Wednesday, December 30, 2009

ECW Results: 12/29/09 - Tommy Dreamer Leaves ECW

The Final Original Leaves ECW

The final ECW of 2009 turned out to be Tommy Dreamer's last. Tommy Dreamer has truly been the heart and soul of ECW, from the very first feud in the original ECW, to the final repackaged ECW of 2009. When Tommy Dreamer won the ECW title from Tazz, he said that it was the happiest moment in his life, and that even though he may never headline a WrestleMania, or want to be at Starrcade, at least a guy like him made it in ECW. Amazingly enough, Tommy Dreamer did indeed wrestle at WrestleMania, as part of the ECW Originals (Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, Sandman, and Rob Van Dam) to defeat The New Breed (Elijah Burke, Marcus Cor Von, Matt Striker, and Kevin Thorn). At the IZOD Center, where Dreamer had his final match, he remebers attending his second WWE show with his best friend and his father, and he got to see Rowdy Roddy Piper do a live Piper's Pit, and called a woman from the audience who happened to be from Yonkers, his hometown. It has been his dream since he was nine years old to become a wrestler, and if you have enough passion then you can make it anywhere. After losing his final match to Zack Ryder, Tommy Dreamer greeted his wife Trisha Hayes - for those who don't remember, her ring name was Beulah McGillicutty in the original ECW as Dreamer's valet. She was accompanied by their twin daughters Kimberly and Briana. When asked at school "what does your father do for a living?" Kimberly answered, "My daddy falls down a lot," while Briana added, "But my daddy always gets up." That has been the wrestling career of Tommy Dreamer, he loses a lot of matches, but he manages to always get himself back up. He says it's the fans that give him his strength, and that we are his family. Tommy Dreamer has been at the bottom of the WWE for several years after the Alliance movement of WCW/ECW, jobbing to superstars. But despite all that, he has worn the Hardcore Title 14-times and recently became the ECW Champion at Extreme Rules. With his departure, we can't help but pound our fist over our hearts and shout E! C! W! Tommy Dreamer not only made it in ECW but he also made it in the WWE, and that's a rare gift. Thank you, Tommy Dreamer for all you have done.

Hardy Returns to Extreme Roots

The opening match was the ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match featuring SmackDown superstars Matt Hardy and Finlay. During their time in ECW, Matt Hardy became the ECW Champion after defeating Mark Henry in an ECW Championship Scramble Match at Unforgiven 2008... eventually losing the title to Jack Swagger and departing from ECW; Finlay lost the Fatal Fourway Contenders Match for the strap, which saw Matt Hardy as the winner... eventually had a title match against Matt Hardy and lost... and after Matt Hardy left for RAW, Finlay had a fighting chance to become the top face of the brand but was traded to SmackDown as part of Donald Trump's fifteen-superstar trade. Finlay has never held a world title while in the WWE, and this qualifying match was possibly his final shot at the ECW Title. Finlay focused on twerking the knee of Matt Hardy, and managed to roll out of the Moonsault; but never count out the "Never Say Die" attitude of Matt Hardy, who managed to get in a Twist of Fate to score the pinfall.

Air-Bourne Soars High

The following match was also an ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match featuring RAW's Evan Bourne against SmackDown's Mike Knox. Mike Knox, currently in a one-sided feud with Kane, started out as one of the original members of the newly envisioned ECW revival. He was not well known, except during his feud with CM Punk because his then-girlfriend Kelly Kelly was enamored with "The Straight Edge" superstar. Evan Bourne was part of Teddy Long's ECW Superstar initiative, along with Kofi Kingston - both, now, fan favorites over on RAW - his closest shot at the ECW Title was during Cyber Sunday 2008, when the WWE Universe voted for him to take on ECW Champion Matt Hardy. This particular match up is interesting, not because Mike Knox is 6'6, 298lbs, while Bourne is a mere 5'9, 183lbs, but because these two are jobbers in their current brands; yet, these two were never at the top of their game as they were, here, on ECW. Evan Bourne had to rely on his quickness and agility, and most of the time that works against super heavyweights, but Mike Knox is adept to matching speed with the smallest of opponents. Mike Knox managed to connect with a flying crossbody, one of his deadliest maneuvers, but Bourne managed to kick out. To Bourne, it's not size that brought him to the game, it's heart and his will to become a champion. Bourne evaded a spear takedown and used the opportunity to strike with the Shooting Star Press for the win. Evan Bourne will have another shot at the ECW Title in two weeks, as all the winners of these matches go on to an ECW Homecoming Showdown to determine the #1 Contender for Christian's ECW Title at the Royal Rumble.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Randy Orton's Legacy is no Evolution

Randy Orton was the youngest member of Evolution and after the betrayal from his team mates, it is only natural that Orton would want to create a faction better than Evolution. Yet, Evolution, throughout, saw Triple H as a 5-time World Heavyweight Champion, Ric Flair and Batista as 2-time World Tag Team Champions, Batista as the 2005 Royal Rumble winner, Ric Flair and Orton each reigning as the Intercontinental Champion at one point, and Orton as the World Heavyweight Champion - resulting into a beatdown from leader Triple H and crew.

In 2008, after much criticism on the part of Orton, Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes made the cut to be a part of Legacy with hopes of elevating in the business. Well, it has been a year and a half and the only person who has truly benefited was Orton with three WWE Title reigns and the winner of the 2009 Royal Rumble.

However, despite not seeing tag team gold, DiBiase and Rhodes have become household names and were not forgotten like Sim Snuka and Manu, the two that didn't make it on Legacy. DiBiase and Rhodes even became more respected as wrestlers during their feud with D-Generation X during last summer into the early fall. Truthfully, Legacy may not be as successful as Evolution but Orton did get his revenge on Triple H by attacking his father-in-law, his brother-in-law, and even his wife; and wasn't this what it was all about?

RAW Results: 12/28/09

Timbaland is Bland. The American Grammy Award-winning record producer/rapper stayed behind the scenes throughout the majority of the show. Timbaland is no stranger to the WWE since, on April 20, 2007, he recruited Maryse, Kelly Kelly, Layla, and former divas Torrie Wilson, Brooke, and Ashley Massaro to be filmed in his video, "Throw It on Me" featuring The Hives. But this time around, Timbaland was seen talking to the Bellas and Gail Kim, and the occasional Josh Matthews or enthusiastic superstar. Tim was promoting his new album Shock Value II, and having the divas lazily dance to the mellow tracks. The most Timbaland did was announce John Cena and Sheamus for the start of the WWE Championship main event but was not seen afterwards. Overall, Timbaland did not make an impression whatsoever. McMahon should be contracting former WWE superstars, instead of these celebrities, because they know how the business works.

Cena demands Tables Rematch. Former WWE Champion John Cena recaps how Sheamus became the WWE Champion by setting up a table adjacent to the turnbuckle. Cena, still not taking the champ seriously, demanded an immediate Tables Match as his rematch for the WWE Title. The Celtic Warrior declined and declared that it would occur at the end of the night in a regular wrestling match. Sheamus stated the reason for this is to prove that he can beat Cena in a non-stipulation match, and once he does... he would hold the WWE Title over Cena's body as the final image that the RAW audience would see in 2009.

Legacy faced with crossroads. After a year and a half, Randy Orton contemplated breaking up Legacy. This train of thought started last week when Legacy lost to Kingston, Bourne and Henry, a group of individuals who have never teamed together. Questions of the success rate soon followed, since Orton is not the WWE Champion nor Rhodes and DiBiase the Unified Tag Team Champions. Orton then issued each member to face off against a member from the team they lost to, to test whether or not Legacy would endure.

DiBiase and Rhodes reinstated. The first challenge issued by Orton was Ted DiBiase against Evan Bourne. It is no secret that DiBiase respects Orton, but he also resents him. At times, DiBiase wants to impress Orton, but he also wants to surpass him. Last week, Bourne showed some improvement, but also fell short when he exhausted all his high flying in a short amount of time. Another weakness of Bourne is his constant dependance on his high knee lifts and kicks; instead, he should be issuing more grapple holds to render the oponent for a move like Shooting Star Press. DiBiase kept Bourne grounded with a number of chin locks, a suplex, and finishing it off with Dream Street.

The second challenge was Cody Rhodes against Mark Henry. About a year ago, when Mark Henry was dominating the land of extreme as the ECW Champion, Cody Rhodes would not have had a chance, but now, it seemed like an easy feat. The reason for this is Mark Henry's weight. The man is close to pulling 400lbs, a lot for a man to lug around. He hasn't weight lifted since 2002, and since then he has suffered quadricep and knee injuries. Mark Henry walks around with two knee braces, which gave Cody a good target. Henry's endurance in the ring is terrible and he looked winded after two minutes. Mark Henry should take a leave of absence and shed about 150lbs, much like Big Show did between 2007-2008. Cody Rhodes took advantage of the deteriating health and knees of the once World's Strongest Man for the 3 count. And as a result of DiBiase and Rhodes winning their matches, Legacy will still be around after the New Year.

Ditzy Divas. The final RAW divas match for 2009 was a contest between Kelly Kelly and Maryse. Last week, Kelly Kelly pinned Maryse, with the assist from Divas' Champion Melina, in the Santa's Little Helper's Match; and this week, Maryse looked to rectify the situation. Kelly Kelly displayed confidence in the ring, connecting with drop kicks, cross bodies, and takedowns. Kelly's weakness is the Kelly Killer... it's killing her matches. It's not a credible move, who waits at the turnbuckle long enough for her to handspring across the ring to execute an elbow smash? Dodging the Kelly Killer, Maryse managed to apply French Kiss, thus ending the match.

“Only good things can happen.” Ever since Dennis Miller suggested Bret “The Hitman” Hart guest host RAW, the WWE Universe has been overzealous of the possibility that Canada’s favorite son, absent for twelve years, would finally make his triumphant return home to the WWE. Vince McMahon, no doubt anti-Hart, stated that Bret Hart would never guest host Monday Night RAW. Then enter the Heart Break Kid, the man who carried out the hit on The Hitman in the infamous – real life – Montreal Screw job. Shawn and Bret had an intense, well documented, rivalry on-and-off screen, culminating in Bret disgraced in the Molson Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada; but when Michaels mentioned to McMahon that there are some rivalries that are bigger than this business, he wasn't talking about Bret. Shawn Michaels believes that he can end The Undertaker’s Streak, and demanded a rematch at WrestleMania. McMahon did not consent, but he did, however, announce that Bret Hart would indeed guest host. Why did he agree to this? Could it be that TNA will be going up against RAW next week with Hulk Hogan as their main powerhouse superstar? Or can it be, as Michaels said, it’s time for McMahon to get closure...?

Kingston mid-carder or superstar? Timbaland issued a match between Kofi Kingston and The Miz, with the promise of the match culminating to a U.S. Championship Match next week. Kingston seemed content with getting another shot at the mid-card title. MVP, who was present in the room, imposed a rematch for the U.S. Title if Kofi were to come out the victor, since, originally, Kofi defeated MVP for the strap. The current United States Champion The Miz found the whole matter humorous because Kofi, in Miz's opinion, will never become the United States Champion. Timbaland changed the stipulation for the night, if Kofi defeats Miz then the title match would occur, not next week but, immediately after the match. The contest between Miz and Kofi ended abruptly as Miz attempted a high-risk maneuver that found him Troubled in Paradise. The title match, that occurred right after, saw Kingston connect with Trouble in Paradise for the second time that evening. However, the referee was unable to call the 3-count being that Randy Orton pulled him out of the ring in order to assault Kingston. The onslaught resulted in a nasty RKO on to the concrete. So, is Kofi Kingston still a mid-carder? The Miz became the United States Champion by defeating Kofi Kingston several months ago, but tonight, Kofi was on a different level than The Miz. Warrant that, earlier in the evening, DiBiase and Rhodes defeated Evan Bourne and Mark Henry in an effort to prove that the team of Bourne, Henry, and Kofi are no match to Legacy, but it was Kofi who pinned DiBiase last week; hence, why Kofi's team was able to overcome Legacy. Because of his feud with Randy Orton, Kofi Kingston is escalating past the mid-card but not quite a headliner.

Jericho, move on. Through out the program Chris Jericho was seen protesting and petitioning outside the arena in Hartford, Connecticut, trying to get signatures for him to be featured on RAW. Chris Jericho, drafted over to SmackDown in the 2009 draft, has wrestled on the two main brands for months due to his liberties as one half of the Unified Tag Team Champions. But after losing both the TLC Match and the rematch, it is time to move on. Chris Jericho, for the most part, transcends the WWE and would benefit the business if he were to appear on all three shows, but things cannot stay the same forever. Jericho claimed he was doing this for Big Show, but he just wants to be on RAW. Nothing against SmackDown, since it does have the better wrestlers, but RAW has been the top tier program for the WWE for the past sixteen years; and any wrestler would want to wrestle on the top brand. In a close emotional scene between two former tag team partners, Big Show conveyed that he had found someone else. And that someone else was Chavo Guerrero, who teamed with Show to take on D-Generation X in a losing effort. Chris Jericho, who was present as a ticket holder during the match, jumped over the barricade to the aid of his former tag team partner. Triple H announced that next week, Jeri-Show would get another crack at the titles, with the promise that after they lose Jericho is never allowed on RAW - "never... EEEEEVVVERRR Againe...."

Sheamus on top of the WWE mountain. The WWE Championship Match where many believed would be Cena's night ended in disqualification. The WWE Champion Sheamus proves why he is at the top of the mountain because he is able to scout and counter Cena's moves. John Cena matches are a set formula, he builds momentum and he hits with the running bulldog... followed by the 5-knuckle shuffle... a few open fist punches... maybe a top rope leg drop... eventually going into an STF or an Attitude Adjuster. At the start of the match, Sheamus managed to knock Cena in mid-running bulldog. And to futher testify Sheamus' in-ring prowess, he dominated Cena by thrashing his back with a series of punches. The match would have ended with John Cena the WWE Champion, but thanks to Sheamus grabbing on to the referee's shirt during the Attitude Adjustment, that did not occur. Trying to build momentum to the next encounter, Cena ran up the ramp and grabbed Sheamus and tossed him back in the ring. Every time Cena does this, he rolls back into the ring to connect with the Attitude Adjuster, but instead, Sheamus delivered a boot to the face as soon as Cena entered. Sheamus shocked the WWE Universe, and if that did not get the attention of John Cena, then a second boot to the face sure did. Sheamus might not have won the match as he wanted, but he did manage to retain his title and appear, holding the championship, as the final image on RAW 2009.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

SmackDown Results: 12/25/09

Eight-Man "Christmas Bash" Tag Team Match. The opening bout featured John Morrison, Matt Hardy, R-Truth, and Finlay against Drew McIntyre, CM Punk, Luke Gallows, and Dolph Ziggler. This match was evenly paired with the rising feuds on SmackDown: John Morrison is feuding with McIntyre over the Intercontinental Title; Matt and Truth are feuding with Punk and Gallows; while Finlay and Ziggler have just faced off against one another a few times. The story in the ring played well with each respected wrestler showing animosity against their respected rival. However, the pitfall that these large tag team matches usually fall into is that each superstar shows off their finishing maneuver instead of keeping to the story. Nevertheless, business picked up as Morrison attacked McIntyre and every other superstar that got in his way. The match ended with Morrison's Starship Pain unto Ziggler. Morrison is red hot on SmackDown, and very well he should be... not only is he cashing in his rematch clause for the Intercontinental Title next week against Drew McIntyre, but he is becoming a real powerhouse superstar.

Canadian Clash! The following promo was in regards to the credibility of The Hart Dynasty and their right to challenge D-Generation X for the Unified Tag Team Titles later in the evening. Chris Jericho, calling out the Harts, acknowledges their training, seeing as he also graduated from the infamous Stu Hart Dungeon, but what right do they have to challenge for the titles? Jericho and the Big Show never officially had their championship match, it was tarnished by DX in a technicality of an intentional disqualification. However, DX cut the promo short in order to make fun of Jericho and to plug in more DX merch. Jericho is right, DX do not know how to take anything seriously. He also told Hart Dynasty that if they want to make it in this business they have to make an impact... and that's exactly what they did as they set Jericho up for the Hart Attack. A heel vs heel confrontation does not usually take place, but when it does it makes a greater impact than two friends fighting for the spirit of competition...

Karma Strikes 619. The following match was for the World Heavyweight Championship, The Undertaker defending his title against The Master of the 619 Rey Mysterio. The Undertaker had a distinct height advantage over Rey Mysterio, which is usually the case but it's 6'10 versus 5'6. That's a difference of over one foot. However, Mysterio looked more focused and aggressive as the match went on with arerial assaults that would bring The Man from the Dark Side down to his knees. Mysterio relied on his quickness and speed to evade Taker's strikes, and managed to get the Undertaker down for two 619's. Yet, Undertaker's prowess in the ring is unlike any other superstar, which has led to such a phenominal streak at WrestleMania. But before the match could see a decisive victor, Batista entered the ring and attacked The Undertaker. The title can only switch hands via pinfall or submission, and it looks like Mysterio is still paying for the damage he cost Batista at the Bragging Rights Fatal Four-Way Match. Nevertheless, Mysterio left on top as he delivered a 619 to his former best friend, The Animal Dave Batista.

Cryme Tyme fighting jobbers? A preliminary tag team bout accord with Cryme Tyme taking on a local tag team. JTG and Shad Gaspard have already proven to be an established tag team in the WWE, why not fight an actual tag team? Well the answer is because, aside from The Hart Dynasty, there are no other heel tag teams on SmackDown. This would have been a great opportunity to slap together two other WWE superstars, who have not seen the light of television in quite some time, to get some air time. What about Charlie Haas? He's still a part of the SmackDown roster. We could have seen Charlie Haas and Eric Escobar or Kane and Mikie Knox take on Cryme Tyme. Heck, WWE could have even brought over ECW's Trent Barretta and Caylen Croft, but instead WWE hired two local athletes to miserably lose to Cryme Tyme.

Turmoil for Mickie James. The Diva Tag Team Match featured Mickie James and 2009 Diva of the Year winner Maria against Layla and last year's Diva of the Year Beth Phoenix. Prior to the match, McCool and Layla gave Mickie James a membership to Jenny Craig, further implying that Mickie's fat. She allowed McCool to get the best of her and it showed throughout the match. Her tag team partner, Maria since returning to SmackDown, has won the Slammy for Diva of the Year, but the question remains, what impact will she make to prove that she belongs in the title picture? As of right now, Mickie and McCool are dominating the women's title storyline; however, after Mickie pinned Layla, Beth Phoenix made an impact by slamming Mickie James into the side of the SmackDown announce table. Michelle McCool looked on in fear as Beth Phoenix glared on to a fallen Mickie and a scared Women's Champion. Obviously, Mickie James lost her composure after the match when she tried attacking McCool, but The Glamazon putting the SmackDown roster on notice that she is the most dominate woman in the WWE and will be the next Women's Champion.

Rookie mistakes cost Dynasty. The main event was for the Unified Tag Team Championships as D-Generation X defended their newly won tag team gold against The Hart Dynasty. This was a phenominal match as the two veterans of the WWE took on the company's future. From the mid-80's to the late 90's, WWE fans grew up to teams like The British Bulldogs and numerous renditions of the Hart Foundation - but cut through the turn of the century and one tag team that still remains is D-Generation X. Sure, DX has gone through some changes but the two main heirarchy still remains, while the offsprings of the British Bulldogs and Hart Foundation have formed the Hart Dynasty. It was a testament of Youth versus Wisdom as these two teams fought for the coveted Unified Tag Team Titles. Triple H, mocking the finishing move of Davey Boy Smith, applied a standing vertical suplex to Tyson Kidd. But, push comes to shove, DH Smith returned the jeer by putting Triple H in a standing vertical suplex. And what Matt Striker said was dead on, sure Triple H did the move to Tyson, but Smith did it to Triple H that speaks a lot about the abilities of the son of the Britsh Bulldog. Tyson, for the most part, had Shawn Michaels scouted as he played pasum for Michaels executing an elbow drop, and rolling out of the way at the percise moment. The evasion was followed up by a springboard neck breaker. Even Smith attacked the lower back of Michaels on the outside of the ring. But when it came to crunch time, the Hart Dynasty couldn't pull through. DH Smith set up Triple H for the Hart Attack, and Tyson followed suit but failed to knock HBK out of the corner - thus allowing Michaels to break the 3-count. If Tyson would have knocked HBK onto the floor, then we would be looking at new Unified Tag Team Champions. Despite the loss, The Hart Dynasty proved in this episode of SmackDown that they deserve to be recognized and will one day hold the gold.

Friday, December 25, 2009

WWE Superstars Results: 12/24/09

A Monstrous Beginning. The ECW Match featured Vladimir Kozlov against Ezekiel Jackson. Two weeks ago, Ezekiel picked up the win over his Roundtable partner with the assist of William Regal. Except this time, William Regal was no where to be seen. So would the WWE Universe get to witness a full out brawl? The only wrestling maneuver administered in this match was an over the shoulder slam by Kozlov; the rest of the bout was an exchange of kicks and punches. It's understandable seeing as these two are impressive in size and mass that people would like to seem them wrestle; but that's the problem, Kozlov and Jackson don't wrestle, they just fight. The action spilled over to the outside of the ring, resulting in both men being counted out. Kozlov shouted to his partner that he won, but the score still remains Jackson 1-0. What Kozlov do is become a leader and form his own faction against Regal's "Ruthless Roundtable." It can be a Nation of Domination - D-Generation X war recreated on ECW.

Spanish Culture Clash. The RAW match featured Chavo Guerrero against Primo Colon. Chavo Guerrero, the nephew of the late Eddie Guerrero, has had a tough year with all the celebrity guest hosts and humiliations from losing to Hornswoggle week after week. He vows that 2010 will be different and that he would begin by defeating Primo. The match was exactly as anyone would have guessed, a luchadore styled match, which a lot of flips and fancy footwork. Chavo attempted The Three Amigos but came up short with only executing two, followed by a small package roll up by Primo. Chavo countered and managed to position Primo for the Frog Splash, thus making good on his promise with a win to end 2009.

Rematch set for the New Year. Drew McIntyre is exceeding expectations as the company's future champion by taking his first step by becoming the Intercontinental champion. McIntyre came out in a nice suit and newly polished title belt once again proclaiming that he has been personally chosen by Mr. McMahon. Dues are given to a man who has been undefeated since coming to the WWE, however John Morrison looks to grant the 'Chosen One' his first loss on New Year's Day as he cashes in on his rematch for the intercontinental title. So far, this feud looks more prominent than any other current championship rivalry.

A Big Red 3-0. Certainly not as impressive as Undertaker's 17-0 streak at WrestleMania, but Kane is 3-0 against Mike Knox. All three matches seem to end the same with a chokeslam, but Knox consistency in the ring seems to suggest that he is not in it for the victories. Almost as if Knox is studying and absorbing the blows as a testament to his craft as a kenesiologist. Mike Knox believes that he has a lot in common with Kane because both like to inflict punishment; and if he were to ever incapacitate Kane in the ring, he would ride with him to the hospital. How much longer must these two fight so as to see these studies result in a different outcome? If Knox wants to win he will have to rely on his swiftness and utilize his nearly 300lb mass by executing more crossbodys.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

ECW Results: 12/22/09

Swaggin' Return. "Finally, this show's worth watching again," words spoken by the former ECW Champion Jack Swagger, who returns to compete in the ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match against Yoshi Tatsu. ECW is where Jack Swagger got his start in the WWE and is currently fighting on the RAW brand, where just last Monday had a great match against John Cena. To give a sense of who Jack Swagger is, he rolled a video package of his domineering style in the ring; what he should have done was show his ECW Title win over Matt Hardy, and his various US Title hunts over on RAW.

Zack Ryder Killing the Dream. Two weeks ago, Zack Ryder instituted a challenge to Tommy Dreamer, a boy from the LI taking out the hasbeen from Yonkers. Now, the opening match between Zack Ryder and Tommy Dreamer was not a Career Threatening Match, but after losing his Qualifying Match to Kane, Ryder looked to make good on another promise, and that was to end Tommy's wrestling career. Tommy Dreamer showed some life in this match, super-plexing Ryder from the top turnbuckle and taking off his shirt for an attempted DDT, but was caught off guard to the Zack Attack. As of right now, Tommy Dreamer is still a part of the WWE roster, but will Dreamer make it past the New Year?

Abe Getting Better. Trent Barretta and Caylen Croft were guests on the Abraham Washington Show. When asked about the lack of coffee,"I can't afford drinks, this is ECW not Monday Night RAW" - Abraham Washington usually thrives on unfunny jokes, but that was humorous. Barretta and Croft claim that they will revolutionize the tag team divison - that Miz and Morrison were alright while Hart Dynasty is whatever. They should seriously take a look at true tag team wrestling from the days of the Federation and the Attitude Era before making such a bold proclamation.

Agonizing Qualifier. Vance Archer gets a new nickname, "Masterpiece of Agony;" yet, the only agony Archer can inflict is watching one of his matches. Best way to kill pay-per-view sales would be for Vance Archer to take on Tyler Reks, another failed candidate from the Superstar Initiative. The Texan is nothing like John Bradshaw, because how can you be a great heel if you never speak? Archer doesn't wrestle long enough to allow his wrestling speak for itself. The match between Vance Archer and Goldust was short lived, as Archer, after one minute, went for his Inverted Snap DDT. Three of the eight qualifiers have been revealed: Vance Archer, Ezekiel Jackson, and Kane.

"Thanks, Jack." Just like the match with Cena, Swagger took control of this match against Yoshi Tatsu. And with confidence exuding, Jack Swagger closely scouted Yoshi's kicks. His height advantage almost ensured victory, but underestimating a smaller opponent led to an enziguri to the face and a win for Yoshi Tatsu. A loss on ECW is a relief because attempting to qualify for an ECW Title shot would be a major step backwards for the future of the WWE, Jack Swagger.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

RAW Results: 12/21/09

Johnny Damon Strikes Out. Formerly on the New York Yankees, this free agent knew less how the wrestling business worked than Dennis Miller. WWE announcer, Justin Roberts, announced two-time MLB World Series Champion Johnny Damon to a jeering Tampa audience. He tried to play it cool by stating his past accomplishments with the Yankees and Red Sox, but he came off as insolent. After issuing a foreseeable Santa's Little Helpers Divas' Match, Damon stayed away from the ring throughout the rest of the night. Instead, he appeared in a series of back stage scenes involving Santa Clauses advising wrestling matches, and one undesirable makeout session with Santa's oldest helper, Mae Young. If not for the holiday gimmicks, Johnny Damon's lack of charisma would have been apparent.

RAW Divas are cute, not athletes. The opening match was a Six-Diva Santa’s Little Helper Tag Team Match, involving: Divas' Champion Melina, Kelly Kelly, and Gail Kim against Maryse, Alicia Fox, and Jillian Hall. There is very little intergrity left when it comes to the women of the WWE, and chances are, they know it too. Melina, who in the past year, has improved immensly after her feuds with Mickie James and Beth Phoenix, stands alone as RAW's only competitor. Gail Kim, a former WWE Women's Champion, and headliner/champion of the TNA Knockout division, returned to the WWE last summer as a mid-carder. Gail Kim's status has not changed, as her role is still to carry the match and then lose at the last minute. WWE should utlize Gail Kim instead of having her job to the likes of Alicia and Maryse. Kelly Kelly, nicknamed Barbie, was actually a model who the WWE insisted should join pro-wrestling. This suggests that WWE is focused on looks rather than athleticism. Jerry Lawler, unknowingly, demeaned Kelly Kelly's offensive strike, "She did a drop kick!" Even the announcers are shocked when a diva actually shows some sign of athletic offense. Thanks to the assist from Melina, Kelly Kelly scored the pinfall on Maryse.

Evan Bourne, most underrated superstar of 2009. This Six-Man Tag Team Match featured Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry & Evan Bourne against Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase. This was one of those matches where the years of watching these superstars grow into formiable opponents really pays off; Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase, and Evan Bourne were among these opponents. Yet, Evan Bourne is among the most underrated superstar - and not just in the WWE - but throughout his whole pro-wrestling career. Since arriving in WWE in late 2008, on the ECW brand, Bourne became an instant fan favorite, even winning a Slammy for Best Finishing Maneuver of 2008. However, that's about all Bourne has accomplished and the reason for this is his fast paced, high octane style of wrestling is short lived. When tagged in, Bourne was able to jump over the ropes, perform a hurricanrana on Rhodes, knock out Orton and DiBiase out of the corner with one kick, and set Rhodes up for the Shooting Star Press - all in under three minutes. What happens when that doesn't get the job done? This is why Bourne jobs to everyone because he is flashy, but cannot last in a full match. His matt wrestling skills is below par, and unless he faces off against another high flyer, Bourne will always be at a disadvantage. Luckily, Kofi Kingston was tagged in and picked up the win after executing Trouble in Paradise to the back of DiBiase's head.

Jack Swagger is the Future. The next match was John Cena vs. Jack Swagger. Unlike Sheamus who uses brute force to intimidate his opponents, Jack Swagger combines his 6'5" stature and his All-American wrestling background to takedown the competition. His opponent for the night was no stranger to Swagger seeing as these two fought in a Champions vs. Champions match during the 2009 Draft picks. John Cena, who has vowed to never lose a match until he reclaims the WWE Title, did not have it easy against the Perry Oklahoman. Jack Swagger dominated the match, not just in keeping John Cena down on his knees, because he is the better wrestler. Correction, Jack Swagger is a wrestler with charisma, while John Cena makes up for his lack of wrestling with more charisma than anyone else. Jack Swagger, in four months in the WWE, became the ECW Champion - all for what? To become a mid-carder on Monday Night RAW. Much like everyone else, it was thrilling to see Sheamus defeat John Cena for the WWE Championship, but honestly, it was too much too soon. Despite being the one to take the WWE Title, Sheamus and Cena really have no back story. Swagger, on the other hand, has the ability to rise up the ranks of the WWE and truly become the poster boy for the company. Swagger has the makings to become a phenomenal WWE Champion because he's the complete package: a larger-than-life persona and the technical skills to back it up. The match was great because Jack Swagger made it great, but again, the best man must fall in order to fuel the passion of John Cena.

Eve finds her man. Since coming over to RAW as a result of the Tri-Branded Divas Trade, WWE has been trying to administer Eve Torres in a valet role. At first, a short stint started between The Miz and Jack Swagger over the United States Title and Eve's affection; but after Miz won the title, the angle was dropped and Eve remained single. Then Chris Masters returned to the WWE, undergoing a babyface turn when he instilled the dancing pectorals as part of his gimmick. Along with the turn, Chris Masters practices chivalry, especially when it comes to protecting Eve from the likes of Chavo Guerrero and Carlito. The match between Carlito and Chris Masters was not about Carlito's past aggressions with Masters, but his disrespect towards Eve. Carlito was able to avoid the first Master Lock attempt, but the second one rendered him unconscious. After the match, Eve pulled out a mistletoe and gave Masters a kiss, starting a relationship. As romantic as this angle is, unless Masters trains Eve to be a better wrestler, she benefits nothing from this story line.

"What's underneath the ring, Shawn?" Many mysteries remain unsolved in the WWE, such as: "Where is Parts Unknown?" and "Why the Gobbledy Gooker?" But the most mysterious one of all is the space underneath the ring, what's really down there? Finally, it was revealed on Monday Night RAW when DX went to Little People's Court. In the past, Hornswoggle had hidden under the ring to escape opponents; The Bella Twins hid in order to alternate during singles matches; The Boogeyman lurked in the shadows to trap victims; and, followed by flames, The Undertaker chokeslammed Edge straight through the mat, implying hell resides below the squared circle. Shwan and Triple H traveled underneath the ring to find an underground passage, alike basements in any building, and went to a court hearing where they were found guilty for intentional infliction of emotional distress towards Hornswoggle. And now a new mystery has arisen, why cannot the little people in WWE speak?

John Cena overshadows WWE Champion? Unlike other superstars who demand championship matches, Montel Vontavious Porter preferred to earn his by taking on the Celtic Warrior in one-on-one competition. At any rate, Sheamus vs. MVP could have been a great follow up to Swagger and Cena, but the match turned into an exhibition of Sheamus' intense capacity in the ring. With an impressive array of finishers, The Celtic Warrior will make a fine head liner someday, considering that it hasn't occurred yet. Albeit, John Cena is no longer the champion, but his standing in the WWE far surpasses that of the company's main champion. Even looking at the Royal Rumble poster, John Cena is at the head of the line while Sheamus is #13 down the row.

The Miz that stole Christmas. 2009 has been an overall great year for The Miz from being part of one of the greatest tag teams and holding both WWE and World Tag Team Titles... Being drafted over to RAW... Entering a feud with John Cena... Losing a match causing him to be banned from RAW... Winning a contract back to RAW as the Calgary Kid... Revamping his attitude and wrestling gear, and now... The United States Champion. However, it's not enough for the Miz because he also wants to be the WWE Champion. The following match was The Miz vs. Santino Clause. Santino Marella, chosing to fight in his Santa garb, lost miserably to The Miz, who picked up the win with the Skull Crushing Finale.

One wish to rule them all... Johnny Damon promised that one wish would be granted and so far that hadn't happened, but could the Big Show get his wish? Calling out for the real Santa Clause, Big Show looked on as Santa Clause came, accompanied by the Bella Twins, to the ring willing to grant one wish. Big Show wished for Chris Jericho to come back to RAW, and Santa agreed. But before the fans could bring back their RAW is Jericho signs, Hornswoggle demasked Father Christmas to reveal Chris Jericho. If that were not enough, Hornswoggle rallied a miniature DX army of little people to take down Jericho. But before Jericho could fully clear the DX elves, the real DX disposed of Jeri-Show. Seeing as Jericho was Santa Clause, he has no power to reinstate himself as an agent of RAW, so Show's wish was nullified. As for Hornswoggle and DX's court issues, Triple H propositioned a deal: If Hornswoggle would drop the law suit, then he can be the faction's mascot. Hornswoggle agreed and initiated in his first official DX Crotch Chopping pyro routine.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Behind-the-scenes interview with WWE Diva Maria at G4’s Attack of the Show

Below is a behind-the-scenes interview of WWE Diva Maria at G4’s Attack of the Show this past Thursday:

The Seventh Annual Tribute to the Troops 2009

First Match: Rey Mysterio & Mark Henry vs. CM Punk & Carlito. This was a random tag match with a blend of SmackDown vs. RAW superstars, and as we learn from later matches that seemed to be the theme. How was CM Punk suppose to win with a partner like Carlito, who hasn't won a match since....? I challenge the reader to find out when. The referee was really lenient throughout, especially when all competitors were in the ring at the same time. After executing a double 619 to Punk and Carlito, both Mark Henry and Mysterio executed their finishing moves. The ref granted Mysterio the pinfall, seeing as he and Punk were the legal man in the ring.

Champion vs. Champion Match: John Morrison vs. The Miz. Obviously this special was recorded earlier this month, because Drew McIntyre is the current Intercontinental champion, not Morrison. The troops had fun booing The Miz and cheering for Morrison, the fight been good and evil - or awesome and arrogance. Similar to their encounter at Bragging Rights, Morrison came up short, except this time, it was with the assist from the top ropes that Miz got the pinfall. Where was Teddy Long to restart the match? That's what I thought! He only restarts matches when it benefits him.

"Santa" Truth meets the Troops. Santa Clause, noticeably played by R-Truth, asked the troops "What's Up?" And it doesn't matter who Santa Clause is, whether its John Cena or JBL, the Divas will always play Santa's sexy helpers. The Bellas, Layla, Alicia Fox, and Kelly Kelly were the helpers this year, passing around WWE merch and stealing kisses from the brave soldiers who protect our freedom, here in the states.

WWE Championship Match: (C) John Cena vs. Chris Jericho. I hate it when they say, "Don't adjust your TV set - so and so is in fact here tonight." Well, when this special was recorded, John Cena was the WWE Champion, and Chris Jericho was still one-half of the Unified Tag Team Champions. No, Chris Jericho, as a member of the SmackDown brand, could not officially contend for RAW's WWE Title; but because this is for the troops - we can make an exception. Chris Jericho did not amount much of an offense against Cena, he pretty much let him do his set moves to break the walls. John Cena won with the Attitude Adjustment and retained the WWE Championship. No title has ever changed at a Tribute to the Troops special, because this is not for the WWE Universe, this was for the Armed Forces.

Final Assessment: The whole night was rather laxed, with no sense of urgency from either superstar. The night wasn't meat to keep with storyline, instead it was meant to entertain the troops, not us.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

SmackDown Results: 12/18/09

Batista's Challenge: After being screwed over at TLC, Batista demanded that Teddy Long made things right. And by screwed over, we mean that, either Long did right with restarting the match - making it fair for both of the competitors; or, he was in the wrong because all the other times that the referee's decision has been made - despite the foul play that goes unnoticed - it doesn't get restarted. Remember, the chairs match was a regular match, except for the use of chairs as the only legal weapon. So when Batista went for the low blow - Batista just plain cost himself the match. However, Charles Robinson never saw the low blow so he was right to award Batista the title. But was Long being gracious to restart the match, allowing both competitors an equal opportunity, or was he looking after himself? Yet, Taker was still reeling from the effects of that low blow, and still managed to strike with the tombstone. So tonight, Batista claimed there was no one else in the locker room who would dare challenge him for a #1 contenders match and to automatically grant him another title shot, well... think again. Rey Mysterio appeared to take on the challenge. Sure, Batista has pummeled him to the ring mat on two different occasions, but what about when a shot at the holy grail is at stake?

First Match: John Morrison, R-Truth, and Matt Hardy vs. Drew McIntyre, CM Punk, and Luke Gallows. What was really strange about this match, the heels were in the corner of the babyfaces, and the faces over on the heel corner. I have never recalled seeing that. Even on WWE Superstars: Cryme Tyme was on the left side while Ziggler and Knox were on the right. It's just how it has always been. I wonder what was the deal with that? This match had great promise because these superstars are truly the top of their game today. John Morrison, with only one World Heavyweight Title shot under his belt, looks to be in line for the main event picture. CM Punk, a former 3-time World Heavyweight Champion, is an extremely skilled wrestler and has great mic skills. CM Punk also has a protege in Gallows, as Matt Striker took a passage from the Gospel of Luke: "Blessid are those that are poor, suffer, and are hungry, for yours is the kingdom." Can Punk and Gallow's Straight-Edge lifestyle really find them the kingdom? And by kingdom, are they sticking to the kingdom of Heaven, or the top of the mountain of the WWE? Then you have Matt Hardy, the man who will not die, is probably on probation with the WWE, since he's had two life-threatening surgeries within the past year and a half. Once Hardy remains off the hospital gurney long enough, I don't see why WWE wouldn't put him in the main event slot. R-Truth and Luke Gallows are just starting out, but they have the personality and the skill to move up the rungs of the WWE ladder. I really liked the match, we get to see John Morrison dish out some punishment to Drew McIntyre, who, not only has been undefeated since coming to the WWE, is now the new Intercontinental Champion. The match had a weak ending - CM Punk, with the assist from Gallows, took his Slammy and knocked Hardy, without the ref's awareness of course, and went for the cover. The winners were: Drew McIntyre, CM Punk and Luke Gallows.

Second Match: Eric Escobar vs. Kane. Escobar keeps getting himself in to trouble, and this week was no different. Kane, who has advanced in the ECW Homecoming tournament (see ECW review for this week), was Escobar's opponent. Obviously, if Zack Ryder can't defeat him, how can a newbie like Eric? Chokeslam city was all he wrote, and Vickie went to gloat on his pain. Escobar proclaims that he may be in pain today but he'll heal, yet she will always be ugly. Escobar turning into a face at Vickie's expense.

Third Match: Chris Jericho vs. The Great Khali. The much anticipated return of Khali? Says who?? Matt Striker. I certainly wasn't anticipating Khali's return. I actually thought SmackDown ran better without him. The only thing about him that is remotely interesting is his sheer size, and the toned muscles that he use to have. However, the Playboy has let himself go as he now has love handles. Chris Jericho vows to be back on RAW, title-or no title, but losing his first match as a non-Unified Tag champion is certainly not the way to go. Jericho lost via count-out, as he refused to continue fighting against Khali.

Fourth Match: The Hart Dynasty vs. Jimmy Wang Yang and Slam Master J. Turns out Jimmy Wang Yang has a slightly altered gimmick that I would like to mention, he now wants to referred as the Asian Redneck Gangsta. Wait... The Asian Redneck Gangsta.....? NO! NO!! What in the heck WWE!?!? You CAN NOT do that! Striker's hilarious, Todd Grisham asked Striker on his thoughts on Dennis Miller's suggestion to have Bret Hart as a guest host. Striker replied, "Its Mr. McMahon, you wanna stay here, or do you want to go somewhere else," that was hilarious. The last time these two teams fought was on WWE Superstars, yet, a different show didn't alter the outcome - by much. Last week, Natalya scoop slammed Yang, but this week it was Slam Master J who would see how strong Natalya really is. Then, J would see how strong Tyson Kidd and DH Smith were with the Hart Attack. We learn that Hart Dynasty will be facing off against DX for the Unified Tag Team Championships, come Christmas Day. Can the Hart Dynasty be able to fend off against the Best in the Biz? or will they prove to be Better than the best, period?

Fifth Match: Beth Phoenix vs. Maria. Beth was right when she unplugged their SmackDown vs. RAW 2010 the video game, Maria and Mickie James should stop playing games and look for competition. Beth has the right mentality. This match had its significance. While Maria may be the Diva of the Year for 2009, as voted by the fans, Beth Phoenix was the Diva of the Year 2008 as voted by the committee. Maria may feel special that the WWE Universe may be behind her, but Beth Phoenix is a 2-time former Women's Champion. And as we noticed in the match, Phoenix overpowered Maria as a pure athlete should. Phoenix may not have graced the cover of Playboy or made her own wrestling attire, but at least Phoenix remains focused in the spirit of competition, and looks to dominate all who come before her. The winner was Phoenix with the Glam Slam.

#1 Contender's Match for World Heavyweight Title: Batista vs. Rey Mysterio. Rey Mysterio, a man that should have taken off to tend to his injuries, has remained in the WWE for one reason, and one reason only - for a World Title shot. Matt Striker claims that this is the Batista he always knew, the Batista who never never cared about the fans - the Batista who only cared about himself and no one else. Hence, why it is symbolic that the spotlight resides on him throughout his entrance, and the theme "I Walk Alone," finally makes sense. Batista's strenght has always come from his abundant protein intake to make his body more resilent than anyone else's; however, when going up against someone as unpredicatble as Rey Mysterio, it is best to keep a high-flyer grounded at all times. Batista's downfall occured when he attempted a high flying maneuver and was blocked by a a drop kick from Mysterio. Another weakness to note, Batista is not flexible, so when Mysterio caught him in a small-package roll up, Batista could not bring himself to kick out.

Final Assessment: The Batista-Mysterio feud looks like it is far from over. I foresee Batista interferring with Mysterio's title match - costing him the win, just like Mysterio did at Bragging Rights. The confrontation between the two is getting better, and the heat between these two is igniting beautifully. As for the Unified Tag Team Title Match, it has been rumored that Hornswoggle will appear on the SmackDown taping - possibly costing DX the titles, or - depending how the court session goes this Monday - help them retain. Hornswoggle can become the third member and make things even, seeing as Hart Dynasty has the beautiful Natalya.

Next SmackDown:
Unified Tag Team Title Match: (C) D-Generation X vs. The Hart Dynasty
World Heavyweight Title Match: (C) Undertaker vs. Rey Mysterio

Friday, December 18, 2009

WWE Superstars Results: 12/17/09

SmackDown Match: Cryme Tyme vs. Dolph Ziggler and Mike Knox. Who says WWE is not educational? Mike Knox is a kinesiologist, meaning he studies how the body works; and Cryme Tyme has innovative words like "redunkulous." Yeah, go education! Cryme Tyme has been off the radar for a long time, since losing their Bragging Rights spots to Matt Hardy's team who went on to represent SmackDown, and winning. Sure they have appeared here and there, but in losing efforts to The Hart Dynasty. This marked the first WWE Superstars, since losing to R-Truth, that Dolph Ziggler was on the losing side. However, Ziggler was not pinned, but it was Mike Knox who fell to JTG's Shout Out (Spinning Sleeper Slam). Question: Has Knox won a match since coming to SmackDown? Except for that one time back in May?

ECW Match: Vance Archer vs. Tommy Dreamer. Judging from the last time these two fought, I thought Dreamer would start feuding with Ryder, but that doesn't appear to be the case. Vance Archer, who has been destroying countless jobbers, has set his sights on the heart and soul of ECW. The fact that Dreamer has been jobbing since losing the ECW Title speaks multitudes on his status in the WWE. Even when Dreamer was champion, he didn't even act like a champion. He was afraid of facing off against Kozlov, and he tried being emotional in all his speeches. It's like, man up and be the "Extreme" guy that you supposedly are. Still, as a New Yorker, you are obligated to cheer on "Fatty" Dreamer, (JoMo-Miz joke). And you would think that a veteran like Dreamer would know not to cover a guy next to the bottom ropes? Well... Archer broke the three-count with the assist from the bottom rope and eventually went on to win the match with the Scoop Lift (Snap Inverted-DDT). Not sure if I like the name, but whatever gets you the big bucks, fine by me.

RAW Match: Jack Swagger vs. MVP. A rematch from last week, the racial feud continues. The other half of "The World's Strongest Tag Team," which they have never been referenced as such since, was on the winning side of the 6-man tag match on RAW. As for MVP, he requested this rematch against Swagger to prove a point. What's the point? It doesn't matter what your background is, you can still win if you try? Unfortunately for Porter, Swagger dominated most of the match. As a two-time All American, Swagger has a tendency to dictate the pace of the match, so a straight grapple technician approach may not be the best to take him down. Surprises are what help disrupt the flow of the match, which is exactly what Porter did, moving to the outside and getting some offensive strikes. By knocking Swagger out with a big boot to the face, MVP was given the opportunity, long enough, to execute the Play-Maker in order to win the match. With each future champion of tomorrow getting a win over the other, how will they fare when they will most likely become participants at the Royal Rumble?

Final Assessment: It was a solid show, with a slow opening match, a decent middle, and a great finish. Suggestion would be to move the Swagger-MVP feud back over to RAW with a full-blown story line, because it deserves it. These two are the next generation of big named superstars and we can hopefully weed out John Cena from the top of the hierarchy.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

BREAKING NEWS: Bret Hart Signs Short-Term Contract With WWE

According to Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com, Bret Hart has signed a short-term talent contract with World Wrestling Entertainment, The WWE Hall of Famer signed the contract this past week and it will cover the period from 1/1 to 4/10, or through WrestleMania and about two weeks after the 3/28 show at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ.

It was said that Hart wanted his signing to be kept quiet and his return to be a surprise, but that WWE couldn't help itself and all but announced it publicly on the first RAW after the ink was dry.
With the reports of Vince vs. Bret at WrestleMania 26 and with this news coming about it remains to be seen what will happen. Bret in a managerial role going up against Vince, will be similar to Vince McMahon vs. Donald Trump at WrestleMania 23.

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Dennis Miller would not have suggested it if McMahon didn't already have Bret to agree to it. My big concern is, how will Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels coexist in WWE? If Michaels does go against The Undertaker, will Bret screw Michaels?

ECW Results: 12/15/09

The show started off with ECW GM Tiffany congratulating Christian and Shelton Benjamin for putting on an amazing ladder match at TLC, and for making ECW proud. Shelton Benjamin took the opportunity to ask for a rematch for the ECW Title. Christian never got a chance to respond due to the interruption by The Ruthless Roundtable – mostly William Regal, upset of being overlooked for another title shot. And did anyone notice that Kane appeared at the opening of the program, “I’m baaaack…” Well, Tiffany explains why Kane is on ECW: Each week, for four weeks, she will be inviting a former ECW Champion to compete in an ECW Homecoming Tournament. On the fifth week, the winners of these qualifying matches will compete in an eight-man, over the top, showdown to determine Christian’s opponent at The Royal Rumble. The purpose of these matches is for former ECW superstars and current ECW superstars can clash.

ECW Contract Match: The Hurricane vs. The Ripper w/The Beautiful Nightmare. Two weeks ago on WWE Superstars, Paul Burchil, or The Ripper, interfered with Hurricane’s match against Zack Ryder. Tiffany issued this contract match to allow Burchill a shot at returning to ECW. The announcers stated that the Hurricane is the fearless protector of ECW, so naturally The Ripper is his arch nemesis. Yet, since returning, Hurricane has feuded with one guy –it’s annoying. For all that is good in this world, let him fight someone else, Batman has more than one foe. The last time Helms-Burchill fought was in a Mask vs. Career match, similar to Jericho-Mysterio’s Mask vs. Title match at The Bash. I mentioned last time that Hurricane resembled more like the villain than Burchill, and this match reinforces my allegations. Hurricane ripped Burchill’s mask off, and used the distraction to go for the pin. Not only was that a dastardly thing to do, but Chris Jericho used that same tactic against Mysterio to retain his title at Extreme Rules 2009. Paul Burchill not only lost the match, but he still remains without a contract. Afterwards, Gregory Helms tried to get a word in edge-wise on Burchill's reaction to losing to the Hurricane, in which he just screamed and walked away. And Helms walked away, the audience can see that he was still wearing the Hurricane costume underneath his sports coat.

ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match: Ezekiel Jackson vs. Vladimir Kozlov. Neither Kozlov nor Jackson are former ECW Champions, so why are they in a qualifying match? I don’t know why people were anticipating this match, because it was terrible. Thankfully, William Regal tripped Kozlov, allowing Jackson to execute the Ura-nage and advance to the finals the week before the Royal Rumble. Looks like Regal has abandoned Kozlov.

Abraham Washington Show: Guest, Maria. Here she comes again with legs that go on for miles, Maria is your Diva of the Year as voted by the fans. Maria is a bit more spunky and assertive, which is what she's been missing since starting in 2004. She cracked jokes at Abe's expense - as everyone does. Not much can be said about it, Maria didn't reveal any plans of becoming a better competitor or pursuit of the Women's Title.

Third Match: Trent Baretta and Caylen Croft vs. Julio Cruz and Jorge Arias. Trent and Caylen were playing the SmackDown vs. RAW 2010 video game, using the Create-a-Character to generate themselves into the video game to face off against DX. Trent and Caylen defeated the simulated DX and then fought Cruz and Arias in the ring. Baretta and Croft finished the match with an inverted atomic drop - looks like a stolen move from Team 3D. The two gamers announced that by next year they will receive a Slammy for Tag Team of the Year. Well, I beg to differ.

ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match: Zack Ryder w/Rosa Mendes vs. Kane. The Big Red Monster Kane knows what it is to be the ECW Champion; and his return to the Land of Extreme is shades of 2007 when ECW's ratings were borderline. Well guess what, the ratings are flat lining again, and here comes Kane to the rescue. It's amazing how on SmackDown, Kane is just another superstar, but on ECW... on ECW he's a real big deal. Zack Ryder had a title match a few months ago, but came up short; and he would like nothing more than to become the ECW Champion with Rosa Mendes by his side. Unfortunately, Ryder didn't win, but fell to Kane's chokeslam.

ECW Homecoming Qualified: Ezekiel Jackson and Kane.

Next Week's Guest of Honor: Jack Swagger to take on Yoshi Tatsu.

Other ECW News: Savannah is currently acting as in-ring announcer.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

WWE RAW Presnts The Slammy's 2009; Shawn Michaels Challenges Undertaker One-More -Time at WrestleMania; Bret Hart to Host RAW?

The Slammy Award for "Tag Team of the Year" presented by R-Truth and Jillian Hall. The nominees are: The New Unified Tag Team Champions, D-Generation X; The Former Unified Tag Team Champions, Jeri-Show; Legacy's Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase; or The Hart Dynasty's Tyson Kidd and David Hart Smith. And the winner: Jeri-Show! Chris Jericho thanks his former tag team partner Edge for "selfishly" stepping down as his tag team partner, and he thanks himself, because he was smart enough to chose the Big Show as his partner. Chris Jericho challenges DX for the Unified Tag Team Titles as part of their rematch clause.

First Match: Christian, Kane and The Great Khali vs. The Ruthless Roundtable. ECW's lowest rated faction, The Ruthless Roundtable, boast about being the most dominate team in the WWE. What has The Roundtable done? William Regal has failed to capture the ECW Title on three separate occasions; and Kozlov and Jackson cannot even get along, let alone get in line for a tag team title opportunity. The reigning ECW Champion, Christian challenged the Roundtable to a match with two monsters of his own: Kane and The Great Khali. The Punjabi Playboy was on a long leave of absence since Kane destroyed him. How do they patch that bit of grudge history? Well, it's WWE: the moto is not show something long enough and hopefully the fans will forget. Unfortunately for them, I don't forget. Christian made very few tag-ins to the match - do you blame him, he was part of a ladder match just 24 hours ago. The monsters mostly dominated the match, with Khali getting the win over Kozlov with the Punjabi Plunge. They really don't know what to do with these once unstoppable monsters, do they? Also note, that each of these competitors have been a member of the ECW brand at least once within the past 3 years.

The Slammy Award for "Breakout Star of The Year" presented by SmackDown GM, Teddy Long and ECW GM, Tiffany. The nominees are: The New Intercontinental Champion, Drew McIntyre; Abraham Washington; Yoshi Tatsu; or The New WWE Champion, Sheamus. And the winner: The Celtic Warrior, The New WWE Champion, Sheamus! He walked in, with his newly won WWE Championship around his waist, staring down the WWE Universe with a smile on his face because no one believed that he could do it, "Do you take me seriously now?"

Second Match: Kofi Kingston vs. Cody Rhodes. You can see the damage Randy Orton's punt inflicted on Kofi Kingston, as he now walks around with a target on his left shoulder. It's amazing the agility that Kofi posses even after being punted in the armpit, a move that has sidelined many superstars for months. Cody Rhodes kept his focus on the left shoulder, but the match was broken up by Ted DiBiase. Evan Bourne came to the aid of Kofi Kingston.

And The Slammy for "Greatest Decision by a RAW Guest Host" invented, presented, and accepted by Dennis Miller. Dennis Miller restarted the match as a tag team match.

Second Match (Restarted): Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne vs. Legacy. Remember, both Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne got their start on ECW, before being drafted to Monday Nights. Not much has been down with Bourne since, unless you count the successful job he's doing at... well, jobbing. Kofi kept DiBiase distracted outside, while Bourne was left with the son of "The American Dream." With the distraction from the outside, Rhodes attempted to go for Cross-Rhodes, but it was countered. Yet, not for one second did I believe Bourne would get the upset, why? Because Bourne is happy just competing in the WWE, so for the rest who are actually their to rise to the top of the mountain, Cody connected with Cross-Rhodes to end the match.

The Slammy Award for "Shocker of the Year" presented by Vickie Guerrero and Santino Marella. The nominees are: Batista turns on Rey Mysterio at WWE Bragging Rights; Randy Orton DDT's Stephanie McMahon and kisses her as Triple H is forced to watch; CM Punk defeats Jeff Hardy in a Steel Cage Match, forcing Jeff to leave the WWE; or Sheamus slams RAW Guest Host Mark Cuban through a table. The winner is: CM Punk for defeating Jeff Hardy.

First Superstar of the Year Tournament Match: John Cena vs. CM Punk. Last year, CM Punk won the Slammy for OMG! Moment of the Year, for cashing in his first MitB on Edge to win his first World Heavyweight Championship - oh, how things have changed in a year. CM Punk is now being awarded for getting rid of the Charismatic Enigma, or Enabler, and has also taken on a cult leader persona. CM Punk, not only turns away from alcohol and drugs, he also seems to be afraid of a razor. The man is pulling a wise prophet look, possibly a false prophet? This is the second time that Cena and Punk duke it out, the first being on the 3-hour RAW Thanksgiving - seems to be a trend, no? John Cena won the match with his second attempt at the STF, forcing Punk to tap out. Then Cena made a heart-warming speech for some reason, about letting the fans down. Well Cena, you did because you failed to take Sheamus seriously. John Cena may have everyone else fooled, but he prides himself on being the face of the company, and to have a newbie like Sheamus, who has only been there for 6 months! Yes John, there are others out there who have not lost sight of why they are there. John Cena's real regret is forgetting why he's in the WWE. He's lost his competitive edge, accepting wins as if per usual. John Cena also vows to never lose another match until be becomes the WWE Champion again! With a speech like that, how is he not going to defeat Randy Orton? Yes, I knew it since then that Cena would face Randy Orton. WWE would never allow a WrestleMania-caliber match to take place on cable network television.

Second Superstar of the Year Tournament Match: Randy Orton vs. The Undertaker. The legendary Phenom has dominated this business for nearly twenty years. His WrestleMania Streak is unmatched, never to be replicated. The Undertaker is a seven-time, and current, World Champion. The Viper built his reputation of destroying legends, and for creating his own stable of second and third generation superstars known as Legacy. Randy Orton has captured both the illustrious WWE and World Heavyweight Championships on more than one occasion. It is no wonder as to why these two were nominated for Superstar of the Year. But only one can grace the stage and be recognized as the best in the business. Randy Orton is no stranger to the unbelievable energy that Undertaker brings into the ring, being one of the victims of the 17-0 streak, and failing to capture the Undisputed Championship at the start of his career. Undertaker may be undefeated at WrestleMania, but Orton has changed since then and, as we saw, a factor that he did not have back then, Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase. The Legacy members distracted Taker on the outside, and the Viper struck with an RKO. The finisher along with the distraction resulted in Undertaker being counted out – Randy Orton advances to face off against John Cena. Undertaker, on the other hand, chokeslammed Orton into the middle of the ring; lesson to be learned, don’t screw over The Undertaker.

The Slammy Award for "Best Match of the Year" presented by Triple H. The nominees are: Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania; John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a "I Quit" Match at Breaking Point; Jeff Hardy vs. Edge in a Ladder Match at Extreme Rules; or Team RAW vs. Team SmackDown at Bragging Rights. The winner is: Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker for their match at WrestleMania! Come on, like any of the other matches paled in comparison? I'm a fan of the Hardy-Edge ladder match, since both are veterans to ladder matches, but nothing can compare to Michaels and Taker. And to throw the Bragging Rights Match, they weren't even trying to pick a match at that point. I'm also a fan of the Orton-Cena rivalry, but the "I Quit" wasn't their best, it was the Iron Man Match! Shawn Michaels accepted the award, noting that he also won the award last year for his WrestleMania match with Ric Flair. Shawn Michaels, knowing that he came up short, also stated a challenge to the Undertaker - WrestleMania, ONE-MORE-TIME! Will we see Michaels-Undertaker at WrestleMania 26? Can they actually recreate a second WrestleMania moment that will live with us forever? If there is a re-match, it is only plausible that Taker's streak would end at 17-1. "It is Hell trying to get to Heaven," those were the words that fueled Shawn in that match, but he didn't exactly reach heaven. In order to end, both Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker, HBK has to win - laying both of these superstars to rest in peace.

Unified Tag Team Championship Match: (C) D-Generation X vs. Jeri-Show. Triple H asks Shawn Michaels to stand behind the referee, and then pushes him over Michaels. The referee called the bell and the match was over. DX lost the match via disqualification, but the titles cannot change hands on a DQ, only by pinfall or submission. What was also a kick in the crotch was that this match was Jericho's obligatory rematch clause for the titles and can no longer contend for them, but more strategically, can no longer be on RAW. If there was a Slammy for "Oh, SNAP!" then DX would have gotten it for this moment. Chris Jericho was escorted out of RAW by SmackDown and ECW superstars all dressed in DX garb. Goodbye, Chris Jericho, the RAW ratings will sure miss you.

The Slammy Award for "RAW Guest Host of the Year" presented by The Chairman of the Board, Vincent Kennedy McMahon. The nominees are: Bob Barker, Seth Green, Shaquille O'Neal, or Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. The winner is: Bob Barker! Personally, Ozzy and Sharon were my favorite hosts, I'm still waiting for mid-January to purchase I Am, Ozzy autobiography. And who can forget Seth Green, the first ever RAW Guest Host, and brought the Divas Bikini Blowout Rumble - King's and my dreams came true that night. As for Shaq, he was my least favorite. If Bob Barker was ten years younger, yes, I'm talking about Happy Gilmore Bob Barker, then yes, I would agree on the decision. McMahon asked RAW Guest Host, Dennis Miller on who he thinks should be a future guest host. Miller responded, Bret "The Hitman" Hart. Miller, who has been faltering on his jokes all night, finally had gotten a huge reaction from the RAW audience. McMahon chose not to respond and walked away. Will WWE have Bret Hart guest host on the... well, I dunno, the January 4th episode of RAW, on the same night that Hulk Hogan returns to wrestle on TNA, which moves to live taping on Monday Nights?

The Slammy Award for "Most Extreme Moment of the Year" presented by Carlito, Chris Masters, and Eve Torres. Chris Masters kept interrupting Carltio with his peck dance, which prompted an awesome question from Carlito, "Eve, can you do it as well?" Well, Carlito and the WWE Universe will never know. The nominees are: Kofi Kingston Boom Drops Randy Orton through a table at Madison Square Garden; Big Show throws Cena into a search light at Backlash; Jeff Hardy dives off a 20-foot ladder onto CM Punk at SummerSlam; or Triple H fights Randy Orton at Orton's home, throwing Orton through his front window? And the winner is: Jeff Hardy for diving off a ladder onto CM Punk. Accepting on behalf of Jeffro is his brother, Matthew Moore Hardy. This marks the second year in a row that Jeff Hardy wins the Extreme Moment of the Year, the first being diving off the RAW set 30-feet in the air onto Randy Orton. Jeff Hardy watched the RAW action as he noted on his twitter account "Love & miss You WWE universe.... thanx." My response, "We effin' love you Jeff Hardy! You are not only a 3x World Champion but a 2x Slammy Award winner for Extreme Moment 08-09!!!"

Fifth Match: John Morrison, Yoshi Tatsu, and Mark Henry vs. Drew McIntyre, Zack Ryder, and The Miz. Not only is The Miz the United States Champion, but Drew McIntyre is now the Intercontinental Champion. How does it feel for a team comprised of championless superstars going against a team with two? Well, obviously the one without the title will be the one that loses it for his team mates. When Zack Ryder was tagged in, he had the choice of facing Morrison, but he decided on Yoshi Tatsu instead. Well, Tatsu dropped the enziguri kick to win it for their team. Yoshi gets a push on his only night on RAW, good for the happy Japanese man!

The Slammy Award for "Oh My! Moment of the Year" presented by Abraham Washington, Tony Atlas, and Big Dick Johnson. The nominees are: Shawn Michaels superkicks little girl in cafeteria (Monday Night Raw, August); Chris Masters “dancing pecs” with the Osbournes on "Raw's Got Talent;" Michael Cole throws up on Chris Jericho at SD party (Decade of SmackDown special); or Santino Marella accidentally pies Vickie Guerrero in the face (Raw Thanksgiving). The winner is: Michael Cole for upchucking on Jericho! Michael Cole acted like he won the World Series or WrestleMania as he ran up the aisle to accept his award. He thanked his mentor J.R. who is still recovering from his 3rd Palsy attack.

Divas Tag Team Match: Mickie James, Maria, Kelly Kelly, Gail Kim, The Bella Twins, and Melina vs. Michelle McCool, Natalya, Beth Phoenix, Maryse, Rosa Mendes, Alicia Fox, and Layla. All the Divas were dressed in evening gowns, how were they expected to compete? Well, all you need is two Divas who were dressed in movable clothing: Mickie James and Rosa will do seeing as they started and closed the match. Mickie gets the pin with the Mick-DDT. Congrats on that pointless filler Divas' match.

The Slammy Award for "Diva of the Year" presented by MVP and Goldust. The nominess are: every Diva! The winner is: Maria! This Slammy was supposedly voted upon by the WWE Universe on WWE.com, but what happened next seemed more than likely that it was staged. Maria accepted her award and thanked all the WWE Universe for believing in her - Then Batista interrupted, and spoke about Screw Job of the Year, and it goes to him because Teddy Long screwed him over in his match with The Undertaker. Batista kept saying, it's not about her, its about me! I was dying, the obvious pun at Taylor Swift and Kanye West definitely got some cool points with me. Some people were upset over Maria winning the Slammy, but in all reality it was a gag. Do we not remember the Miss WrestleMania Award won by Santino Marella, or Santina? WWE uses Divas as part of gags about 90% of the time.

The Final Superstar of the Year Match: John Cena vs. Randy Orton. The match was a bit of a let down, but exciting nevertheless. The Orton-Cena feud has been ‘the feud’ of recent WWE history. The feud started in late 2007, as Orton set to rid Cena of his one-year reign as WWE Champion and looked to establish the Age of Orton. Then, in 2008, Orton punted Cena’s father. And then, in 2009, the war raged on in singles, “I Quit,” Hell in a Cell, and, to finally end it all, a One-hour “Anything Goes” Iron Man match. “I Quit” was nominated for match of the year, how about that Iron Man match? Their final match was so entertaining, and the story they told in that match… so you see where this match was a treat, but it was also a disappointment. Cena connected with the Attitude Adjuster, but Orton landed himself near the ropes in order to break the 3-count. Yet a second Attitude was used to secure the win.

The Slammy Award for “Superstar of the Year” won through a tournament. The nominees are: CM Punk, The Undertaker, Randy Orton, and John Cena. The winner, by two hard fought matches, is: John Cena. The former WWE Champion vows to never lose a match until he becomes Champion once more; and that WrestleMania season, for him, starts right now.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

WWE's TLC Concept Crowns Three Champions; Orton's Ban Broken!

ECW Ladder Match: Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin. Christian has been the ECW Champion since Night of Champions back in July! He is the second longest - current - champion within the WWE. Christian has defended against William Regal, Yoshi Tatsu, Zack Ryder - but Shelton was a true test. Shelton Benjamin has been in numerous ladder matches, including 4 out of the 5 Money in the Bank matches at WrestleMania! I really thought Shelton had Christian's number. I have spoken before of WWE in talks of changing the ECW Brand name, and possibly having Christian as the final known ECW Title holder since he won it in the original ECW's hometown. Christian wanted to steal the show at TLC, but McMahon would not let that happen; hence, why ECW Title matches usually open up the PPVs. But what better way to open up a TLC PPV then with a Ladder match?

Intercontinental Title Match: John Morrison vs. Drew McIntyre. Drew McIntyre has been undefeated since being signed to SmackDown by the Chairman of the Board, Vincent Kennedy McMahon. He has defeated R-Truth, Jimmy Wang Yang, Finlay - and as of two weeks ago - IC Champion, John Morrison. Sure, McIntyre had the assistance of the metal support beam underneath the ring, but a wins a win within the WWE. John Morrison has been on a pay-per-view losing streak since Bragging Rights. He lost to The Miz at Bragging Rights, then lost to The Miz's team at the Survivor Series, and now he has lost the Intercontinental Title to Drew McIntyre. Prior to Mysterio's suspension from the WWE, it was rumored that Dolph Ziggler would go over at the Breaking Point PPV, but it was sidelined and given to John Morrison instead. The Guru of Greatness brought a lot of prestige back to the IC title, but with McIntyre now as the champion, it is believed that Morrison will move on to the main event scene on SmackDown - about damn time! Congrats to Drew McIntyre as the New Intercontinental Champion.

Women's Title Match: Michelle McCool vs. Mickie James. Christian may be the second longest current reigning champion, but McCool is the longest, period. Michelle McCool won the Women's Title against current Divas' Champion, Melina at The Bash (a pay-per-view no longer in existence as of next year). It's the PPV where McCool won her Divas' Title (2008) and now her Women's Title (2009). Mickie James is a four-time Women's Champion and was looking to win big tonight at the TLC PPV. She not only wanted the title, but she also wanted to shut McCool's "Piggy James" taunts. The announcers were solely behind Mickie James' not being fat, except for Striker, who finds the whole thing quite hilarious. Mickie couldn't win the title, because McCool is being put over as a huge heel, and to lose the title in the first match? Like I mentioned in the predictions, this is a feud that can culminate onto the Grandest Stage of them All - WrestleMania. It would be great to see another Mickie James match at WrestleMania before she hangs up her wrestling boots for good. A title win for James at the show of shows, where she won her first title 6 years ago, would be historic.

WWE Tables Match: John Cena vs. Sheamus. On November 23rd, Vesse Ventura set up a Breakthrough Star Battle Royal in order to tear down the tyranny of the Corporate Champion, John Cena. Guys like Ventura never got title shots because they didn't follow the rules, so The Governor jump started this revolution. Sheamus was declared the #1 Contender and powerbombed John Cena through a table during the contract signing. John Cena failed to realize the threat that a Celtic Warrior can have on his title. John Cena has defeated all that there was to beat - and like Orton - John Cena knew no threat. On October 13th, Sheamus, while on ECW, made a speech about Shelton Benjamin's mediocre career in regards to his future, "I, on the other hand, I will make it to the top of the WWE. And Shelton, well, let's just say, I'm going to use him as a stepping stone to get there. ... And at the end, there will only be one man standing at the top - ME, The Celtic Warrior, Sheamus." Who would have guessed that on June 30th, 2009, ECW, when they signed Sheamus to the WWE, that the age of the Celtic Warrior would have revealed itself so soon? John Cena has gone to war with the best that the business had to offer, but Sheamus didn't have to pin nor submit to become champion, all he had to do was throw someone through a table. It was by John Cena's own hand that he fell through the table, he attempted a suplex from the top turnbuckle, but was shoved by Sheamus. On RAW, Carlito, along with all the other superstars that can't stand John Cena, rallied behind a new comer like Sheamus to take the WWE Championship - and it finally occurred. The Age of the Celtic Warrior is upon us! Sheamus IS your new WWE Champion!

World Heavyweight Chairs Match: Undertaker vs. Batista. The Animal has had a complete change of heart since Bragging Rights. Rey Mysterio cost him the WHT and decided to cut ties from his best friend at the Survivor Series. And just this past Friday, Batista destroyed Mysterio in a Street Fight - with an actual conclusion. Batista even told the fans how Evolution just helped him learn the game, but he has always been about title wins and money - never cared a lick about the fans. Great, cause I don't give a damn about Batista. It's amazing how many people cheered for Batista to beat up Mysterio - kinda makes you think that I was right about Mysterio all along. Batista has been merciless towards delivering chair-shots to his opponent, The Undertaker. The Deadman actually looked really weak the last couple of SmackDowns. Taker had no great speech lined up, like he did towards CM Punk - Batista is not about speeches, we know the feud, we live on this feud. WrestleMania 23 jump started this feud, and now Batista is heel, so the gloves are off! And Batista was declared the World Heavyweight Champion! - until Teddy Long called for a restart because he noticed that Batista used a low blow. The last time we saw a restart from Long, Undertaker was the victim, but it was Batista who fell to the Tombstone Pile Driver! 1-2-3, Undertaker was declared STILL, your World Heavyweight Champion.

Randy Orton vs. Kofi Kingston. Mark Cuban called this the rubber match, since the score was 1-1, but if he was truly paying attention, the score was in Kingston's favor. Kofi cost Orton Legacy's assistance at Bragging Rights, humiliated him at MSG, and knocked him out at the Survivor Series. Kofi had all the momentum going into this match, and Kofi should have also remembered that at Unforgiven 2008, Legacy attacked Kofi, when trying to protect CM Punk (babyface at the time). Kingston had enough momentum going into this match, but Orton is much stronger. And as I mentioned before, this match would culminate into a shattering RKO. Randy Orton is the best super heel in the business today. Orton has gone to war with Triple H and John Cena, possibly the two top competitors in the WWE. Orton will not go down easily, especially to Kofi Kingston. And the news that all RKO-Fans have been waiting for, since John Cena is no longer the WWE Champion, Randy Orton can now challenge Sheamus for the WWE Title, the ban has been broken!

Unified Tag Team TLC Match: Jeri-Show vs. DX. For weeks, Chris Jericho had made speeches upon speeches of how DX have never been in a TLC Match, nor have ever held the tag team titles as a team. Jericho, along with his greatest weapon - The Big Show - were looking to make sure that never happened. Before this night, there were eight recorded TLC Matches within the WWE, Jericho has been involved in two, winning only one. Big Show, despite never being in a TLC or winning a ladder match, proved to be a devastating force against DX. But you're talking about a team with the man who was in the very first ladder match in the WWE, Shawn Michaels. You are talking about the man that turn heads at WrestleMania X, with a ladder match that is STILL spoken about to THIS day! Shawn Michaels is the innovator of Ladder Matches, but none of the four competitors in that ring, innovated the TLC Match; that honor belongs to Edge & Christian, The Hardyz, and The Dudley Boys. You see, that's what TLC was made for, it was made for tag team titles, not for World Title matches! Don't get me wrong, all TLC Matches have been great, but its pure majesty comes from four or more competitors raising hell in the ring with the agents of destruction: Tables, Ladders, and Chairs. I wish I could chronicle this match, speak of all the great spots that occurred, but it wouldn't do justice to this match. But by match's end, The Big Show propped Jericho on his shoulders to reach the belts... But DX knocked them out, Triple H held one half of a ladder, while Michaels climbed to the top - and unhooked the Unified Tag Team Belts! That's right, ever since their first formation in 1997, Triple H and Shawn Michaels have never held the tag team titles as a team; and what could be better than holding the Unified Tag Team Belts? DX can now appear on all three WWE brands, causing trouble, promoting merchandise, and just plain SmackTALK! Chris Jericho can no longer appear on RAW, unless drafted. Since October 5th, when Ben Rosthlisberger pitted DX and Jeri-Show together, this feud would culminate into a spectacular TLC Match, in a PPV concept that WWE got right. Not many people are happy with the results on tonight's PPV, but I am. So Congrats to the DX Army, your generals are now decorated with Unified Tag Team Gold.