment. Barrett says that if anyone lays a finger on Nexus, they'll be suspended indefinitely.
Their match with Big Show is next.
Match 3: Nexus vs. Big Show
Short match as expected. The end sees Nexus each pick a limb and apply a submission. Barrett takes the neck and Show passes out.
Rating: 5/10. Nothing interesting except the 5 simultaneous submissions.
After the match, Gabriel delivers a 450. Barrett sends him back up for another one. I dunno if it was botched or done on purpose, but Gabriel landed his knees on Show's ribs.
Kane vs. CM Punk is on now after the commercials.
Match 4: Punk vs. Taker
Taker hits Snake Eyes on Punk. He tries for a pin but Punk kicks out. Taker delivers a chokeslam. Punk gets back up and walks right into a Tombstone for the pin.
Rating: 8/10. I really like where this storyline is going and this was a great match going into the PPV. Taker can still deliver a good match.
Alberto Del Rio is in the ring now.
He says tonight he's going to apologize to Rey Mysterio. He brings out a chihuahua wearing a Rey Mysterio mask and a little cast on it's leg.
He apologizes to the dog, and kisses it as promised. He wipes his lips off afterwards.
The real Rey makes his way out now. He beats down Del Rio and tosses him onto the second rope. Before he can do anything, Ricardo Rodriguez grabs Rey's leg. Del Rio escapes as Rey 619's Ricardo.
Back from commercials and we have Orton in the ring. He's going to be facing Cody Rhodes (still waiting for his and Drew's mashup theme).
Match 5: Dashing Cody Rhodes vs. Orton
Cody with a chin lock on Orton. Orton fights out. Rhodes goes for a springboard kick, but Orton ducks and hits a backbreaker. RKO quickly follows for the pin.
Rating: 6/10. Could've done more but it was decent.
Drew Mac i the ring now trying for a DDT. Orton counters into an RKO. Sheamus runs in now and drops Orton with a Brogue Kick.
Commercials are over and here comes Kane.
Match 6: Kane vs. Cena, Nexus as lumberjacks
Unsurprisingly, Nexus attacks Cena as soon as he's out of the ring. Kane is out of the ring now, and they give him a wide berth. Nexus drags Cena out of the ring now. The lights go out.
Rating: 5/10. Meh at best.
Taker appears in the ring once the lights are back on. Kane and Taker fight into the crowd now. LOL at dude falling. They fight their way back to the ring where Kane takes control. He grabs Taker for a chokeslam, but Taker overpowers Kane and hits a chokeslam of his own.
Kane staggers out of the ring and the show ends with Taker bowing to Paul Bearer and the urn.
Average match rating: 5.5/10 (+0.2)
The useless IC title match is what brought this rating down. I don't see why the title needed to be on the line if it was just going to be interrupted before it really got going.
Overall rating: 7/10 (--)
An okay go-home show for Hell in a Cell, and it could have been worse for a debut on a new network. I liked how Barrett brought the network into the show with his "friendship" with one of the higher-ups. There were definitely some weak points. I really hope Edge rids WWE of all things stupid, starting with Cole and Cena.
Monday will see my HIAC review, done as always through the coverage on WZ.
The action starts right away with Dolph vs. MVP for the Intercontinental title
Match 1: MVP vs. Dolph, IC Title
Alright match, but I guess it was really only used to set up the Nexus appearance.
Rating: 4/10. It served it's purpose but it was a waste of a potentially good match.
Nexus (minus Barrett) takes Dolph out first to cause the match to be tossed. MVP is now taking the beating. They pretty much finish him off when Big Show comes running out. He also gets beaten down.
Here comes Cena. He gets his ass handed to him before Show comes back in and decks Slater with a chair. Show chases them off and now Barrett is up on the screen.
He says that since he's good friends with the network owner (or whoever it was) he's suggested some matches.
First off, Big Show will face Nexus in a 5-on-1 handicap match, and Cena will face Kane with Nexus as lumberjacks. This will be a fun night /sarcasm.
Aw shit, Cole is on commentary. This sucks.
Here comes LayCool, Maryse and Alicia Fox. Their opponents are Kelly Kelly, Natalya and the Bellas.
Match 2: LayCool, Maryse and Alicia Fox vs. Kelly, Natalya and the Bellas
Hornswoggle drags Layla under the ring. She runs off with little Horny chasing her. He runs right into Michelle's foot. Nice. Meanwhile in the ring, Maryse taps to Natalya's sharpshooter.
Rating: 5/10. Hornswoggle didn't help and neither did the Bellas.
We return to Swagger's homecoming ceremony. He's using Boomer Sooner as his entrance music tonight. He has an eagle mascot with him.
Pretty decent pop. He kills that pretty fast by dissing the state of Oklahoma. He says him and his mascot (the Swagger Soaring Eagle) have moved to Texas. He also proclaims himself the king of Oklahoma.
Edge cuts him off. Edge says that he's on a mission to rid the WWE of everything that's stupid.
Edge says he's going to start his mission right now. Edge drops his mic and Swagger ducks behind his mascot. Edge knocks the mascot away and Swagger slides out of the ring. It looks like Edge is going to spear the eagle. He does and Swagger is heading up the ramp.
Backstage Nexus segment. Barrett says that if anyone lays a finger on Nexus, they'll be suspended indefinitely.
Their match with Big Show is next.
Match 3: Nexus vs. Big Show
Short match as expected. The end sees Nexus each pick a limb and apply a submission. Barrett takes the neck and Show passes out.
Rating: 5/10. Nothing interesting except the 5 simultaneous submissions.
After the match, Gabriel delivers a 450. Barrett sends him back up for another one. I dunno if it was botched or done on purpose, but Gabriel landed his knees on Show's ribs.
Kane vs. CM Punk is on now after the commercials.
Match 4: Punk vs. Taker
Taker hits Snake Eyes on Punk. He tries for a pin but Punk kicks out. Taker delivers a chokeslam. Punk gets back up and walks right into a Tombstone for the pin.
Rating: 8/10. I really like where this storyline is going and this was a great match going into the PPV. Taker can still deliver a good match.
Alberto Del Rio is in the ring now.
He says tonight he's going to apologize to Rey Mysterio. He brings out a chihuahua wearing a Rey Mysterio mask and a little cast on it's leg.
He apologizes to the dog, and kisses it as promised. He wipes his lips off afterwards.
The real Rey makes his way out now. He beats down Del Rio and tosses him onto the second rope. Before he can do anything, Ricardo Rodriguez grabs Rey's leg. Del Rio escapes as Rey 619's Ricardo.
Back from commercials and we have Orton in the ring. He's going to be facing Cody Rhodes (still waiting for his and Drew's mashup theme).
Match 5: Dashing Cody Rhodes vs. Orton
Cody with a chin lock on Orton. Orton fights out. Rhodes goes for a springboard kick, but Orton ducks and hits a backbreaker. RKO quickly follows for the pin.
Rating: 6/10. Could've done more but it was decent.
Drew Mac i the ring now trying for a DDT. Orton counters into an RKO. Sheamus runs in now and drops Orton with a Brogue Kick.
Commercials are over and here comes Kane.
Match 6: Kane vs. Cena, Nexus as lumberjacks
Unsurprisingly, Nexus attacks Cena as soon as he's out of the ring. Kane is out of the ring now, and they give him a wide berth. Nexus drags Cena out of the ring now. The lights go out.
Rating: 5/10. Meh at best.
Taker appears in the ring once the lights are back on. Kane and Taker fight into the crowd now. LOL at dude falling. They fight their way back to the ring where Kane takes control. He grabs Taker for a chokeslam, but Taker overpowers Kane and hits a chokeslam of his own.
Kane staggers out of the ring and the show ends with Taker bowing to Paul Bearer and the urn.
Average match rating: 5.5/10 (+0.2)
The useless IC title match is what brought this rating down. I don't see why the title needed to be on the line if it was just going to be interrupted before it really got going.
Overall rating: 7/10 (--)
An okay go-home show for Hell in a Cell, and it could have been worse for a debut on a new network. I liked how Barrett brought the network into the show with his "friendship" with one of the higher-ups. There were definitely some weak points. I really hope Edge rids WWE of all things stupid, starting with Cole and Cena.
Monday will see my HIAC review, done as always through the coverage on WZ.
October 1, 2010
Fantasy Storyline: WWE Title gets a little more awesome, part 1
This is the first of what I hope to be many storylines. This was the original purpose of the blog, so I hope to keep it going in some fashion. I'll try to wrap each one up in 2 posts, so each post will be on the longer side.
I'll keep the old format of going week by week and make any changes as they're needed. Hopefully you're still interested in this stuff.
Week 1: Hell in a Cell PPV
WWE champion Randy Orton has just successfully defended the title against Sheamus. The cell is being lifted and Orton is celebrating. He gets cut short by Miz's music. He has a ref in tow and his MITB briefcase in hand.
The match starts, and Miz dominates early on. Orton bounces back after kicking out of a pin and is on the offensive. Miz now ducks behind the ref and starts mocking Orton, who shoves the ref out of the way and starts pounding on Miz. The ref calls for the bell but Orton doesn't care. He RKO's Miz and walks off with the title.
Week 1: Monday Night Raw
Miz is in the ring and looking pissed.
"What happened last night was nothing short of a travesty. Randy Orton cost me my WWE title when he intentionally got disqualified by pushing the referee. He knew he couldn't beat me so he took the easy way out. Your hero is nothing more than a coward. If he has any sense of honour he will face me again tonight for the WWE Title."
*email comes in from the GM*
Cole gets up.
"May I have your attention please. I have received another email from the general manager. And I quote:
Miz, you had your title opportunity last night at Hell in a Cell. Randy Orton may have been disqualified, but your actions caused him to be disqualified. If you want a rematch so badly, you have to earn it, starting tonight. Your match is up next."
We come back to the action with Sheamus in the ring ready to face Miz. The match is about to start when another email comes in.
"May I have your attention please. I have received another email from the general manager. And I quote:
There's one more thing I forgot to mention. Miz, if you get -- or cause your opponent to be -- disqualified you will not get a shot at the title again as long and Randy Orton holds it."
The match gets underway. Sheamus is looking good in the early goings so far. Miz makes a comeback but quickly runs into trouble when Sheamus levels him with a Brogue Kick for the pin.
Miz is furious. He starts throwing chairs around and tears apart the announce table. He storms off to the back and that's the end of that.
Week 2: Monday Night Raw
Miz is back in the ring.
"This is not right! I should be the WWE Champion right now. Randy Orton is hiding behind our General Manager to get out of facing me. He's scared. He knows I would have beat him at Hell in a Cell. I DEMAND a title shot here TONIGHT!"
Orton's music hits and he makes his way to the stage.
"Do you really think I fear you? Do you really think that I'm hiding from you? I have never hidden from anyone, and I'm certainly not about to start with someone as pathetic as you. Yeah, I'll face you tonight, but you need to give me one good reason why my title should be on the line."
"Have you not been paying any attention to what I've said? You were intentionally disqualified from our match at Hell in a Cell. Your cowardice robbed me of MY WWE title."
*email*
"Gentlemen, nobody sanctioned a match between you two tonight. Miz still has not proven that he is worthy of another title match. If he wishes to face Randy Orton for the WWE Title, he will have to win his match tonight. As with last week, if Miz is disqualified or causes his opponent to be disqualified, he will not get a title match against Randy Orton."
Miz starts to argue with the GM.
"Hold on. I get cheated out of a proper match and now I have to jump through another ridiculous hoop to get one? I don't care if you are the general manager, I'm getting my title match tonight. Randy, you need a reason? I've already given you one. I don't have the WWE title right now because of what you did at Hell in a Cell. That alone should give me another title match."
"Yeah, I might have pushed the referee, but it was your mouth that set me off. You're just as responsible for my actions as I am."
*email*
"This is obviously not going to be resolved through arguing. Here is what will happen: Randy, you will put your title on the line against Miz at Bragging Rights in 3 weeks, provided Miz follows a couple of rules. First off, if he, or anyone on his behalf, attacks Randy Orton or interferes in his matches in any way, Miz loses his title shot.
Second, Miz must win all of his matches cleanly. No count outs, no disqualifications. Now, to make things fair, since Miz, you feel like Randy intentionally disqualified himself from your last title match, at Bragging Rights, it will be a no disqualification match for the WWE Title.
I hope this works to everyone's satisfaction."
Miz looks semi enraged and Orton seems to be content.
Week 3: Monday Night Raw
Miz has a match up next against Evan Bourne.
Some good back and forth action. Miz wins when he knocks Bourne off the top rope and hits the Skullcrushing Finale.
Later on in the night, Orton has a match against John Morrison.
Orton is looking strong and is on the verge of putting Morrison away.
Suddenly, Wade Barrett runs in and kicks Orton. The match is tossed. The show ends with Barrett running to the back.
End part 1
That's all for this week. Next week will see the finish of this storyline. A little change to announce before I sign off for the day.
Due to unpredictable work hours, I have decided to drop TNA from my coverage altogether and move my feature posts to Fridays. Everything else will remain the same:
Mondays: PPV review (should there be one)
Tuesdays: Raw review
Wednesdays: TBA
Thursdays: NXT review
Fridays: Feature post
Saturdays: Smackdown review
Sundays: TBA
I may add in a couple more things if I find the time for it. Sorry if things seem a little hectic right now. I'm still getting back into the routine of regular posting.
I'll keep the old format of going week by week and make any changes as they're needed. Hopefully you're still interested in this stuff.
Week 1: Hell in a Cell PPV
WWE champion Randy Orton has just successfully defended the title against Sheamus. The cell is being lifted and Orton is celebrating. He gets cut short by Miz's music. He has a ref in tow and his MITB briefcase in hand.
The match starts, and Miz dominates early on. Orton bounces back after kicking out of a pin and is on the offensive. Miz now ducks behind the ref and starts mocking Orton, who shoves the ref out of the way and starts pounding on Miz. The ref calls for the bell but Orton doesn't care. He RKO's Miz and walks off with the title.
Week 1: Monday Night Raw
Miz is in the ring and looking pissed.
"What happened last night was nothing short of a travesty. Randy Orton cost me my WWE title when he intentionally got disqualified by pushing the referee. He knew he couldn't beat me so he took the easy way out. Your hero is nothing more than a coward. If he has any sense of honour he will face me again tonight for the WWE Title."
*email comes in from the GM*
Cole gets up.
"May I have your attention please. I have received another email from the general manager. And I quote:
Miz, you had your title opportunity last night at Hell in a Cell. Randy Orton may have been disqualified, but your actions caused him to be disqualified. If you want a rematch so badly, you have to earn it, starting tonight. Your match is up next."
We come back to the action with Sheamus in the ring ready to face Miz. The match is about to start when another email comes in.
"May I have your attention please. I have received another email from the general manager. And I quote:
There's one more thing I forgot to mention. Miz, if you get -- or cause your opponent to be -- disqualified you will not get a shot at the title again as long and Randy Orton holds it."
The match gets underway. Sheamus is looking good in the early goings so far. Miz makes a comeback but quickly runs into trouble when Sheamus levels him with a Brogue Kick for the pin.
Miz is furious. He starts throwing chairs around and tears apart the announce table. He storms off to the back and that's the end of that.
Week 2: Monday Night Raw
Miz is back in the ring.
"This is not right! I should be the WWE Champion right now. Randy Orton is hiding behind our General Manager to get out of facing me. He's scared. He knows I would have beat him at Hell in a Cell. I DEMAND a title shot here TONIGHT!"
Orton's music hits and he makes his way to the stage.
"Do you really think I fear you? Do you really think that I'm hiding from you? I have never hidden from anyone, and I'm certainly not about to start with someone as pathetic as you. Yeah, I'll face you tonight, but you need to give me one good reason why my title should be on the line."
"Have you not been paying any attention to what I've said? You were intentionally disqualified from our match at Hell in a Cell. Your cowardice robbed me of MY WWE title."
*email*
"Gentlemen, nobody sanctioned a match between you two tonight. Miz still has not proven that he is worthy of another title match. If he wishes to face Randy Orton for the WWE Title, he will have to win his match tonight. As with last week, if Miz is disqualified or causes his opponent to be disqualified, he will not get a title match against Randy Orton."
Miz starts to argue with the GM.
"Hold on. I get cheated out of a proper match and now I have to jump through another ridiculous hoop to get one? I don't care if you are the general manager, I'm getting my title match tonight. Randy, you need a reason? I've already given you one. I don't have the WWE title right now because of what you did at Hell in a Cell. That alone should give me another title match."
"Yeah, I might have pushed the referee, but it was your mouth that set me off. You're just as responsible for my actions as I am."
*email*
"This is obviously not going to be resolved through arguing. Here is what will happen: Randy, you will put your title on the line against Miz at Bragging Rights in 3 weeks, provided Miz follows a couple of rules. First off, if he, or anyone on his behalf, attacks Randy Orton or interferes in his matches in any way, Miz loses his title shot.
Second, Miz must win all of his matches cleanly. No count outs, no disqualifications. Now, to make things fair, since Miz, you feel like Randy intentionally disqualified himself from your last title match, at Bragging Rights, it will be a no disqualification match for the WWE Title.
I hope this works to everyone's satisfaction."
Miz looks semi enraged and Orton seems to be content.
Week 3: Monday Night Raw
Miz has a match up next against Evan Bourne.
Some good back and forth action. Miz wins when he knocks Bourne off the top rope and hits the Skullcrushing Finale.
Later on in the night, Orton has a match against John Morrison.
Orton is looking strong and is on the verge of putting Morrison away.
Suddenly, Wade Barrett runs in and kicks Orton. The match is tossed. The show ends with Barrett running to the back.
End part 1
That's all for this week. Next week will see the finish of this storyline. A little change to announce before I sign off for the day.
Due to unpredictable work hours, I have decided to drop TNA from my coverage altogether and move my feature posts to Fridays. Everything else will remain the same:
Mondays: PPV review (should there be one)
Tuesdays: Raw review
Wednesdays: TBA
Thursdays: NXT review
Fridays: Feature post
Saturdays: Smackdown review
Sundays: TBA
I may add in a couple more things if I find the time for it. Sorry if things seem a little hectic right now. I'm still getting back into the routine of regular posting.
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