WWE/TNA/ROH etc. Wrestling Discussions Thread

[Sandman]

Oh it's real...it's damn real. :cool:

[Scaryfaced]

It's on!

I wanna talk about the new WWE tallent they've been bringing in. Where the hell did Ricky Ortiz get all that style from? He started out wrestling like an oaf, but in a few months time, he's stalking around the ring like pro. I'm honestly impressed. I have a feeling he's been taking any advice he gets from the vets very seriously.
________
Chevrolet Ss Specifications (http://www.chevy-wiki.com/wiki/Chevrolet_SS)

[pseudopseudo]

It's all about Evan Bourne.

I need to start watching both Smackdown AND Impact. Right now, I only have time for RAW.

[Sandman]

It's all about Evan Bourne.

I need to start watching both Smackdown AND Impact. Right now, I only have time for RAW.

You mean Matt Sydal? I have to find other ways to watch Smackdown! now...no MyNetworkTV here.

[Sandman]

Some viewing material for those not familiar with Ring of Honor

CM Punk vs Homicide

P4Mu6-zuIRM

Part 2

bYBeQ2XQM-8

and here's some highlights for a match I was at earlier this year : Roderick Strong vs Erick Stevens (Last Man Standing) at FIP's Dangerous Intentions 08.

RKfiJJnf2EQ

You can spot me at about 1:40 in the front row.

[Scaryfaced]

You mean Matt Sydal? I have to find other ways to watch Smackdown! now...no MyNetworkTV here.

Look it up on Youtube. Wrestling is one of the few shows that seems to ignore copyright laws on the tube. I rarely catch ECW live, but it ends up online within a day or so after it airs.

Btw, Anyone else watch AAA? Jack Evans ended up their recently. It's kinda funny to see Sydal on RAW and then catch ol' Jack Evans on a Telemundo promo.
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Herbalaire review (http://herbalairevaporizer.com/)

[Sandman]

Yes, you should buy Ring of Honor's New Horizons on PPV.....it is awesome.

bsnPaS_Vlo8

[Raen]

It's all about Evan Bourne.

It totally is all about Bourne. On the ECW note does anyone think that the Swagger/Dreamer feud shows potential? Or will Dreamer just job week after week? Oh and anyone got any No Mercy picks?

[Ghost Rider]

Is anyone a fan of Kozlov's style? I mean, I realise he's technically sound, but I can't get seem to enjoy a match of his.
I thought RAW was pretty good this week too, including the DX Reunion and not forgetting The Great Charlie. I still believe Haas is worth a more serious role though.

[Dave]

I have nothing new to add to this, but I felt the need to leave a note somewhere in here... just in case Scott started looking around for me. Ha ha ha!!

That, and I'm still a little miffed that ROH bailed on us for Florida. I guess it's a good thing that we hit 'em up in VA and NY last month. =)

[Raen]

Is anyone a fan of Kozlov's style? I mean, I realise he's technically sound, but I can't get seem to enjoy a match of his.

I don't think he is, but has he had anything that really qualifies as a match? He's had a lot of squashes mostly.

I thought RAW was pretty good this week too, including the DX Reunion and not forgetting The Great Charlie. I still believe Haas is worth a more serious role though.

Raw was great this week. DX was brilliant, although kinda obvious in hindsight. Haas could do a more serious role, but I doubt he'd get anywhere near as much ring time. This gimmick is getting him a lot of attention, and seems to be getting him over. It also only really works due to his ring abilities, if he couldn't wrestle it'd be far worse. I'm waiting for Triple Haas or Stone Cold Steve Haastin.

[Ghost Rider]

I don't think he is, but has he had anything that really qualifies as a match? He's had a lot of squashes mostly.
True, it's just recent weeks make it look like he'll be going on to much bigger things, and I still think I should of seen more in his ring time so far to make me want to see him move up



Raw was great this week. DX was brilliant, although kinda obvious in hindsight. Haas could do a more serious role, but I doubt he'd get anywhere near as much ring time. This gimmick is getting him a lot of attention, and seems to be getting him over. It also only really works due to his ring abilities, if he couldn't wrestle it'd be far worse. I'm waiting for Triple Haas or Stone Cold Steve Haastin.

I was actually thinking he might of been Shawn Michaels parner as Hunter Hass Helmsley before his Great Charlie appearance! It's just kind of irritating that a good wrestler has to impersonate a superstar (not wrestler) like Khali.

Also, I seriously hope Santino doesn't go much further up on the Honkometer. Someone like Bourne or Paul London (where is he?) should get a chance at feuding over it. That could be an awesome rivalry.

Talking of awesome, what about Smackdown's main event tonight? Matt Hardy, Triple and Y2J in a triple threat? Now that looks like a main event!

[Scaryfaced]

I don't think he is, but has he had anything that really qualifies as a match? He's had a lot of squashes mostly.



Raw was great this week. DX was brilliant, although kinda obvious in hindsight. Haas could do a more serious role, but I doubt he'd get anywhere near as much ring time. This gimmick is getting him a lot of attention, and seems to be getting him over. It also only really works due to his ring abilities, if he couldn't wrestle it'd be far worse. I'm waiting for Triple Haas or Stone Cold Steve Haastin.

I love Charlie's new gimmick, actually. I was pushing for them to stick Haas in a mask and let him pull a Super Eric, but this works too. I havent actually checked, but I hear he's taking requests on wwe.com. That's pretty damn cool in my opinion.

As for the Jack Swagger/Dreamer thing, I'm almost sure Tommy's gonna be jobbing for the kid. They use the guy as a punching bag for the ECW roster. It's the same shit they did to Balls during his short stay. Tommy's just more willing to put over the young guys. Plus, he's on the writing staff, so he's got more vested in the company than the other jobbers.

I like Jack Swagger, but the kid needs work. He's a little meaty, his name's kinda meh and his tights make him look like a fat guy in a speedo. Give the kid a little style! If he's going to be that big guy you love to hate, he's gonna need alot more personality than a cocky smile.

EDIT: I just wanted to mention that Santino is the greatest character the WWE's has on the roster. He's a true throw back to the classic heels and I can't get enough of him. John Morrison is a close second.
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BODY SCIENCE (http://bodyscience.ws/)

[Ghost Rider]

If he's going to be that big guy you love to hate, he's gonna need alot more personality than a cocky smile.

Talking of cocky smile, how annoying is Dolph Ziggler!?!?

[pseudopseudo]

Talking of cocky smile, how annoying is Dolph Ziggler!?!?

I thought he looked familiar... a little research would find that he's "Nicky" from the Spirit Squad (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Nemeth). I wondered when they'd start showing back up.

[Scaryfaced]

According to the Wiki, he beat D-Lo in a darkmatch. This simply can't stand. Friggin awsome super stars should not be jobbing for X spirit squad members. Bad WWE! BAD!
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Valentino Balboni (http://www.lamborghini-tech.com/wiki/Valentino_Balboni)

[Sandman]

Smackdown was good....I liked just about everything on the show except for R-Truth....I don't really like anything about him. Only thing he seems to be able to do right is say what's up. I especially liked the opening tag match. I want to see more Mysterio vs Kendrick.

Also;

ROH just announced LAX vs Briscoe Brothers on October 25th in Edison, NJ. That should be a classic.

[Ghost Rider]

[QUOTE=Sandman;10728]Smackdown was good....I liked just about everything on the show except for R-Truth....I don't really like anything about him. Only thing he seems to be able to do right is say what's up. /QUOTE]

I quite like his fighting style, though he reminds me of booker in look (and finisher).

I see my friend Kozlov was there once more, great....

[Sandman]

I actually like Kozlov. I think if we see more of him in actual matches others will too.

[CES]

Smackdown was good....I liked just about everything on the show except for R-Truth....I don't really like anything about him. Only thing he seems to be able to do right is say what's up. I especially liked the opening tag match. I want to see more Mysterio vs Kendrick.

Also;

ROH just announced LAX vs Briscoe Brothers on October 25th in Edison, NJ. That should be a classic.

I still say The E should have Mysterio team with Bourne. Mysterio, realistically is a bit too small and lightweight for the main title. It would also give the (frankly crap) tag division some more weight.

Either that or they bring back the Cruiserweight belt and use the two as the cornerstone of the division.

[pseudopseudo]

Either that or they bring back the Cruiserweight belt and use the two as the cornerstone of the division.

I think this'd be the best solution. I understand Rey's a big name, but I don't get the WWE's abuse of "He's little! Let's pit him against the biggest people we have!" storylines.

The tag division wouldn't be half bad if they actually put some time into it. As it is - I think the tag champs are boring (maybe if their fathers were the champs, it'd be worth getting excited about). :D

Also - what ever happened to the good ol' wrestling stable? I was kind of hoping that Randy Orton would actually kind of step into a leadership role of the whole "2nd Generation Superstars" and have a group to be reckoned with - but it doesn't look like that's going to be the case.

[CES]

I think this'd be the best solution. I understand Rey's a big name, but I don't get the WWE's abuse of "He's little! Let's pit him against the biggest people we have!" storylines.

The tag division wouldn't be half bad if they actually put some time into it. As it is - I think the tag champs are boring (maybe if their fathers were the champs, it'd be worth getting excited about). :D

Also - what ever happened to the good ol' wrestling stable? I was kind of hoping that Randy Orton would actually kind of step into a leadership role of the whole "2nd Generation Superstars" and have a group to be reckoned with - but it doesn't look like that's going to be the case.

Vince has a thing for seeing small people get thrown around by roid addicts, it's well known.

The tag division itself is more or less a write off, with the exception of Miz and Morrison since they have the moves, the look and can work the mic.

I dont like the idea of Orton heading up a "second/third generation" stable really since he plays the insane, sneaky heel to perfection.

[Raen]

The tag division wouldn't be half bad if they actually put some time into it. As it is - I think the tag champs are boring (maybe if their fathers were the champs, it'd be worth getting excited about). :D

I'm just gonna watch SmackDown now, so I'll get to that later on. The tag division would be amazing if Mysterio permenantly teamed with Bourne, if either Londrick reformed or Kendrick actually teamed with big 'Zeke and if (as is rumoured) the Motor City Machine Guns jump ship when their contracts are up in the spring. If they actually let teams stay together for a while before having them split to become bigger (I'm talking the length the Hardy's and E&C were together before splitting) then the tag division could be good. The Colons are certainly good right now, they work really well as a team. I'd also consider turning Festus and Jesse heel and having them do a team, although I don't know how well it'd work with the current gimmick.

Also - what ever happened to the good ol' wrestling stable? I was kind of hoping that Randy Orton would actually kind of step into a leadership role of the whole "2nd Generation Superstars" and have a group to be reckoned with - but it doesn't look like that's going to be the case.

Well we had La Famillia, although Vicki is just... blah. I really hope they get rid of her for good soon. I don't know if I'd rather have Orton lead the '2nd/3rd (We keep changing our mind which) Group', or be sort of their father figure who they can never quite please. Eventually that could lead to them jumping Orton which'd be an interesting twist to see. I don't really see anyone else who is already in there doing anything good. Like I said if we get the MCMGs across from TNA and some of the other talent (uh Robert Roode is on the list I believe plus someone I can't remember) we could see a Radicalz/NWO style group come across, which'd be pretty cool.

[Ghost Rider]

I don't think WWE will ever invest the that type of tyme in tag teams again. I love tag team wrestling, but the whole aim of the tag team now is to see which one of the team gets over with the crowd more, then have him break free and try it solo (ASAP).

Can anyone confirm if Gail Kim was one of the luberjacks on Smackdown? It sure looked like her but it could be a diva from ECW I've missed.

[Raen]

I don't think WWE will ever invest the that type of tyme in tag teams again. I love tag team wrestling, but the whole aim of the tag team now is to see which one of the team gets over with the crowd more, then have him break free and try it solo (ASAP).

Can anyone confirm if Gail Kim was one of the luberjacks on Smackdown? It sure looked like her but it could be a diva from ECW I've missed.

While her contract with TNA expired as of August 20th, AFAIK she hasn't resigned with WWE.

[Ghost Rider]

While her contract with TNA expired as of August 20th, AFAIK she hasn't resigned with WWE.

It will be great when she comes back, I'd like to see a long feud with her and the Glamazon. I'd also like to see more of Victoria and Natalya in the ring.

So No Mercy predictions anyone?

Triple H to retain against Jeff Hardy
Batista to defeat JBL for No.1 contender
Matt Hardy to retain against Mark Henry
The Glamazon to retain against Candice
Undertaker to defeat Big Show
Rey to defeat Kane
Chris Jericho to retain against Shawn Michaels

[Wolvie]

Wow, CM Punk, Homicide, and Samoa Joe all came from RoH? That promotion had(has?) a ton of talent.

[Ghost Rider]

Wow, CM Punk, Homicide, and Samoa Joe all came from RoH? That promotion had(has?) a ton of talent.

Talent and no money. :(

[pseudopseudo]

Triple H to retain against Jeff Hardy
Batista to defeat JBL for No.1 contender
Matt Hardy to retain against Mark Henry
The Glamazon to retain against Candice
Undertaker to defeat Big Show
Rey to defeat Kane
Chris Jericho to retain against Shawn Michaels

I'm looking for some upsets:

Triple H to retain against Jeff Hardy
JBL to defeat Batista for No. 1 contender (He's been getting a big push lately...)
Candice Michelle to defeat The Glamazon for the Women's Title (Interference by Santino.)
Undertaker to defeat Big Show
Rey to defeat Kane (No way that mask is coming off - too marketable.)
Chris Jericho to retain against Shawn Michaels

I think something strange is bound to happen in the Jericho/Michaels match. Don't know what, though.

[Raen]

So No Mercy predictions anyone?

Heh I asked this earlier! :(

Triple H to retain against Jeff Hardy

I agree. I want to see Jeff see the title so badly that I literally jumped out of my chair swearing at the end of the Scramble, but I don't see it happening here and now. He really needs to win it at WrestleMania or SummerSlam, one of the big shows. Also I think the airport incident didn't help his chances.

Batista to defeat JBL for No.1 contender

Yup. An obvious call.

Matt Hardy to retain against Mark Henry.

Ooooo I dunno. It could go either way I think, although Matt is my pick.

The Glamazon to retain against Candice

I honestly haven't followed this one. Don't care, so I agree.

Undertaker to defeat Big Show

I could actually see the Big Show getting this one, and then some kind of team match at Survivor Series pitting a Vicki/Big Show team against the team of a returning Edge with Undertaker being the last pick.

Rey to defeat Kane

I hope it goes this way. I so don't wanna see Rey loose the mask.

Chris Jericho to retain against Shawn Michaels

Yeah, I can see Jericho getting it, but only as a fluke of some sort. That seems to be how his reign is going, and it's getting him across as a heel to a crazy extent.

By the way to all the people who dislike him, I actually love R-Truth right now. I like his moveset, he's got charisma, and he entertains me. I'm also loving how his feud with Benjamin is being set up. Creative have finally remembered how to do an old school feud, with a build up that doesn't consist of match after match culminating at a PPV.

[Ghost Rider]

By the way to all the people who dislike him, I actually love R-Truth right now. I like his moveset, he's got charisma, and he entertains me. I'm also loving how his feud with Benjamin is being set up. Creative have finally remembered how to do an old school feud, with a build up that doesn't consist of match after match culminating at a PPV.

We might actually see Shelton have to defend the U.S belt? Don't scare me!

[Raen]

We might actually see Shelton have to defend the U.S belt? Don't scare me!

Yeah. Thinking about it aren't you supposed to defend the belt once a month at the minimum? I'm sure there used to be a time limit. Yay for forgetting rules when it's inconvenient! Who would you favour when they battle for it?

<moved below>

[Scaryfaced]

Yeah. Thinking about it aren't you supposed to defend the belt once a month at the minimum? I'm sure there used to be a time limit. Yay for forgetting rules when it's inconvenient! Who would you favour when they battle for it?

Rules? Who said there were rules in wrestling?

Lets see, predictions...

Triple H over Jeff hardy - I like Jeff, but I think Hunter's going to get his year long title reign before it changes hands again.

JBL over Batista - I hate Batista with a passion. If you can't do a propper sit down power bomb, it shouldn't be your finisher. Anyone Ba-tista.

Mark Henry over Matt Hardy - Hardy always deserves the push, but Mark needs a damned title. He's a perfect big guy heel to control the ECW roster and for all the shit he's been put through, the guy deserves a belt.

The Glamazon over Candice - I just plain love the Glamazon. She's a power wrestler in a division full of stick figures. I just love watching her bend, contort, or toss the other girls around. Her little fling with Santino is friggin gold, too.

'Taker over Show - Honestly, I think Show's going to win, but I love Taker too much to root against him.

Rey over Kane - Rey only lost his mask the first time because he made the switch from Rey Mysterio Jr. to Rey Mysterio when his uncle retired. In Lucha libre, once you loose your mask, it's gone forever. So there's no way they'll be taking that mask off of him. He'll be Rey Mysterio until he retires. I'm hoping this is all a storyline to give Kane his mask back, actually.

Jericho over Michaels - If anyone should retire Michaels, it's Jericho. He's earned that rite. Michaels got to retire Flare, now its his turn.
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LIST OF FACTORIES (http://www.dodge-wiki.com/wiki/List_of_Chrysler_factories)

[pseudopseudo]

I'm hoping this is all a storyline to give Kane his mask back, actually.

I've been hoping the exact same thing. :D

[Raen]

Ok so here's my views on SmackDown. It's a little detailed and spoiler heavy, although the actual results are in spoiler tags. If I look like some crazy, review writing freak please put me in my place.

Jeff Hardy, Batista, Rey Mysterio & Finlay vs. JBL, Kane, MVP & The Brian Kendrick
Good solid match, entertained me. Was such an obvious pre-PPV match, but still good. And Rey teaming with Jeff is second only to Rey teaming with Bourne again.

Jeff Hardy, Batista, Rey Mysterio & Finlay b. JBL, Kane, MVP & The Brian Kendrick

Santino vs. Benjamin

Average match, but the ending worked well. Benjamin stays looking strong, Santino stays looking like a lucky clown, and it built up the R-Truth angle, which is just perfect for me at the moment.

Santino b. Benjamin

The Great Khali and Mark Henry vs. Chavo Guerrero - Handicap match

Meh boring squash. The post match segment was good. I'm always impressed when 'Taker appears in the ring. He's a big guy, hiding under the ring can't be comfortable for him.

The Great Khali and Mark Henry b. Chavo Guerrero - Handicap match

The Colons & CM Punk vs. Priceless

They screwed up the intro to this match. It got announced as a 6 Man tag before Carlito suggested it. I felt bad, cause I didn't really watch this. For some reason it just didn't hold my attention.

The Colons & CM Punk b. Priceless

It's a shame the 'My Moving Company' angle is over. It entertained me.

Beth Phoenix vs. Divas Champion Michelle - Diva's Lumberjack Match

I... uh... don't really care about this. Why to Diva's matches seem to get booked as the penultimate matches a lot? I've seen them between two heavyweight title matches on PPV's before. Seriously, what's up with that? I guess it built up to No Mercy. To be honest I spent most of the time making a paper plane.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v149/angelusraven/Picture3.jpg

See?

Beth Phoenix b. Divas Champion Michelle - Diva's Lumberjack Match


I really liked the Jericho/Micheals video. It was a nice summary.

Triple H vs. Chris Jericho vs. Matt Hardy - Non-Title Triple Threat

This match did a great job of keeping the two main champs looking strong, and didn't make Hardy look overly weak. The super-power-bomb-plex was pretty cool, and not something I've seen in a while. Also the sheer power that Triple H displayed when powering out of the Wall of Jericho was impressive, and he sold it really well. I did feel slightly bad for Hardy, but oh well. He's only ECW Champ. However his counter to the code breaker was so... obvious. Why does no one else just do that? The only disappointment was the obviousness of the ending. I also would of expected more run ins from their No Mercy opponents, Mark Henry in particular.

Triple H b. Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy - Triple Threat Match

Was it just me or did the post-match ladder look really weird? Seeing Jeff mess up the over the top rope spot with Jericho made me laugh for a second, but he recovered better than a lot of people do. The ending to the show was actually unexpected, although didn't Jeff do almost exactly the same thing with the out of nowhere Twist of Fate before Unforgiven?

Overall a good show. Any comments on the review? Do people hate me doing this?

[Scaryfaced]

Overall a good show. Any comments on the review? Do people hate me doing this?

Keep it going, man. There's only a few of us, so we might as well poor on the opinions and predictions. If you want to review all the broadcasts, go for it. As soon as I figure out how to get my comp tivo working again, I might do my own mini reviews as well. ECW is prime for opinions, with all the new tallent on the roster, I'm sure we've all got alot to say.

On that note, does anyone else watch AAA? I know it's in spanish, but its seriously worth recording. They've got some incredibly tallent on their roster and I keep catching things that just blow me away. For example, I saw someone do a no look springboard canon ball the other week. I think it was Aerostar, who's seriously ballsy off the ropes. If you all do get the chance to watch, keep an eye out for guys like Grand Apache, Abysmo Negro, and Octagon. They've also got some big named tallent you might recognize, like Psicosis, Halloween, Vampiro, Konnan, Super Calo and La Parka. It's definitly worth the time if you've got the interest.
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Ship Sale (http://ship-sale.com/)

[Raen]

Keep it going, man. There's only a few of us, so we might as well poor on the opinions and predictions. If you want to review all the broadcasts, go for it.

If I've got time I'll gladly review every show, although my last year of Uni starts Monday. It was actually pretty fun doing it. I did originally only mean to give a brief opinion of the whole show, but it just ended up growing.

ECW is prime for opinions, with all the new tallent on the roster, I'm sure we've all got alot to say.

Ok ECW New Superstar Initiative? Bourne is amazing, but I dunno if he even counts as ECW talent really. Ortiz seems to be under appreciated, but his program with the Miz and Morrison is so entertaining. I don't know how much I like his character, but his abilities aren't terrible from what I've seen.

Finally Swagger. I like him, although I don't get the whole smiling all the time. He seems to have some in-ring ability, although I'd like to see him work a longer match. If this program with Dreamer turns into something longer (even if it ends up with Dreamer loosing as we all know he will) then I think we'd see Swagger actually have to put some effort into a match. That's when I'll be willing to give a proper opinion on him.

On that note, does anyone else watch AAA?

I'd love to see AAA, but AFAIK we don't get it in the UK. We get the same issues where ROH DVDs are region 1, although I think my player is multi-region.

[Sandman]

ROH DVDs sold by Ring of Honor are region free.

[Raen]

God gamned lying ass Amazon! It lists them all as Region 1. I haven't got a bunch of money right now so I don't wanna go in at random. Any advice on a DVD to start from?

[Sandman]

God gamned lying ass Amazon! It lists them all as Region 1. I haven't got a bunch of money right now so I don't wanna go in at random. Any advice on a DVD to start from?

Those national DVDs from Koch like Greatest Rivalries and others might be Region 1 only, not sure. If you buy from this link : Ring of Honor DVD's (http://www.rohwrestling.com/shoponline.asp?point=products&catid=161) I'm pretty sure they are all region 0.

A good starting point would be the Take No Prisoners PPV show which took place back in March.

http://www.rohwrestling.com/images/ecom/Products__2657_14.jpg

Then keep on from there.....don't miss the two Orlando shows right after this. I was at those shows and I'd say they are easily the best of the year.

[Ghost Rider]

Yeah. Thinking about it aren't you supposed to defend the belt once a month at the minimum? I'm sure there used to be a time limit. Yay for forgetting rules when it's inconvenient! Who would you favour when they battle for it?

<moved below>

Still Shelton, I'm not actually keen on the whole gold standard thing but it's got him further than he's been so far. I think he needs some confidence on the mic though, I was thinking the other day whether he suffers from stage fright on the mic? It's just recently most of his promos come from him backstage on the titantron. Just a thought.


I thought the women's match was good, too bad the Diva Championship looks so cheap compared to the Women's.

I'm actually a fan of Priceless, minus Manu. I also think Manu should keep his hair tied back all the time, I think it looks kind of comical when its loose. :D

[Raen]

I'm actually a fan of Priceless, minus Manu. I also think Manu should keep his hair tied back all the time, I think it looks kind of comical when its loose. :D

I actually love Priceless, they're the best stable we've had in a while. It's also different to all the over done 'Old School' or 'New School' stables that we normally get, instead it blends them nicely :) Just for some reason the tag match didn't hold my attention at all, I had to keep rewind because I missed something. The 8 Man was far better. Maybe that was why I didn't like the 6 Man, it had already been trounced by the 8 Man.

[Ghost Rider]

I actually love Priceless, they're the best stable we've had in a while. It's also different to all the over done 'Old School' or 'New School' stables that we normally get, instead it blends them nicely :) Just for some reason the tag match didn't hold my attention at all, I had to keep rewind because I missed something. The 8 Man was far better. Maybe that was why I didn't like the 6 Man, it had already been trounced by the 8 Man.

Plus their entrance theme is awesome.

I'm excited about the Orton - Punk feud. Too bad it won't be over the title, but ah well.

[Raen]

I'm excited about the Orton - Punk feud. Too bad it won't be over the title, but ah well.

I dunno how much I'd like this to be over the belt. It's nice to have another big feud that's credible. I like this for the same reasons as the R-Truth/Benjamin feud, WWE have remembered how to build something without just having dozens of mildly different gimmick matches. And it's so nice to have a slow build like this, a feud that actually goes the distance. The other thing I'm liking in this is that Punk has clean wins over DiBiase and Rhodes now and he does need to take out Manu before they put him against Orton whenever that is.

[Ghost Rider]

I dunno how much I'd like this to be over the belt. It's nice to have another big feud that's credible.

True, my main gripe is that Punk's run seemed to filled with less than solid wins and I would of liked to see him defend it against someone of Orton's calibre.

I admit I am a huge Punk fan, but I just don't think they made him look enough like the credible champion he could be.

[Raen]

True, my main gripe is that Punk's run seemed to filled with less than solid wins and I would of liked to see him defend it against someone of Orton's calibre.

I admit I am a huge Punk fan, but I just don't think they made him look enough like the credible champion he could be.

Well they seemed to have pushed the flukey win thing over to Jericho, and it works much better as a heel gimmick.

[Raen]

Okay so we're only a few hours from No Mercy now. Is anyone else excited? I know it's slightly sad to be excited about something that has the potential to be a very fillerish PPV, but I don't think I've seen Hardy and Triple H go one on one yet. It's the match I'm most looking forward to, followed by the ECW Title Match. I'm only really interested in that because I'm not sure which way it's going to go. I really hope Matt retains and they move on to a program with the Miz or Morrison which they teased a few weeks ago in the ECW main event.

I hope to watch the show some time late tomorrow UK time and get a review up. And yes the double post is for bump. I'm shameless.

[pseudopseudo]

I think the only No Mercy surprise was Show beating The Undertaker. Everything else was by-the-books.

I was almost right with my call on the Beth Phoenix/Candice Michelle match. Santino ALMOST cost The Glamazon the match. :D

Also, I'm seriously sick of Batista. I think giving JBL the win would've led to a way more interesting storyline. I guess we'll see where this all goes.

[Raen]

I think the only No Mercy surprise was Show beating The Undertaker. Everything else was by-the-books.

I was almost right with my call on the Beth Phoenix/Candice Michelle match. Santino ALMOST cost The Glamazon the match. :D

Also, I'm seriously sick of Batista. I think giving JBL the win would've led to a way more interesting storyline. I guess we'll see where this all goes.

Curse you Justin for your lack of spoiler warning :(

[pseudopseudo]

Curse you Justin for your lack of spoiler warning :(

ACK... my bad. At least I didn't ruin ALL the matches? For further posterity (and not to ruin anyone else's day), I'll spoiler 'em now. Sorry man. :(

EDIT: Since you quoted my post, everyone can see what I wrote still. Quick, ninja-edit that business out! :D

[Raen]

ACK... my bad. At least I didn't ruin ALL the matches? For further posterity (and not to ruin anyone else's day), I'll spoiler 'em now. Sorry man. :(

It's ok. Due to my UK time zone I couldn't go anywhere to watch it at 2 in the morning. If it had been a week earlier I could have gone and watched at my parents, but unfortunately University started today. I'm gonna see if I can get hold of it later today.

[Raen]

Ok so No Mercy Review. Please note: SPOILER HEAVY. Results are in spoiler tags, but review does still contain some spoilers.

What the hell was up with the opening promo? Weird.

Matt Hardy (c) vs. Mark Henry - ECW Title

Why do they keep opening PPVs with ECW Title matches? Are they trying to make the title look weak? I mean if they acutally booked a US or Intercontinental title match at least they could put that earlier. Or even just opening with the Women's Title would work.

This was a suprisingly solid match, but far too short given the build up on ECW in recent weeks. It was actually pretty well balanced, especially given the time. I felt that Henry came off a little weak, but unless they made Hardy look pretty much superhuman there was no over way to book a quality title match.

Matt Hardy b. Mark Henry - Matt Hardy retains the ECW Title

Triple H and Jeff Hardy did an interview. This worked well given that they're both faces. It's actually nice to see Triple H as a mentor character to Jeff, the relationship works really well. Jeff's mic skills have improved, but he still looked awkward as hell. A funny and thoughtful promo.

Beth Phoenix (c) with Santino Marella vs. Candice Michelle - WWE Women's Championship

I'm not shy on my views on women's matches in general, but this one actually impressed me. Does anyone else see Beth Phoenix as totally being the new Chyna? This was a really interesting match, and it's nice to see a lot of technical wrestling in a women's match. In my experience you don't usually see a lot of long holds, but maybe I just haven't been paying enough attention. I thought Candice's footwork was actually very similar to CM Punk, and it's not often you can make that kinda comparisson. It would have been great to see the distraction from Santino hand Candice the match, but I guess they want to tease out that storyline a little longer.

Beth Phoenix (c) with Santino Marella b. Candice Michelle - Beth Phoenix retains the WWE Women's Championship

Now we get a Kane promo. Not scary or that impactful at all. Basically showed that 'Kane is crazy' in case you weren't sure. It's good to know because sometimes I forget :rolleyes:

Rey Mysterio vs. Kane - Rey Mysterio's mask is on the line

I really miss when Rey used to pop out of the stage. It was much cooler. Rey was wearing some very weird cover over his mask, which he gave to some kid in one of his masks. So glad he didn't wrestle in the weird cover. Apparently Rey wearing yellow and blue makes him an Aztec warrior or something.

Rey gets the 'scrappy underdog' kind of offense early on, a lot of reversals etc... that you'd expect from this. Early on Kane had a 619 scouted and hit a clothesline that was incredibly sick looking. Rey reminded me of his ECW/WCW days to some extent, hitting a few really original counters that I haven't seen before. This kind of innovation is what we used to expect from Rey, and I wish it'd happen more. One of the things I liked about this match, and the feud in general, was seeing Kane come up with counters of his own to Rey's moves. I don't often see new power counters to aerial moves.

Kane plucks Rey out of the air with a deafening chair shot to loose via DQ. Rey really sells this saying 'I can't feel my legs'. From what i've seen on rumour sites there has been no official comment on this, meaning it is likely just a work rather than a serious injury.

Rey Mysterio b. Kane by DQ

We get an MVP/Big Show and Vicki promo. MVP is complaining that he doesn't have a match and his career is suffering on SmackDown right now. Big Show threatens MVP so he leaves. I found it very weird that Vicki called out from off screen, but was asking for Big Show rather than his real name (Paul Wight). I know that's his in character name, but it was still weird as hell.

MVP comes out to the ring and complains about being underutilised. He gets interrupted by Randy Orton and they have a bit of banter talking about whether or not MVP deserves to have match. The crowd were pretty quiet, and it was a fairly stale promo. They didn't even get a response when MVP threatened to knock out Orton. Priceless turn up and a boring chant starts up. Priceless actually turn on Orton! Something I saw coming, and I wanted to see. The only problem with Priceless is I can never tell which one's Rhodes and which one's DiBiase. The only difference is their hair colour. Priceless complain about MVP sucking and as he's about to leave CM Punk and Kofi turn up to recruit MVP to assist in taking out Priceless. They use MVP as a distraction to isolate DiBiase and Rhodes and brawl a bit. Even these two didn't get a response. This whole promo sequence was dull as hell, and way too long. Like this review of it.

JBL vs. Batista - World Heavyweight Championship Number One Contenders Match

Ok they could at least have given Batista someone who you could believe might win. I spent a lot of this match reading the PAX 2009 (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=239) thread.

JBL got in almost no offense. It may as well have been a squash match against some jobber. Not what I'd expect at a PPV at all.

Batista b. JBL - Batista is the Number One Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship

JBL cuts a painfully bad promo on the Bailout Bill. For the love of god make him a commentator again. PLEASE.

Cryme Time interrupt JBL leaving the ring from backstage, showing how they stole JBL's limo and filled it with Diva's. Cool, and more than a little unexpected.

Big Show vs. Undertaker

Undertaker doesn't have any druids tonight. A shame.

This match seemed to be more about boxing than wrestling. A lot of closed fists passing between the two throughout (which are now legal apparently). The Big Show dominated a lot of the time, and it's just sorta weird seeing 'Taker manhandled a lot. Considering the report of persistant injuries i'd heard about Undertaker recently he actually performed really well. We got the overdone 'who will get a chokeslam' bit, where they both go for it at the same time.

Big Show rammed Undertaker's head into an exposed turnbuckle and we moved to a replay of Unforgiven, with the Undertaker out cold on the mat.

Big Show b. Undertaker via knockout

Undertaker really sold this loss, staggering around looking dazed and confused.

Jeff Hardy vs. Triple H (c) - WWE Championship

This match starts off with in-ring introductions. I guess they're trying to give it more of a 'Big Fight' atmosphere.

What i've really liked from Jeff in recent weeks is the increase in Jeff's mat skills. I've always been a fan myself, but I could see where people were coming from when they complained about his lack of transitional wrestling ability. It's really nice to see him improve it, and make good use of it in this match. The offense seemed pretty balanced to me in this, but it was very much that one or the other seemed to have all the momentum. I much prefer to see stuff that's a bit more back and forth.

The amount of close falls did start to get wearisome towards the end, but it did sort of remind me of those Triple H and Rock matches from the Attitude Era where they couldn't quite get it done.

Triple H turned one Whisper In The Wind into a bodyslam, which should really happen more often. Just to make up for it Jeff hit one less than a minute later.

While I wasn't that impressed with the middle of the match, the ending was completely not what I was expecting. It actually made up for some of the faults I thought it had and kept both guys looking strong. I was also really surprised to see Kozlov not turn up here. Overall a very good match of the right length that left me wanting more.

From that match it's obvious that Jeff will get a rematch, and probably the title, at some point. Triple H actually said as much to Arn Anderson in a post-match promo, before he bumped into Kozlov.

Triple H b. Jeff Hardy - Triple H retains the WWE Championship

One final thing on Jeff. You know the necklace he wears? I always worry he's gonna hurt himself with it somehow.

Chris Jericho (c) vs.Shawn Michaels - Ladder Match for the World Heavyweight Championship

They again do the in-ring introductions. I dunno how much I like this, it sounds weird to me without the music backing it.

As the bell rings there's 24 minutes left of the show. For a ladder match that's horribly short, and I'm fairly certain Jeff and Triple H had much longer than that. Jericho's mouth got busted open really early in when the ladder got seesawed into his face (from what I read that was genuine and he lost a tooth). There were actually a couple or really nice spots that were unexpected and I hadn't seen before. It was also good to see that while they used the ladder, the whole match wasn't about climbing the ladder and getting the title. They definetly made it clear that this match was personal, with both Jericho and Michaels trying to destroy the other. I love the announces table spot, but only because the camera angle they used showed all four commentators sort of huddling in fear. Bought a smile to my face.

This match was actually a lot better than I thought it was gonna be. Given that these are two of the older guys I honestly hadn't expected it to be as good as it was. Some of the spots were slightly botched, but no more than any other ladder match. Lance Cade's involvement was expected, although I would have imagined him to have more with the finish. I also really liked the tug of war at the end.

I don't know if we can count Michaels causing Jericho to headbutt him off the ladder as a flukey win, but I'm counting it.

Chris Jericho b. Shawn Michaels - Chris Jericho retains the WHC

Overall I enjoyed the show, although the huge promo segment in the middle was just pointless and awful. The two title matches were really, really good, but the undercard was lacking in one or two places. I also don't think it was as good as Unforgiven.

[Sandman]

I haven't seen it yet but I'm just gonna watch the main event before RAW so I can enjoy RAW live.

[Raen]

I haven't seen it yet but I'm just gonna watch the main event before RAW so I can enjoy RAW live.

Yeah it's worth it.

[Sandman]

You know, the one thing I hate about Cyber Sunday is when they make the options where it's completely obvious what they want you to pick.

[Sandman]

Here's the Khali interview : http://www.jackassworld.com/blog/2008/10/03/one-bourbon-one-scotch-and-one-beer-%E2%80%93-the-great-khali/

Khali kissing Lillian, that was priceless. No pun intended.

[Scaryfaced]

Great review Raen. I wasn't able to catch No Mercy and was wondering how the matches turned out. I'm not exactly happy with all of the results, specifically the ECW match, but they were pretty much expected.

A couple comments: I'm kinda bummed MVP doesn't go over very well. I disliked him when I first saw him, but he's quickly grown on me. The story arch with Matt Hardy was pretty entertaining and I'd wish they'd go back to it.

You should really start paying more attention to the womens matches these days. They're getting better by leaps and bounds, no more bra and panties cat fights. I wouldnt say Beth is the new china, though. China had zero wrestling tallent, she was just bulky and odd looking. Beth's stacked, but she isn't close to as manly as China was. She's just big enough to toss around the other divas without too serious a case of man jaw.

Lastly, Jericho is a friggin awsome heel. I'm so glad they're giving him a hell push and dumping the Y2J persona. He was a good face, to be sure, but the man shines as a heel. Now, if only they'd let him rant like he used to on WCW.
________
Steroid Rehab Advice (http://www.rehab-forum.com/steroid-rehab/)

[pseudopseudo]

Lastly, Jericho is a friggin awsome heel. I'm so glad they're giving him a hell push and dumping the Y2J persona. He was a good face, to be sure, but the man shines as a heel. Now, if only they'd let him rant like he used to on WCW.

I can't agree with this more.

[Raen]

Great review Raen. I wasn't able to catch No Mercy and was wondering how the matches turned out. I'm not exactly happy with all of the results, specifically the ECW match, but they were pretty much expected.

Thanks. I don't think there was any chance of the belt going back on Henry. I know Hardy isn't ideal, but it makes things like feuding with The Miz or Morrison or Ortiz possible without the same old Henry match over and over. I like Henry, but I don't think ECW is the right place for him.

A couple comments: I'm kinda bummed MVP doesn't go over very well. I disliked him when I first saw him, but he's quickly grown on me. The story arch with Matt Hardy was pretty entertaining and I'd wish they'd go back to it.

MVP needs to be better used. From some of the stuff he said at No Mercy I've got a feeling they're starting something for him.

You should really start paying more attention to the womens matches these days. They're getting better by leaps and bounds, no more bra and panties cat fights. I wouldnt say Beth is the new china, though. China had zero wrestling tallent, she was just bulky and odd looking. Beth's stacked, but she isn't close to as manly as China was. She's just big enough to toss around the other divas without too serious a case of man jaw.

I am totally gonna pay a lot more attention. I'm just used to how the division was 3/4 years ago with almost zero talent and continuous gimmick matches.

Lastly, Jericho is a friggin awsome heel. I'm so glad they're giving him a hell push and dumping the Y2J persona. He was a good face, to be sure, but the man shines as a heel. Now, if only they'd let him rant like he used to on WCW.

Yes he is. He does sort of rant a little, talking about how he needs to be protected as Champion. I also love the way he doesn't get a 'solid' win, it pushes the right button to heel him up.

[Sandman]

I think the TNA Knockout division made the WWE Divas work a bit harder. Shimmer is still the best woman's wrestling you can find but what else would you expect from an all woman's wrestling group?

Speaking of the Knockouts is it just me or do they all seem trashy? WWE got past that phase years ago and at least most of the divas look like they have some class.

[Raen]

I think the TNA Knockout division made the WWE Divas work a bit harder. Shimmer is still the best woman's wrestling you can find but what else would you expect from an all woman's wrestling group?

Speaking of the Knockouts is it just me or do they all seem trashy? WWE got past that phase years ago and at least most of the divas look like they have some class.

They do seem pretty trashy I agree. With the exceptions of Kong and ODB they all seem to be playing very stereotyped, trashy characters who wear surprisingly little clothing.

[Scaryfaced]

They do seem pretty trashy I agree. With the exceptions of Kong and ODB they all seem to be playing very stereotyped, trashy characters who wear surprisingly little clothing.

I wouldn't be suprised if that's part of the reason Gail Kim left. TnA's got this weird mix of old WWE divas sensability...big tits, little clothing. Yet, they still need their knockouts to hold down the southern style wrestling pedigree. It's an odd combination and I don't know how much i like it. If nothing else, it definitly forced the WWE to rethink their diva matches, which is a vast improvement. From what I've heard, Finley trains the divas. If that's the case, they couldn't have a better trainer and it's no wonder were getting entertaining divas matches.
________
IOLITE VAPORIZER REVIEW (http://www.vaporshop.com)

[Raen]

If nothing else, it definitly forced the WWE to rethink their diva matches, which is a vast improvement. From what I've heard, Finley trains the divas. If that's the case, they couldn't have a better trainer and it's no wonder were getting entertaining divas matches.

Yeah, that's why it nice that WWE has competition at least to some extent. It's not as much of a challenge right now as WCW, but it is certainly forcing them to rethink certain things. I'd heard that about Finlay as well, and possibly something about Dreamer being involved with training guys up. I think Dreamer is involved with the New Superstar Initiative, making sure those guys do ok.

[Scaryfaced]

OH! That reminds me. I don't know which site he got it from, but a buddy of mine that hawks wrestling rumor sites told me Eric Bischoff might be getting another chance at it. Apparently, he's been producing a celebrity wrestling reality show for one of the random cable networks. I guess if it turns out to be a success, the network's offered him enough capitol to basically restart WCW. Obviously, it would need a new name and they'd need to build a complete new roster, but we may well see 3 big time wrestling feds in the near future. Late 90s, here we come!
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FREE AMATUER XXX (http://www.fucktube.com/)

[Sandman]

Technically they would be a 4th big time wrestling group....Ring of Honor is already at ECW levels without weekly tv.

[Raen]

OH! That reminds me. I don't know which site he got it from, but a buddy of mine that hawks wrestling rumor sites told me Eric Bischoff might be getting another chance at it. Apparently, he's been producing a celebrity wrestling reality show for one of the random cable networks. I guess if it turns out to be a success, the network's offered him enough capitol to basically restart WCW. Obviously, it would need a new name and they'd need to build a complete new roster, but we may well see 3 big time wrestling feds in the near future. Late 90s, here we come!

I'd heard this too (http://www.wrestlezone.com/article.php?articleid=224207115).

Bischoff has stated in many past interviews that he would not be interested in starting a wrestling company that would fall into that same "WWE lite" category as others. He said that at least a dozen people have contacted him (some credible and some not) about starting a new company, but unless there's a new, innovative approach added to the business model and a significant amount of money to work with, he doesn't want to do it.

He basically wants to go to more traditional wrestling and some how tweak it with a reality aspect. If he pulls this off it could be good. However the reality aspect doesn't make me too hopeful. I mean Tough Enough was ok, but I don't know how you 'd take that sorta concept to a full promotion.

Technically they would be a 4th big time wrestling group....Ring of Honor is already at ECW levels without weekly tv.

In terms of content then yes. However in terms of presence in the mind of the casual fan, or even general public, then no. I mean looking at even TNA's ratings make it clear that they really are only drawing in the hardcore fan base. I'm sort of hoping that the TNA game will build them up a bit, even though I didn't like the game at all.

[Sandman]

Looks like WWE's Cyber Sunday voting is text message only this year......and it's for US fans only as far as I can tell. That blows. I'm not paying .99 per vote plus being charged per text to vote for these matches....especially when you already know how the voting will go just by the options they give.

[Scaryfaced]

Looks like WWE's Cyber Sunday voting is text message only this year......and it's for US fans only as far as I can tell. That blows. I'm not paying .99 per vote plus being charged per text to vote for these matches....especially when you already know how the voting will go just by the options they give.

My friend just called me to list the Cyber Sunday choices. I was planning on voting, but i don't text in votes for anything. Kinda sucks as there were some pretty interesting choices. The best is the choice for Santino to defend the Euro title. It honestly looks like a good way to bring back Gold Dust, as his contract expired in TNA a while ago. His whole family's already working for the WWE, he might as well join in too.
________
Toyota fj40 history (http://www.toyota-wiki.com/wiki/Toyota_FJ40)

[Radioguy9698]

OH! That reminds me. I don't know which site he got it from, but a buddy of mine that hawks wrestling rumor sites told me Eric Bischoff might be getting another chance at it. Apparently, he's been producing a celebrity wrestling reality show for one of the random cable networks. I guess if it turns out to be a success, the network's offered him enough capitol to basically restart WCW. Obviously, it would need a new name and they'd need to build a complete new roster, but we may well see 3 big time wrestling feds in the near future. Late 90s, here we come!

i heard bischoff on bubba the love sponge talking about his involvement with hogan's new wrestling show on CMT

[Raen]

i heard bischoff on bubba the love sponge talking about his involvement with hogan's new wrestling show on CMT

Yeah his new fed is something separate to the celebrity wrestling. I think his involvement in Hogan's thing is to sort of test the waters for how a wrestling/realtiy show promotion would go over in the current environment.

Raw review is in the works.

Edit: And here it is.

WWE Raw 06/10/08 Review

Warning: Spoiler Heavy

Show starts with a promo from a clearly battered Jericho. He says he's GM tonight as Adamle is away, and books a No DQ Match between Cade and Michaels for later. His mouth looks busted to hell, and he shows a pretty impressive gap in his teeth. I guess he really did loose a tooth. Batista comes out and talks about being Number 1 contender, and they have some banter about who is the bigger animal. Batista ends it by spine bustering Jericho. This was a really funny bit of work from Batista, although Jericho's half of the conversation was pretty lacklustre. During the break (yeah that's a smart place to make an announcement) Jericho books a JBL/Batista rematch with the #1 Contendership on the line with himself as Guest Referee. Batista was the only thing that really entertained me in this opening segment.

Jamie Noble & Mickey James vs. Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix

Weirdly this a mixed tag match, so you can only face the same gender. Should of been Inter-Gender really. This was an incredibly quick squash match, lasted about two or three minutes.

Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix b. Jamie Noble & Mickey James

Regal was at ring side for this match, and ended up brawling with Noble after the match. That looks to be developing into a nice feud.

Shawn Michaels is backstage and talk about how he's hurting from last night's ladder match but still has enough gas in the tank to go out there and win. I think they're shifting Michaels towards a more intense (and slightly crazy) character from this promo.

Kofi Kingston vs. Ted DiBiase

Ted DiBiase looks to have the advantage over Kingston with Priceless at ring side, but CM Punk turns up just before the bell to back up Kingston. This was another pretty short match, but I was impressed by Kofi. I haven't seem much in ring time from him myself, and I'd really like to see more of him.

Ted DiBiase b. Kofi Kingston

A short backstage promo between Jericho and Orton, with Jericho saying he'll put Randy to work tonight. Mysterious.

Next is a review of John Cena's current injury and how he's doing. It opened with Batista talking about how he did it. This wasn't Batista being heelish in anyway, just explaining exactly how it happened and actually praising Cena for being able to kick out afterwards. This was a really nice, factual promo and surprised me.

Rey Mysterio & Matt Hardy vs. Mark Heny & Kane

This match had some very cool team work from Rey and Matt earlier on, and I'd actually be pretty interested in them teaming again later on. Then again you may as well just put back the Hardy Boyz and get a similar effect. However the monsters started to dominate pretty fast. This match really showcased the versatility of Matt Hardy for me, he got some very interesting offence in.

The ending to this match was really cool. Mark Henry caught Rey Mysterio from a suicide dive and tossed him into the top rope while Hardy was setting up. Hardy feel down and got chokeslamed.

Mark Henry & Kane b. Rey Mysterio & Matt Hardy

Shawn Michaels vs. Lance Cade - No DQ Match

This should of been at least the penultimate match. Also Lance Cade's music sucks. This moves to the outside almost instantly and HBK really sold the injuries from the ladder match. Lance Cade is clearly out to destroy Michaels and slams him through a table within a minute and a half of the opening bell.

Michaels turned this around pretty fast, prying a chair from Cade and slamming him with the chair ten or fifteen times. Probably the shortest DQ match I've ever seen, lasted about 4 minutes tops.
Shawn Michaels b. Lance Cade

After the match Michaels continued to slam Cade with the chair. They do seem to be going for the story where Michaels has completely snapped now.


Apparently SmackDown was the highest rated show in the history of MyNetworkTV. Not exactly a shocker.

King gets in the ring to announce the choices for Santino's IC Title defence (that's right he's actually defending the belt) at Cyber Sunday. This was dull, boring, and annoyed me that I can't vote because I don't live in the US.

The Great Khali (isn't he meant to be on SmackDown?) comes out to address the whole Johnny Knoxville thing and invites Knoxville to Raw next week. Then to prove that Khali does have a sense of humor he hosts a 'kiss cam' segment (you know where if they show you on the screen you're meant to kiss?). Didn't really care about this segment either. Felt like filler, and made it seem like the Knoxville thing could of been a setup. Is it just me or does he speak the same language as Kozlov? I thought he was meant to be Indian.

I missed a match here. There was a gap in the show I was watching. From what I've read it was Jillian Hall vs. Kelly Kelly and had The Miz and Morrison and Cryme Time doing guest commentary. Apparently this tanked dude to constant bickering on the commentary making it impossible to pay attention to the match.

Another segment on Cena. Apparently he left the hospital and went to an arena to say Hi to people on the same day as his operation.

JBL vs. Batista - Number 1 Contenders Match for the World Heavyweight Champtionship - Chris Jericho as Special Guest Referee

At the start of the match Jericho adds a Special Guest Timekeeper in the form of William Regal and adds Randy Orton as a Special Guest Commentator. Apparently it wasn't hard enough for Batista yet. They showed Regal holding the timekeepers hammer a lot, looking very ominous. Orton says he doesn't care about who wins this match, making it sound like he won't interfere. Yeah, right. Jericho is the classic heel Guest Referee, giving Batista very, very slow counts and freakishly fast counts for JBL. At one point Jericho refused to count one of Batista's pin falls. It was pretty funny at points with Jericho acting as JBL's coach and cheer leader. There was a couple of really funny spots where Jericho seemed to be admonishing JBL, but was simply turning his back to allow Regal to attack. Eventually Jericho gets too involved and Batista hits a double spear on Jericho and JBL. Adamle appears and sends a new referee to the ring. I honestly didn't see Adamle appearing on the show, and thought it was a good way to balance the match out a bit more.

A little more back and forth in the ring before Batista wins from a Batista Bomb.

Batista b. JBL - Batista retains his Number One Contenders spot.

Adamle then announces that at Cyber Sunday Batista will face Jericho for the World Heavyweight Championship. You can vote for a referee, Orton, HBK or Austin. Not bad to have three choices that could almost be realistic.

This show was good in parts, although almost every match was far too short. They could have done without the tag match and spread that time out a bit. I didn't find Jericho that good until he added the 'Special Guests' to the Number One Contenders match. It was pretty funny as he kept whispering in Lilian's ear while she was trying to announce the match. And a Special Guest Timekeeper did make me laugh. Probably the best bit of the show for me was Batista in the opening segment, he did make me laugh. I also really liked both of the Cena segments.

[Raen]

Found this here (http://www.wrestlezone.com//article.php?articleid=225504007).

In an update to previous reports that Eric Bischoff may be considering creating a new wrestling promotion pending the success of Hogan's new celebrity wrestling show, it now appears that Bischoff has some sort of a model in mind. He said that he would need a $100 million budget, and that it would take about 5 years to become successful. He has stated on numerous occasions that his idea for a promotion would have to be totally different from WWE, as he feels TNA's model of business doesn't work.

I couldn't find any figures for TNA or ROH (TNA is a privately held company and I'm fairly sure RF Video, the company which founded ROH, is the same) to get a comparison of their start up costs. The best I can find is Jeff Jarrett saying that it was less than $50 million, due to the PPV format they adopted. However considering WWE as multi-national company that broadcasts worldwide made $468 million for the '07 period, he may be hard pressed to find $100 million in start up capital. Then again there was rumor about Ted Turner getting back into wrestling once his no-compete clause runs out (2011 I believe as that would make a decade), so he's certainly got the capital and the motive to fund Bischoff's dream.

[Sandman]

I'm heading down to Florida to a show this weekend, looks like a good one. I'll post pics if I take them.

Saturday, October 11, 2008 - IMPACT OF HONOR 2
National Guard Armory
8551 W. Venable St., Crystal River, FL 34429
Doors open at 7:30 pm and show starts at 8 pm

Already signed:


FIP World Heavyweight Title Match
Go Shiozaki defends vs. Roderick Strong


FIP Tag Team Title Match
Kenny King & Jason Blade defend vs. Jay & Mark Briscoe


SHIMMER Title Match
MsChif defends vs. Rain


#1 Contender's Match
Erick Stevens vs. Tyler Black


Plus more to be announced with:
-FIP Florida Heritage Champion Sal Rinauro of The YRR
-The Dark City Fight Club of Kory Chavis & Jon Davis
-Damien Wayne & Rex Sterling of Heartbreak Enterprises with Sean & Phil Davis
-Chasyn Rance of The YRR
-The British Lions
-Plus others!!!

[Deunnero]

I caught an old match between BamBam Bigelow (RIP) and Balls Mahoney on the Fight Network last night! It was at the old ECW venue. Pretty awesome.

Have to mention that the ROH match between Samoa Joe and CM Punk was one of the best I've ever seen, look it up!

[Sandman]

Have to mention that the ROH match between Samoa Joe and CM Punk was one of the best I've ever seen, look it up!

Which one? They had a trilogy.

[Deunnero]

Which one? They had a trilogy.


Im guessing it was probably the last one, must have lasted a solid 45 minutes with an insane amount of close as hell 2-counts, and a spectacular array of moves. But that probably was the case for most of their matches. :o

[Sandman]

Im guessing it was probably the last one, must have lasted a solid 45 minutes with an insane amount of close as hell 2-counts, and a spectacular array of moves. But that probably was the case for most of their matches. :o

It was the last one, the other 2 were 60 minute time limit draws....apparently the second one is the best.

[Raen]

WWE SmackDown! Review - 10/10/08

Warning! Spoiler Heavy

They show Big Show's knockout punch from No Mercy. I actually thought this worked in the context, but from what I've read it left a lot of fans very confused. I don't know if I'd be pushing for KO finishes to happen more often, but in the Big Show/Undertaker feud I think it works pretty well.

The show proper opens with Vickie in the ring, in a wheel chair, being her usual whiny self. I honestly wished that the Undertaker's attack would of been the end of her. She's not a good heel because she just can't act and they're just using her for the Guerrero name. I can't wait until she's taken off of TV. She basically announces that Big Show has a title shot tonight as a reward before Big Show comes out to mouth off about how he knocked the Undertaker out. His gloating wasn't even that hot on the mic, he sounded distincly average. I think that's always been the Big Show's problem. Kozlov comes out saying that he deserves a title shot and Big Show shoots him down saying that he's not American. Uh... ok then? I'm sure that's a better reason than Kozlov sucking. This whole segment was very average, and I found that Big Show getting cheers for his American comments made him look too face like.

Brie Bella vs. Natalya with Victoria

Since I said I'd pay more attention to the women/divas after No Mercy, here goes.Brie Bella seems really good to me, her style seems to come from the line of divas that started with Lita (at least in WWF/E). I never knew Natalya was part of the Hart family. Impressive. Victoria tried to stop Brie Bella doing her 'under the ring' trick, and got jumped on by Hornswoggle from under the ring. Hornswoggle chased Victoria out of the ring, Brie returned 'refreshed'. Wonder how long they'll keep this going? I think they're moving towards revealing the truth.

Brie Bella b. Natalya

I will admit that the Womens and Divas division have improved so much recently, and I'm actually enjoying the matches.

There was a pretty funny bit between Funaki and R-Truth. It turns out Funaki's full name is Kung Fu Naki. Awesome! This was a really funny segment, and I seriously love R-Truth. He may not be perfect in ring, but his character just works for me.

Quick bit between Jeff and Triple H in the back, promoting Cyber Sunday. I do like their friendly rivalry/mentorship relationship. I was never sure how much a face/face feud was going to work, but it's keeping me happy week after week. Apparently Jeff is gonna challenge the winner of the title match tonight. That's a shocker! Jeff actually looked by far the best I've seen him in a segment for a while. Hopefully he can keep it up.

R-Truth vs. Shelton Benjamin

This feud is great for me. It's helping people pay attention to both of them, and I'd imagine is helping R-Truth to relearn the WWE style of working. The only thing I don't like is Benjamin's pre-match videos. They're clearly just compensating for his lack of mic skills. Pretty fast paced match, and just about the right length for this point in their feud. I can see a best of 5 or something in the future. That'd be awesome, we haven't seen it for a while and people'd pay attention to the US belt again.

R-Truth b. Shelton Benjamin

Jeff Hardy vs. MVP

This had one of the Helm's promos for MVP. I don't think I've said anything about these before. I like them, but I wish they weren't going on so long. I honestly just want Helm's back right now.

This match had a slightly amusing part where MVP went outside the ring making the timeout signal. Also apparently he's one win away from an incentive bonus. I hope that's actually a story for him, it could work really well. To me Hardy is looking better week on week, he really is improving his overall ring work. The one thing I loved in this match was a pretty much perfect camera angle when Hardy hit a Swanton. Made it look amazing.

Jeff Hardy b. MVP

After the match Kozlov came out to dominate Jeff. Will they just end this now, Kozlov in no way interests me.

Jesse, Festus and the Colons vs. Curt Hawkins, Zack Ryder, Kenny Dykstra and Ryan Braddock - 8 Man Tag

I guess this match was meant to be mixing the tag title feud with the MyMovingCompany thing. It was funny seeing Festus in a tag match, he clearly doesn't like being forced to stay out of the ring. It was nice to see the character still being kept up even at that point. For an 8 Man Tag this was incredibly fast and a pretty average tag match. Not overly impressed. Maria was the special guest announcer for the match to set something up where Festus has the hots for Maria. Would be interesting if it gives his character more depth. I think they're also trying her out for the role, and she worked well.

Jesse, Festus and the Colons b. Curt Hawkins, Zack Ryder, Kenny Dykstra and Ryan Braddock

The Great Khali vs. Three Unannounced Jobbers

Ok an obvious squash match that was designed to lead into the Khali Kiss Cam.

The Great Khali b. Three Unannounced Jobbers

They pick an overweight girl to come in the ring and Khali clearly hesitates in kissing her before going for it. Was a little funny, but didn't overly impress me. I could be made to like this if it carries on. When they picked the overweight girl I thought this would lead to some heel angle, but not at this stage at least.

Brief Kozlov piece saying he'll beat Hardy next week when they have a match. Yawn.

Triple H (c) vs. The Big Show - WWE Championship

Again they do the introductions in ring. I guess this'll be the new standard to build up a big fight atmosphere around title matches. I'm actually starting to like it a little now, it does give a bit more of a chance for posturing before the bell rings. It was definetly better here than it was at No Mercy. They need to keep working on it, but it could work for me.

Given the Big Show's match at No Mercy I would of expected him to of worked this at a much faster pace than he did. I think his new cocky character does work, and he's really bringing it into the ring in his style. He looked very relaxed in parts of this match, and it was nice to see him bringing the character into the ring.

The lights went out and Undertaker appeared. Awesome brawl with Big Show. The lights kept going out and Undertaker appeared in different places. It looked really impressive to me.

No Contest - Triple H retains the WWE Championship

Once 'Taker had cleared Big Show away, Kozlov appeared to attack Triple H. Jeff made the save, and both men got worked together to clear Kozlov from the ring. Jeff then again hits the Twist of Fate on Triple H. That's two weeks in a row. You'd think the champ would've figured it out last time.

Overall this was a much better show than Raw. The matches were a better length, the segments worked better for me and it built on or teased a lot of plots. For me SmackDown is by far the superior show right now. If only they'd get rid of Vickie. I also tried to keep this away from being too much of a report which I felt the Raw review was. Hope that come through to you guys.

Finally how the hell did you become Heavyweight Champion Sandman?

[Sandman]

Finally how the hell did you become Heavyweight Champion Sandman?

I'm just that damn good.

[Raen]

I'm just that damn good.

Well that'd explain it.

[Scaryfaced]

I'm just that damn good.

I'm coming for that title, Sandman! Oooh yeah!

Great write up Raen. I missed Smackdown and you do a great job of picking up on the little story quirks. I'll attempt to find it on youtube and give a little feedback later today.

Honestly, I'm more excited about the new Smackdown vs Raw game than I am about the actual wrestlers it features. I'm kinda foggy on the 360's functions but can you take screenshots or vid caps? I wouldn't expect vids, but screenshots would be pretty boss. Basically, I just want to show off all my CAWs when the game comes out.
________
Oregon Dispensaries (http://oregon.dispensaries.org/)

[Ghost Rider]

Just some thoughts:

I see the Jesse & Festus story has taken another leaf out of the Of Mice and Men book with his 'liking' of Maria...

I really like Natalya, I hope her and Victoria get some serious wrestling T.V time.

Also, they're using CM Punk as the focal point for all the Cyber Sunday advertising, so I'm curious as to what his match and options will be..I'm a big Punk fan so I hope it doesn't disappoint!

BTW, the Jillian V Kelly Kelly match was totally overshadowed by the Miz and John Morrison / Cryme Tyme vocal argument. BUT both teams were extremely funny so I think they definitely need some other way to use their wits and words as they're all talented in that area (without making women's wrestling look 2nd best to an argument).

[OldeWolf]

I hate it when people call those actors "Wrestlers" when all they do is act out the wrestling moves. I would like to see them compete against some true Greco-Roman Wrestlers in a real competitive fashion and not walk around acting it all out, calling it wrestling (Yes yes, I know the stunts are real and the body gets a work out acting out all that stuff).

WWE and all that is just men's version of Soap Opera.

Yeah yeah, flame on upon me while I go back to watching real actions (such as UFC). :D

[Raen]

I'm coming for that title, Sandman! Oooh yeah!

You'll have to go through me first! Oh it's on!


Great write up Raen. I missed Smackdown and you do a great job of picking up on the little story quirks.

Thanks for the kind words. I felt my Raw review was really weak and tried to put something a bit stronger out.

Honestly, I'm more excited about the new Smackdown vs Raw game than I am about the actual wrestlers it features. I'm kinda foggy on the 360's functions but can you take screenshots or vid caps? I wouldn't expect vids, but screenshots would be pretty boss. Basically, I just want to show off all my CAWs when the game comes out.

Considering the amount to which TNA disappointed me, I'm really looking forward to this. The only thing that doesn't sound amazing to me is the 'Road to WrestleMania' mode. Then again it does give me the chance for tag team co-op which sounds awesome. I just really want it in the main Career mode. It'd be awesome.

Just some thoughts:

I see the Jesse & Festus story has taken another leaf out of the Of Mice and Men book with his 'liking' of Maria...

That's a book I really should read, so I'll take your word for it. From what I know of the book though you make a valid point.

I really like Natalya, I hope her and Victoria get some serious wrestling T.V time.

Natalya is impressive, and I think we're seeing the same separation in the women's division as we are in the men's division in terms of style (crusierweight/heavyweight). It's nice to see more diversity, and this is something that has been building for a while.

Also, they're using CM Punk as the focal point for all the Cyber Sunday advertising, so I'm curious as to what his match and options will be..I'm a big Punk fan so I hope it doesn't disappoint!

I'm really curious. I've noticed that more than once they've used a wrestler as the centrepiece of the marketing and not done anything on the show.

BTW, the Jillian V Kelly Kelly match was totally overshadowed by the Miz and John Morrison / Cryme Tyme vocal argument. BUT both teams were extremely funny so I think they definitely need some other way to use their wits and words as they're all talented in that area (without making women's wrestling look 2nd best to an argument).

Thanks for filling me in! I'd heard that the commentary was funny, but did cause the match itself to tank. This is a great inter-brand feud right now, and one of the best tag feuds I've seen in a while.




Yeah yeah, flame on upon me while I go back to watching real actions (such as UFC). :D

Hell yes it's soap opera. That's why I watch it. That's why when I write up my thoughts I talk a lot about story lines. It's kinda the point. And sure it is acting out a script to an extent, but damn it makes it a lot more impressive in my eyes than UFC or boxing or anything along those lines. I have watched UFC a few times, and I'll admit those guys are brutal. However you can't set up the same kind of drama inside a match, and in general there isn't the room to get some really impressive stuff in. And if you look at it there are at least a few pro wrestlers who started as amateurs (Kurt Angle, Shelton Benjamin, Charlie Haas off the top of my head). Sure they may just be 'acting it out' but that doesn't make them any less of an athlete.

There, that wasn't too flame like was it?

[OldeWolf]

Hell yes it's soap opera. That's why I watch it. That's why when I write up my thoughts I talk a lot about story lines. It's kinda the point. And sure it is acting out a script to an extent, but damn it makes it a lot more impressive in my eyes than UFC or boxing or anything along those lines. I have watched UFC a few times, and I'll admit those guys are brutal. However you can't set up the same kind of drama inside a match, and in general there isn't the room to get some really impressive stuff in. And if you look at it there are at least a few pro wrestlers who started as amateurs (Kurt Angle, Shelton Benjamin, Charlie Haas off the top of my head). Sure they may just be 'acting it out' but that doesn't make them any less of an athlete.

There, that wasn't too flame like was it?

As long as they don't start calling it a sport. :p
The last time I disagree with people calling it "real wrestling" and "it's a real sport!", People got pissed off at me and resulted in the flame wars. :D

As long as it's seen as just soap opera then all is well and good! At least some folks sees it sort of the way I see it, it being a soap opera more than anything else. But "real" wrestling? Hardly.

[Raen]

As long as they don't start calling it a sport. :p
The last time I disagree with people calling it "real wrestling" and "it's a real sport!", People got pissed off at me and resulted in the flame wars. :D

As long as it's seen as just soap opera then all is well and good! At least some folks sees it sort of the way I see it, it being a soap opera more than anything else. But "real" wrestling? Hardly.

Well apart from the competitiveness aspect it fulfils the criteria for a sport. Of course it's not one though, I personally stick with the Vince McMahon term of 'sports entertainment'. That pretty much sums the business up for me nicely. But no, it's not 'real' wrestling. They may use moves from the amateur world, but it's nowhere near being the real thing.

[OldeWolf]

That term might just work..."Sport entertainments".

What gets me is that you and other guys keeps calling wrestling outside of WWE wrestling "amateur wrestling" despite the fact that High school and college wrestlings are brutal and hard to be very good at it (I should know, I was part of both), not to mention Olympics wrestling and any forms of wrestling found within UFC as well. And the funny part of all this is, us wrestlers called all those backyard wrestling (Jumping off buildings to tables and others, hitting lightbulbs onto their bodies, hitting chairs on each others' heads, etc) as well as WWE style wrestling on tv, Amateur wrestling.

[Raen]

I only call it amateur wrestling as it seems to be the most widely used and accepted term. While 'Greco-Roman Wrestling' or 'Freestyle Wrestling' may be more appropriate for specific disciplines, amateur wrestling is the more accepted term. And by amateur I mean it in the sense that most of the people who do it are not doing it at the professional level (i.e. it's their primary job) rather than as a comment on the skill level displayed by wrestlers. For example it's the same difference between Pro and Am in skateboarding to me, Pros do it for their living, Ams don't. Of course it's different in wrestling as they represent vastly different styles as well, but it is no way meant to be a comment on ability.

[Scaryfaced]

I don't really understand why people feel the need to argue about what's a sport and what isn't every time we start a wrestling thread. We get that you don't think it's real. Thats great, but it's the same arguement we're forced to rehash time and time again. Any person above the 12-14yr age range understands that it isn't real. That really has nothing to do with why we like it well into our adult years.

Amateur wrestling is callled amateur for the same reasons Raen listed. It isn't a professional sport, they don't do it for a living, so it's considered "Amateur". Its the same terminology used in all sporting events, "Pro" wrestling included. There's a ton of amateur wrestlers who become Pro as the skills gained in greco translate well in Pro Wrestling. You might not know this, but Pro Wrestling's current form is an evolution of Catch wrestling, a style of grappling focused on locks and throws, forbidding closed fist blows. What you see now is far from what wrestling was in it's early days, but you can catch hints of its past in matches today. The collar and elbow tie up, for instance, is straight catch wrestling, as well as the hammerlock.

Basically, Pro Wrestling used to be closer to the UFC than you think.
________
Axor (http://www.mercedes-wiki.com/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_Axor)

[pseudopseudo]

What the hell? We were doing so well just having our wrestling discussions in here, and someone had to come in and crap all over it.

You saw the title of the thread - if all you really came in here for was to start shit... *facepalm*

Seriously.

[Scaryfaced]

To bring this thread back on topic, I just caught an incredible match on AAA a few minutes ago. It was a 4 way tag team ladder match for the AAA tag team belts featuring The Mexican Powers, Halloween and Super Tiger, Joe Lider and Psicosis, and The Hart Foundation II (Teddy Hart and Jack Evans). Honestly, it feels like AAA is the last company keeping up the hardcore style ECW made famous. They use these flimsy metal ladders that tend to twist and break, so they end up using ladders like tables, slaming people though them. Theres just something so damned hardcore about seeing someone twisted up in what used to be a ladder, it really gets the blood flowing. A few highlights include Lider's double stomp off the top of a ladder onto Halloween's head, which was conveniently stuck in a folding chair, a 450 off the top rope though a table outside the ring, a rolling powerbomb though a ladder, the list goes on. It was seriously entertaining

If I can find the match on youtube soon, i'll post it. To tide you over, here's some lucha libre sweetness....

x69O4cYZHfg
0nMZzUI37N0
229LiPl6YRE
4pn5mey0WMM
Super Porky Plancha! Porky porky porky porky...
________
Hawaii marijuana dispensaries (http://hawaii.dispensaries.org/)

[Sandman]

Scary, if you want that old ECW hardcore style look into CZW....they even call the old ECW Arena their home base.

http://www.czwrestling.com/

[Raen]

CSW is certainly as brutal as old school ECW, although I don't think it's got the same kind of quality feel to the matches that ECW had. One of the reasons ECW was so great was the sheer quality of the guys on the roster. I'll admit I haven't seen a huge amount of either, but ECW just always seemed to have almost every match looking good.

[Scaryfaced]

Scary, if you want that old ECW hardcore style look into CZW....they even call the old ECW Arena their home base.

http://www.czwrestling.com/

Oh i know about CZW, but they let just about anyone wrestle. Half the matches turn into botch fests where two fat white trash guys hit eachother with lightbulbs for 10 minutes. It can be entertaining, especially with guys like Necro Butcher, but most of their stuff is embarassing.

AAA has this weird mix of childish luchador saturday morning cartoon matches and hardcore cage and ladder matches. It's highly entertaining, plus I feel like I'm learning spanish while I watch.

Oh, just to make sure, you guys are watching the Botchamania videos on youtube, right? If not, WATCH NOW.
________
Caodaism Advice (http://www.religionboard.org/caodaism/)

[Sandman]

Oh i know about CZW, but they let just about anyone wrestle. Half the matches turn into botch fests where two fat white trash guys hit eachother with lightbulbs for 10 minutes. It can be entertaining, especially with guys like Necro Butcher, but most of their stuff is embarassing.

CZW used to be better than they are now. I still watch their Death Match tournament and their Cage of Pain show though. They bring their best for those.

You would probably enjoy Chikara, they have plenty of comedy elements mixed in with great wrestling.

[Raen]

Was actually looking at CZW stuff today and stumbled across this:

zOcjq4siu7A&hl=en&fs=1

From Sandman's description and some of the stuff I've seen and read it does seem to be kind of descriptive of the comedy in Chikara.

[Sandman]

Ah the ants....you should look up Player Uno from Chikara.

[SilentScreams]

You know what always bothered me back when I used to watch wrestling?
The heels never get clean wins. At least not over serious contenders.
I mean, I get that a part of being a heel is cheating and generally being a jerk, but are we supposed to believe that they suddenly lose all actual wrestling ability when they turn heel?

[Raen]

Ah the ants....you should look up Player Uno from Chikara.

Just watched some YouTube vids. A wrestler you can pause? Best. Gimmick. Ever.

You know what always bothered me back when I used to watch wrestling?
The heels never get clean wins. At least not over serious contenders.
I mean, I get that a part of being a heel is cheating and generally being a jerk, but are we supposed to believe that they suddenly lose all actual wrestling ability when they turn heel?

Actually guys like Umaga, Kozlov, Kane and Brock Lesnar frequently get/got clean wins. Sure those guys were monster heels, but they still did it. And it's not that heels loose wrestling ability (for example Shelton Benjamin, Kurt Angle and Chris Jericho off the top of my head from current rosters), it's more that they are now also willing to go outside the rules to win as well.

[Magma]

Up until a year ago I used to follow Wrestling pretty regularly. Saw WWE on TV and caught some of the other feds on the interwebs (raw's the only thing that gets broadcast around here). About a year ago I stopped watching. I felt it was all getting very boring and there wasn't really anyone interesting around (the only guy I really enjoyed watching was Samoa Joe).

Caught a bit the other day. Seems like not much has changed. But I could be wrong. How are things?

[Scaryfaced]

Was actually looking at CZW stuff today and stumbled across this:

From Sandman's description and some of the stuff I've seen and read it does seem to be kind of descriptive of the comedy in Chikara.

Lol alright, that was classic. I guess I'll have to give CZW a bit more attention if they pull off quality stuff like that. Kinda reminds me The Human Tornado's balls of steel/pimp slap gag.

Magma: Personally, I feel like wrestling's been getting better lately, especially WWE. They've brought in alot of entertaining tallent and if you look hard, you can find some truely classic characters. TNA's style seems to be pushing the WWE toward less Hulk Hogan rip offs and more middle weight tallent. Unfortunatly, very little of that shows on RAW. Smackdown and ECW are far superior programs imo. You can catch all that on the net if your interested, though.

If you want to get back into wrestling, i find it's best to find a few wrestlers you really enjoy watching. I personally can't get enough of some of the unpopular heels, like John Morrison and Santino. Its also alot more fun when you've got someone to talk to about it. I stopped watching wrestling from mid highschool until about 2 years ago, but I found a new wrestling buddy and I've been addicted since.
________
Iolite Vaporizer (http://iolitevaporizer.net/)

[Sandman]

I find it funny that TNA's Bound For Glory ended the same way it did last year. I wonder how long Sting will be champ this time.

[Dave]

Wow, CM Punk, Homicide, and Samoa Joe all came from RoH? That promotion had(has?) a ton of talent.

They still have a ton of talent.

[Dave]

I caught an old match between BamBam Bigelow (RIP) and Balls Mahoney on the Fight Network last night! It was at the old ECW venue. Pretty awesome.

Have to mention that the ROH match between Samoa Joe and CM Punk was one of the best I've ever seen, look it up!

I'm totally jealous of you Canadians and your Fight Network. Why is there not something like this down here in the states? I hear that they've even got the Fight Network over in the UK too.

Joe vs. Punk (all three of them) were great. Their joint shoot interview is pretty neat too.

[Dave]

I find it funny that TNA's Bound For Glory ended the same way it did last year. I wonder how long Sting will be champ this time.

I read the results of this show earlier tonight. What a shame. Why they continue to push Sting is beyond me, but maybe things will pick up with Joe chasing the title again. I'm still not all that excited to see Nash vs. Joe or possibly Sting vs. Jarrett. None of those potential fueds really make me want to tune into iMPACT!, you know?

Things with Chris Jericho have been great, as of late. I think I might pick up No Mercy when its released on DVD; but another world title run with Dave Bautista just seems kind of 'meh' to me.

I wish they'd do something where they turn CM Punk heel, or team him up with Colt Cabana. I hate the Scotty Goldman gimmick/name. VERY lame.

Also, did you see where Nick Nemeth got bust with a wellness violation (http://www.lordsofpain.net/news/2008_/1223669958.php)? I thought that was pretty hilarious.

[Wolvie]

They still have a ton of talent.

Wonder how long it'll take before WWE/TNA pilfers that talent again?

I find it funny that TNA's Bound For Glory ended the same way it did last year. I wonder how long Sting will be champ this time.

As a Sting fan, I am happy. But I doubt he'll be champ for long. He likes to help the younger guys by putting angles out there to push them to the forefront. I'm sure Joe will win back his title in grand fashion soon enough.

EDIT: Also I am so ready for Jeff Hardy to hold a world title in the WWE. He had the Intercontinental title for a bit... but I think he's world champ material. C'mon WWE, Give this guy a push!

[pseudopseudo]

WTF? When has Chris Jericho had time to tape a reality show?

He's hosting Fuse's new show "Redemption Song (http://www.fuse.tv/ontv/shows/redemption-song/)". I expect maximum cheese.

[Raen]

Also I am so ready for Jeff Hardy to hold a world title in the WWE. He had the Intercontinental title for a bit... but I think he's world champ material. C'mon WWE, Give this guy a push!

He's almost there. Triple H even teased it at No Mercy after he scrapped his win over Jeff. Arn Anderson was talking to him about the match and Triple H replied that 'It's only a matter of time'. Unless Jeff screws up again he'll get it within 6 months I predict.

WTF? When has Chris Jericho had time to tape a reality show?

He's hosting Fuse's new show "Redemption Song (http://www.fuse.tv/ontv/shows/redemption-song/)". I expect maximum cheese.

He's probably got the same issue as John Cena where they're just willing to do everything and not have a life.

[pseudopseudo]

He's probably got the same issue as John Cena where they're just willing to do everything and not have a life.

Probably, but I'd rather have another Fozzy album before another crappy reality show. :D

[Sandman]

Probably, but I'd rather have another Fozzy album before another crappy reality show. :D

I love Fozzy but I don't want another album if he won't be able to do wrestling at the same time.

[Wolvie]

He's almost there. Triple H even teased it at No Mercy after he scrapped his win over Jeff. Arn Anderson was talking to him about the match and Triple H replied that 'It's only a matter of time'. Unless Jeff screws up again he'll get it within 6 months I predict.

I would love to see that. I seriously think he's one of the most talented guys in WWE. And I hate how his brother Matt gets the spotlight all the time. Jeff has been overlooked for years. It's his time now, and I truly hoope you're right and he wins the title in the next six months.

[Sandman]

Something tells me that Kozlov might get the belt before Jeff....just a feeling.

[AgtFox]

Don't worry, as soon as the time comes for Jeff to finally attain the title he will do something stupid. Everyone thinks he would have won Money in the Bank at Wrestlemania and then turn around and take out the WWE champ later. Instead Punk won the MITB case and used it at the draft to defeat Edge for the championship.

[Sandman]

Instead Punk won the MITB case and used it at the draft to defeat Edge for the championship.


Punk cashing in MITB on Edge is my second favorite moment of the year right behind being there for Undertaker winning the title from Edge.

[Raen]

I'm hoping that with his brother around Jeff will have a good influence, and Matt'll stop him from imploding again. That's just a hope. Sandman you could well be right (http://www.wrestlezone.com//article.php?articleid=225692982) about Kozlov getting the belt.

According to localized advertisements sent out by the HSBC Arena in Buffalo, NY, the two top matches for the December WWE Armaggedon PPV will be:

World Heavyweight Championship Triple Threat Match:
Chris Jericho will defend against John Cena and Batista

WWE Championship Match
Triple H will defend against Vladimir Kozlov.

Keep in mind that the card is always subject to change so this is not confirmed.

Take mind of that final line of course. A lot can happen between now and December. Kozlov could do a Jeff/Dolph Ziggler and get himself suspended for wellness policy violation (a very fashionable move of late ;)). It'd kill me if they put the belt on Kozlov, he just does almost nothing for me at all.

[Ghost Rider]

I would love to see that. I seriously think he's one of the most talented guys in WWE. And I hate how his brother Matt gets the spotlight all the time. Jeff has been overlooked for years. It's his time now, and I truly hoope you're right and he wins the title in the next six months.

I don't agree with that. I don't think Jeff has been overlooked whatsoever, he's been given a lot more chances than Matt, he just screw's them up.

I'm actually happy that Matt is ECW Champion, considering he's always been reliable for the company and is undeniably a better mat wrestler than Jeff. The fact that Matt doesn't do Swantons off Titantron's has actually given him less spotlight than Jeff because a lot of fan's see him as the 'boring' brother.

Either way, I would like to see Jeff stay stable and would love to see Matt and Jeff both champions at the same time, maybe even see a champion vs champion match between them, which could possibly be awesome!

[pseudopseudo]

Either way, I would like to see Jeff stay stable and would love to see Matt and Jeff both champions at the same time, maybe even see a champion vs champion match between them, which could possibly be awesome!

Call me old fashioned, but I just wish they'd bring back the tag team, officially. I guess part of that is my disdain over the fact that the tag team division sucks. (IMHO. I can't stand Priceless, and I actually enjoy the more gimmicky tag teams like Cryme Tyme and The Highlanders... speaking of, are The Highlanders even around anymore?)

[Raen]

From the Wiki page for The Highlanders (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Highlanders_(professional_wrestling)#Raw_brand ):

Both members of the team were released from WWE on August 15, 2008.

Sorry Justin :(

But I don't think all is lost in WWE tag right now. Cryme Tyme, The Colons and The Miz and Morrison are pretty good right now. Unfortunately that's only one on each brand. However if Jesse and Festus turn into a heel tag team as is rumoured, and Rey and Bourne become a real tag team that'd cheer me up a lot. And if the Motor City Machine Guns come across as is also rumoured (I will sob with joy if that's true), then things could be looking pretty good. Apart from that I don't know what I'd do with the current roster if I were in their position, and I don't wanna sound too much like a crazy IWF.

[Sandman]

RAW was good last night except for what could possibly be the worst segment of WWE programming of the year. I really hope Jackass's involvement is done.

[pseudopseudo]

Cryme Tyme, The Colons and The Miz and Morrison are pretty good right now. Unfortunately that's only one on each brand. However if Jesse and Festus turn into a heel tag team as is rumoured, and Rey and Bourne become a real tag team that'd cheer me up a lot. And if the Motor City Machine Guns come across as is also rumoured (I will sob with joy if that's true), then things could be looking pretty good. Apart from that I don't know what I'd do with the current roster if I were in their position, and I don't wanna sound too much like a crazy IWF.

I think it'd be awesome if Beth Phoenix and Carlito ended up with the tag titles somehow. I could get behind that. Also, Rey and Bourne would be fantastic.

So I was watching Smackdown the other night and noticed that London and Kendrick no longer are a team. What happened there?

[Raen]

RAW was good last night except for what could possibly be the worst segment of WWE programming of the year. I really hope Jackass's involvement is done.

I'm glad it was good. The review will be up in less than two hours, for any of you guys who love to listen to my opinions mixed with random thoughts. I'm sure there's someone. Right?

I think it'd be awesome if Beth Phoenix and Carlito ended up with the tag titles somehow. I could get behind that. Also, Rey and Bourne would be fantastic.

That would be more than a little random, but cool I guess. Why Beth and Carlito? Beth and Santino would make great heel champs, but with Carlito? Rey and Bourned have been fantastic the few times they've tagged, and I'd love to see that become permenant. Hopefully when the Kane story line is over.

So I was watching Smackdown the other night and noticed that London and Kendrick no longer are a team. What happened there?

From what I can tell Kendrick got drafted to Raw and London stayed on Raw. Rumour is that London could well be released soon, which I'd hate to see.

[pseudopseudo]

That would be more than a little random, but cool I guess. Why Beth and Carlito? Beth and Santino would make great heel champs, but with Carlito? Rey and Bourned have been fantastic the few times they've tagged, and I'd love to see that become permenant. Hopefully when the Kane story line is over.

Oops... I meant Santino and Beth. (Don't know why my fingers typed Carlito.) I love the little thing they've got going right now - as much as I hated Santino when he was by himself, the whole "couple" angle with Beth and his "Honk-O-Meter" have me laughing every week now.

[Raen]

Oops... I meant Santino and Beth. (Don't know why my fingers typed Carlito.) I love the little thing they've got going right now - as much as I hated Santino when he was by himself, the whole "couple" angle with Beth and his "Honk-O-Meter" have me laughing every week now.

Yeah I did think that was probably what you were going for. Right now they seem to be teasing breaking up their couples thing, but I agree they'd be great as tag champs.

[Raen]

WWE Raw - 13/10/08

Warning! Spoiler Heavy

Jericho opens the show with a great segment begging for his match at Cyber Sunday to have the stipulations changed. He starts by asking Adamle, who says he won't do it and sets up matches where Jericho and Batista pick the other's opponent. Jericho then heads to the ring to ask Shane and Steph to do it. Hopefully we'll see more of Shane or Steph soon. Don't get me wrong Adamle is great, but Shane is in a league of his own. Jericho claims that whoever is the referee it'll be unfair towards him, and that it's pretty much giving Batista the title. I think the unfairness is kinda the point Chris. Michaels comes out and admits that he won't call it fairly if he's voted in as special ref. Michaels isn't doing a whole lot for me right now. His new crazy 'snapped' character doesn't make me happy, and he's cutting very old school promos. After Michaels chases Jericho from the ring, Jericho selects Michaels as Batista's opponent. Could be a good match potentially. Loving Jericho's promos right now.

Rey Mysterio & Matt Hardy vs. Mark Henry and Kane

So a rematch from last week? It's not as if they don't have enough talent to put varied matches on. The only reason this could potentially be a good thing is if it leads to some competition from the heavyweights in the tag division. I always loved the Brother of Destruction, and Henry and Kane could easily do something similar. This match had some brilliant work from Rey and Matt. They also really work for me as a tag team. Better than Rey and Bourne actually because they're similar, but varied enough to complement each other. We'll see I guess. The stuff from the big guys was pretty average, and I wasn't overly impressed with them.

Kane plucks Rey out of the air with a big boot. Again.

Mark Henry & Kane b. Rey Mysterio & Matt Hardy

Ok a rematch exactly one week later? Not what I wanted to see to be honest. Not even a great length.

JBL comes out before his match to talk abou the bail out and leads to him saying that the rich are the 'Real Americans' which leads to The Real American - Haas Hogan! Hell yes! :D

JBL vs. Haas Hogan

Short but great match. By far the best Charlie Haas impression so far. Seriously awesome. Haas Hulked Up, hit the Big Boot and went for the Leg Drop of Doom™, but missed it.

JBL b. Haas Hogan

Ok they cut from the Haaster to the 'real' comedians, the guys from Jackass. Haas was better.

Another Cena video. I might get a lot of hatred for this... but I can't wait till he's back.

Really, really fast promo from Orton, asking people not to vote for him into the special ref spot at Cyber Sunday in case he gets reinjured. Didn't care about this at all. In fact deeply disappointing considering how crazily good Orton has been in recent weeks.

Batista vs. Shawn Michaels

So the match that Jericho set up earlier tonight. I can't remember these guys meeting before, and this could potentially be a great match on PPV. Just before the match started Jericho appeared on the screen and changed this to a lumberjack match with basically every heel on the Raw and ECW rosters as the lumberjacks. Including Orton slightly weirdly. Wasn't he just worrying about getting re-injured? Well maybe not quite PPV quality then.

There was a lot of long submission holds in this match, and it was much slower than I would of expected from these two guys. This just really dragged for me personally, and the crowd didn't seem to be into it a whole lot either. Considering the caliber of the guys in this match I honestly should of been drooling all over this, and I think it takes something really special to ruin a match with this much potential. The only bit that worked for me in the match was when Batista got caught outside of the ring and nearly got punted in the head by Randy Orton, a la CM Punk.

No Contest - Lumberjacks invade the ring.

However the post-match was better than the entire match. Several of the lumberjacks attempted to take out Batista and Michaels and there was some absolutely brilliant team work between the two to clear the ring. If only the match could of been that good.

Ok the Jackass segment. This seemed to be a cheap way of promoting Jackass and allowing WWE to just crowbar some random wrestlers into a segment. I mean the Bogeyman? Where the hell has he even been? The most disappointing part was that Santino and the Glamazon set up this segment, and will now be at least partly associated with it. Everyone loves Santino, and he didn't need to be linked to this crap.

Back to the entertaining stuff and Cryme Tyme are backstage where JTG 'borrows' a duck hockey mask entirely for style reasons. He actually looked pretty awesome with it on backwards over his baseball cap.

In the ring The Miz, Morisson and Jillian cut a rap about Cryme Tyme, to prove that they're more gangster. Again far more entertaining than Jackass. WWE really didn't need to get Knoxville involved, stuff is pretty good as is. The rap gets cut off by 'Yo yo yo It's Shad Gaspard and JTG'. Ah how I love those words.

Jillian & The Miz & John Morrison vs. Kelly Kelly & Cryme Tyme

This is definetly in my Top 5 feuds in WWE right now. They don't overplay it at all, and the back and forth between the two teams never stops entertaining me. This match was pretty short, but still good. It kind of had everything you'd expect in a typical tag match, but just condensed. The reason I like these guys is it reminds me of the old E&C/Dudleys/Hardyz days. Teams who could wrestle very good matches, and were very, very good at entertaining you outside of the ring as well. While SmackDown! may have the 'Edgeheads' (whose names I can't actually remember), Miz and Morrison are very much the successors to the E&C legacy.

JTG smashes Morrison with the 'borrowed' duck hockey mask for Shad to get the pin.
Kelly Kelly & Cryme Tyme b. Jillian & The Miz & John Morrison

Chris Jericho vs. CM Punk

Lillian Garcia announces that Punk is Jericho's opponent at the start of the match. Before the bell can ring Batista appears on the screen and informs Punk and Jericho that he is to be the Special Guest Referee for this match. Great writing, and a much better clause than the Lumberjack match from earlier. Batista in a referee's shirt was really funny, he'd burst it open at the back and the sleeves were busting open. CM Punk looked absolutely great tonight, and I was really happy to see him back in the Raw main event. It's where he needs to be. Jericho seemed pretty (justifiably) paranoid for most of the match, and just got smiles from Batista in response. High point of the match was Jericho hitting the Codebreaker and Batista getting something in his eye as he counted the pinfall.

Jericho mouths off at Batista for not counting the fall, and Batista hits the Batista Bomb.

CM Punk b. Chris Jericho

This match was by far the most entertaining main event i've seen in a while. It was great because there was no point that stood out to me, just the whole thing was solid and entertaining.

Bar the Jackass stuff this was a good show overall, although the rematch at the beginning was something I could of done without, and the Batista/Michaels match could of been much better. Also really not liking Michaels character right now. However Haas Hogan, Cryme Tyme and the Main Event made up for everything, apart from Jackass.

In other news: Lance Cade has been released (http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/caderelease). Seriously wasn't expecting that.

Edit: In other, other news: WWE issued a press release (http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_10_13c.jsp) stating that SmackDown! is the highest rated show in MyNetworkTV history, and also won the 18-34 male demographic for the night. Not that surprising given the advertising.

[Sandman]

The Hell In A Cell dvd released today....already got mine.

DVD ONE
*The Devil’s Playground
*The Debut
*Hell in a Cell - Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels WWF Badd Blood PPV
*RAW in Hell
*Tag Team Hell in a Cell - Stone Cold Steve Austin & Undertaker vs. Mankind & Kane 6/15/98 Raw
*The Defining Match
*Hell in a Cell - Undertaker vs. Mankind WWF King of the Ring 1998 PPV
*Partners turned Opponents
*Hell in a Cell - Mankind vs. Kane 8/24/98 Raw
*Career on the Line
*Hell in a Cell - WWF champ Triple H vs. Cactus Jack WWF No Way Out 2000 PPV
*The Six Men
*Six-Man Hell in a Cell - Kurt Angle vs. Rikishi vs. The Rock vs. Undertaker vs. Triple H vs. Steve Austin WWF Armageddon 2000
DVD TWO
*End the Game
*Hell in a Cell - Triple H vs. Chris Jericho WWE Judgment Day 2002 PPV
*Earning Your Respect
*Hell in a Cell - Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar WWF No Mercy 2002 PPV
*Hell in a Cell - Triple H vs. Kevin Nash with Mick Foley as referee WWE Bad Blood 2003 PPV
*Good Friends Gone Bad
*Hell in a Cell - Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H WWE Bad Blood 2004 PPV

DVD THREE
*The Animal’s Evolution
*Hell in a Cell - Batista vs. Triple H WWE Vengeance 2005 PPV
*The Legend Killer
*Hell in a Cell - Undertaker vs. Randy Orton WWE Armaggedon 2005 PPV
*The Amplified Version
*Hell in a Cell Handicap - DX vs. Shane McMahon, Mr. McMahon & Big Show WWE Unforgiven 2006 PPV
*The End of the Line
*Hell in a Cell - Undertaker vs. Batista WWE Survivor Series 2007 PPV
*Defining a Career


It's hosted by Mick Foley and it looks like a good one.

[Sandman]

Ok I like what they did on ECW tonight because it almost definitely gives Evan Bourne a shot at the gold..

Matt Hardy will defend vs....

A) Mark Henry
B) Evan Bourne
C) Finlay

However this new option has me scratching my head.

You pick the tag team match....

A) Cryme Tyme vs. The Miz & John Morrison
B) Mickie James & Jamie Noble vs. Layla & William Regal
C) CM Punk & Kofi Kingston vs. World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

It doesn't specify if Punk and Kingston will get a shot at the gold but I'm almost willing to bet option A will win.

[Scaryfaced]

Oops... I meant Santino and Beth. (Don't know why my fingers typed Carlito.) I love the little thing they've got going right now - as much as I hated Santino when he was by himself, the whole "couple" angle with Beth and his "Honk-O-Meter" have me laughing every week now.

You, sir, are just silly. Santino was and always will be the man. The new angle with Beth Pheonix is perfect for both of them, but Santino has always been gold. He's one of the few wrestlers that plays a true character at all times. From his wrestling style to his silly accent, he's a truely classic heel and I can't get enough of him. If you watch his more recent matches closely, he fights alot like Flair used to. He'll take a beating the entire match, taking hilarious bump after bump, then pull something completely assinign and sneak in a victory. I'm just glad Santino and Beth are going over so well, they both deserve a push.

Watch a few of the WWE.com episodes of Santino's Casa, take into consideration the guy's actually from Ontario, Canada, and try not to laugh. I dare you.
________
The Cigar Boss (http://thecigarboss.com/)

[Ghost Rider]

You pick the tag team match....

A) Cryme Tyme vs. The Miz & John Morrison
B) Mickie James & Jamie Noble vs. Layla & William Regal
C) CM Punk & Kofi Kingston vs. World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

It doesn't specify if Punk and Kingston will get a shot at the gold but I'm almost willing to bet option A will win.

I'm actually quite a fan of the Noble - Regal storyline, plus I think Noble does a great job in general whenever I see him wrestle.

Plus seeing more of Mickie can't be a bad thing!

[Raen]

Ok I like what they did on ECW tonight because it almost definitely gives Evan Bourne a shot at the gold..

Matt Hardy will defend vs....

A) Mark Henry
B) Evan Bourne
C) Finlay

However this new option has me scratching my head.

You pick the tag team match....

A) Cryme Tyme vs. The Miz & John Morrison
B) Mickie James & Jamie Noble vs. Layla & William Regal
C) CM Punk & Kofi Kingston vs. World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

It doesn't specify if Punk and Kingston will get a shot at the gold but I'm almost willing to bet option A will win.

I assume it wouldn't be a title shot, or it'd be listed. Plus it'd just be weird to have that as the only option leading to a title match. Anyway I'm betting Bourne'll get a shot and that we'll see Cryme Tyme vs. The Miz & John Morrison. There's almost no way that Bourne'd actually get the title, but I could see that being a great match (assuming it doesn't get booked first of course).

I've also just spotted that on the Cyber Sunday wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyber_Sunday_(2008)) page they're listing the match stips for Undertaker vs. Big Show (I assume they've been put up by someone at the taping). Last Man Standing, I Quit or Knockout. While I wouldn't say this is certain till it goes on WWE.com, it seems more than probable that it'll be these three. Also aren't the first and the third basically the same stip?

[Sandman]

I've also just spotted that on the Cyber Sunday wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyber_Sunday_%282008%29) page they're listing the match stips for Undertaker vs. Big Show (I assume they've been put up by someone at the taping). Last Man Standing, I Quit or Knockout. While I wouldn't say this is certain till it goes on WWE.com, it seems more than probable that it'll be these three. Also aren't the first and the third basically the same stip?

Those are Smackdown spoilers actually....KO Match is there because Big Show has a big haymaker punch ever since he fought Mayweather.

[Raen]

Those are Smackdown spoilers actually....KO Match is there because Big Show has a big haymaker punch ever since he fought Mayweather.

Yeah I assumed they were spoilers, just since I've started doing the reviews I've tried to avoid reading the spoiler reports. I get why KO is there, but all I'm saying is KO and Last Man Standing are pretty similar matches in my opinion. I'd rather see No DQ anyway.

[Sandman]

Yeah I assumed they were spoilers, just since I've started doing the reviews I've tried to avoid reading the spoiler reports. I get why KO is there, but all I'm saying is KO and Last Man Standing are pretty similar matches in my opinion. I'd rather see No DQ anyway.

Last Man Standing will get it....those matches always deliver.

[pseudopseudo]

Seriously - does anyone think that WWE actually goes by who wins the voting?

I think they take it into consideration, sure... but I don't think the voting is what actually decides the matches for Cyber Sunday. I'm sure the matches are set, and they only change 'em if there's an overwhelming vote for something different.

Though... I could be wrong.

[Raen]

Seriously - does anyone think that WWE actually goes by who wins the voting?

I think they take it into consideration, sure... but I don't think the voting is what actually decides the matches for Cyber Sunday. I'm sure the matches are set, and they only change 'em if there's an overwhelming vote for something different.

Though... I could be wrong.

This is something I've debated for a long time. They normally make the choice so obvious or similar that it doesn't matter. For example the Big Show/Undertaker match this year. Doesn't really matter what match gets voted in, it doesn't matter. Also with the Internet vote they could rig it, because it wasn't costing the fans to vote. I think this year they'll have to take it a lot more seriously with the charging. There's been a couple of scandals over here in the last few years about phone contests and votes being rigged. I'm sure the FCC or someone similar would be happy to pick up on the same kind of thing.

[Sandman]

http://www.highspots.com/images/images_125/zkm8_flair_4disc.jpg

On another note, I just recently put in an order for this....13 hours of Flair talking without WWE telling him what to say? Yes please.

Ric Flair Shoot Interview Exclusive 4 Disc Set (http://www.highspots.com/product.asp?id=20407)

[Raen]

A 13 hour Ric Flair shoot? That could well get me through many an all nighter. Unfortunately it seems to be Region 1 only, like so many good things. Suckage :(

[Sandman]

A 13 hour Ric Flair shoot? That could well get me through many an all nighter. Unfortunately it seems to be Region 1 only, like so many good things. Suckage :(

It might be region free...if they were smart it would be. You could always ask since it's not on the page.

[pseudopseudo]

http://www.highspots.com/images/images_125/zkm8_flair_4disc.jpg

On another note, I just recently put in an order for this....13 hours of Flair talking without WWE telling him what to say? Yes please.

Ric Flair Shoot Interview Exclusive 4 Disc Set (http://www.highspots.com/product.asp?id=20407)

For some reason, this brings to mind a question I've always wondered about - as we all know, many a wrestler has written a book (some of them more than one - thanks Foley). For anyone who's read one or more - are the books written shoot? I assume they're a hybrid, because WWE is putting up the money for the publishing most of the time. Just curious.

[Scaryfaced]

A 13 hour Ric Flair shoot? That could well get me through many an all nighter. Unfortunately it seems to be Region 1 only, like so many good things. Suckage :(

That does look pretty amazing. Its funny how entertaining it can be to listen to wrestling vets tell stories about the past. Some of the greatest stuff comes out random interviews. I remember an amazing one Dusty Rhodes told about that Master Shocker fiasco in the WCW. Flair's stories have got to be pure gold.
________
Weed (http://wwweed.com/)

[Sandman]

For some reason, this brings to mind a question I've always wondered about - as we all know, many a wrestler has written a book (some of them more than one - thanks Foley). For anyone who's read one or more - are the books written shoot? I assume they're a hybrid, because WWE is putting up the money for the publishing most of the time. Just curious.

That's why I prefer to buy books published after a wrestler has retired or left WWE such as Bret Hart or Chris Jericho even though Jericho came back just after publishing his first book without WWE's help. Just like any of the DVDs WWE always has a final say in what goes into it's product.

[Raen]

It might be region free...if they were smart it would be. You could always ask since it's not on the page.

Unfortunately I'm also a bit short on cash right now. If some things go my way over the next couple of days (fingers crossed) I will certainly be checking for regionness and purchasing it if I can. Just hope it's not sold out by then.

[Sandman]

I just got this huge headache....may have something to do with this TNA spoiler.

From pwinsider.com

As I broke yesterday exclusively on my PWInsider.com Elite Audio Hotline, TNA will be introducing a fifth championship belt into the company shortly.



The belt, which will be introduced and held by Booker T, will be a "Legends championship" with the storyline being that Booker has brought it into the company, similar to Ted DiBiase's Million Dollar belt in the early 1990s WWF. Booker will then defend it against younger talents he feels he's above and other "Legends."



TNA took possession over the belt over the weekend during the Bound for Glory weekend in Chicago. It was designed by Rico Mann and built by Dave Millican and Reggie Parks.

[Raen]

Depends how they work it. If it's like Tazz's 'FTW' championship, then I'm fine with it. If it's an actual legit belt then it's awful news. If they just bought a bit more focus back to X Division then everything would of been fine. Another title isn't needed right now.

[Sandman]

http://m1.2mdn.net/viewad/1807016/hhcw_p_300x250.jpg

I'm not even sure I want to watch this.

[Raen]

From what I've heard it's celebs in the loosest term of the word. However you best hope it goes down well, as I've said before Bischoff is rumoured to be using it to test the waters for his new fed. Then again maybe you don't want him running a fed again.

[Sandman]

http://www.highspots.com/images/images_125/zkm8_flair_4disc.jpg

On another note, I just recently put in an order for this....13 hours of Flair talking without WWE telling him what to say? Yes please.

Ric Flair Shoot Interview Exclusive 4 Disc Set (http://www.highspots.com/product.asp?id=20407)

Not sure if I mentioned it or not but you can also get the dvd set sign by Ric Flair for $30 extra....they also have a part on the site where you can send an item in to be signed by him...they can be personalized.

[Sandman]

The lineup for next Thursday's live TNA Impact at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas is as follows:

*TNA champ Sting & Kevin Nash vs. Samoa Joe & AJ Styles

*Mick Foley's "big announcement."

*Booker T will reveal what's inside his briefcase. (look for the spoiler text I posted earlier)


*TNA X-Division champion Sheik Abdul Bashir vs. Jay Lethal, who earned a shot at Bound for Glory.

*TNA Knockouts champ Taylor Wilde vs. Awesome Kong

*Christy Hemme vs. a member of The Beautiful People.

*Tag Team Champions Beer Money vs. Team 3D vs. Matt Morgan & Abyss vs. LAX in a "Hard Rock Hardcore Tag Team Text-off Gauntlet" with fans deciding the order of entrances via text messaging voting. The order will be determined with the wrestler with the fewest votes entering first, with the wrestler with the most text votes being the last to enter the ring.


If I was within driving distance of Vegas I'd totally be there.

[Raen]

Oh good god I need to find a stream of this or something. Bashir vs. Lethal will be great and the tag match main event sounds like it could be amazing (assuming Nash hasn't got ring rust). I'd be really interested in the Gauntlet as well, although the text idea does seem mildly coincidental this close to Cyber Sunday.

[Sandman]

So...I'm watching the Dragon Gate PPV "Kobe Pro-Wrestling Festival 2008" from July 27th. Holy shit this was a good show. Dragon Gate is one of my favorite promotions. I just got done watching this match :

Open the Triangle Gate Title, 4 Way Elimination Match: Gamma, Yasushi Kanda & YAMATO (c) vs. Naruki Doi, Masato Yoshino & Naoki Tanisaki vs. Dragon Kid, Anthony W. Mori & PAC vs. Masaaki Mochizuki, Don Fujii & Magnitude Kishiwada

Now you would think a match like this wouldn't work...too many wrestlers and teams. Dragon Gate's specialty is trios and damn this was insane. Non-stop action for what I think was 45 minutes. If you can find this match somewhere I suggest watching it.

[Raen]

WWE SmackDown! - 17/10/08

Warning! Spoiler Heavy

Opens with a quick recap of last weeks events. From looking back on it it really does seem that Kozlov is intended to be a supporting character to Jeff and Triple H, which I think works to give the feud longevity.

The show starts properly with Big Show coming out to talk about the Undertaker again. It seems like they're suggesting that Undertaker's retaliation has bought this to a whole new level. Show announces the three stipulations for Cyber Sunday (I Quit, Last Man Standing, Knockout) and apparently we can vote for these on WWE.com. Great move, much better than text vote. In something I thought was kinda cool Big Show bought out three jobbers to demonstrate the matches. It was actually slightly entertaining, although I kinda expected the Undertaker to turn up when it got to the final demonstration.

The Colons vs. Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder - WWE Tag Team Championships

Primo Colon just looks better every time I see him. I really like his quick paced style, even if he's not quite as flashy as Bourne or Mysterio. The problem with this match was just Hawkins & Ryder. They just do absolutely nothing for me, they don't interest me and every time I see them they look almost like home town jobbers to me. Hopefully someone new will get into the SmackDown tag division soon. It was a good match, but The Colons'd do better against some fresh opponents.

The Colons b. Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder - The Colons retain the WWE Tag Team Championships

Quick interview backstage with MVP where they talk about his loosing streak and his incentive bonus for winning one more match. I'm glad that they're making the bonus thing into a real storyline, MVP's needed one recently.

MVP vs. R-Truth

I've made my feelings about R-Truth very clear in the past and he continued to impress in a pretty short match. I wish these guys had been given a bit more time, I hate short matches that are just in there to move forward in a story. They showed Shelton Benjamin backstage watching the match, which was clearly pushing forward on that front. Just not that interesting at the match length they gave it.

R-Truth b. MVP

Mildly amusing backstage segment in Vickie Guerrero's office with the newly renamed 'Kung Fu Naki' announcing himself in karate get up and a bit with a diva before Khali turns up. Vickie books Khali vs. The Undertaker for later tonight.

Ezekiel vs. Super Crazy

Apparently this match was originally meant to be The Brian Kendrick, but he has an 'infection' so selected Ezekiel as his replacement. Incredibly quick squash match, mostly just to show of Ezekiel in the ring. Boring match.

Ezekiel b. Super Crazy

Interview with Triple H to promote Cyber Sunday basically. The usual thing you get from Triple H when a PPV isn't too far off, talking about him being 'that damned good'. A shame that he did a carbon copy promo considering how entertaining and funny he's been recently. I really hope they don't turn him back into being serious.

The Undertaker vs. The Great Khali

Good to see The Undertaker actually competing on SmackDown for once, rather than him being saved for PPVs. I guess his injuries must be healing up. The Undertaker looked really good, as he has recently. Very quick in the ring and he's very much moving back to his punch heavy style, which makes sense in his current feud. This match also gave me the odd feeling that Khali could pull off a good match if he learnt more than 6 or 7 moves.

Big Show runs in and chokeslams the Undertaker.

No Contest

After the match Big Show tried to get the Great Khali to chair shot the Undertaker, but he refused. Could this be a shift in character from the Great Khali? It'd be interesting to see him as a face for a while, just to see if he can do it. While the Big Show shouted at Khali for not doing what he was told, the Undertaker got back up and hit Big Show with the chair.

Maria vs. Maryse vs. Natalya vs. Victoria vs. Brie Bella - Divas Las Vegas/Fluffy Dice on a Pole Match - Winner gets a shot at the Diva's Championship

This was actually a much stronger match than you typically expect from a Diva's match that has a crazy stipulation. It was actually all about the wrestling, and I think this signals that the WWE are committed to taking the Diva's more seriously. This kind of match is so easy to make look completely awful, but it actually wasn't that bad at all. Again I would of preferred it to be a bit longer, but what can you do?

Maria wins and earns a shot at the Diva's Championship

Kenny Dykstra & Ryan Braddock vs. Jesse & Festus

So I guess Dykstra & Braddock are at least a semi-permanent team now. This wasn't a bad match at all, managed to hold my interest. Festus is still looking really good at the moment. Was a pretty good match I felt.

Jesse & Festus b. Kenny Dykstra & Ryan Braddock

After this match they showed Maria backstage where Michelle McCool congratulated her on her win, and then Jesse & Festus arrived. Festus gave her a flower, it was pretty sweet actually. This seems like it could turn into a way of turning Festus heel.

Jeff Hardy vs. Vladimir Kozlov

Before this match Triple H came down to provide guest commentary for this match. Well it's pretty obvious where that's going to lead then. This is the first time I've watched Kozlov and it's interested me. His offence is actually a lot more varied than I'd thought, and he's actually a pretty strong technical wrestler. It's nice to see a monster who can actually wrestle a good match as well. There was pretty match the right amount of back and forth in this match, although I would of liked to of seen a little more offence from Hardy. I also really dislike how Kozlov's headbutt completely changes how a match is going, but I guess that's just the nature of a finishing move. Just the headbutt hasn't been built enough for me to see it as his finishing move yet, you don't often see single blows like that as a finisher. It's usually a little more complex. Also as I said earlier Kozlov does seem kind of secondary to it all right now, and I could see him moving out of the title scene pretty fast once someone beats him.

Vladimir Kozlov b. Jeff Hardy

Over all this was a pretty average show for me. Certainly wasn't as good as last week's show though.

[Ghost Rider]

I just have to go against some of the things in your review, I saw it totally differently.

WWE SmackDown! - 17/10/08
The problem with this match was just Hawkins & Ryder. They just do absolutely nothing for me, they don't interest me and every time I see them they look almost like home town jobbers to me.

I think they have a good look, I did prefer them as the Major Brothers but they've improved since then. The problem IMO is they've been linked to Edge and La Familia so much that with Edge gone it makes them look half full (for lack of a better term).


This match also gave me the odd feeling that Khali could pull off a good match if he learnt more than 6 or 7 moves.

I don't think his moveset is the problem, I don't know his history of injuries, but to me he seems very rigid on his legs and not able to do much movement (it could be just his height but that's the impression I get)


[b]Maria vs. Maryse vs. Natalya vs. Victoria vs. Brie Bella - Divas Las Vegas/Fluffy Dice on a Pole Match - Winner gets a shot at the Diva's Championship

This was actually a much stronger match than you typically expect from a Diva's match that has a crazy stipulation. It was actually all about the wrestling, and I think this signals that the WWE are committed to taking the Diva's more seriously. This kind of match is so easy to make look completely awful, but it actually wasn't that bad at all. Again I would of preferred it to be a bit longer, but what can you do?

This was not all about the wrestling, or I watched a totally different match. It was a melee around 1 turnbuckle with a push off the turnbuckle being the most used move, including to win. Surely they could of had a much more respectable way to determine who get's a title shot?


Jeff Hardy vs. Vladimir Kozlov
Also as I said earlier Kozlov does seem kind of secondary to it all right now, and I could see him moving out of the title scene pretty fast once someone beats him.



I find it hard to agree with this view point. They made Kozlov appear to beat Jeff fair and square, no inteference from HHH, just purely stronger and a straight victory. If anything it made Jeff look weaker than he's looked in recent weeks facing HHH.

Apart from this though, I'm glad you're doing the reviews and you have a good reviewing style from what I've seen so far so keep it up!

[Raen]

Ghost Rider this is what I want :D Discussion is great!

I think they have a good look, I did prefer them as the Major Brothers but they've improved since then. The problem IMO is they've been linked to Edge and La Familia so much that with Edge gone it makes them look half full (for lack of a better term).

I think that may be what it is for me. Without the link to Edge now and with them being on the outside of La Familia in the current story, they just seem a bit generic. That's what I meant by the jobber comment. They need to do something to make them stick in my head right now.


I don't think his moveset is the problem, I don't know his history of injuries, but to me he seems very rigid on his legs and not able to do much movement (it could be just his height but that's the impression I get)

One of the issues is Khali, through no fault of his own from what I read somewhere, was inadvertently responsible for the death of a guy called Brian Ong in 2001. This means they do kinda have to be careful with him. I believe he's also had issues with his knees, like a lot of the bigger guys. However I could be completely wrong on the second issue. I think if he had a larger moveset it would help, but you are correct in pointing out he does have some other issues.

This was not all about the wrestling, or I watched a totally different match. It was a melee around 1 turnbuckle with a push off the turnbuckle being the most used move, including to win. Surely they could of had a much more respectable way to determine who get's a title shot?

What I meant here was compare it to maybe 2004/2005 where Diva's matches consisted largely of trying to pull clothes off of each other. I agree it was a melee round 1 turnbuckle, but they did use actual moves.

I find it hard to agree with this view point. They made Kozlov appear to beat Jeff fair and square, no inteference from HHH, just purely stronger and a straight victory. If anything it made Jeff look weaker than he's looked in recent weeks facing HHH.

Oh I totally agree this match made him look strong. However all he's really got going for him right now is the winning streak, and the Russian thing (which is secondary to the winning streak right now). If he looses the winning streak I don't see him hanging out in the main event much after that.

Apart from this though, I'm glad you're doing the reviews and you have a good reviewing style from what I've seen so far so keep it up!

Thanks :D I do worry that my reviews are horrible, and it's a great boost to know people enjoy reading them. And I seriously am happy you took issue with some of my statements! It's not like I'm some all knowing god of wrestling (that'd be Sandman).

[Straximus]

I forgot to mention this earlier, but we went to last weeks TNA taping while in Orlando. Good times. We also managed to get on TV *very* briefly a couple of times.

[pseudopseudo]

Instead of being at the TNA taping tonight like I should be, I'll be rolling a character and playing DnD for the first time.

I need to manage my money better.

[Scaryfaced]

Instead of being at the TNA taping tonight like I should be, I'll be rolling a character and playing DnD for the first time.

I need to manage my money better.

Or your life, nerd!

Anyone catch RAW last night? I'm seriously impressed with the WWE's style of wrestling in the last few weeks. I don't know if you guys have noticed, but it's getting more and more obvious that Vince in trying to compete with MMA directly. The pace of WWE matches has changed considerably. You don't see matches where the attacker takes time to gloat or strut around the ring anymore. They don't give eachother breaks mid match, using double clotheslines and taking a double 9 count. It comes through really well in tag matches, which they've also been stressing with the upcoming SvsR09.

For example, the Miz and Morrison vs Kingston and Punk tag match last night. They're trying to amp up the violence a little, making punches seem more devistating and the matches seem like more of a stuggle. Every tag in and out was usually accompanied by the partner stuggling to hold onto the other legal man, preventing them from making it to the other corner. No one took breathers by laying in the ring, either. The only breaks in the action come when someone gets tossed out of the ring. They're ramping up their fast chain wrestling too, which i credit TNA for. The WWE is always at it's best when they're being pushed by other feds to be better.

Now, if only they'd stop doing stupid UFC rip off crap between the Big Show and Taker, I'd be a happy man.

PS. Jericho is the new top heel of the WWE, bar none. Not that there was any doubt of his ability to be an amazing heel, but he's seriously perfected it. His modern persona reminds me of his WCW days, only he's lost the arrogance and replaced it with this amazing form of underhanded cowardice. He seriously invented a whole new style of heel that only he can pull off and I can't get enough of it. Much better than his Y2J schtick
________
Middle eastern recipes (http://www.cooking-chef.com/middle-eastern/)

[pseudopseudo]

Or your life, nerd!

Touche.

PS. Jericho is the new top heel of the WWE, bar none. Not that there was any doubt of his ability to be an amazing heel, but he's seriously perfected it. His modern persona reminds me of his WCW days, only he's lost the arrogance and replaced it with this amazing form of underhanded cowardice. He seriously invented a whole new style of heel that only he can pull off and I can't get enough of it. Much better than his Y2J schtick

I agree 1000%. He's pretty much the sole reason I watch Raw these days.

[Raen]

Anyone catch RAW last night? Yes I did. My thoughts below.

WWE Raw - 21/10/08

Warning! Spoiler Heavy

Wow they're coming from Corpus Christi tonight. My friends lives there. Random.

Straight to the action tonight. That's a nice change of pace.

Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle vs. Jillian Hall & Katie Lea

Kelly Kelly drop kicked Jillian to shut her up at the start of this one. Thank god. This match was mostly about allowing King to promote the Diva's Halloween Contest at Cyber Sunday, but was a nice solid match. Had a very good pace, considering I've found bits of recent tag matches to be pretty slow. This had a good flow for most of the match. It was short (they really need to improve the length of the matches on Raw), but I wasn't overly surprised at the length considering it opened the entire show.

Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle vs. Jillian Hall & Katie Lea

Recap of the Batista and Jericho matches last week. They made the Batista/Michaels match seem an awful lot better than it was. Batista's as ref was even more amusing the second time through.

Apparently Jericho has some words of wisdom for us in the ring. Before he talks he yells at Lillian Garcia until she announces him as World Heavyweight Champion. This was mostly about pushing him as a super heel. Do they need to make the point any more? We know he's a bad guy, it's pretty obvious. A lot of this was a repeat from last week of him complaining about how the choices for special referee are unfair. I was liking Jericho a lot, but the last few weeks he's slipping a little in my opinion. He's very much a broken record right now. The only difference I found to last week was him talking about a lack of respect.

Batista hits the ring. Conversely to Jericho I think he's been getting better and better in the past few weeks. He gives the usual talk about earning respect that comes up every time respect is mentioned, although Batista does manage to inject a little humour into it.

Before the two can beat on each other Adamle comes out and announces that both men will wrestle the same three opponents in a gauntlet match to determine who's better going into Cyber Sunday. This idea actually interested me, it could be pretty cool.

JBL vs. Stone Cold Steve Haas-tin

This is by far the best one yet. He had the mannerisms of Austin down pretty well actually, and did a pretty good accent when we got a little mic work. I think this gimmick also really shows the flexibility of Haas as a wrestler, he pretty much nails the wrestling style of everyone of the people he pays homage to. At the end JBL showed a lotta disrespect to Austin, and JBL is quite clearly gonna get his butt whipped at Cyber Sunday by the real Austin. I just wish Haas was given more time to show off in these matches, but they still keep amusing me week after week.

JBL b. Stone Cold Steve Haas-tin

Short promo for Mike Knox. I haven't been watching ECW much, but I guess they're building him as a monster.

Rey Mysterio vs. Snitsky

Snitsky had a pre-taped promo that made it seem like he's being considered for a push. This was another really short match, lasted less than two minutes between the bells. Sure it made Rey look hot going into Cyber Sunday, but apart from that it was totally pointless. If WWE are wondering why Raw is having issues with ratings this could well be it. Longer matches are definetly the way to go.

Rey Mysterio b. Snitsky

Another promo for the return of John Cena, this time with people from the entertainment industry talking about how awesome he is. They made better points than had been made by the WWE Superstars over the last couple of weeks. I could see a return being in the cards for Cyber Sunday.

John Morrison & The Miz vs. Kofi Kingston & CM Punk

Morrison & The Miz gave a surprisingly bland promo before the match. Considering how good these guys are on the mic, they just got no response at all. They mocked a lot of old school teams, including D-Generation X. As a rumor of another D-X reunion is doing the rounds it's possible they could be heading into a feud with them after they're finished with Cryme Tyme. Personally they can just keep going with Cryme Tyme for a long time and I'll be happy.

Kofi and Punk were looking good as ever, and doing a lot more teamwork. I'd be interested to see if they keep them together, it'd add to the tag division and give Punk something to do without putting him straight back into the main event scene. Two high points of this match :- an absolutely beautiful Northern Lights Suplex from Morrison and an almost unbelievable set of moves from Punk that flowed better than almost anything I've seen in a while. This match was a much better length. Well done WWE.

John Morrison & The Miz b. Kofi Kingston & CM Punk

Quick bit between Adamle and Jericho about respect. We get it, respect is good.

Slightly funny bit where Santino came out dressed as a combination of Pipper, Goldust and the Honky Tonk Man. Made largely unfunny comments about his possible opponents. The crowd were pretty silent. And there was no Honk-a-meter right away. He needs to start with that! That's how it works. Hacksaw Jim Duggan came out to address Santino's comments about his fellow legends. He was funnier in 30 seconds than the 5 minutes of Santino. Finally we get the Honk-a-meter in response to Duggan. Segment ended when Santino cracked Duggan with the guitar he was using for his Honky Tonk man impression. If Duggan hadn't been out this wouldn't of entertained me at all. With Duggan it was at least slightly funny.

Cryme Tyme vs. Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes w/ Manu

'Yo, yo, yo it's Shad Gaspard and JTG, Cryme Tyme!'

Before this match Priceless jumped Cryme Tyme in the ring and completely beat them down. And I was looking forward to Cryme Tyme.

Match Cancelled

The Gauntlet

Ok so I was slightly confused, but here's how it worked. Jericho or Batista wrestles someone, and then whoever hasn't wrestled yet wrestles the guy.

Round 1 - Batista vs. William Regal

Over really fast, not a lot to say.

Batista b. William Regal with a Batista bomb

The referee waits for Regal to get to his feet before begining Jericho's chance.

Round 1 - Chris Jericho vs. William Regal

Chis Jericho b. William Regal with the Codebreaker in about 5 seconds

Round 2 - Chris Jericho vs. Mark Henry

This is much more interesting. Clearly the whole point of this gauntlet is to humiliate Jericho, at least Batista has a good shot against Mark Henry. Chris Jericho? Not so much. Mark Henry dominates Jericho from the get go, manhandling him round the ring. In retaliation Jericho loosens the turnbuckle, but the referee catches him.

Jericho uses the distraction to go out and get the title belt. He hits Henry with it, but the referee notices. An observant referee? Weird.

Mark Henry b. Chris Jericho via Disqualification

Round 2 - Batista vs. Mark Henry

Pretty cool match, although Henry is really selling the title shot to the head.

Batista b. Mark Henry with a spinebuster

Round 3 - Chris Jericho vs. Kane

First thing that would qualify as an actual match in the gauntlet. Was actually pretty good, a nice amount of back and forth between the two. Was nice to see Kane not wrestling Mysterio for once.

Kane b. Chris Jericho with a Chokeslam

Round 3 - Batista vs. Kane

Not a match. As quick as Jericho vs. William Regal.

Batista b. Kane with a Spear

Batista wins the gauntlet

Given how good the gauntlet could have been, this was just very poorly executed and I wasn't impressed at all. The matches should have at least been real matches. Personally I would of put the 'pick your opponent's opponent' stuff from last week this week. Would of been a much better way to head in Cyber Sunday.

Overall not a great show. Some fairly unfunny segments, Cryme Tyme getting beaten down for no apparent reason and a bad main event. Just not impressed with Raw at all this week. Hopefully SmackDown will boost my spirits.

[Scaryfaced]

Slightly funny bit where Santino came out dressed as a combination of Pipper, Goldust and the Honky Tonk Man. Made largely unfunny comments about his possible opponents. The crowd were pretty silent. And there was no Honk-a-meter right away. He needs to start with that! That's how it works. Hacksaw Jim Duggan came out to address Santino's comments about his fellow legends. He was funnier in 30 seconds than the 5 minutes of Santino. Finally we get the Honk-a-meter in response to Duggan. Segment ended when Santino cracked Duggan with the guitar he was using for his Honky Tonk man impression. If Duggan hadn't been out this wouldn't of entertained me at all. With Duggan it was at least slightly funny.


Did you watch closely after Santino hit Duggan with the guitar? If you look at Santino, his upper lip starts bleeding profusely all of a sudden. He still goes on to finish up the end up the segment, ranting a little and keeping the accent throughout. Buy the time he left the ring, blood had filled his mouth and started trickling down his chin. Honestly, I was really impressed by Santino's professionalism. I think a stray guitar string whipped his face, causing the gnarly gash and profuse bleeding. It was pretty mean looking, but he never broke character. He even took a few seconds to glare back at Duggan at he went back up the ramp. While it wasn't the funniest segment in the world (The Honky Donkey Man line was classic), Santino's commitment really impresses me.

Also, I loved the Gauntlet match. I'll agree it wasn't the best in terms of wrestling, which is to be expected as Batista is a friggin horrible wrestler, but it played exeptionally well at establishing Jericho's current persona. When he got caught crowning Mark Henry with his belt, then tossing it behind his back and screaming at the ref, I was laughing my ass off. I do agree that the actual wrestling was rediculously boring, though.
________
FISTING ANAL (http://www.fucktube.com/categories/560/anal/videos/1)

[Raen]

Did you watch closely after Santino hit Duggan with the guitar? If you look at Santino, his upper lip starts bleeding profusely all of a sudden. He still goes on to finish up the end up the segment, ranting a little and keeping the accent throughout. Buy the time he left the ring, blood had filled his mouth and started trickling down his chin. Honestly, I was really impressed by Santino's professionalism. I think a stray guitar string whipped his face, causing the gnarly gash and profuse bleeding. It was pretty mean looking, but he never broke character. He even took a few seconds to glare back at Duggan at he went back up the ramp. While it wasn't the funniest segment in the world (The Honky Donkey Man line was classic), Santino's commitment really impresses me.

I didn't notice that. I'm deeply impressed by that, guitar strings breaking freak me the hell out whenever I have to fiddle with a guitar. Those things will slice you up if you aren't careful.

Also, I loved the Gauntlet match. I'll agree it wasn't the best in terms of wrestling, which is to be expected as Batista is a friggin horrible wrestler, but it played exeptionally well at establishing Jericho's current persona. When he got caught crowning Mark Henry with his belt, then tossing it behind his back and screaming at the ref, I was laughing my ass off. I do agree that the actual wrestling was rediculously boring, though.

Batista isn't great, but he's certainly not as terrible as that Gauntlet made him look. Then again it's almost impossible to look good when the matches are about 30 seconds long. The belt bit did make me laugh, especially how he tried to deny it. I just think Gauntlets work better as a way to punish someone (I can vaguely remember some old gauntlet Goldberg was in, back in WCW. It was awesome), rather than how it was used here. Sure it was sort of a way to punish Jericho for whining, but the presentation of it sucked.

By the way the DX bit I talked about is actually DX being advertised for the 3 hour Raw in 2 weeks, and actually is against The Miz and Morrison. Can I call them or what? The press release is here (http://www.wrestlezone.com//article.php?articleid=226539441). They're also promoting a WHC Cage match between Jericho and Batista. Of course card is subject to change etc...

[Ghost Rider]

I don't think Batista is a horrible wrestler. I accept that there are better and more talented people, but I still feel he's done enough to prove he's good enough to hold his own against other top guys.

I thought the gauntlet idea sucked, like Raen said it would be much better when used against 1 person. It just looked unfair for whoever started first and I didn't think Raw in general did a good job of building up interest for Cyber Sunday.

[Sandman]

RAW this week just felt like it was kind of there....just going through the motions. I'm avoiding Smackdown spoilers so I can watch whatever they do with Taker vs HHH Friday.

[Raen]

Well this weeks Raw rating is in (http://www.wrestlezone.com//article.php?articleid=226648213).

This week’s episode of WWE Monday Night RAW pulled a 2.9 cable rating, down from last week’s 3.1. The show’s first hour did a 2.94 and the second hour dropped down to a 2.92, meaning the lead-in show for Cyber Sunday dropped in viewership as it went on.

WWE management can’t blame Monday Night Football this time around, as the New England Patriots blowing out the Denver Broncos only did a 8.2 cable rating, below normal and down from last week.

This pretty much confirms what we all felt about the show this week. SmackDown seems to just be pulling further and further away in terms of being the flagship show. If the 3 hour show in a fortnight tanks then WWE may have some very big issues to look at.

[Sandman]

If the 3 hour show in a fortnight tanks then WWE may have some very big issues to look at.

As long as they don't go back to WWE Monday Night Comedy Hour I'll be happy.

[pseudopseudo]

As long as they don't go back to WWE Monday Night Comedy Hour I'll be happy.

I, on the other hand, would graciously welcome back a resurgence of the "Attitude" era. ;)

[Sandman]

I, on the other hand, would graciously welcome back a resurgence of the "Attitude" era. ;)

You mean when characters actually meant something and they had writers who could actually make you cheer for both heels and faces?

[pseudopseudo]

You mean when characters actually meant something and they had writers who could actually make you cheer for both heels and faces?

Yes. Yes, that.

What is this "Monday Night Raw Comedy Hour" you speak of?

[Sandman]

Yes. Yes, that.

What is this "Monday Night Raw Comedy Hour" you speak of?

Last time WWE ratings took a huge dip (much larger than this) they completely changed the style of the show into a comedy driven format. They even had Regal hosting some kind of American Idol rip off segment.

[Sandman]

Kurt Angle, Booker T, Kevin Nash and Sting are the Main Event Mafia in TNA.....I don't know whether this will be bad or good.

[Sandman]

2 new Ring of Honor DVD releases this week.


http://www.rohwrestling.com/images/ecom/Products__2835_14.JPG

Age of Insanity- Cleveland, OH 8/15/08 (DVD)
Item# ROH197DVD
Description:
1. Kevin Steen vs. Jigsaw
2. Delirious vs. Rhett Titus
3. Bryan Danielson vs. Kenny King
4. Sara Del Rey vs. Sassy Steffy
5. Ruckus vs. Adam Pearce
6. Tyler Black vs. Austin Aries (Age of the Fall Rules Match)
7. Jay & Mark Briscoe vs. The Age of The Fall
8. Erick Stevens vs. Claudio Castagnoli (FIP World Heavyweight Title Match)
9. Roderick Strong & Brent Albright vs. Chris Hero & Go Shiozaki
10. Nigel McGuinness vs. El Generico (ROH World Title Match)
http://www.rohwrestling.com/images/ecom/Products__2836_14.jpg

Night of the Butcher II- Chicago Ridge, IL 8/16/08 (DVD)
Item# ROH198DVD
Description:
1. Kevin Steen vs. Kenny King
2. Jay & Mark Briscoe vs. Ruckus & Jigsaw vs. Mitch Franklin & Trik Davis vs. The Phoenix Twins (Tag Team Scramble Match)
3. Tyler Black vs. El Generico
4. Erick Stevens vs. Chris Hero (FIP Heavyweight Title Match)
5. Bryan Danielson & Austin Aries vs. Claudio Castagnoli & Nigel McGuinness
6. Roderick Strong runs the Sweet N Sour Gauntlet
7. Brent Albright vs. Go Shiozaki (NWA World Heavyweight Title Match)
8. The Necro Butcher vs. Jimmy Jacobs (No DQ Match)I'll have reviews in a week or so whenever I get them and watch them.

[Raen]

Kurt Angle, Booker T, Kevin Nash and Sting are the Main Event Mafia in TNA.....I don't know whether this will be bad or good.

So basically they're a power stable? Is this just gonna turn into the Millionaire's Club? Cause we all know how long that one lasted. You know what's a much better idea to revive from WCW? The Filthy Animals. Man I loved the Filthy Animals, although what was up with Rey having horns?

[Sandman]

VmOlOWiAMYE

[Raen]

Sandman have you seen the one about Vinny Mac? That's really good, and paints Vince in a completely different light.

[Sandman]

Ring of Honor Announcement
Sunday, October 26, 2008

Ring of Honor is announcing that Gabe Sapolsky will be leaving the company effective immediately. Everybody at ROH would like to thank him for his contributions and wish him well in all future endeavors.

Going forward Ring of Honor will be focusing on the stories and the talent in the ring. The company will have no further comments on this issue or a replacement for Mr. Sapolsky. We would like to thank all of the fans and media who have supported us over the years and look forward to bringing you more great wrestling excitement in the future.








http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/article.aspx?id=1999

Gabe Sapolsky is quite possibly the best booker in the business right now.....or at least was. I only hope ROH has someone to replace him that has the fans best interest in mind like he did.

[Raen]

http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/article.aspx?id=1999

Gabe Sapolsky is quite possibly the best booker in the business right now.....or at least was. I only hope ROH has someone to replace him that has the fans best interest in mind like he did.

Even any vague rumours on the reason behind this? Doesn't sound like it was an amicable split to say the least.

[Dave]

http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/article.aspx?id=1999

Gabe Sapolsky is quite possibly the best booker in the business right now.....or at least was. I only hope ROH has someone to replace him that has the fans best interest in mind like he did.

Look at you, man. And here I was worried that this might not be up on CoG yet. Ha ha ha!!

Hey, don't forget to plug the two ROH shows that I was at in August. I see you posting cover art for these latest releases but don't forget about Fueling The Fire and Death Before Dishonor VI. ;)

[Dave]

Sandman,

You think there's any chance that they can somehow talk Paul Heyman back into writing for wrestling?

I'd still rather have Gabe in the hotseat, but I'd be kind of curious to see what Heyman might do with ROH too (should he be given a shot at taking over the reigns).

[Sandman]

Sandman,

You think there's any chance that they can somehow talk Paul Heyman back into writing for wrestling?

I'd still rather have Gabe in the hotseat, but I'd be kind of curious to see what Heyman might do with ROH too (should he be given a shot at taking over the reigns).

You can never say never in wrestling however at least one dirt sheet is saying ROH will be booked by committee and they'll have to do more cost cutting going forward. I'll just wait and see what happens...hopefully they still do the Nashville and Florida shows.

[Dave]

You can never say never in wrestling however at least one dirt sheet is saying ROH will be booked by committee and they'll have to do more cost cutting going forward. I'll just wait and see what happens...hopefully they still do the Nashville and Florida shows.

Geeze. This is getting worse by the minute!

I seriously hope that Cary & co. don't fuck you on Nashville like they did all of us on Florida, earlier this month. I know that we were really looking forward to those shows.

Life is kind of strang, though, sometimes. Being out here in California, for the moment, I caught wind of PWG's annual Battle of Los Angeles, which is being held down here next weekend. So I'm probably going to be able to get my Aries, Dragon, Nigel, Generico and NECRO BUTCHER!!! ROH fix all the same. :)

[Sandman]

If you saw Cyber Sunday or followed the results I just have one thing to say : I hate shenanigans...and boy did that finish have them. TNA would have been proud of that masterpiece.

[Scaryfaced]

If you saw Cyber Sunday or followed the results I just have one thing to say : I hate shenanigans...and boy did that finish have them. TNA would have been proud of that masterpiece.

Maaaaaan I really want the results, but then again, I really don't. If Raen watched it, i'd read his review. Otherwise, anyone want to tell me who Santino fought? *Crosses fingers for Gold Dust"
________
HONDA FREED (http://www.honda-wiki.org/wiki/Honda_Freed)

[Sandman]

Maaaaaan I really want the results, but then again, I really don't. If Raen watched it, i'd read his review. Otherwise, anyone want to tell me who Santino fought? *Crosses fingers for Gold Dust"

It went the way the WWE wanted it to go.

[Scaryfaced]

Noooo! Bastista? Why Bastista? Dear god, what have you become, WWE? What have you become?

I'm kinda sad I looked up the results. Everymatch went the way I expected. I sincerly hope they use the Santino match as a way to get Gold Dust back in the ring. I hear his contract with TNA recently expired and I've always loved that gimmick. Curtain call, bitches!
________
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[Sandman]

_k89uXNfgkU

Nice video put together by ROH of the best tag team rivalry in recent memory.

[Sandman]

Former NWA champ Adam Pearce is officially the new booker for Ring of Honor. Pearce sent emails out to the ROH crew yesterday stating he would be booking going forward but asked that it be kayfabed since he was also wrestling for the company.

ROH officials declined comment when contacted today, but I can confirm Pearce is the booker. I believe one of the reasons ROH is being so quiet about the change is that going forward they want all the focus among online fans to be towards the product they produce, not backstage personalities.


Not sure how I feel about this....I never really cared for Pearce's in ring work or as a character.

[Dave]

If you saw Cyber Sunday or followed the results I just have one thing to say : I hate shenanigans...and boy did that finish have them. TNA would have been proud of that masterpiece.

Haven't seen it yet. Was in L.A. seeing the Genitorturers last night. I'll have to check my sites and get back to you.

Sounds like the "Honky Donkey Man" got the call up, though; which I definitely approve of. His Youshoot DVD is hilarious if you haven't seen it. Highly recommended!

[Sandman]

Ring of Honor Discussion Forum is currently closed.

The Administrator has chosen to close
this forum with the following reason:

As most of you probably noticed the message board has been extremely slow over the past 24-48 hours. With the latest news, the amount of traffic directly to the board has slowing down the rest of the site to the point where many fans can't access anything. For the time being we are closing down the message board. This is not permanent. We may try to open it temporarily at different points to see how the site functions. We need the main parts of the site to be working so it left us with no other option. We'll try to get it up and running on a regular basis as soon as possible. Thanks.

This isn't good....can't be good.

[Dave]

This isn't good....can't be good.


Smart mark backlash???

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!!

I don't think that ROH will be around for very long if what I'm reading about Pearce's plans go through. I don't like having clearly defined faces and heels (although Nigel is an ace at what he does). No one wants to have folks like the Briscoe Bros./Steenerico be anything other than themselves, you know?

How was the current product bad?

[Carlos]

I loved WWE when Stone Cold revolutionized the industry. Too bad WWE changed and got stale. I watch a few of the monday night raw episodes...I'm going to watch that 800 episode celebration next monday.

[Sandman]

NOAH, 10/25/2008
Tokyo Nippon Budokan

GHC Jr. Heavyweight Title & AJPW World Jr. Heavyweight Title: Naomichi Marufuji (c) vs. KENTA (c)

Match of the year....find it and watch it if you can.

there is a video on youtube but it's from their match in '06.

[Sandman]

Apparently Low Ki is at RAW getting a try-out tonight. We'll see how this goes. Morishima recently got a try-out and they didn't like him.

[Raen]

Really? That'd be pretty awesome. I just want the MCMG rumour to be true right now, because I don't watch TNA atm although I love the guys.

[Sandman]

That was an awesome RAW....great matches all night. If only they could do that quality of a show every week.

[Dave]

Sandman,

I went to PWG's 2008 Battle of Los Angeles over the weekend and YOU NEED TO SEE THESE SHOWS when they're released on DVD. Seriously.

Out-fucking-standing doesn't even begin to cover it.

I'm sure that you've seen reports on the 'net, but this was a great weekend for North American indie wrestling. I haven't watched the E in a few weeks, although I'm on my way back to my room now so that I can catch CJ win back HIS gold on the west coast feed; but after this weekend I kind of question why I still watch WWE and TNA (CM Punk, Chris Jericho and Samoa Joe, I guess... and maybe Santino Marella too). Seriously, check these PWG shows out when they're released. You won't be disappointed, dude.

Okay. Have fun. I'll be back later.

[Sandman]

Sandman,

I went to PWG's 2008 Battle of Los Angeles over the weekend and YOU NEED TO SEE THESE SHOWS when they're released on DVD. Seriously.

Out-fucking-standing doesn't even begin to cover it.

I'm sure that you've seen reports on the 'net, but this was a great weekend for North American indie wrestling. I haven't watched the E in a few weeks, although I'm on my way back to my room now so that I can catch CJ win back HIS gold on the west coast feed; but after this weekend I kind of question why I still watch WWE and TNA (CM Punk, Chris Jericho and Samoa Joe, I guess... and maybe Santino Marella too). Seriously, check these PWG shows out when they're released. You won't be disappointed, dude.

Okay. Have fun. I'll be back later.

I'll be sure to check those out in about 4 months when they finally release them. Low Ki vs Yoshino sounds like a great match.

[pseudopseudo]

Holy shit.

Kudos to the WWE for having the balls to put the title back in Jericho's hands.

[Sandman]

Is Batista finally done with the World Heavyweight Title? After countless failures on Smackdown and now this reign I cannot see a Batista vs Cena match for the title headlining Wrestlemania. Sure, Cena is one of the 2 people that can get a great match out of Batista (the other being Taker) but that match would be best if it was non title...which means Cena has to be out of the title picture at Mania too and I don't think they'll do that. Having Batista win the title with as much help as he had and then loosing it the way he did is worse than the way they did Punk for his title reign.

[pseudopseudo]

Is Batista finally done with the World Heavyweight Title? After countless failures on Smackdown and now this reign I cannot see a Batista vs Cena match for the title headlining Wrestlemania. Sure, Cena is one of the 2 people that can get a great match out of Batista (the other being Taker) but that match would be best if it was non title...which means Cena has to be out of the title picture at Mania too and I don't think they'll do that. Having Batista win the title with as much help as he had and then loosing it the way he did is worse than the way they did Punk for his title reign.

Myself, I'm betting on a Orton/Cena title match at Mania, myself. Or maybe even Orton/Jericho.

[Sandman]

Myself, I'm betting on a Orton/Cena title match at Mania, myself. Or maybe even Orton/Jericho.

Could even do Orton/Punk if they had built it right.

[Dave]

Could even do Orton/Punk if they had built it right.

That would be so great. I don't think they'll ever put the title back on Punk; but then I never thought that they'd put it back on Chris Jericho either. So who knows?

Wouldn't that be great if Orton and Cena came back too early and both got re-injured? Ha ha ha!!

Personally I'd like to see them move Edge to Raw. I mean, I know that the draft is over and done with for the year, but that hasn't really stopped them from going back on their decisions as of late.

Hey, I meant to ask you earlier... but are there any PWG shows that you could recommend? I'm totally unfamiliar with their product, but the stuff that I saw over the weekend made me a fan. The vibe was a lot more relaxed than that of an ROH show.

[Sandman]

Hey, I meant to ask you earlier... but are there any PWG shows that you could recommend? I'm totally unfamiliar with their product, but the stuff that I saw over the weekend made me a fan. The vibe was a lot more relaxed than that of an ROH show.

I haven't seen any regular PWG shows, only the last couple BOLA events.

[Scaryfaced]

Me and a buddy have been talking about Edge alot lately. I hear Christian's contract with TNA expired, which kinda fuels our speculation. We've decided Edge needs to go solo and either keep his crazy shtick, which was working wonders for him the last few weeks before his match with Taker, or they need to reform Edge and Christian. Let them be silly, like the Attitude period. The WWE is obviously obsessed with tag teams right now, so why not bring back one of the best?
________
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[pseudopseudo]

Let them be silly, like the Attitude period. The WWE is obviously obsessed with tag teams right now, so why not bring back one of the best?

If they do this, they need to bring back Gangrel. ;)

[Scaryfaced]

If they do this, they need to bring back Gangrel. ;)

lol oh Gangrel...what a horrible wrestler. He still does indy shows as far as I know, so it isn't out of the question. Still, Edge and Christian were amazing when it was just the two of them goofing around. Hell, they invented the Angle you suck chant on kazoo. If that doesn't equal ratings, i don't know what does.
________
Best price for vaporbrothers vaporizer (http://vaporizer.org)

[Dave]

Me and a buddy have been talking about Edge alot lately. I hear Christian's contract with TNA expired, which kinda fuels our speculation. We've decided Edge needs to go solo and either keep his crazy shtick, which was working wonders for him the last few weeks before his match with Taker, or they need to reform Edge and Christian. Let them be silly, like the Attitude period. The WWE is obviously obsessed with tag teams right now, so why not bring back one of the best?

Obsessed with tag teams? Really?

I've heard that his contract won't be up until the Spring, but that would be cool to see him back in the E if they'd actually take him seriously. He's definitely got what it takes to be their champion, I think that MacMahon just didn't like him due to his size.

[CES]

Me and a buddy have been talking about Edge alot lately. I hear Christian's contract with TNA expired, which kinda fuels our speculation. We've decided Edge needs to go solo and either keep his crazy shtick, which was working wonders for him the last few weeks before his match with Taker, or they need to reform Edge and Christian. Let them be silly, like the Attitude period. The WWE is obviously obsessed with tag teams right now, so why not bring back one of the best?

Obsessed with destroying it, maybe. The tag division hasnt been this weak in years. Little screen time, less mic time and belts that arent worth a damn now.

[Raen]

Me and a buddy have been talking about Edge alot lately. I hear Christian's contract with TNA expired, which kinda fuels our speculation. We've decided Edge needs to go solo and either keep his crazy shtick, which was working wonders for him the last few weeks before his match with Taker, or they need to reform Edge and Christian. Let them be silly, like the Attitude period. The WWE is obviously obsessed with tag teams right now, so why not bring back one of the best?

Could be interesting to tease that with Edgeheads slagging off E&C. It'd be a pretty awesome way to get E&C back together.

[Sandman]

Low Ki had a dark match with Primo Colon at the Smackdown tapings last night...lets hope it was a good one.

Smackdown this weeks looks like a good one.

[Dave]

Obsessed with destroying it, maybe. The tag division hasnt been this weak in years. Little screen time, less mic time and belts that arent worth a damn now.

I totally agree with this statement. I wish... wish wish wish... that they'd pair up Punk and Cabana and turn Punk heel. Hey, a Second City Saints fan can hope, right?

Even if they do sign the Murder City Machine Guns in the Spring, it still wouldn't be the shot in the arm that the company needs for a fun tag team division. Honestly, though, do any of their belts seem worthwhile these days... aside from maybe the one that Chris Jericho's currently holding?

WWE has successfully devauled all of their belts. Not that it's real or anything, but I'm just sayin', you know?

[Sandman]

I just read something that makes me excited to be a wrestling fan....apparently Low Ki's tryout went well and is being considered for a program with Rey Mysterio.

[Dave]

I just read something that makes me excited to be a wrestling fan....apparently Low Ki's tryout went well and is being considered for a program with Rey Mysterio.

Interesting. I don't see Ki doing very well there, but I'd love to be wrong about that.

I just read over on LOP that Paul London and Chuck Palumbo were released. That, AND Gail Kim was apparently backstage at one of the TV shows (in Tampa) this week and is officially signed. I don't think this has been confirmed on the company's website yet... but it wouldn't surprise me if it was true.

Apparently there was also a screening of Darren Aronofsky's The Wrestler (with Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei and THE NECRO BUTCHER!!!) in Los Angeles at the 2008 AFI Fest Thursday night. How does shit like this get past me when I'm out here on the left coast?!

[Sandman]

Anyone pick up Smackdown vs Raw today? I need a tag team partner for co-op. I'm going through Jericho's campain now and wow...vast improvements on story mode. With the story mode being tailor made for the wrestler you are using the commentary has been customized also. JR & The King actually mention the wrestlers in your matches by name and refer to events that happened in the past....something that has never been done before in Smackdown's story mode. I'm already up to the last month leading to Mania after a couple hours with the game but I can tell there seem to be several branching paths so there is plenty of replayability in each story. I think there are 6 stories in all so it should take about 12 hours or so to finish the Road to WM mode on the first play through.

Another plus was when I left for work about 45 min ago I wanted to keep playing to find out what happens....that's never happened for me in a wrestling game's story mode before.

[Scaryfaced]

I really want to go pick it up, but I'm so entirely broke right now, I just can't justify it. Maybe a rental is in order.

Have you played around with the CAW features yet? Specifically, how's the finishing move creator? That's pretty much the game's only selling point for me right now and the biggest reason I've been counting down the days to release.
________
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[Sandman]

I really want to go pick it up, but I'm so entirely broke right now, I just can't justify it. Maybe a rental is in order.

Have you played around with the CAW features yet? Specifically, how's the finishing move creator? That's pretty much the game's only selling point for me right now and the biggest reason I've been counting down the days to release.

I haven't played with any of that yet....only had a few hours before work and I wanted to try out Road to Wrestlemania....plus I know I'll need alot of time to play with any part of the CAW.

[Scaryfaced]

Thats why I don't really want to get involved with it yet. The first thing I do is create my own wrestler, which takes hours just for asthetic purposes, then choosing a move set is a marathon. Now I can make my own moves? I'm never going to play the actual game at this rate.

If you get a chance to play around with the move creator, can you post some impressions? I'd like to know if it's as comprehensive as they made it look in the preview vids and if it's reserved for finishers only.
________
FFM XXX (http://www.fucktube.com/categories/19/ffm/videos/1)

[pseudopseudo]

Thats why I don't really want to get involved with it yet. The first thing I do is create my own wrestler, which takes hours just for asthetic purposes, then choosing a move set is a marathon. Now I can make my own moves? I'm never going to play the actual game at this rate.

Same here. And don't forget about the ring entrance. I remember playing the Xbox version of Raw vs. Smackdown (the 1st or 2nd one?) and I played around with what music I wanted to use for HOURS. (I wish I was joking.) The music synched perfectly with the entrance when I finally got it all done though. It was SWEET.

[Sandman]

Same here. And don't forget about the ring entrance. I remember playing the Xbox version of Raw vs. Smackdown (the 1st or 2nd one?) and I played around with what music I wanted to use for HOURS. (I wish I was joking.) The music synched perfectly with the entrance when I finally got it all done though. It was SWEET.

I already know what music I want to use....well I have it down to two tracks. Hank Williams III - Long Hauls and Close Calls if they allow music from the hard drive again and Disturbed - Perfect Insanity if only music from the game is allowed.

I'll see if I can get into any CAW stuff tonight when i get home but I won't have much time.

I'll give you another improvement on this year's game...the wrestler's theme songs play in the menus this time and not their hand picked generic rock songs....I got so tired of some of those tracks before I was done with the game.

[Dave]

Hey guys, I was just nosing around over at the Wrestling Observer website and found the following article on the new The Best of Dragon Gate: Volume 1 - Wrestling’s Future Revealed DVD (which I picked up last weekend at PWG's 2008 BOLA, but have yet to actually watch): http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/7365/

Anyway, a good read (if you haven't read it and have been impressed with what you've seen with the guys from Dragon Gate via ROH).

Also, today marks the 11th anniversary of the Montreal Screwjob between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels at the 1997 Survivor Series pay-per-view. Apparently it's also Chris Jericho's 38th birthday as well. All hail the world champion!

[Raen]

Sandman have you had a chance to play with the movie editor yet? I really want this game (me and my flatmate wanna co-op the hell out of it. I assume it has single console co-op?) but have no money. My brother works in a game store so I guess I could shake him and see if a copy falls out. Doesn't usually work though.

[Scaryfaced]

Sandman have you had a chance to play with the movie editor yet? I really want this game (me and my flatmate wanna co-op the hell out of it. I assume it has single console co-op?) but have no money. My brother works in a game store so I guess I could shake him and see if a copy falls out. Doesn't usually work though.

A friend of mine rented this game over the weekend and I got to spend the day playing around with it. So I guess I'll throw out some impressions.

The gameplay is vastly improved this time around. I dont like that they're cutting off certain moves(only 1 running grapple this time) but it does help the flow of the game. Reversals seem a little harder to pull off and when you do, they're situationally appropriate. It gives the game a much more dynamic feel. The new signature moves/special moves system is pretty damn cool, too. It makes pulling off your special more rewarding when you finally hit it. All and all, the matches have seriously improved in the last 2 years. They rarely feel robotic and you'll never get caught in an endless irish whip session again.

As for the Create A Finisher stuff, it feels a little premature. I have a feeling this feature is going to be amazing within the next year or so, but for now, it's a too limited. I've found multiple instances where a rather common finisher had the makings of the move, but no finish to it. As in you get the 2 steps setting up the move, but they forgot to include the last step. We tried to make a Death Valley Driver, but there wasn't a finishing step past the samoan carry. The speed controls are also kinda silly. Speeding it up is fine, but slowing a move literally slows the movements, instead of adding stall time like you'd expect. If you drop the speed too much, it looks like slow motion. It only adjusts in 25% incriments as well, which makes it a little finicky. If you've created a move in your head, you might have trouble making it correctly. It's hit and miss.

That being said, it's still alot of fun to play around with. I made my stalling fisherman brainbuster exactly how I envisioned it, so you might just get lucky. As you play around with it, you'll come up with cool looking moves on the fly. It's just not set up to build any move you can imagine. You've got to work from the ground up, play around with what they have, and you'll come up with something. Give it another year or so and this will be THE feature of the Smackdown vs Raw games. They really need to hire someone like us to play test it and pick it apart.
________
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[Dave]

I rented SVR2009 yesterday from a local Hollywood Video, and so far I've only played the Road to Wrestlemania mode with Punk, Jericho and Taker... but I'm happy to report that this is the first time since No Mercy on the N64 (yeah, that No Mercy) that I've had fun playing a WWE game.

I've literally been playing it ALL day today too. I don't know what has changed since the last few games (as I purchased, but didn't like, SVR2007 and only played a little bit of SVR2008), but so far it's been fun. I wish that they'd kept Jericho's original music in it, however. The mix that's in there now is ass.

I think I may go through and try the career mode later tonight or tomorrow.

[Sandman]

I do wish that they'd kept Jericho's original music in it, however. The mix that's in there now is ass.

I think it's the mix that is on the Volume 8 theme cd.

[Dave]

I think it's the mix that is on the Volume 8 theme cd.

Well it's not what he normally comes out to, is it? I remember them trying to change it to something else back during his first go-round, in an attempt to pimp their shitty music releases, but after a period of time they went back to (what I feel) works.

That's just me being picky, I guess. Hell, if I had my way we'd go back to his old titantron video too; but I say that without having played as Oldschool/Classic Chris Jericho.

I'm pretty surprised that Taker's old gray tie/gloves/boot-things aren't unlockable either... but maybe they're saving that for the Legends of Wrestlemania game (which, if they keep the controls of this one for that one I think I would REALLY be looking forward to... assuming we can play as the Hart Foundation and The Honky Tonk Man as well). Ha!!

I say that they throw Jimmy Hart, and The Brain into the WM game along with Slick for some manager fun. It's too bad that Savage and McMahon dislike one another so much. It would rule to play as the 1980's Mach' (with the headband, cape and Kool Moe Dee/Swatch sunglasses)... not to mention recreating WMIII with him, Steamboat and George "the Animal" Steele.

"ELIZABET'?! ELIZABET'?! WILL... YOU... MARRY... ME?"
"OOOOOOOOOO... YEEEEEEAH!"

Ha ha ha ha ha!

[Sandman]

I will say this....thanks to SVR 09 I have a new appreciation for Orton's new theme....hearing it without any background noise does that I think. It fits his character just like his old one did.

[Raen]

I have one important question. Is it better than the TNA game?

[pseudopseudo]

I will say this....thanks to SVR 09 I have a new appreciation for Orton's new theme....hearing it without any background noise does that I think. It fits his character just like his old one did.

I agree whole heartedly. His new theme is one of the best he's had in a while, and definitely fits the character. I can't think of too many other ring entrance music that fits the wrestler that well. Maybe CM Punk and Kofi Kingston. And Santino's.

There are definitely some wrestlers that need to switch it up, though. Jericho. Batista. Every diva. (IMHO)

[Dave]

I have one important question. Is it better than the TNA game?

It's weird, because TNA has gotten a terrible rap and is now supposed to be reduced in price (because everyone and their mother is calling it a failure), but I think this year that wrestling fans win with either one.

That's probably not the answer that you were looking for, but I haven't played SVR2009 against anyone else yet. TNA I played at PAX, against Sandman, and thought that it was pretty fun. The single-player game obviously isn't as fun, but how many games are more fun than co-op these days, you know?

I say look around in your area and see if you can't get a deal on TNA and then, maybe around Black Friday, see if you can't find a deal on SVR2009 too. After playing it yesterday I really think that I may pick it up, and I haven't liked ANY of the WWE games in quite a while.

Anyway, that's my take. Hope that maybe helped. Ha ha!

[Dave]

I agree whole heartedly. His new theme is one of the best he's had in a while, and definitely fits the character. I can't think of too many other ring entrance music that fits the wrestler that well. Maybe CM Punk and Kofi Kingston. And Santino's.

There are definitely some wrestlers that need to switch it up, though. Jericho. Batista. Every diva. (IMHO)

Funny you guys should mention this today of all days. Caught this over on LOP this afternoon: http://www.lordsofpain.net/news/2008_/1226519110.php

If what this article says about the theme that Orton wanted is true, it's too bad; because I think it would have ruled if Punk could have used his old AFI/"Miseria Cantare (The Beginning)" theme from Ring of Honor. Seeing that before his match at Punk: The Final Chapter (http://www.rohwrestling.com/shoponline.asp?point=moreinfo&catid=187&id=1451) was freakin' wicked!

[Sandman]

Just got the e-mail saying my Ric Flair shoot dvd just shipped....can't wait to get it.

https://www.highspots.com/images/images_125/zkm8_flair_4disc.jpg

[pseudopseudo]

Off-topic, I just watched Botchamanias 1-5 last night, as well as The Danbury Fall and the following attempt by New Jack to murder Vic Grimes.

Holy shit.

(I'd never seen the footage before of Sid Vicious' leg snapping, either. Last night was a mixture of uproarious laughter and 'OMG!' silence. Brutal.)

[Dave]

Off-topic, I just watched Botchamanias 1-5 last night, as well as The Danbury Fall and the following attempt by New Jack to murder Vic Grimes.

Holy shit.

(I'd never seen the footage before of Sid Vicious' leg snapping, either. Last night was a mixture of uproarious laughter and 'OMG!' silence. Brutal.)

That's the beauty of this thread... as long as it's wrestling, it's on topic.

This cracked me up, by the way. Sid's leg breaking is definitely an OMG! silence moment. It's just funny to hear that you're just now seeing it. That footage is like 7+ years old, if I'm not mistaken.

[Dave]

Just got the e-mail saying my Ric Flair shoot dvd just shipped....can't wait to get it.

https://www.highspots.com/images/images_125/zkm8_flair_4disc.jpg

I want a full, thorough analysis of this when you're done watching it. I'm curious about this, since it is in no way released by WWE.

[Wolvie]

That's the beauty of this thread... as long as it's wrestling, it's on topic.

This cracked me up, by the way. Sid's leg breaking is definitely an OMG! silence moment. It's just funny to hear that you're just now seeing it. That footage is like 7+ years old, if I'm not mistaken.

Indeed it is, that happened in 2001.

[Dave]

Indeed it is, that happened in 2001.

Ha ha ha ha!! I knew that, I just put that plus sign in there, so as to not expose my embarrassing level of wrestling nerdom. (Takes one to know one. Ha ha!!)

[Wolvie]

Ha ha ha ha!! I knew that, I just put that plus sign in there, so as to not expose my embarrassing level of wrestling nerdom. (Takes one to know one. Ha ha!!)

I'm not the biggest wrestling nerd either, I just happened to watch that WCW show with my GF(who is my wife now) that aired the clip 24 hours after the pay-per-view.
I will never forget that, as it made me nauseous and I had to stop eating my plate of spaghetti... and almost NOTHING can make me sick enough to stop eating spaghetti. Yeah, it was that bad.

[Dave]

I'm not the biggest wrestling nerd either, I just happened to watch that WCW show with my GF(who is my wife now) that aired the clip 24 hours after the pay-per-view.
I will never forget that, as it made me nauseous and I had to stop eating my plate of spaghetti... and almost NOTHING can make me sick enough to stop eating spaghetti. Yeah, it was that bad.

Ha ha ha ha!!! That's funny.

[Sandman]

INTERNATIONAL WRESTLING PHENOMENON RING OF HONOR INKS PPV & VOD PACT WITH DIRECTV
Thursday, November 20, 2008

INTERNATIONAL WRESTLING PHENOMENON RING OF HONOR INKS PPV & VOD PACT WITH DIRECTV
First PPV Event to air on DIRECTV in early 2009
ROH Classics to be launched on DIRECTV on Demand platform
ROH programming now available in more than 80 MM HH
New York, November 20, 2008 - Ring Of Honor Wrestling (ROH), in association with G-Funk Sports & Entertainment, has concluded programming and distribution deals for PPV and VOD wrestling content with DIRECTV, making the critically-acclaimed ROH brand available for the first time ever to approximately 17.3 million additional American households. In total, ROH programming is now available in more than 80 million households throughout North America.
ROH owner Cary Silkin made the announcement today with G-Funk’s President Ken Gelman. The debut event, entitled "Rising Above," will be taped November 22 in Chicago, Illinois from the Frontier Fieldhouse and will premiere on DIRECTV in early 2009.
For the first time, ROH will debut "ROH Classics" on DIRECTV on Demand in early 2009. Approximately ten-hours of classic wrestling programming content from the ROH vaults will appear monthly on the platform. The best matches, rivalries and stars in ROH history will be featured.
"This latest programming deal with DIRECTV marks another major step in our evolution as a wrestling company," said Mr. Silkin. "We’re excited to bring our loyal fans more of the first-rate wrestling product they’ve come to know from ROH over the years, and to introduce our unique brand of wrestling to legions of new fans on the DIRECTV platform."
To date, ROH has premiered nine PPV titles since July 2007. In addition to DIRECTV, ROH currently has distribution deals with iN DEMAND, DISH Network and TVN in the U.S. and Viewer’s Choice and Bell ExpressVu in Canada.
Long revered by a loyal underground fan base, the Philadelphia-based ROH appeals to the disenfranchised wrestling fan fed up with storylines that seem to take precedence over the kind of powerful ring competition that ROH specializes in. ROH, in fact, is seen to have the highest level of athleticism in its field today, as evidenced by the numerous awards ROH has had bestowed upon them.
G-Funk Sports and Entertainment will continue to handle all marketing and promotion for the wrestling programs, as it has since ROH’s debut on PPV in 2007. PPV and ROH Classics marketing materials will remain available on ROH’s affiliate website, www.rohwrestlingaffiliates.com (http://www.rohwrestlingaffiliates.com) including easy-to-implement marketing materials and all event and programming information. A range of targeted national consumer advertising and promotion will also support each event and program.
According to Mr. Gelman, "ROH programming has proven to be the best value in the PPV and VOD business for the better part of two years now. This latest deal with DIRECTV ensures that a greater number of rabid wrestling fans will enjoy ROH content well into 2009 and beyond."

ABOUT RING OF HONOR
Ring of Honor Wrestling (ROH) based in Philadelphia, PA was conceived by passionate businessmen (and long-time wrestling fans) who felt the current professional wrestling product had strayed from the early roots of the sport to a travesty of wild story lines and improbable scenarios. ROH was created as a response to fans that appreciated the athleticism and entertainment that the sport can bring. The term "combat art" has also been used to describe ROH’s unique style.
ABOUT G-FUNK SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
G-Funk Sports & Entertainment is a full-service agency dedicated to brand activation, strategic integration and driving maximum return on investment for its clients, headed up by Award-winning NHL and WWE marketing and television veteran Ken Gelman. G-Funk’s strengths center on three primary areas, Marketing Services (consumer promotion, affiliate activation and events), Partnership Alliances and Content Management (including distribution drives and launch strategies). Client partners include the National Football League, Impulse One, the Arena Football League, Rainbow Media and Ring Of Honor.
ROH is now on DirecTV and in international markets. TV can't be far behind now.

[Raen]

I dunno. I can see them getting a TV deal at some point, but I just don't know with what network.

[Sandman]

I dunno. I can see them getting a TV deal at some point, but I just don't know with what network.

Almost any network in need of ratings will take a wrestling program...history has shown that good wrestling programs produce ratings.

[Raen]

Almost any network in need of ratings will take a wrestling program...history has shown that good wrestling programs produce ratings.

Well I mean look at TNA though, that's only averaging 1.1. Not exactly stellar. Then again I guess there are networks that would happily take a 1.1 show.

[Dave]

Well I mean look at TNA though, that's only averaging 1.1. Not exactly stellar. Then again I guess there are networks that would happily take a 1.1 show.

I think that's kind of the same boat that Sci-Fi's in with E-C-'Dub. Maybe it's not stellar, as it gets about the same as TNA does on Spike!, but maybe for Sci-Fi it's not too bad.

Sandman, what's the good word on that 3-disc Ric Flair shoot set. I just realized that that was on three discs today when I was over on the ROH website. Pretty crazy. Any word on when DLC will be available for the TNA videogame, or did that all go down the shitter when the game was declared a dud? I'd still download, and play some of that stuff, you know?

[Sandman]

I think that's kind of the same boat that Sci-Fi's in with E-C-'Dub. Maybe it's not stellar, as it gets about the same as TNA does on Spike!, but maybe for Sci-Fi it's not too bad.

Sandman, what's the good word on that 3-disc Ric Flair shoot set. I just realized that that was on three discs today when I was over on the ROH website. Pretty crazy. Any word on when DLC will be available for the TNA videogame, or did that all go down the shitter when the game was declared a dud? I'd still download, and play some of that stuff, you know?

4 disc version is excusive to highspots.com.

[Deunnero]

I have some old shows on VHS; including local car dealership commercials and crazy eddy type discount barn promo's :p.

I'll try and get some of it transferred to DVD and let y'all know what i've got. Old NWA/AWA/Stampede/WWF and house shows.

[Dave]

4 disc version is excusive to highspots.com.

Oh snap!

Like that guy says to Steve Carell in The 40-Year-Old Virgin: "You got to get on that shit!"

Keep me posted. I may have to get this one myself.

[Raen]

Slightly off topic, but that's what you're getting. Went to a show last night (Go:Audio if anyone's interested) and the frontman of the band was wearing a Mr. Perfect T-Shirt. The only issue was the guy is the most annoyingly generically emo vocalist I have seen in my life. He irritated me so much, and it made me sad that someone so douchey could be besmirching the good name of Curt Henning by wearing his T-Shirt.

[pseudopseudo]

He irritated me so much, and it made me sad that someone so douchey could be besmirching the good name of Curt Henning by wearing his T-Shirt.

Kind of like besmirching Curt Hennig's name by spelling it wrong? ;)

[Scaryfaced]

Kind of like besmirching Curt Hennig's name by spelling it wrong? ;)

Does anyone else instinctually spit their gum into the air and try to launch it with your hand? Cuz I do.:D


Survivor Series starts in T minus...45 minutes or so. Can't wait to see some real, honest to God Surviver Series matches. A few of these are going to be absolutely epic.
________
Vaporite replacement parts (http://www.vaporshop.com)

[Raen]

Kind of like besmirching Curt Hennig's name by spelling it wrong? ;)

D'oh! I actually, seriously, always thought it had the third N in it. No idea why.

[Dave]

Kind of like besmirching Curt Hennig's name by spelling it wrong? ;)

Ha ha ha!! Got 'im!

That's pretty funny.

[pseudopseudo]

Does anyone else instinctually spit their gum into the air and try to launch it with your hand? Cuz I do.:D

All the damn time.

[Dave]

Sandman, I figure you've already seen this, but for anyone else (who might not have)... this is a really good deal that ROH usually only runs once every few months.



BLACK FRIDAY SALE- 35%-40% OFF YOUR NEXT ORDER!!!

It's that time of the year, and Ring of Honor is offering a tremendous savings to our loyal fans. You can now save 35%-40% off your order on all items listed on the website with no minimum purchase. This sale includes all DVD's, tickets, books, apparel, & more. Besides ROH DVD's you can also save money on Non-ROH items.
You can save money with every order you place at www. rohwrestling. com.
All orders under $100 save 35% off the order. Orders that are $100 and up save 40% off the order. This is the first time ever we've offered 40% off your order.


This is also a great chance to save money on tickets to all upcoming live ROH events.


To redeem your 35% Off Coupon for orders under $100 just follow these 2 simple steps:
1) Place an order for merchandise at www. rohwrestling. com
2) Enter the coupon code: friday35 into the box marked Discount/Promotional Code when you are going thru the checkout process. The system will automatically generate the discount.


To redeem your 40% Off Coupon for orders $100 and above just follow these 2 simple steps:
1) Place an order for merchandise at www. rohwrestling. com
2) Enter the coupon code: friday40 into the box marked Discount/Promotional Code when you are going thru the checkout process. The system will automatically generate the discount.


Offer ends on 11/29 at noon EST. Shipping costs are not discountable. Gift certificates and ROH DVD Subscription Packages are not included in the sale. Preorder items are not included in the sale. No adjustments to prior purchases.
Offer valid only on new orders placed online at www. rohwrestling. com.
Orders will only be discounted if you follow the steps listed above. Offer is good while supplies last.

[Dave]

I saw this, and since our thread hasn't had any love in a few weeks I thought I'd post it...

The WWE franchise has been in good hands with THQ over the past nine years, now. Unlike Acclaim, who quickly let their WWF games go to the crapper, THQ's consistency and quality with the SmackDown franchise has been surprisingly good (with the exception of last year's broken WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008). Now, THQ looks to be borrowing a page from the, now defunct, book of Acclaim, by releasing a Legends game. Except, unlike Acclaim's Legend of Wrestling, this WWE branded game is actually brimming with potential.

For starters, you have a game backed by a proper license, allowing THQ to utilize every bit of WWE's assets with ease. In total, 40 of the WWE's greatest superstars and managers have been virtually cast for this Legends game, including Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan, The Ultimate Warrior, Yokozuna, The Undertaker, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Jerry Lawler, Ted Dibiase, Mr. Perfect, and many more.

The core of Legends revolves around reliving the past in a variety of ways, by either recreating it as it actually happened, re-imagining the event by putting your own variations to the fight, or altering it completely to change the course of WWE history, by having a different outcome in the fight. THQ has labeled these three qualities as the ability to: recreate, rewrite, and redefine. All of these aspects will come to fruition when you enter the Wrestlemania Tour mode, where vintage footage based around the events you'll encounter will set up the matches.

The game runs on the SmackDown 2009 engine, but it has been tweaked considerably so that the action is arcade based, with a larger emphasis on pick-up-and-play mechanics. The rationale for that decision was done as a means of creating a stepping-stone for the franchise in order to accumulate a userbase; if you recall, the original SmackDown games also started out as arcade-based.

But while the game mechanics may be arcadey and simple, the presentation surely isn't. Everything we saw demonstrated the authenticity behind Legends, as the game accurately attempts to depict the WWF telecasts from the 80s and 90s by featuring all of the signature ring entrances, the commentators, classic venues, and much more. The only genuine thing missing will be the original WWF logo that the WWE doesn't have a right to use anymore, unfortunately.

When we played the game months ago, we loved the fighting mechanics; the action felt smooth, and the controls were easy to get used to, as they utilized the face buttons over the analog stick. A modifier button exists to grant you more moves during the match. In addition, the personalities of managers have been realistically pulled off, as certain managers are more prone to interfering in matches, such as placing their wrestler's leg on the ropes during pinfall, or distracting the referee, or even climbing onto the ring and whisper into their wrestler's ear. It's little stuff like that which really made WWE Legends of Wrestlemania really stand out for us.

In addition to the Tour mode, other gameplay modes will include Create-A-Legend and online gameplay, both of which are self-explanatory, and should largely be based on the features already available in SmackDown 2009.

From what we've seen, the visuals look fantastic. The wrestlers boast embellished details with their arms and chests, a similar design trait found in the Legends of Wrestling games, and a design element I think suits the game well. But despite the embellishments, the wrestlers still look great, sporting very smooth texture work, and defined physiques. Unlike SmackDown 2009, WWE Legends boasts a beautiful, fully polygonal audience, and even at this early stage of the game's development cycle, it ran very smooth.

We're really excited about this all new Legends of Wrestlemania game, and you should be too. THQ plans to have this ready in time for March 2009.

Source: http://www.psxextreme.com/ps3-previews/263.html

Oh how I wish they'd put the 1980's "Macho Man" Randy Savage and the greatest IC champion of ALL time, The Honkey Tonk Man, in this one.

And Jake Roberts. And Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. And Demolition. Oh, and George "The Animal" Steel.

Am I forgetting anyone?