Wrestlemania Aftermath, Random Funny Stuff

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Wrestlemania Aftermath, Random Funny Stuff


So Wrestlemania has come and gone. I can't really say I was disapointed or upset with anything. With me, it's always the little things, and I'll be happy to point a few of those out. But, other than the little things, it was an awesome show.

So here's what I thought:

The tag match was well timed, just enough to get it done and get people moving a little.

I was kinda surprised to see Orton win, I was hoping Ted DiBiase was going to do something out of this on his own, but I guess that's for another time. Orton seems to have hit his face turn now, and it's going to be interesting to see where he goes with things.

I'm certain that NO ONE saw Jack Swagger winning the Bank last night. While he was clearly at Charlie Hass's garage sale on Saturday, he did a great job screwing up the unhooking process, but it's also going to be interesting to see where his story goes now, especially since they didn't seem to have too much for him before this.

I expected Triple H to go over, but I thought it was going to be a much better match. It almost seemed soft, but I hope it continues, because I know these two have MUCH better things in themselves for a much better match.

Plain and simple, I wanted Punk to win, but I'm hoping that this isn't over either. He should have something awesome for Rey at Extreme Rules.

Bret Hart's match wasn't a disapointment. Hart Dynasty got on camera, which is awesome, and it's always nice to see Bruce Hart and Diana Hart act when thier on television. They're so special...

I didnt see Jericho retaining here, so it was a great shock to me. Not only that, but the match was fantastic. Good solid mat work, some great high spots, and it was safe and spectacular. More on safe later.

Batista and Cena put on a good match, although I wish I could have seen Batista keep the belt here. He's a great heel, a total jacked up !@#hole that wants everything thats coming to him and more. It's a good role for him, as we haven't seen heel Batista this good since Evolution.

I wish Vickie Guererro 's match was face friendly, but I get that thier trying to get her over as the uber heel. It's understandable. I liked the Eddie shout out. Very nice touch, and I was happy to see that some of the fans got it.

Undertaker and Shawn Michaels delivered the match of thier careers, but it has definetly got to show you how close Undertaker is to retirement. If he didn't hurt himself last night, I was totally fooled by his sell. He was limping on his way down to the ring, he landed goofy coming off the Old School reversal, and HBK landed on him pretty strange on the Moonsault. King said he thought Undertaker had broken his leg, and at one point, it looked all wobbly and wiggly, much like the infamous Sid incident. Do you know about the Sid incident? Let's look at it...




HOW GROSS WAS THAT!?!?! MAN OH MAN!!!

It just came across to me that something was seriously, seriously wrong with his leg. I liked the end of the match, and how they gave Shawn his time to walk down from the ring and back to Gorilla position. I'm sure RAW is going to be fun tonight, and it's going to give the answers I need from last night.

Now, for a brief COMMERCIAL break!!!





So, if you haven't been following my Facebook or my other work on Fight Network, then you haven't heard... ALPHA 1 IS DOING ANOTHER SHOW AND IT'S WELL ON ITS WAY!!!

The show is going to be featuring some of the hottest names in Indy Wrestling! SABIAN from CZW, SOLDIER ANT from CHIKARA, ETHAN PAGE, JOEY KINGS, HORNET, RIP IMPACT, and of course, the RETURN bout!

Last time they faced off, Hacker Scotty O'Shea and Ronin Josh Alexander went to the limit! The time limit that is... After both men tired everything they could, including Hacker hitting both the Firewall and the Blue Screen of Death, nothing could put the other away. NOT ONLY THAT, But Alexander refused the handshake after the match, just walking away to the backstage area. Who will come out on top this time? Will Josh Alexander be able to pull the plug on The Hacker or will The Hacker 'worm' his way past the Ronin's auspicious offence?



IT ALL COMES DOWN TO IT ON APRIL 11TH AT THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS ON PARKDALE AND QUEENSTON! This si what PRO WRESTLING in HAMILTON is all about. Ass kicking, take no names, fly through the air, slobberknocker action! It's family friendly entertainment, it's priced right at ten bucks, and it's a great Sunday out with the family. Why wouldn't you go? Honestly? What else are you doing that day? Gardening? Screw it, just come down to the wrestling matches for a few hors, have a good time, grab a slice of pizza and a pop, maybe even buy some stuff off the merch table. Either way, you're going to have a good time, for minimal cost, and see some top tier professional wrestling. It's the best value in entertainment in the city!

And now, for your listening enjoyment. I found this on Youtube a little while ago, and I find it gets truer and truer as time goes by. Ladies and gentlemen, Voices That Care. It's a charity video, for the Troops of the original Iraqi conflict, your fave and mine... DESERT STORM!

ENJOY and I'll see you next time!

Smackdown Rundown for March 26th!

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Smackdown March 26/09

Do you know the way to San Jose? Smackdown sure does and you know why? It’s the night before the Hall of Fame, it’s two days away from the biggest show of the year, and this is your FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN REPORT! No wasting time this week, Todd and Matt are introducing guys as soon as the opening theme is over. Here comes Kane.

Match One: Ten Man Tag Match featuring the Money in the Bank Players

This match went pretty long, but it was good for what it was. When you have that many guys in a tag match it can be tough getting everyone ample and equal time in the ring. Christian had some good spots here, as well as Shelton Benjamin, who did a great leap to the top rope to hit a big spot on Evan Bourne. The match ended with Drew McIntyre making use of his Futureshock DDT on Christian, and then making himself out to be the winner of the match before it even started, by setting up the ladder and working his way to the top. The rest of the MitB hopefuls come back to the ring and put a hurt on him. I don’t know who it is that wants this guy to succeed so badly, but I think the way they’re trying to shove Drew down our throats is a bit much, almost to a point where I want him to fail just to be contrary to the Company.

At this point, we’re being given shots from Wrestlemania Fan Axxess, and it looks pretty impressive. It’s one of the reasons that I think WWE should have a physical Hall of Fame and Fan Interaction centre somewhere. The boys run down the rest of tonight’s card, Beth vs. Vickie, and Jericho cutting an awesome promo. An Undertaker and HBK promo comes up and as always, it’s fantastic. Commercials and Laura Diakun is off tonight. I’m a tad upset…

A Wrestlemania Promo runs with Kevin Rudolph. Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler pop up and show off some more Axxess, and they go on to throw to Edge vs. Jericho package number four. Or maybe it’s three, I don’t know. I’ve seen so many now, that I’m getting them all confused. I understand why they’re doing this, but I’ve seen these all to death and it’s really taking away from the Smackdown program. Especially since tonight they won’t be furthering the Punk and Mysterio angle. We can see the lead up so far, but nothing new, something that would help to get people amped for the match, especially since it just started only a few weeks ago. That’s something I’ll get into later.

Tough Enough alumnus Josh Matthews is backstage in San Jose, and has the Miz and Big Show. What’s the short version? Big Show is facing R-Truth tonight, and he’s going to be feeding him the mallet on the end of his arm. Man, Miz is annoying. I do like Big Show’s new shirt, however.
Vickie Guererro is on her way down to the ring, and she’s got something up her sleeve other than elephant ears. If you get that joke, good for you.

Match Two: Beth Phoenix vs. Vickie Guererro

Beth hit the ring first, but Vickie wasn’t far behind. Not only was she not far behind, but she has a newsflash for the Universe. Tonight, Beth will be competing in a five on one match. LayCool, Alicia Fox, and Maryse come down to the ring, and join forces with Vickie to attempt to extinguish the firebird Beth Phoenix. Beth beat up on Layla pretty good, and at one point tosses her at Michelle McCool. Layla did another cool spot where she grabbed Beth’s ankles and everyone ganged up on her, so Vickie could come in and get the pin. The heel Divas all encourage Vickie to get up on the ropes and hit a frog splash, which I’m happy to report, didn’t happen. Face Divas hit the ring, and clean house. Mickie James and Gail Kim both had impressive spots, and once the ring had cleared somewhat, Beth got her hands on Vickie. Unfortunately, what she grabbed wasn’t staying attached to Vickie’s body. Her pants came off, and a shred of my manhood that was there will never be again. The last thing I needed to see was Guererro running to the back, in pink granny panties, with the silver lettering Excuse Me on the ass. It’s kinda funny, but mostly gross. Striker threw up in his mouth a little bit. That’s good television.

John Cena/Batista promo comes up next, the same sorta thing I’ve been seeing. It’s good, just repetitive. Commercial time and I think I’m having some Dr. Pepper.

As we come back from commercial, Chris Jericho is introduced and kicks that great saunter down to the ring. The heel is dripping off this guy like sap on a tree in the Gourley Park Forest. Some of the crowd is chanting Spear, but it’s kinda weak. Jericho goes on to say that he’s going to win on Sunday, and retain the belt. Jericho says no one in the business has ever come back from as many injuries as Edge has. He has every tool it takes to beat Jericho, except for one thing. DNA. Y2J’s DNA is superior to all of ours, and to Edges. This is a pretty cool promo. Toss in some science, and we all have a good time, right Bill Nye? That’s right.

Chris goes on to blame his mother, his father, his grandparents, and his DNA for his multiple injuries. He plans on locking his Walls of Jericho and rupturing Edge’s career once again. Edge hits the stage, and makes his way out to beat down Jericho. He lands a few shots and sets up for the Spear, but Jericho is able to get away. Edge poses with the belt and Jericho does the best heel back off I’ve seen since CM Punk got beat up by Rey a few episodes ago.

When we come back from commercial, we get a look at the Wrestlemania 26 Reading Challenge, and how some kids were in a contest. Wish I could be in a contest… stupid kids. I still blame Mrs. Lawson for screwing with MS Readathon prizes at CH Bray back in the day.
We go back to Cole and Lawler, pitching Axxess and the Hitman/McMahon angle. This is a good video, and I’m interested in the match, but I worry Bret may come out of this worse for wear. I hope there’s some color, even though we know WWE is trying to stray away from blood. Just seems like they should go for blood, no pun intended.
When we return, Big Show is going to be taking on R-Truth. What technical prowess awaits us…?


So, I’m sick of Keystone Light commercials, and we get back to the show. There’s some more footage from Axxess, including a suit that belonged to Andre the Giant. That’s kinda creepy. Cole and Lawler just mentioned the Hall of Fame and I’m just pissed off about that. I mean, sure I can watch it on Youtube later on, but I would still rather watch it on television. I miss DirectTV…
We are now seeing the second Cena/Batista promo of the night, just in case some of us forgot that those two are having a little to-do on Sunday. I have a feeling Cena is going over, but I hope Batista holds on a little longer. He’s a great heel.

When Smackdown returns from the ads, they’re going to have an ‘in-depth’ look at the HBK/Undertaker match. I would assume that means they’re playing the same promo again.

This weeks Wrestlemania Recall is one of my favorites. I really enjoyed all the movie trailers for Wrestlemania 21, they brought the MitB to the Show of Shows and it gave rise to the Rated R Superstar, Edge. It makes me miss Benoit though, he had some great spots in that match.
We get back into Axxess with Cole and Lawler, and they actually have a graveyard for all the previous Undertaker victims from the other Mania’s. The best part is the freshly dug grave for Shawn Michaels. If that isn’t foreshadowing, then what is? I have got to get to one of these events. Fingers crossed for Vancouver.

So the HBK/Undertaker promo looks to be a new one, and it’s pretty awesome. Sim Snuka will be part of Mania history for helping to take that outside bump, so I guess that’s something to hold onto. If Shawn is really going and this is the end of HBK, then I hope he stays that way. Go down to Florida once in a while, and help train the next generation if you get the itch. But just stay home, man. You’ve done your job, and you’ve done it well. Just fade to black and be done with it. And for GOD SAKES, don’t Flair it up.

Cole and Lawler sum it all up, as best as they can, with what’s already been said. A tale for the tape is fun, but it was better when it was Cole and Tazz. Cole predicts HBK to win on Sunday and King predicts Undertaker, based on his multiple weapons at his disposal. With the match being No DQ, it should be entertaining to say the very least. Cole throws it back to San Jose and we got Morrison in slow-mo! No fur either, thank god. Daddy Squirrel is coming home for dinner tonight.

Match Three: Big Show vs. R-Truth

John introduces Truth to the ring, and the music hits the arena. I keep waiting for someone to say Not Much when asked What’s Up. Maybe he should try it in Philadelphia. R-Truth says that was the best introduction he’s ever had so he introduces Morrison. They tried making fun of Unified WWE Tag Team Champions ShowMiz, but it doesn’t work too well. The fans aren’t totally into it, but it’s just weak. Show more or less manhandles Truth to start, but Truth evades a flying Big Show from the top rope. The Miz tried to interfere but Morrison threw him into the steel ring steps. He went to help R-Truth and they turned Big Show’s chokeslam into a DDT. The referee called for the bell as they continued to beat on Big Show. The Miz tried to help again but was knocked out and Morrison hits Starship Pain.

Show Overview

For what was mostly a clip show, this wasn’t overly terrible. The matches that were on were good enough, but I would really have liked to see some more Punk and Mysterio tonight, so I’m going to rant about it. When you JUST start a feud, you have to feed the fire that burns it into the audience. I would have loved to see Punk sitting on Rey’s front porch or something and cutting a promo. That’s all. Nothing physical and nothing that’s going to potentially injure him before Sunday. His promos have been stellar for the entirety of the Straight Edge Society, and I can’t help but love how crazy he gets. I said it before, and I’ll say it again. CM Punk is becoming a better evolved Raven.

So all in all, the show is about 6.5 out of 10. I’m all excited for Wrestlemania and that means that the company has done its job. So I guess you’re wondering what my Wrestlemania picks are going to be and I can certainly fill you in on all of that. Simply check out my blog, and you’ll get a full rundown for the Granddaddy of ‘Em All. It’s pretty funny, and there’s some good insight if I do say so myself.

See you next week.

Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and a lifelong wrestling fan. His favourite Mania moments include Wrestlemania III’s Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage, and Chris Benoit vs. Chris Jericho vs. Kurt Angle for the Intercontinental Title and the European Title from Wrestlemania 2000. Both are complete wrestling clinics, and he encourages you to check them out, if you haven’t yet.

Smackdown Rundown for March 26th!

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Wrestlemania Ramblings

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Wrestlemania Ramblings

Here we are, a few days away from the grandest stage in the business of professional wrestling. While many this Sunday won’t understand us, (and by us I mean the faithful fanatic) we all gather together, with friends, family, neighbors, and workplace colleagues, to witness the spectacle, the grandeur, and the majesty that took twenty five years to build. Yes, Virginia, Wrestlemania comes but once a year, but as always, it promises to be the climax and apex of all that has transpired in the past year.

The plan this year is to run it down with three people. My best friend, my girlfriend, and myself. Now, many of you might be asking what’s the deal with the choices here? Well it’s simple really. My best friend, Blair Fraser, is an old school wrestling fan like me, but in recent years has fallen away from being the serious viewer that I am. He’s not the kind to DVR Superstars to see the Tyson Kidd/Mysterio match, but he’s going to follow up with RAW and everything else online. My girlfriend, Lisa Connolly, is the fair-weather and casual fan. She watches what’s on the programs, and follows at a distance, but doesn’t necessarily understand all the rules, all the stipulations, and of course, the history behind the company. But she certainly has favorites and the ones she hates on as well, so she certainly is obliged to have an opinion. That and she’s dating me.

Now, as for me, I’m a different kind of cat. I watch wrestling in a different way from other people. I’m constantly looking at what works with the crowds and what doesn’t. I’ll look to see how real something is, especially in the case of injuries or whatever. I read a bunch of websites, I write for the Fight Network and SLAM.Canoe.Ca, and I have friends that are wrestlers. I also do work for a local Indy group, called Alpha 1. You haven’t heard about it? Wait till next week…

So here we go, breaking down the card in no particular order:

The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels aka The Streak vs. The Career

JG: To be absolutely honest, this has been the best build for any program that I have seen in quite some time. Not only has it been strong for both sides, but no one really has to play heel here. There are just enough people that like both guys to take sides up pretty fairly, almost like Hogan and Rock. I can’t really see Undertaker losing this match, and Shawn needs a rest now anyways, especially after all the DX antics. Dwarf Court can take a lot out of a person.

BF: Taker extends the streak and Michaels retires

LC: I agree with both BF, and JG. Taker takes it to 18-0 and Michaels scampers off to lick his wounds for a few months. Triple H will then hunt him down and find him working in a bowling alley then tries to convince him to rejoin DX and the wrestling world.


Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart vs. Vince McMahon aka Can’t We All Just Get Along?

JG: I have been pretty vocal about my thoughts on this, the Hart family, and the usage of their legacy in the WWE Universe. God, I hate calling it Universe… Sounds so STUPID. Anyways, Hart Dynasty needs to make an appearance here. This could be accomplished a multitude of ways, but I would prefer to see it in the way of a real stable, and then having Bret mentor them or manage them. ALL OF THEM, since I’m sick of seeing Natalya wasted on the sidelines, when she should be running roughshod all over the Women’s Division. I have to say that I see Bret going over here, but since he’s sticking around for a bit after Wrestlemania, this might play out until Extreme Rules. I sincerely doubt it though.

BF: Bret Hart wins. If McMahon has some kind of interference then the Hart Dynasty makes the save and gets the push they deserve.

LC: Vince is a dick and has something up his sleeve. He pulls out something sneaky and underhanded for the win. Once the bell rings, Hart Dynasty flies into the ring and beats the shit out of Vince. The storyline continues well after Wrestlemania. I really hope Hart Dynasty gets more ring time that doesn’t include Cryme Tyme. It’s been going on far too long.

John Cena vs. Batista for the WWE Title

JG: This has been a decent build up and I do want to see how this plays out. I love Batista as the heel, and it’s a great updated, ramped up, homage to Flair at times. Cena is probably going to win this, if only because no one wants to watch several thousand children cry all at once. Or do they? *evil grin*

BF: Batista should win this one. He is doing so good as a heel, but who knows with Super Cena.

LC: Cena has been getting his ass kicked for a few weeks on this one. He’s due for a win here. Batista turns on Vince after the loss and turns face.

Edge vs. Chris Jericho for the World Heavyweight Championship aka Last Canuck Standing

JG: I see this whole thing as pretty predictable. Edge is going to win the match with the spear, and then Christian, who will have won Money in the Bank, will come out and cash it in. If he doesn’t do it tonight, he does it on Smackdown next week. Edge needs someone to feud with, since Jericho will most likely be on his way back to Raw after Mania and Christian and Edge never got the chance to have the great feud that many of us KNOW that they can provide for the audience. These two can go all night long and then some, and it’s going to be great to see it happen, assuming it does.

BF: Edge will probably win, but shouldn't. Could see the money in the bank used here.

LC: Completely agree with B.F. He shouldn’t win. To put a spin on J.G.’s prediction, it would be GREAT to see Jericho beat Edge. He’s been pushing the spear since the Rumble and it would be great to see it fail. Then the MIB winner cashes in and beats Jericho so there is a complete wild card Champion no one expects. But let’s be real here…that won’t happen. Edge will win then Jericho will cry for 3 months.

Money in the Bank Ladder Match

JG: If it isn’t Christian, than it’s Drew McIntyre. Someone at Titan Tower has a hard on for that kid and if they get their way, he’s going be it. You didn’t honestly think Shelton Benjamin was going to win it, did you? YOU DID? Christ… that’s deplorable.

BF: Christian wins. Sets up Edge vs. Christian. (Like I said, predictable, but still awesome.)

LC: I hate Drew McIntyre, so it better be Christian.

Big Show and The Miz vs. R-Truth and John Morrison for the World Tag Team Championships

JG: I could see this just being a big schmoz and nothing really coming from it. There’s so little going into this, and I don’t remember any of the crowds at recent Raw or Smackdown shows being into the one on one matches that have been taking place with these four. I don’t care enough to even guess so let me flip a coin. Looks like it’s going to be MizShow. Good, now hurry up and lose to Hart Dynasty.

BF: Who really cares, but I say the champs keep their titles.

LC: I hope MizShow pulls it out because IMO, John Morrison’s image just doesn’t work in a tag team setting. Morrison and R-Truth as a tag team just feels wrong and awkward in a way. Like a car accident you can’t help but stare at, but feel bad for looking.

Triple H vs. Sheamus aka two Jacked Up Guys with No Real Storyline

JG: I see Triple H going over here. But it’s going to be one hell of a fight.

BF: Double DQ and the rivalry continues

LC: I agree with J.G. Triple H and Sheamus beat the piss out of each other; Triple H pulls it out and the feud continues with Sheamus seeking revenge.

Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase Jr. vs. Cody Rhodes aka who’s the Face and who’s the Heel?

JG: Randy is winning the match, if only because Ted and Cody can’t coordinate their attack together without burning one another. With the Draft on the horizon, I can’t see these three all staying on the same show, and I could see Ted having a good run on Smackdown as the Million Dollar Champion. Cody… I just don’t know what’s in store for him. But I wish him all the best. He’s got a good start on a long road.

BF: Orton pulls out the victory as DiBiase and Rhodes turn on each other.

LC: Agree with B.F…mostly because I didn’t even think of that angle and it sounds awesome!

Rey Mysterio vs. CM Punk

JG: I love Rey Mysterio. Ever since I first saw him in an ECW tape a friend lent me, I knew something special was in store for this diminutive superstar. I was hoping for this to become the Mask vs. Society match that was rumoured but that may still be in the works. I think CM Punk is going to win this match, not only with help from Luke Gallows and Serena, but why not with the help of little Aaliyah Mysterio? Or Dominik? It’s going to further the story, it’s going to give Rey some depth and an emotional story to work with, which he really hasn’t had since Eddie Guererro was around.

BF: Mysterio will win but it would be interesting to see what would happen with him in the SES.

LC: Mysterio pulls off the win and the SES goes out for blood after Mania. The storyline will continue and just get more and more INSANE.



So there you have it! My complete and total run down, to a T. Got comments or thoughts? I always welcome comments on the page, in my inbox, on my Facebook, wherever. Feel free to send me your own thoughts, I’m always interested.



Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and a lifelong wrestling fan. Once, in Montreal, Blair and I got into a fake wrestling match. I was dressed as Piper and he was wearing a weak, dollar store executioner mask. It was epic.

March 19 Smackdown in Hollywood!!!

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March 19/10 Smackdown

First off, let me apologize for the lateness of the report. I got caught up with some work and March Madness flipped around my viewing of the show. So, enough apologies, taped from lovely Los Angeles, California, lets ‘Layeth the Smackethdown’!!!

We’re starting the show with a big Rey Mysterio promo, introduced by our announcers, Matt and Todd. This is really getting the program over, and I really enjoyed the crazy Punk antics last week.

Rey comes down to the ring, rocking a great looking t-shirt, and his black mask. He ain’t happy, folks. Every time he closes his eyes, he sees his family in terror, and fear. All this because of one person, CM Punk. Rey says he has climbed mountains, won titles, taken beatings, been embarrassed and been afraid. But Punk crossed the line messing with the family. Rey accepts the match at Wrestlemania, but he wants a street fight, which I’ll pop for. I’m totally down to see these two just go at it all over the arena!

Punk arrives, The Society in tow. Gallows looks kinda like Duke ‘The Dumpster’ Drosse. But Punk delivers once again. He’s consistently the best promo guy on the show, along with Jericho. Not only that, but he works so hard to get the matches and the gimmicks over, he’s just everything the business needs right now, because he can STAY HEALTHY. That’s the biggest thing you can have on your side, is that horseshoe that keeps you uninjured and on the mark, every night.

This whole thing is going over like a superhero vs. diabolical villain, and I love this. He’s this crazy David Koresh nut bag, with the Howard Hughes beard. Punk says Rey needs to accept him as his savior. Rey says Punk is loco and that that’s not going to happen. So tonight, Luke Gallows is going to face Rey Mysterio. If Rey wins, he gets his street fight. But if Gallows wins, and then Rey loses at Wrestlemania, he has to join the Straight Edge Society. I believe I talked about this already a few months ago, and predicted the whole story here, so applause is welcome.

My only problem with this is I think it’s leading to Rey losing his mask. If he loses at Mania and he joins Straight Edge, then it’s going to be like shaving his head, and I think it’s the worst thing you can do to a luchador. This is going to ruin him with the kids, and it’s taking money out of the amount of merch you can sell based on the current gimmick. I realize Rey is getting closer to retirement by the year, but I don’t think you should be tearing the mask off now, just to freshen him up. Eric Bischoff tried that once before and it worked moderately, but not to the extreme as before.

Match One: Dolph Ziggler & Jack Swagger d. MVP & Matt Hardy

Apparently, the brand extension basically doesn't exist in March and April this year. They got about six minutes with a commercial mixed in after a minute. I never got into the match. When you do a hot tag after only a couple of minutes you have to assume it's going to be a quick contest. Ziggler eventually hit MVP with the Zig Zag for the win. After the match, Ziggler climbed a ladder and grabbed the briefcase. Good for him, because I think it’s the last time you’re going to get that chance. Show me a man that thinks any of these guys is winning the match, and I’ll show you a fool. I can’t possibly see it happening.

They do a fast recap of last weeks Highlight Reel with Edge and Jericho. This was awesome, and I loved his belt shot. Tonight, Edge will be hosting the Cutting Edge, and Jericho will be the guest.

As the Undertaker/HBK video package airs again, I have to say I love the work that’s going into what many are calling Shawn Michaels final match. If it is, I would say career well done. If it isn’t, then don’t let him stay long. I think he needs to go home for a rest. Cash is brilliant for this piece as well, I just wish they would have stayed with the Placebo song for the first half of it, and mashing them up. Mash ups work great in music, just not well in tag teams.

They show us Vince’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Someone should go by there and leave a ‘Sexy Bitch’ sticker or toy boat. Just a thought…

Teddy Long and Drew McIntyre are backstage and get into a roundabout conversation about winning and losing, based around Mr. McMahon’s intervention. So, based on winning streaks, Teddy is having Drew fight The Undertaker later in the evening. That should be a treat.

Match Two: Beth Phoenix and Tiffany vs. Michelle McCool and Layla

I don’t like Beth’s pose with the hands. It’s like she’s Wonder Woman or something. I loved the Airplane spin by Beth on Layla. Who doesn't love the airplane spin? Classic Rotunda. I'm impressed by Tiffany and not just because she's good looking, but the forearms she throws look crisp and she's surprisingly able to pull off the aggressive attacks. She got beat up by Michelle a bit, Beth got the hot tag and was able to finish off McCool with the Glam Slam for the win after about four minutes. This was actually a decent tag match. The girls have really picked up the ball and are running with it, while Mickie is out until after Mania. They worked well together and I would say that thanks to Fit Finlay. Vickie Guerrero came out, said she wanted an apology from Beth for attacking her. Beth gave her one, but of course, that wasn't good enough. Therefore, next week it's Beth vs. Vickie. This worked since the crowd hates Vickie, so that's helping Beth's face turn. I can’t wait until she gets the belt back. Maybe by then, Natalya Neidhardt can start working Beth long term. But I’m sure that won’t happen, Hart Dynasty get treated like a group of pariahs. It’s such a waste.

They showed Kevin Rudolf in the crowd while plugging his "I Made It" song. Lisa likes it, I think its ok. I would have liked something more from the Fozzy Album, but I guess that’s old news.
Jericho as a guest on the Cutting Edge

The only difference between last week and this week was the guest got introduced to be on the show whereas last week they both came out at the same time. Jericho's brought his NXT rookie Wade Barrett, just to take a Spear. And obviously, Edge's set doesn't contain an obscenely expensive screen like the Jeritron 3000. Other than that, it was more or less the same thing. They have had several face to face promos with one another and they're always good but, in this instance, they really focused on the left foot injury. Once it got physical, Jericho got sent down to the floor while Edge hit the Spear on Barrett. Jericho got back in and gave Edge a Codebreaker to send him down. Then he stomped on the ankle. I would have loved a chair shot to the ankle, like the Brian Pillman angle but perhaps that’s a bit much. It was basically the same thing they've been doing except they focused more on the ankle injury, which is a good thing. That’s how you build sympathy for the face. I hate how Batista uses the Spear as a set up move but Edge uses it as a finisher. If anything, it would be more deadly coming from the Animal than the Ultimate Opportunist. It just doesn’t make sense to me.
Match Three: Hart Dynasty vs. Morrison and R-Truth

So, I guess Truth and Morrison are going into Mania to face MizShow, but I can’t see them pulling the win. In fact, I would think this might lead to a Morrison heel turn so he can go and do 5 Star matches with Truth until time ends. This was more or less a squash, but there were some good spots from the Dynasty before Truth hit the Lie Detector, at about two minutes in. Remember when the wrestling media and the online wrestling community thought that Bret Hart coming back would benefit the kids in some way? Yeah, hasn’t happened. Maybe post Mania, but I wouldn’t count on it. Hell, I’m still waiting to see Jim Neidhardt show up on TV!

Cryme Tyme’s Word Up Segment was reduced to being a commercial for Slim Jim and their Wrestlemania Sweepstakes. Honestly, give me a good old Hot Rod any day.

Match Four: Rey Mysterio vs. Luke Gallows

This was the longest and best match on the show but Rey’s colors make him look like a court jester or clown. These two do have great chemistry, since Mysterio's such an awesome worker against the bigger opponents. I mean, he pulled magic out of Kevin Nash. I've said in recent weeks, I'm impressed by Gallows' mobility. He's tall, but in no way slow. He has great ring mobility and always gets in the right spot to either hit moves or take the bump. That's very important for a big guy. It's what differentiates him from a guy like Chris Masters who is immobile with poor timing. About eight minutes in, Mysterio hit the 619, which was the cue for the interference as Punk distracted the ref, Serena tripped Mysterio up and Gallows capitalized to score the pin. I always love outside interference to push a stable. This means if Punk wins at Mania then Rey joins the Straight Edge Society. Again, if this leads to him losing his mask, I’m not going to be happy. I’ll keep watching to see where it goes, but I won’t be happy. I believe in the luchador tradition.

Match Five: Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre

In two minutes of squash, Drew catches an apron leg drop, a chokeslam, and a Tombstone piledriver, just for coming out. I still see Christian winning the MitB, but Drew might be a close second. The office loves him, but I think he might be better served finding a tag team for a bit, if only that division really existed. It’s a bookmark at this point.

Shawn Michaels comes out of NOWHERE post match, and misses the Superkick, they tussle and then he nails it on the second shot. He talked trash to end the show while Undertaker raised his fist up in the air. This was a good ending to the show although to those that think it means HBK will go into WM as a heel you're sorely mistaken. This is a case of getting the upper hand before the match and I would expect to see Undertaker on Raw this week.

SHOW OVERVIEW

I have to give this show a weak 7. It did what it was supposed to do, and that’s push the Mysterio/Punk angle, but I think the rest of the show suffered for it’s length and involvement. Hart Dynasty once again takes a loss, and of course it pisses me off. They are the best pure athletes on the show, and I think they should be showcased in the best possible way. I just wish they could have pushed the McMahon/Hitman angle on Smackdown instead.

Remember, that while Wrestlemania is just a week away, April is going to be hot in Southern Ontario. Alpha 1 is featuring their second show in Hamilton, at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Parkdale and Queenston on April 11th, featuring Soldier Ant from Chikara, Sabian aka Blk Jesus from CZW, and all your other Alpha Superstars! Also, the earth shattering rematch of The Hacker vs. Josh ‘The Ronin’ Alexander, not only friend against friend, but each of these young lions is trying to carve their own legacy in Ontario.

April 26th, the Iroqouis Lacrosse Arena will be rocking and rolling to raise funds for Cancer. Hagersville will be hosting the likes of The Highlanders, Doink the Clown, Native Legend Tatanka, The King of Old School Steve Corino, Hillbilly Jim, Brutus the Barber Beefcake, and just announced, former Hart Foundation member Jim ‘The Anvil’ Neidhardt will be on hand to lay the beat down on any punks that get in his way. TNA’s Cody Deaner and Johnny Devine will be on hand, as well as some explosive young talent. The entourage, Ethan Page and Joey King of KO’s Kings will be there, along with Asian Nightmare Kwan Chang, Tyrant Eric Dawson, Outlaw Scott Chase, and Rip Impact. The Facebook event is available at: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=358463572573&ref=ts

And I’ll be posting some interviews, previews, and information about the upcoming event in the coming weeks at http://jeffgoodridge.blogspot.com/

Hope to see you all here next week for another rousing edition of the Smackdown Rundown.

Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and a lifelong wrestling fan. He and his friend Blair will be posting an epic dialogue about their Wrestlemania predictions in a few short days, so stay tuned.

Smackdown for March 12/10

Smackdown March 12/10

Smackdown is large and in charge, blowing in this week from Seattle, Washington! The home of grunge rock, Starbucks and Frasier Crane is going to be rocking tonight with the return of Chris Jericho’s Highlight Reel in addition to all kinds of action from Rey Mysterio and CM Punk. Todd Grisham and Matt Striker once again man the announce table, and we are underway!

Apparently, we’re starting with Rey Mysterio this week as well. As the 619 fills the arena air the miniature masked marvel makes his way down to the ring with his family in tow. Wife Angie, daughter Aaliyah, and son Dominic, whom we haven’t seen since Eddie Guerrero tried taking him away from Rey way back at Summerslam ’05.

SURPRISE! It’s Aaliyah’s birthday, and the little princess is turning 9 years old. The crowd takes off with a great Happy Birthday chant but that’s not enough. Rey gets everyone in on singing Happy Birthday until he’s interrupted by CM Punk. This is the beginning of something purely evil and maniacal. If only every heel could be this good.

Punk is delivering the promo of his CAREER! He challenges Rey to a match at Wrestlemania, but also wants a fight right here and now in front of his family. He adds that he’s allowing to concede to Rey’s daughter being allowed to cover her eyes so she won’t have to watch her father beg for mercy and scream in agony. He mentions something similar to each family member and this is really going hard. This is all being so well done, it’s almost like Paul Heyman is working at WWE again. IT’S THAT GOOD!

Rey finally gets his family out of the ring and up the ramp with Punk singing Happy Birthday all the way. This is where I would have changed things. If I was booking this I would have Rey send his family up the ramp. Once they’re halfway up the ramp have Rey fly back down to the ring and try beating on Punk, however, have the Society beat the piss out of Rey- all while his family watches! You might even have Serena abduct his daughter or son and try turning them Straight Edge. I might be jumping the gun on this, and this could all still take place in the time we have until Wrestlemania, especially if this feud plays past the big show. But either way there’s a TON more you can do with this, and if the kids are alright with it DO IT. It worked for Tyler Fullington and it worked in 2005 for Eddie and Rey with Dominic. The best part of this for me is how Punk looks like an in shape Charlie Manson, sans the forehead swastika and stuff.

After the commercial Grisham and Striker throw on the ‘THIS IS NO JOKE’ voice, and talk about how serious it is to mess with a man’s family. They got the point across and it’s all leading to what I’m sure is going to be an awesome match at Wrestlemania.

Match 1: R-Truth vs. the Miz

Truth comes down with David Otunga, and Miz with Bry… I mean Daniel Bryan. It’s still strange, but I’m getting used to it. Miz says that he’s going to deal with Truth and later Big Show will deal with Morrison. I have to say, the announcers are a little off here. The boys are trying to get over the ideas that since Miz and Show have been together longer they can operate as a team better. Two months doesn’t make you Demolition boys, it makes you the Young Stallions. Miz tried using the ropes to cheat out the win but the former ROH superstar Daniel Bryan flips his feet off and the match continues. I’m hoping that the Miz vs. Bryan match goes well, because they’re really building the hell out of it. Truth gets the win here using the Lie Detector, which I truly think is the worst finishing move name since Nightmare on Helm’s Street. Don’t misread me there either. I loved watching that move; just the name was GOD AWFUL.

They pump the return of the Highlight Reel once again but I’m starting to think why does it even matter? He gets promo time anytime he wants what does he need the Reel for? Also, ‘Be Yourself’ is apparently also a Wrestlemania anthem/theme/song for promo videos. I can’t help but shake the faded memories of the same song being used for Ashley when she won the Diva’s contest in 2005. That’s the second time I’ve come up with that year in the same commentary… Coincidence? I think not…

WWE has also added to the Undertaker/HBK package by adding sound bytes from different Superstars. This is totally great as it adds to the mystique of the Undertaker and makes Shawn out to be the Little Engine That Could. I really liked the Placebo song they were using at first, but you won’t hear a single complaint out of me for using Johnny Cash. I mean the man was a total legend. Hell, I’m listening to Cash right now, while I’m writing this thing.

We’re backstage all of a sudden and Drew McIntyre bumps into Teddy Long. Teddy tells him tonight is his 3rd Money in the Bank qualifier since Vince McMahon has eliminated the other losses from his record. Also, if he losses tonight he loses the IC title as well. I guess he’s squashing someone if that’s the case. Someone at Titan Tower has a real hard on for this kid and he’s going to make it, whether we like it or not.

Match 2: Drew McIntyre vs. Aaron Bolo

Bolo gets introduced as a local wrestling champion and I have to think that’s kayfabe, especially since he only seemed to tan his body from the chest down. Drew embarrasses this kid with a Futureshock DDT in less than about a minute. Drew pulls a great heel move and rolls over to Matt Striker at the announce booth making sure that Matt tells the entire world that Drew McIntyre is heading to Wrestlemania. With that, I have to make my decision as to who is going to pull out the win at this years big ladder dance. I have to say my pick is Christian, if only in hopes for the great Edge and Chrisitan angle we didn’t get when they split from being a tag team. Both men have matured and learned the business better than most. Now is the time for them to do something special and something that we’ll remember for years to come.

Match 3: Big Show vs. John Morrison

Show goes on the offense early, but Morrison comes back strong. Using realistic comeback moves, his aerial maneuvers and God given athletic ability, this kid is really showing us why he needs to be in a top babyface position. I have to think that if he can stay healthy, stay away from the demons this sport can harbor and keep it fresh, he’s only got one way to go and that’s up. He’s consistently one of the best matches every week on Smackdown and with rumors that Joey Mercury might be coming back into the mix, that leaves us with some unanswered questions and a great feud that could be on the horizon as well. The end comes when Show is seemingly down and out thus sending Morrison to the ropes for his patented Flying Chuck Kick, but ends with Show clobbering Morrison with his trusty right mallet-I mean hand. It sounded absolutely phenomenal so I don’t know if the sound was added in post, but I can only assume that the crowd was treated to something fantastic as well. I mean his open handed slap from earlier in the match sounded well too, but not as good as the solid, firm handed punch. It’s one of the things I love about the move too, is that it’s easy to employ, it can sound great, it’s over with everyone, and it’s SIMPLE. Simple is often the best way to make things work in a wrestling ring, and Big Show is simple personified. Not only that, but if it lands you know that it’s over. It only went about five minutes but that was enough for me.

Todd and Matt push Women’s History Month on WWE.com and the only glaring omission is stuff about Victoria, Lance Storms sister from another mister. If you don’t get that joke, you clearly don’t read his website, and I suggest you get to www.stormwrestling.com as soon as you get a chance and read some of his articles. They’re in-depth, perceptive, and well rounded. I would assume the lack of Victoria is TNA related, but honestly, who cares? You may as well put it up there so that people can see you guys were willing to push her albeit for a little while, but pushed her none the less.

We go backstage again and Tiffany is talking to Teddy Long about Mickie James, who I miss terribly. Tiffany is pretty terrible here and so is Teddy. Vickie comes in and makes it much worse. I heard Tiffany is dating Drew McIntyre, so I guess that’s why she still has a job. Vickie makes a match between Tiffany and Michelle McCool, which I’m sure will be as good as it sounds.

We hear the Hart Dynasty music, and the team is in the ring already. This is a team that is hungry, in the hunt, and in need of some gold around their waists.

Match 3: Hart Dynasty vs. Cryme Tyme

Cryme Tyme hits the ring and Matt Striker lets us know that Wendy Williams is a big fan of Cryme Tyme, since her show follows Smackdown in many of the American markets. Striker and Grisham compare Tyson graduating from the Dungeon and JTG graduating from the School of Hard Knocks. This is less than a match, since they get started and then the bells tolls. The Undertaker appears out of nowhere and he clears the ring of Superstars. He chokeslams Shad, Last Rides Tyson, Tombstones DH Smith, and chokes out JTG with the Devil’s Gate triangle choke. Undertaker just wanted Shawn to know that he has several different methods of execution. All HBK has to do is choose his path to oblivion. This whole thing was fine, I don’t have any issues getting the Undertaker over or pushing him. I just wish it wasn’t the Hart Dynasty that has to take the heat for it. Especially when they could have done it to Jimmy Wang Yang and whatever they’re calling Terry Gordy’s kid now.

On return from commercial we get a great look at Batista and John Cena. The acoustic guitar they’re using for the promo is excellent and it’s really getting Cena over. I mentioned this to Lisa, and I hope I’m right when I say that I’m hoping that this turns Cena into a lighter version of Austin. Make him fight the boss, have the boss put him against insurmountable odds, and have him climb the mountain as many times as he needs to. It could work, and it would get him over with the minimal group of fans that aren’t popping for him yet. Oh, and if you weren’t aware, Stone Cold Steve Austin is going to be raising HELL all over RAW!

We get the Diva’s next. Michelle McCool is on her way down with Layla and Vickie Guererro. I really hope Vickie has a bake sale at her kids’ school soon, I’m sick of seeing her every week. Tiffany is on her way down next, and her music isn’t exactly great. In fact, it’s downright brutal.

Match 4: Tiffany vs. Michelle McCool

Alright, I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting much from Tiffany when she started on her way down the aisle, but to be perfectly honest, I like what I’m seeing. She’s being aggressive, taking it to McCool, and even tossing her to the outside and sending her into the barricade. But OUT OF NOWHERE comes Vickie Guererro, who labels her with some sort of shoulder blockish type thingy( I only describe it as this, because it’s either unlike anything I’ve seen, or she’s just doing a terrible disservice to a good move.). This prompts Beth Phoenix to come out clean house. She grabs Vickie, thinks about it momentarily, and then lays out Guererro with a clothesline. The fans love Beth as long as she’s handing it to Vickie. They end the segment with a little head pat from Beth to Tiff, kind of saying you ok, Slugger? Yeah… you’re gonna be alright. By the way, if you do that last bit sounding like Peter Griffin, it makes for a much funnier segment of the article. All in all, this wasn’t a waste of time, and it may lead to a descent tag match next week, if not for Wrestlemania itself. I guess it depends on when Mickie comes back into the fold, or if the knee keeps her out of Wrestlemania entirely.

Kane is on his way down to the ring and his match with Luke Gallows next. When we get back from commercial, we get the best WWE Factoid I’ve ever seen. Apparently, WWE Magazine is the number one sports magazine sold at Wal-Mart. Really!?! It wouldn’t have anything to do with the 25-30% off the cover price, would it? Things that make you go hmmm.

Match 5: Kane vs. Luke Gallows

Captain Crazy is leading Gallows to the ring with Serena. Punk has done what others have failed to do, and that’s become one of the most despised individuals in the entire WWE. I hate using the word Universe, since this isn’t DC Comics, but if you want to think of it that way, he’s truly the best of Lex Luthor, the Joker, and Grodd all wrapped up in one. Comic geeks, such as myself, will get my connection here I’m sure.

This match was as good as it was going to be. Kane tends to work with smaller guys better than the large, but again, this wasn’t terrible. The best part of this whole match was Striker making Gallows out to be a Bizzaro Kane, which is funny since it alludes to when Gallows was doing the Fake Kane gimmick a little while ago. Nothing better than having your story line literally pushed out the back door into obscurity. Kane hits the choke slam on Gallows, but Punk makes the save and gets a DQ. He also hits Kane with the Go to Sleep for good measure, before Rey is out from the back and takes a slow walk down to the ring. He’s brawling with Punk all over the ringside area. They land in the crowd at one point and everyone, including Dean Malenko is out to put the brakes on Rey. Maybe Dean should have handed out one of his classic flying head scissors, or high flipping German Suplex. I totally miss Dean Malenko.

I like what Rey is doing here, getting back to the rundown. He’s not hitting 619’s, he’s not doing hurricanrana’s or head scissors. He’s landing shots, and more shots. He’s totally incensed with getting to and stopping Punk once and for all. Punk does the classic heel, and scrambles out on his heels. This story is only going to get better, and I’m stoked for the climax. I could also go for seeing Serena rocking the Lita Heel look from her stint with Edge. Not just because she’s hot, but it adds to the Punk image.

Chris Jericho’s Highlight Reel with special guest, Edge

This was pretty good for what it was. To be totally honest, a lot of what was said has been said in the exact same words and terms since this feud got started. In fact, this was almost a complete copy of the post Rumble promo between the two, with Jericho stating that bad things happen when Edge and Jericho are in the ring together. The spear chant is getting over, but I wish the fans were treating it like Stone Cold’s “WHAT” than just a normal repeat chant. That would kinda cement it into wrestling history, and highlight the feud nicely.

Jericho mentions that while Edge was out injured, he was at Wrestlemania 20 working with HBK. Edge reminds him that he lost that match, among others that are recalled as well. The funniest part comes when Edge says that everyone has the girlfriend they would rather forget. He has Vickie Guerrero, Jericho has Big Show, I have… well that’s better left unmentioned, but she knows who she is. Edge brings the promo to an end saying he’ll be taking the belt from Jericho at Wrestlemania, and he’ll do it with the spear. Jericho responds with a microphone shot to the head, and then continues with beatings via the chairs from his Highlight Reel set. He attempted to throw him into the Jeritron, but Edge is able to escape and hit the DDT. He sets up for the spear, but gets CRUSHED with the World Title Belt to the skull. Jericho mocks the spear chant, as Edge lies prone on the mat.

This was a great segment. It got both men over-Jericho as the confident champion and Edge having his trusty spear. The beat down was well placed as Edge has been giving it to Jericho a lot lately, and they needed to have Jericho come out on top just a bit to give some sort of doubt to the masses. The shot that Edge took from Jericho with the belt was fantastic. This was a great delivery, followed by an even better bump. So where does this leave us with Wrestlemania? Well, I could certainly see Edge winning, if only to get attacked or dropped by Christian, with his MitB briefcase in hand. I mean, that’s what so many of us want to see, and it’s only going to get better from the beginning to the end of the feud. However, on the other hand, I could see Jericho retaining and leading into something with Drew McIntyre, since the office seems to love him so much.

This is the thing about Wrestlemania that I love so much. While with the Royal Rumble or some other pay-per-views, you can sometimes predict the future, or at least some of what may come to be. Wrestlemania is a different story all-together. You might know what’s going to happen in the Diva’s match or be able to predict that Shelton Benjamin will take an insane bump during the pre-arranged spot fest that is the ladder match, but you can’t ever be totally sure where the main events are going.

OTHER NOTES
In a quick local indie note, there are two big shows coming up in Southern Ontario and I think everyone should be trying to make the trips out to see them. One is the Alpha 1 show in Hamilton on April 11th, and if you read my blog at http://jeffgoodridge.blogspot.com then you know exactly what the score is there. The show is always high flying, family oriented, and reasonably priced.

The other is something that’s a little different. What we have coming up at the end of April, is going to be a testament to life, and to a going battle with one of the deadliest diseases on the planet.

Cancer affects all of us in some way, shape, or form. If you don’t have it, or don’t have a family member that has it, then the chances are pretty good you know someone that’s had it or has been affected by it. If you haven’t, then count yourself to be a very lucky person. Nick Wyman is one of the unlucky masses, and the Six Nations legend is doing something about it. April 26th is the date, and the Iroqouis Lacrosse Arena is the place. CWI Wrestling will be presenting a Smackdown on Cancer, The Brawl at the Bush.

It’s going to feature classic WWE names like Brutus Beefcake, Hillbilly Jim, Doink the Clown, and the Native American Tatanka, who will also be doing a speaking engagement to some of the local youth a day or so before the show. Also, in action will be the King of Old School, Steve Corino, The Highlanders, and TNA standouts Johnny Devine and Cody Deaner. All this, and much, much more will all be happening, plus a SPECIAL MYSTERY GUEST. I mean it! This is going to BLOW YOU AWAY, so keep your eyes here as the date gets closer.

You can get more information at brawl_at_the_bush@hotmail.com or 905-768-3378. Long distance charges may apply, depending on where you are.

THIS SHOW IS GOING TO BE HUGE!

As always, you can reach me at my Blog or here on the Fight Network for conversation, information, questions and queries. Have a great week, and we’ll see you next time!

Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and a lifelong wrestling fan. He loved it when Marty Jannetty got thrown through the barbershop Window, but not so much when Hawk and Animal stopped by just to get trims and complain about the Nasty Boys.

http://jeffgoodridge.blogspot.com

Head to Head: Return of the War?

Ok, so here is how this is going to work. Lisa and I sat down, and watched television from 9-1127 this evening. Many things were said, some of which cannot be repeated here, since my boss reads this at times. But either way, this is what went down hour by hour, minute by minute.

9:03- We start off by giving TNA the benefit of the doubt and letting them have at it first. I'm already disappointed, as the first thing I'm seeing is an out of shape Hulk Hogan and a poorly used Abyss. They're cutting a promo, it doesn't matter what about since this is TNA and its all going to change by next week anyways, and they're doing the main event right off the bat. WHY IS THIS BEiNG DONE FOR FREE!?!? The match is god awful from what I see here, and then the lights are out and Sting attacks Hogan, thus I would assume making him the heel. Lisa makes the brilliant observation that, and I'm quoting now, 'This is sad and pathetic. I'm actually embarrassed FOR them. It's like someone is pulling the cork out of the funnell and the Hogan and Flair Legacy is pouring out the bottom and running down the drain.' Hogan is busted open and I'm in flip mode, especially since they just remade the Main Event for later tonight, the exact same match but with no dq. What a f'ing waste...

9:15- I DVR'd RAW, so I'm starting from the beginning, which isnt all that far ahead anyways.Undertaker and Shawn Micheals are cutting a great promo, certainly bringing me more and more into thier feud leading to the big event, just a few weeks away. Man, my beer even tastes better when Monday Night Raw is on. It's going to take a serious amount of commercials to get me back into TNA.

9:35- Well, the promo is over, and with commercials on, I'm heading back to TNA. I really wish I wasn't. Dixie Carter is playing Vagina McMahon, getting in Sting's face, cutting a promo, and Sting puts his hands on her. Isn't there something in the Bible that says no go on that one, Stinger? I feel so bad for Tazz, he is totally being WASTED here, with no real production, he needs direction to move his commentary, and TNA can't provide that direction, especially with Mike Tenay on the stick with him. It looks like AJ Styles is trying to get heel heat Punk Style, since he's growing out his chest hair. WTF is that all about?

9:41- Chris Daniels, Kazarian, and Doug Williams is a pretty good match. I'm only watching this because RAW has a Divas match on that's just faces and heels and doesnt do a thing for the storyline. Shannon Moore does a run in on Doug Williams, and gets a decent pop. I guess he's back to being the Prince of Punk, but I hope that something actually gets done with him this time. He's a decent enough worker, he just needs time to expand his own personal brand. Dixie came on the mic to say Sting is wrestling a mystery man tonight. #$@! she is terrible on the mic.

10:00- RVD just beat Sting. Do I care? Kinda. Am I supposed to? Absolutly. Does the fan base care in TNA? Certainly, it's someone new for them to slowly ruin.

10:03- So because of Sting, I missed Miz Show taking on Morrison and Truth in a Mania Preview. I'm kinda ok with that, since I would rather see what the four of them can bring come the end of March. Lisa doesnt like Miz Show or these 'mashup' tag teams. She feels it should be real teams, like Legacy, Hart Dynasty, or Cryme Tyme.

10:14- Still on RAW. Legacy vs Orton is awesome and is definetly making me give a hoot about DiBiase vs. Orton at Mania. I have to think, and this could be a spoiler alert but, Rhodes is going to turn on DiBiase and act as Randy's underling. But that's just me.

10:17- I accidently flipped to TNA and JESUS, I wish I hadn't. I jsut caught a glimpse of Erik Young, whom I interviewed in Hamilton wayyyyy back when he was Showtime, and he's taking on X-Pac and I dont give a flying !@#*. They look terrible, and I can't get back fast enough.

10:19- Legacy won the match, and from what I saw, it was awesome. Josh interviews Batista backstage and he says he wont run in on Cena's match later. Yeah, RIGHT. We also get a look at Triple H, and he's looking pissed on his way down to the ring.

10:26- I have totally gone thru commercials to keep watching for Triple H. Hunter's promo is great, but I know the real story. He 'faded into obscurity'? I'm certani it had something to do with taking the fall for something that ended kayfabe for some, and took him to the sin bin until he was ready to run with the big dogs. Either way, this is a great build for what should be a very entertaining match at Wrestlemania.

10:38- Still on RAW and Santino Marella is making me piss myself laughing. This is a guy that should be on commentary somewhere.

10:40- Flipped to TNA, but it's Hogan backstage, bitching and complaining.

10:44- MitB Qualifying Match with Evan bourne and William Regal. This is honestly great, some high impact tosses from Regal and a great finish. Christian is on commentary throughout the match, but he's not as entertaining as he has been in the past. I almost miss the old E&C days.

10:47- Hogan is complaining STILL, and says that this is his second chance. Brooke is crying and saying how she doesn't want him to go out there. First off, isnt this like his fourth or fifth chance? If we count his intial run in the WWWF, his run in the AWA, his big run in the 80's, his WCW run, his attempt to run the XWF, then his TWO returns to WWE, we actually clock in at 6. So I wasn't that far off.

10:51- Laura Diakun is pretty.

10:53- Wrestlemania Recall is up, and it's the rehashing of one of the worst Mania Moments ever, the Goldberg/Brock Lesnar debacle, which ended in stupidity, stunners and suds of an alcoholic sort. Stone Cold hosting next week should be solid.

10:57- Am I alone or is anyone else watching this McMahon/Hitman promo and wondering why The Hart Dynasty wasn't involved in the storyline or even saving Bret when he was getting jumped.

11:01- I have flipped to Impact one last time, and I can't watch anymore of it. We all know wrestling is pre scripted, at least most of us do, but we don't need our faces rubbed in it. Hogan fighting Flair fails to create any sort of illusion to the needed effect. I honestly dont understand why Larry Zybysko isnt doing color, and getting yelled at by Tony Schiavone, let alone being allowed on television for FREE! WHY IN GODS NAME WOULD YOU HAVE FLAIR FIGHT HOGAN, WHEN BOTH ARE RETIRED, AND PEOPLE WOULD PAY FOR THIS ON A PAY PER VIEW! This reeks of WCW and the Hogan Goldberg angle at the Georgia Dome.

11:04- Next week looks awesome, and I have ZERO interest in whatever SPIKE Tv is giving us next week for Impact. Austin is going to be on, and no one can trump that unless you can somehow get Bill Alfonso to come in and manage RVD, maybe even start an Extreme Faction. I'll still pop for ECW, I'm a mark for Philly.

11:21- I loved this whole gauntlet thing. Good way to build Cena into a viable threat to Batista, in case it wasn't already there. Batista did hit a very weak spear, but he made up for it with a great Batista Bomb. batista needs to be going in strong to the pay per view, Cena has to be the one chasing him.

Overall, I thought tonight's RAW was incredibly better than what I saw from the 'competition', and I use that term very carefully. TNA didnt come across as doing anything overly new, they didnt have much more than what was already expected and that was all Hogan's fault. The fact that he let RVD coming to his show slip, was a massive mistake. I didnt see Jeff Hardy, but then again, I didnt watch the whole show and his being there may not have even ended up on camera, since again, I didnt watch all of it. I physically couldnt. It was that $%@#ing terrible.

I would tunr into RAW next week if I was you. Austin's coming to town, and you know someones gonna have some 'esplaining to do...

Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and a lifelong wrestling fan. His girlfriend loves the Undertaker but HATES The Miz. Guess he's doing his job.

Bloodstained Memoirs Review!!!

Smackdown for March 5/10

Smackdown is flying off the handle straight for the city where Musical Car Horns are against the law, Wichita, Kansas! Your announcers as always, are Matt Striker and Todd ‘Please Don’t Beat Me Up’ Grisham. The show is led in by a replay of Jericho and Edge last week, what with the spear and all. I would assume we get to see more Edge sooner than later on this episode.

Wait a second, THERE HE IS! Metalingus is in the rafters and the crowd is popping large for him. He’s had a good, hot comeback since the Rumble and they’re really working him into the plans nicely.
Edge goes on to say that Jericho’s been speared by him every week, and he’s trying to get the spear chant over, almost like Austin’s What. It gets going for a bit and then Big Show pops out and has something to add to the conversation.

Apparently, they have a match tonight, and he’s going to destroy Edge like he destroys everyone else. He’s also pulling double duty tonight, working with Miz in a Tag Match later in the evening. This led to some weak comedy for the kids, Edge saying that Big Show was going to eat him, and they did the eat crap for breakfast joke from Happy Gilmore. Show runs to grab Edge, but he sidesteps and sends Show bumbling out to the ringside area. This was a good open, but it sure as hell wasn’t last week.

Backstage, we get Teddy Long and Drew McIntyre, who let us know that by order of Mr. McMahon, his loss to Kane last week was to be stricken from the record, however Kane will still retain his spot in the Ladder Match at Mania. Drew is also entered into another Money in the Bank Qualifier for this week, against Matt Hardy. Drew goes to shake Teddy’s hand but he get’s left in the cold and we get sent to commercial.

A big Wrestlemania promo comes on to mark our return, and out comes Drew McIntyre to his new music. I’m still on the fence about it, but it works for his heel persona at the very least. For a guy that supposedly so connected to Vince McMahon, you think you would see them on screen together more. We see a replay of last weeks match with Kane, and his original ‘loss’, which Todd reminds us was stricken from the record. Make sure you get that over.

Matt Hardy comes down with Justin Gabriel, his NXT student, and they show a package of the kid hitting a 450 splash. Haven’t seen that one in a while, like the VERTEBREAKER! Sorry, I’m a big fan of the Vertebreaker.

Match 1: Matt Hardy vs. Drew McIntyre

The match is decent, and I notice Matt is looking a little soft these days. Maybe he needs an Ab-Chair or something? It runs about 8 minutes, and Matt spends some time on the ground outside, selling his guts. Drew McIntyre hits a beautiful Northern Lights suplex at about mid point, and it could possibly be the nicest one I‘ve ever seen. Matt picks up the win with a great pinning combinations reversal. Drew turns into a bitch, and starts doing his whiney routine. He rips the top of the announce table and flings it aside, then screams at Matt Striker to tell the world, that he’s going to be at Wrestlemania. He even swore to GOD. I mean, man… That’s serious.

So for those of you who are keeping score, the MitB match now consists of MVP, Christian, Shelton Benjamin, Jack Swagger, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, and Matt Hardy. I would guess we get two more, and I would assume one of them will be Drew McIntyre. Although, for him being the Intercontinental Title holder, I think he should be defending that title at the Big One. I mean, really? Does the title mean that little to the world now? What happened to the days of the IC title match being the best on the card?

We head backstage and John Morrison is talking about his Parkour workouts with the son of Terry Gordy, Slam Master J. You wouldn’t know he’s his son though, because WWE never let’s us in one cool tidbits like this. While this guy is a package, he’s tiny and you have to think he’s high on the ‘Future Endeavors TNA pickup’ list. He just hasn’t had anything going for him since Jesse and Festus broke up.

Truth comes in with Dave Otunga, who’s a mean looking sumbitch. Truth goes on with talking about he and Otunga are all straightened out, and he and John have a big tag match tonight, against two other teams with a ton of experience. They go through some terrible tag team names, and I have to think they’re trying to recreate the Miz/Morrison connection with Truth, but I just don’t see it. Both of these guys aren’t the best on the stick, and it almost hurts to watch them on screen together.

Commercial break, we see that Rey is going up against Luke Gallows up next. As we come back, we get the replay of Benjamin and Punk from last week, and Rey Mysterio’s involvement that put Benjamin over.

Down to the ring and we got the Gold Standard on his way to the ring. Shelton Benjamin is facing off against Dolph Ziggler and I am EXCITED. Both of these guys are world class wrestlers on a mat, and that tends to translate well to the squared circle.

Match 2: Shelton Benjamin vs. Dolph Ziggler

It’s nice we see a bridging German suplex in here, but it causes yearning for the rolling German’s we used to get from Angle and Benoit in the days Paul Heyman was booking Smackdown. Oh, the times they are a changing. The match ends nicely, with Ziggler going for the Zigzag and Shelton countering it, leading to him hitting Pay dirt for the win. This was a nice little match, it worked well for me, and it makes me want to see them both at the Ladder Match at Wrestlemania. But what it also makes me want is a long term program with Chris Jericho for Shelton Benjamin. The matches those two could pull off would be something only suitable for the Gods themselves.

We get an Edge and Big Show reminder and head into commercial once again, which leads off with a promo for the new HBK DVD. To be honest, I’m not the biggest Shawn Michaels fan, and a lot of that comes from Montreal, but that doesn’t mean that he hasn’t had an incredible career and isn’t worthy of another 3 disc devotion. I almost think I want to see it, but not as badly as the upcoming Hart Legacy set.

As we come back, we find out that later on Cryme Tyme, Hart Dynasty, and the combination of Morrison and Truth will be vying for a shot at Miz Show for the tag belts at Wrestlemania. Should it be Hart Dynasty? Yes! Will it be Hart Dynasty? Most likely not. Will I be upset? Obviously. But for now, we have Jimmy Wang Yang, who we haven’t seen in a while, in the ring and he’s going to get fed to Ezekiel Jackson.

Match 3: Ezekiel Jackson vs. Jimmy Wang Yang

Big Zeke makes his way to the ring. He flexes, makes Vince moan, literally squashes Jimmy. Remember when this guy was a Jung Dragon and was an actual threat in the ring? Cripes, even his Japanese Mafia gimmick with Tajiri worked better than this. I would think he’s in the same spot as Slam Master J. Big Zeke runs through Yang, in what’s a total SQUASH, hitting the Book of Ezekiel for the win.

Backstage we go, and Rey Mysterio is handing his daughter one of the brand new, not nearly as good looking, Mattel WWE figures. I’ll give Jakks one thing, they had a way with those classic figure collections.

In comes Tiffany, who apparently was downsized to backstage babysitter with the closing of ECW. She’s going to look after Rey’s daughter, Aaliyah, while he goes to work. The promo isn’t bad, but they put over the fact that he’s a dad, that she’s going to watch him at work, and they did a little prayer thing that was touching. I just hope we don’t get a rehash of the Domenic angle that we had with Eddie Guererro. I’m never a fan of angles involving kids and I don’t care if it’s The Sandman, Ric Flair, or any Von Erich. Young kids shouldn’t be involved in angles and storylines.

As we come back from commercial, Punk and his legion of loonies, The Straight Edge Society, come out to a chorus of boo’s. Punk goes on to say that Rey Mysterio is a bad influence on children. Kids wear his merchandise; they tune in week in and week out to watch their superhero. He says children do this, to fill the void left by neglectful parents. As always, Punk delivers the promo of the night. Serena has had her head re-shaved, and it’s obvious that it’s shorter than last week.

Match 4: Rey Mysterio vs. Luke Gallows

Surprisingly, this match got about twelve minutes, which is a lot more than most of the matches I’ve seen on television as of late. I have to say, I enjoy Luke Gallows. His offence is some weak, especially the transition moves like the headbutts to the ribs but because he’s trim, he can move a bit better. He’s almost like a fitter version of the Big Boss Man. They show their Orlando Jones replacement, Darren Young of NXT, watching the match backstage, and I hope this guy goes. I don’t get anything out of him.

This is a great match, because that’s Rey Mysterio’s job. He makes everyone look better, just for having been in the ring with him. Gallows is great at selling moves from smaller superstars. There are a couple of nice spots, Serena blocking the 619 and Punk trying to interfere. Rey gets in his usual high spots. Gallows puts Rey up for what looks to be a powerbomb, but the masked luchador is able to contort, reverse and pull out the win. Punk climbs in and tries to hit the Go to Sleep, but Mysterio is able to slip out and avoid the beat down.

Jericho bumps into Big Show backstage and asks him to watch his kid. Just kidding. He says he needs Big Show to be the Giant Destroyer that he is, and to beat Edge badly. Show says they aren’t partners anymore, so he doesn’t have to follow orders. He doesn’t need to beat Edge for Jericho; he’s going to beat Edge for himself. Jericho rocks that great smile, knowing he’s angered the Giant and hoping he’s sending Edge into the lions den.

As we head to commercial, we get an Undertaker-HBK promo, and Lisa is UPSET. They changed the song from whatever it was a few weeks ago, to something by Johnny Cash. If anyone happens to know the name of the song and band that they were using for the buildup promos, send me an email or shoot me a comment here on the site.

As we return, we find out that, once again, fans from all 50 states and 24 countries have purchased tickets to Wrestlemania. I haven’t heard if it’s sold out or not, but I’m sure they have to be close. The factoids are getting used over and over. It makes me wish they still did ‘On This Day in Wrestling’, with the voice over guy from the NFL.

Raw Rebound and we’re watching the spiraling dive into insanity that Shawn Michaels is taking, with his obsession with the Undertaker. To be honest, I don’t know if I like where they’re taking us with the story, but there’s still a few weeks for them to keep selling me on it. Lisa, being the big Undertaker mark, is totally in no matter what. She’s dying to see his cool entrance this year, and I have to say, I’m interested in seeing the actual stage show itself. The Rebound also covers Sheamus beating down Triple H, so I guess that’s getting tossed onto the card now as well.

Match 5: R-Truth and John Morrison vs. Hart Dynasty vs. Cryme Tyme

Truth and Morrison are out first, with David Otunga. They show what was up on NXT, featuring Otunga and Truth mixing it up. I’m hoping he turns on Truth and beats his ever rapping ass.

The Dynasty comes out next, and brings me the smile I look forward to every week. Arguably, they’re the most cohesive unit in Smackdown, and should already be holding gold, but I guess the brass is more interested in random mash up teams. Cryme Tyme comes down, and one has to wonder why they too, have been left out of the tag team gold.

So I guess we’re all supposed to forget that Morrison ever broke his ankle, and he starts it off with Shad Gaspar. Shad is the biggest guy in the ring right now, dwarfing the competition. A few notable spots here, including a series of rolling belly to belly suplexes from DH Smith, a wicked kick to the face of Tyson Kidd from R-Truth, and phenomenally high springboard dropkick from Tyson Kidd. The whole match lasted about eight minutes and ended with truth pinning Tyson Kidd, which was a big heartbreaker for me, no pun intended. I’m really bothered that the Dynasty is being left off the Wrestlemania card, being that they are the most underused tag team in the company, and every match they have is solid, especially the match with DX at Christmas. They really dropped the ball on a feud there, and not having them involved with Bret on RAW. They should be backing him up. Truth and Morrison against Miz Show should be interesting and entertaining, but I would love to see Tyson working over Miz.

Backstage, LayCool is sucking up to Vickie Guererro, and gives her one of their Simply Flawless shirts. They bail out just as Beth Phoenix comes in and asks Vickie for a title shot. Vickie says Beth will NEVER get one, and that SHE is the most dominant Diva in the WWE. Maybe in a cookie eating contest or something? I guess I won’t be getting a Diva’s title match at Wrestlemania either, unless Mickie is back by then.

Striker and Grisham run down the Wrestlemania card thus far, and pump up the Jericho Edge match, what with the main event on its way. Big Show lumbers down to the ring, and we hit commercial.

Match 6: Big Show vs. Edge

They didn’t go overboard on this as it only went for about six minutes or so. Edge gets over with the spear, as the crowd was losing it and chanting spear as he’s bouncing in the corner. Matt Striker really does his job here explaining how dangerous the move is and the whiplash that’s involved with the person on the receiving end. Striker must understand that while we can see the move with our eyes, the descriptive words embellish the impact of it.

I hear a lot of fans crying over the fact that Edge doesn’t look the same or that he’s too fat now. Steve Carter is one of those guys. But let’s all remember this guy was out for an absurdly LONG time, and he had one of the worst possible injuries a person in this business can have. We should be lucky we have him back at all.

Edge gets the pin and Jericho hits the ring. He tries to cork Edge with the belt, but Edge is aware, ducks it, and spears him again. Jericho needs to get a beat down on him and soon. Otherwise, no one is going to believe him to be any sort of threat to Edge. I would think we get this next week.

Show Overview:
Once again, the better wrestling program of the week. We get a great storyline in Edge and Jericho, the tag title situation has been sorted out for Wrestlemania and Rey Mysterio’s feud with the Society is picking up speed. Sometimes I wish we still had a few months to build these things, like all the work they had to do to build Hogan and Andre or Steamboat and Savage, but I guess in this day and age, the attention span is shorter, and the viewership is more in tune. This week was a solid and definitive seven out of ten.

For those of you who are interested, you can always get a hold of me on my blog, at jeffgoodridge.blogspot.com. I would love to hear from people, and I’m always up for debates. There’s a few blogs up on there as well, including one about the recent release of Awesome Kong and RVD showing up TNA on Monday. Monday should be an interesting night, so I’ll be posting my random thoughts along with time coding, so you can see what’s putting me from show to show, and where I’m flipping. Who knows? It could be in sync with your channel flipping? Don’t deny it, YOU’RE ALL FLIPPERS!!!

So with that, hope you enjoyed the report this week, we’re about two or three away from Wrestlemania (as of press time)!

Jeff Goodridge is a freelance writer and lifelong wrestling fan. His favorite wrestling documentary thus far is Bloodstained Memoirs, which he’ll be reviewing soon. Keep your eyes peeled to this website!

Thursday Night Randomness!

And with that, let's get onto all the greatness of a Thursday Night with Beetlejuice on TV and Lisa sleeping on the couch!

So today was totally different, but I wont be getting into that, instead I will be talking about a few different things that are going on right now...

RVD is reportedly heading to TNA on Monday night, according to The Hulkster. He mentioned this on a wrestling radio show today, and I cant understand what the hell is wrong with him! Why would you spoil possibly the greatest surprise on a Monday night, especially marking him as the real first shot in the Second Monday Night Wars. For those of you who aren't aware, the first MNW took place when Eric Bischoff took Ted Turner's World Championship Wrestling and turned Monday Nights into Ratings Races. Will the TNA move make it against the global juggarnaught that is World Wrestling Entertainment? Probably not, I mean, we're talking about a company that is headed by the Devil himself. Vince McMahon has fought everyone and won. The New York Post, The Federal Government, The CRTC and the FCC, and of course, Wal-Mart. Who could forget the Al Snow incident?




Alpha-1 is shaping up to be an incredible show. Not only will they be featuring CHIKARA superstar, Solider Ant, but he's taking on the one and only Motion Picture Ethan Page. What can possibly come from such a clash of two hot, young megastars of the independent circuit! Ethan Page got the win over former ECW/WWE Superstar Colin Delaney at the last show in February, thanks to a foreign object procured by Mr. Melo, manager of The Entourage. Can Soldier Ant defend his hill and colony, or will Ethan Page be the Raid that flips the Ant dead?






Josh Alexander is going to have his rematch with The Hacker, both of which took it to the limit. The time limit, that is. Both guys are extremely talented, and both go back a long ways, to the days of Gym Rats and storage garages. They're both as talented on the mat, as they are in the air, and they both boast a great mic skill as well. Alexander is ready to burst out, and make himself known, and Hacker already has Little Hacksters across Ontario, all wearing his signature goggles! Who's going to come out on top and make themselves known as the better young gun in Alpha 1? Will he allow the friendship to continue past three years, or is this the end? Josh Alexander had this to say:





All that PLUS the Alpha 1 debut of CZW wrestler Sabian, IWS superstar Don Payson, an 8 Man Gauntlet and Bracket 2 in the Alpha Male Tournament! This is the BEST value in local family entertainment at ten dollars, and it's showcasing some of the best talent in independant pro wrestling. You're not seeing Jake the Snake stumble through some local hero, and you're not going to see guys that are dressed like superheroes, like that X-Man vs. Spiderman match I heard about down in the States.

This is a great show for kids, because the guys are accessible, entertaining, and high energy. It's a great show for marks because of the OTHER marks that are there, the chants are ECW style, funny, and sometimes even thought inspiring. Best of all, it's a great show for fans of good old school wrestling. Ther'es lots of mat work, just enough high spots, and a great workrate by everyone going. Even the referees are good, especially the local legend, Dave Dread.

Next show is taking place at Knights Of Columbus Hall on 222 Queenston Road in Hamilton, Ontario on Sunday, April 11, 2010. It's got a great atmosphere, a 6 sided ring, and some great special effects, as the videos and music are much better than any local bar show. This is a COMPLETE indy show, something you might see if you are a Philidelphia fan or out towards Jersey or New York.

Tomorrow night is Smackdown, so I'll be writing for the Fight Network once again. It'll be re-post here as well, and there's some surprises in store for SLAM. Just wait... the best is yet to come!

Now, to finish you all off, here's a song by a man with ridiculous hair.

Awesome Kong could be an Awesome Aquisition

Wow, what a few weeks can do to one of the most talented female workers in the industry!

For those of you that follow the TNA product, and I'll be honest when I say that I ain't one of them, but I'm sure for those of you tht do, you all remember the dominant force that Kong was when she first hit the States, after her successful runs in Japan, and other places across the globe, I was one of many who wondered why she was ni TNA and not in WWE.

Let's think about this seriously for one moment. WWE, and of course Vince, has always been the sort to push the monsters and the freaks. Now, before you female readers smash me, NOT EVEN REMOTELY WHAT I'M SAYING. What I mean is, that the bigger the person, the bnigger the push. Kane is a monster, Viscera is a monster, Nicole Bass was a monster and like it or not, Chyna was and is still a freak and a monster. Not just to herself, mind you, but I digress. Cripes, if you look at it closely, even Beth Phoniex is technically a freak and a monster. She's bigger than most of the women, she wrestles better than most of them as well, and in some cases, much hotter.

Kong is someone that is totally unique, and totally fresh to what WWE has been pushing in the last little while. Maybe this harkens back to the days of Bertha Faye or Bull Nakano, but this is something that WWE could very well capitilize on. They recently did a storyline, that may or may not be over, with Mickie James and Michelle McCool over weight, style, and looks. Who better to bring in than Kong, giving a great sense of options for women, and also adding a ton of muscle to the division.

I know that I may be hyper critical to the women's division as of late, but a lot of that comes from the fact there are SO MANY good workers in the company right now that aren't being used to thier potential. Natalya Neidhardt is one of the best womens wrestlers on the planet right now, along with Mickie James, Molly Holly, Trish Stratus, and, in her day, the Fabulous Moolah. Nattie does everything with style, panash, and vigour. In fact, her match with Awesome Kong that materialized on YouTube from Japan was one of the BEST women's matches I think I have ever been lucky enough to see. Why couldn't WWE capitalize on this?

Bringing it back to Beth, theres not a single person in the industry that wouldnt be opposed to seeing Beth and Kong mix it up. If you ever wanted to see the female version of Hogan vs. Andre, there's little option on the contenders. Beth has the size, the style, and the workrate to keep up to Kong and bring a totally new side out of her.

Matches aside, we also have to think about the fact that, like it or not, we are heading into a second coming of the Monday Night Wars. I, along with a lot of other wrestling fans, don't expect too much to come out of this, but with TNA sucking up all these former WWE workers, like Kendrick, Kennedy, Shannon Moore, even Jeff Hardy to some extent, isn't it time for Vince to maybe make a statement to TNA, letting Dixie Carter know that he isn't scared? Bringing in Awesome Kong would not only send that very message all the way to TNA HQ, but it's also going to make waves in the industry. Instead of being on the recieving end of a talent salvo, why not deal a mortar blow to the heart of the Knockouts Division?

I'm not saying this is the answer to Kong's issues, because there are those. Kong and a certain Sponge are going to be talking through lawyers for some time, from whats been coming out in the dirt sheets as of late, but this is certainly going to make her look alot better, and its also showing that shes got the heart to keep going in this buisness, even in the face of severe adversity.

So, Vince? Pick up Awesome Kong. Do yourself a favor, get someone that can work, work safe, work powerfully, and WORK AWESOME. Sign her now, bring her in just after Mania, or even do it the night of. But the long and short is, BRING US AWESOME KONG! You're missing a few Divas right now anyways, whats it going to hurt to bring someone in for a bit to round out the whole situation.

But really? With the way the Women's and Diva's Divisions have been running, what can we expect? Probably just another Diva Search.