Sunday, February 28, 2010

Released: Charlie Haas

Second time around, not so good

On July 8, 2005, both Charlie Haas and his real-life wife, Miss Jackie, were released from the company, sadly it occured the day after their honeymoon. Haas and Jackie did vow for better or for worse, and hard times hit after. Instead of sulking, Charlie Haas hit the gym, and wrestled around the world in hopes of a second shot in the WWE. Then on April 17, 2006, less than a year later, Charlie Haas had resigned with the WWE, and won his return match against, former tag team partner, Shelton Benjamin. He then started a feud with Viscera over the affection of Lilian Garcia, and would later form a makeshift tag team which spanned till the end of the year.

Then for the first-half of 2007, Charlie Haas reunited with Shelton Benjamin to reform the World's Greatest Tag Team, and feuded with Cryme Tyme, John Cena and Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair and Carlito, and the Hardys. The WGTT had a shot at the World Tag Team Titles against the Hardys in a ladder match at One Night Stand, but were unsuccessful. The team split up when Shelton was drafted to ECW (the first-time).

Afterwards, Haas began impersonating other wrestlers, a concept created by WWE executive, John Laurinaitis. Charlie Haas parodied Carlito, John Cena, John "Bradshaw" Layfield, Jim Ross, The Great Khali, Montel Vontavious Porter, legends such as Stone Cold Steve Austin, Bret Hart, "Mr. Perfect" Curt Hennig, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, Hulk Hogan, and even WWE Diva Beth Phoenix for which he won a Slammy Award in 2008.

Charlie Haas remained off screen for the majority of 2009, making minor appearances on SmackDown and WWE Superstars. It was rumored that Charlie Haas had asked for his release towards the end of the year, but WWE insisted that he stay with the company. I wonder why, since they never ended up doing anything with him.

WWE Career Highlights: WWE Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Shelton Benjamin (2) and Rico (1); Slammy Award for Best Impersonation ("The GlamaHaas") (2008)

WWE has come to terms on the release of WWE Superstar Charlie Haas as of today February 28, 2010. We wish Charlie Haas the best in all future endeavors.

Saturday, February 27, 2010

SmackDown Results: 2/26/10 - Spear, spear, on SmackDown

Spear, spear, spear on Jericho

The RAW following the hellacious Elimination Chamber, Chris Jericho celebrated his World Heavyweight Title win only to be speared again by Edge, who announced Chris as his WrestleMania opponent. Enraged, Jericho vowed that he would never be speared again.

Edge then listed Chris Jericho's accomplishments, ranging from becoming the first-ever Undisputed World Champion, defeating Shawn Michaels in his own match, to defeating Undertaker two-times; but he ended each accomplishment with the word, "spear." Edge is sending Jericho the message that no matter what he does, in the end, he will get speared. Edge then informed Chris that come 'Mania, he would be speared again, resulting in Edge's 10th World Title reign.

Chris Jericho then attempted a Code Breaker, but Edge evaded and struck with another spear. Does Edge have Jericho's number; or will he join the fate of the last two Royal Rumble winners?

Dolph Ziggler's perfect restart

A few weeks ago, John Morrison won a Triple-Threat qualifying match to participate in the Elimination Chamber. After failing to capture the World Title, could Morrison win another Triple-Threat to participate in this year's Money in the Bank Ladder match? R-Truth, who also participated in the Elimination Chamber, was inserted in this triple-threat qualifier for MitB. The final competitor was Dolph Ziggler, who has incurred more loses in his quest to become the Intercontinental Champion, counted on the outcome of this match to propel his career.

At the very start of the match, Ziggler's strategy was obvious, have Morrison and Truth battle it out as he picks his spots. Morrison and Truth, knowing this full well, rolled to the outside and tried getting Ziggler in the ring. But the tension shifted after Truth pulled Morrison out of the ring, in order to take on Ziggler by himself. Unable to seal the pinfall, Truth ended up fighting Morrison, a match that the fans were deprived of two weeks ago due to Morrison's tweaked ankle.

Ziggler played to his strengths, evading attacks and avoiding confrontation. With a Lie Detector corkscrew meant for Ziggler, accidentally struck Morrison, thus turning the attention between Morrison and Truth yet again. Morrison, after a pele kick and Starship Pain, covered R-Truth for the pinfall. But Dolph Ziggler pulled Morrison out of the ring at the last second, and covered Truth for the emphatic win. Dolph Ziggler has finally taken the first-step towards reviving his career.

Dolph Ziggler will have his WrestleMania moment as he joins Christian and 6 other competitors in the Money in the Bank, Ladder Match.

Vickie screwed Mickie; New Women's Champion

Luck is back on Michelle McCool's side as she once again captured the Women's Championship, making her a four-time female champion. However, the incidents factoring around her title win is controversal at best.

A few weeks back, Mickie James accidently tossed a plate of cottage cheese at SmackDown's special consultant, Vickie Guerrero. As if the release of Maria from the company wasn't bad enough, the added rival of Vickie, along with LayCool and Beth Phoenix, truly has Mickie outnumbered. Vickie first decided to set Mickie in a handicap match against LayCool following the cottage cheese incident, and then announced that Mickie would defend her title against Michelle McCool, and named herself as the guest referee.

At the Royal Rumble, Mickie James scored some much needed payback, after defeating McCool for the title in one switft DDT. It may have been satisfying for her, but not for the fans that wanted to see a hard fought women's match. This rematch more than made up for the squash, however, it ended with Vickie slapping Mickie in the face, a fast 3-count, and awarding the Women's title to Michelle McCool. In what could be considered a modern-day screw job in women's wrestling, left Mickie James, the only remaining babyface on the SmackDown brand, defeated in the ring. With high hopes of Mickie James defending against Beth Phoenix at WrestleMania may remain a dream. And any chances of Beth Phoenix contending for the title may be hard pressed as McCool now has Vickie Guerrero on her side.

Drew's first loss; Kane qualifies for Money in the Bank

Drew McIntyre had never been defeated, not by R-Truth, John Morrison, not even Kane. The brash Intercontinental Champion, coming off from a major title defense at Sunday's Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, looked to fulfill McMahon's prophesy of being a future World Champion.

All Drew had to do was win one more match to be automatically inserted into the Money in the Bank Ladder match at WrestleMania. And if he won that match, he would then have the opportunity to cash in on a World Title shot at any time, up to one-year. This qualifying match was an opportunity for McIntyre to one-up Rowdy Piper (WWE's famous Scotsman), who's highest achievement was winning the Intercontinental Championship.

At the pay-per-view, Kane lost to McIntyre after being thumbed in the eye and struck with the Future Shock DDT; this time around, Kane was fully aware of McIntyre's capability. After failing to lock in Future Shock, Drew McIntyre shocked the fans, and the announcers, when he connected with a reverse bulldog, similar to Dolph Ziggler's Zig-zag finisher. Yet, Kane managed to kick out, evade a second Future Shock, and connect with a Big Boot for the win.

Similar to Christian, Kane was in the first and last Money in the Bank Ladder match. And just like Christian, Kane has qualified for this year's Money in the Bank Ladder match. At WrestleMania 25, Kane was finger tips away from becoming Mr. Money in the Bank, will this year be different?

Drew McIntyre, incurring his first-ever loss, was distraught. He behaved as if he lost the Intercontinental Title, because he no longer has the edge which made him above everyone else. Despite the loss, Drew McIntyre needs to stop obsessing, and focus on finding an opponent to defend the Intercontinental Title at WrestleMania.

Shelton is Gold for WrestleMania; C.M. Punk vs. Mysterio at 'Mania?

Aside from being synonymous with Straightedge, C.M. Punk is the only 2-time winner of the Money in the Bank Ladder match, back-to-back. And both times, C.M. Punk successfully cashed them in against Edge and Jeff Hardy to capture his first two World Heavyweight Titles. So, a qualifying match to enter this year's MitB would just be a formality, right?

"The Gold Standard" Shelton Benjamin has been in every Money in the Bank, except for one. Shelton may have never won any ladder matches, but he is a gifted athlete that always puts on a performance in such stipulations. His latest conquest was against then-ECW Champion Christian at the TLC pay-per-view. He failed to best Christian, but the two put on possibly the best match of the night, only to be matched by D-X and JeriShow in the TLC main-event. What happens when the two Money in the Bank favorites are set to face each other in a qualifying match?

The match looked in C.M. Punk's favor as he managed to hoist Shelton for the GTS, but was distracted by Rey Mysterio attacking Luke Gallows. C.M. Punk's distraction allowed Shelton to connect with Pay-Dirt to win a spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania XXVI. As for C.M. Punk, he may not be going to WrestleMania via a ladder, but we may see a grudge/lucha apuesta match against Rey Mysterio.

Edge's Awesome spear; The Miz ready to main-event

The Miz arrived on SmackDown because he doesn't have a match for WrestleMania. He demanded that Teddy Long find a tag team to defend the Unified Tag Team Titles against, but instead, Teddy scheduled Miz into the main-event against Edge.

In the best match of the week, even topping the Jericho-Bryan match on NXT, glimpsed the realization that The Miz is main-event material. Just last year, The Miz was begging for a pay-per-view match, and now he's scoring multiple ppv victories, and main-evented this week's SmackDown against a 9-time World Champion and the winner of the 2010 Royal Rumble, Edge.

Edge is known for bringing the best out of every superstar he faces, whether it be John Cena, Matt Hardy, Jeff Hardy, C.M. Punk, or John Morrison, Edge creates quality matches. Just last week, Edge lured Batista out of his no-compete attitude, and got him to fight in a match against him, no other superstar has that level of ring presence that The Rated-R Superstar has. Edge is still a heel, when many felt he would turn babyface, but he still remains a fan favorite because of his willingness to face any opponent head on.

Throughout the match with The Miz, Edge dictated the pace as Miz tried keeping up. NXT Rookie, Daniel Bryan viewed the match from backstage, in order to learn a thing or two from his mentor. The crowd grew considerable reactions from both Miz and Edge, but with an Impaler DDT followed by a spear, Edge would walk away with a victory over the United States/Unified Tag Team Champion.

Friday, February 26, 2010

WWE Released: Paul Burchill

The Ripper ripped out of his WWE contract

On November 17, 2009, Paul Burchill challenged and lost to The Hurricane in a Mask versus Career match. Who would have known that the stipulation would have contoured to real life? However, in this case, both men were released from their WWE contracts.

Paul Burchill, along with his on-screen sister, Katie-Lea, were drafted from RAW to ECW at the start of 2009. In what should have been a fresh start for the siblings turned into a string of loses ranging from their debut to Paul's release. But let us not forget his victory over Tommy Dreamer, because Burchill may have been a jobber, but he'd be damned if he lost to WWE's resident jobber, Tommy Dreamer.

During his earlier years in the WWE, Paul Burchill teamed with William Regal in an impressive onslaught on the tag team division, however, never winning the tag team titles. And for those that may not recall, Paul Burchill claimed that his family heritage traced back to the pirate Blackbeard; thus the birth of The Pirate, Paul Burchill. His final appearance as The Pirate resurfaced on SmackDown in July 2007, during Edge's World Championship Mardi Gras party, though he was not acknowledged.

I can't say that I didn't see this coming, but Paul Burchill was highly underrated and should have been placed on SmackDown after the demise of ECW. Honestly, if Paul was going head to head with The Hurricane, he should have resorted to his alter-ego, The Pirate, Paul Burchill

WWE has come to terms on the release of WWE Superstar Paul Burchill as of today February 26, 2010. We wish Paul Burchill the best in all future endeavors.

Ohio Valley Wrestling Career Highlight: OVW Heavyweight Championship (4 times); OVW Southern Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Stu Sanders

WWE Released: Shane Helms (The Hurricane)

Without ECW, No Need for a Superhero

In an age of ECW, desperate for a hero, came a man... strong, lightning fast, and unyielding in his fight for good... except for that one time... has been released from the WWE. The worst kept secret in the WWE, Shane Helms mascaraed as The Hurricane in the land of extreme. In ECW, he had two archenemies: Paul Burchill (also released) and Zack Ryder. As far as victories went, Hurricane dominated Burchill every time, and embarrassed Zack Ryder time and again.

Even though Shane sprung for a higher quality costume, the days of The Hurricane died in 2005. During those days, a superhero meant something. The Hurricane had high profile matches and accomplished championship gold with a European, Hardcore, and 2 tag team title wins. The Hurricane even went on to form a core group of superheroes with Rosey and Stacy Keibler. But then the birth of a villain came in Gregory Helms who, even though a member of the RAW roster, participated and won an Open Invitational match for the Cruiserweight title, which was solely defended on SmackDown.

Then on May 18, 2007, WWE reported that Shane had broken two vertebrae in his neck, one of which was pressing on his spinal cord. He underwent surgery with Dr. Lloyd Youngblood; and a few weeks later, it was announced that Gregory Helms would be out for a year due to neck injury.

The Hurricane's second run lasted from April 15, 2009-February 26, 2010. All I can say is...
In an age of the Hulkster, desperate for new talent, comes a man... strong, lightning fast, and unyielding in his fight for good...stand back! Because after 90 days, a free agent is coming through!
With both Jeff Hardy and Shannon Moore looking to sign with TNA, if not already, Gregory Helms would make a great addition to the TNA roster.

WWE has come to terms on the release of WWE Superstar Shane Helms (Hurricane) as of today February 26, 2010. We wish Shane Helms (Hurricane) the best in all future endeavors.

WWE Career Highlights: WWF European Championship (1 time); WWE Cruiserweight Championship (2 times); WWE/World Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Kane (1) and Rosey (1); WWF Hardcore Championship (1 time)

WWE Released: Maria Kanellis

Slammy Award Winning Diva of the Year, just not for 2010

Her legs went on and on for days, the lovely Maria was the heart and soul of the WWE Divas division. And yet, as much as she was beautiful, funny, creative, and probably fun to be around, Maria stood for everything that was wrong with WWE women's wrestling. When your finisher is a running bulldog, there is no doubt that you will not make it in the WWE. However, winning the Slammy Award for Diva of the Year, as voted by the fans, attests to her undying popularity with the WWE Universe; but then the following night, she fought Beth Phoenix and lost miserably.

Other highlights include, gracing the cover of Playboy 2008. Maria joins the list of women posing nude in promotion with the WWE who have been shown the door: Sable, Torrie Wilson, Chyna, Christy Hemme, Candice Michelle, Ashley, and now Maria.

Finally, Maria Kanellis has been a great spokesperson, has appeared in many organizations promoting the company, along with volunteering to go overseas and entertain the troops during the WWE's annual Tribute to the Troops. She was recently involved in another love-angle, this time with Matt Hardy, when the WWE unexpectedly let her go. I for one will miss Maria appearing in the WWE because I feel she is a wonderful person, but as far as wrestling was concern, she was not tough enough.

Her future endeavors include: Celebrity Apprentice, and releasing a pop-rock album entitled: Sevin Sins

WWE has come to terms on the release of WWE Diva Maria as of today February 26, 2010. We wish Maria the best in all future endeavors.

WWE Superstars Results: 2/25/10 - 3 More Sign to RAW

William Regal joins RAW; Semi-All-American victory

The first official WWE Superstars after the demise of WWE-ECW featured two RAW, and two SmackDown matches. The opening match featured the team of Santino Marella and Chris Masters taking on Jack Swagger and William Regal.

Former-ECW superstars are either signing with RAW, SmackDown, or the unemployment line. So far, Christian and Yoshi Tatsu, seen this past Monday Night, have signed with RAW; and this opening match confirms William Regal's signing with RAW as well. An interesting set up with William Regal, a blue blooded Englishman, teaming with the All-American-American, Jack Swagger.

Regal's role on RAW is uncertain, seeing as his last stint featured him in a series of failed title matches against then-United States Champion, Kofi Kingston. Then there's the announcement that Ezekiel Jackson has signed with SmackDown, meaning that Regal's managerial services are now over.

Santino Marella keeps stating, "Beware of the Cobra," but if this is in regards to the terribly made G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie, then he is too late. Then again, Santino's cobra strike must be so devastating that it cannot be witnessed on free-television, or Santino is just an idiot because he has never connected with that move.

Chris Masters almost hooked in the Master Lock on Jack Swagger, but was distracted by William Regal. Due to Regal's distraction, Jack Swagger connected with the Gut Wrench powerbomb on Chris Masters for the win.

Zack Attack on RAW

Another pair of superstars that have signed with RAW are Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes. In his first match against Primo Colon, with Rosa at ring side, Jerry Lawler was hard pressed to call any of Zack Ryder's moves. Thankfully for Rosa Mendes, she provided ample distraction to the Primo with her Spanish banter; thus allowing Zack Ryder to connect with the Zack Attack.

Zack Ryder, with his unique gimmick, and even more impressive offense, will really make a great addition to RAW, Woo woo woo, you know it!

Straightedge is the way, or else

Luke Gallows, accompanied by Serena, honored the following match to their mentor and savior, C.M. Punk. Punk is reaching people with his teachings of a straightedge lifestyle. Gallows and Serena follow Punk as lambs to the Lord. I wouldn't like to insinuate that Punk is a Christ-figure, but he does have devoted followers to a set system of beliefs that involve a baptismal head shaving. So spin it how you will, but Straightedge, as the local jobber learned after being pinned with "The Twelfth Step," the Gallow's Pole, means that they are better than you.

Maria Kanellis' Final Match

Last week, Maria was the victim of a discus clothesline from Natalya, losing the match for her team. Yet, this time around, it was Maria's Valentine buddy, Matt Hardy who fell to The Hart Attack.

In Maria's final match, as she was released the following day, February 26, 2010, was dominated by Natalya yet again. Natalya, for the most part, mocked Maria and the Punjabi team for their silly dances. Maria managed to get in a running bull dog, when trying to protect Matt from a sneak attack, but he still lost by a double team effort from Tyson Kidd and David Hart Smith.

It is safe to say that this feud will end soon enough, seeing as Maria is no longer available to feud with Natalya. From this match, only two people were impressive: Matt Hardy and DH Smith. When Tyson attempted a high-risk move from the top turnbuckle, Matt countered with a powerbomb. Later on, Khali was tagged in, and David Hart willingly tagged himself in to take on the Punjabi Giant. As far as Maria goes, the best of luck.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

NXT Results: 2/23/10 - Week 1, Daniel Bryan Learns the Hard Way

Daniel Bryan's Personality Test: Fail

Welcome to the premiere post of WWE's newest concept NXT. Let's get underway with what exactly is NXT? NXT is a new concept where WWE plucks out eight rookies from FCW and pair them off with eight WWE pros from SmackDown and RAW. The show kicked off with The Miz introducing his Rookie, Daniel Bryan, an "Internet darling" and famous in the "minor leagues." Daniel's first task: enter the arena along to Miz's entrance theme, introduce himself, and come up with a catchphrase.

According to The Miz, the WWE Universe may not be aware of Bryan's lack of personality. Daniel explained how he wrestled for ten years and he finally has a shot in the WWE. His catchphrase was two words: I'm sorry, sorry that The Miz is his mentor and not William Regal. Daniel Bryan would then come up with another catchphrase directed towards The Miz, "You either tap, or you snap." The Miz then slapped some personality into Bryan, and rightfully so.

In an interview with the host of NXT, Matt Striker, Daniel expressed his dislike for The Miz and claimed that he would make it into the WWE without his help. Sure, Miz came from a reality show before coming to the WWE, but The Miz evolved in the 4+ years he has been here. Miz is after all a current-multi title holding champion, and he always anticipates the unexpected. The main event tonight: Daniel Bryan versus The World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho.

Official Theme song of NXT: "Wild and Young" by AmericanBang

Despite the loss, Carlito is a winner

The inaugural NXT match was a tag team competition set for one-fall; Christian and Heath Slater versus Carlito and Michael Tarver. WWE showed a video package for both Heath and Tarver to explain a little of where they come from. Heath Slater describes himself as a rock band without any instruments; however, he looks like a guy suffering from H.A.D.D.. Heath is unique with his Sunkist hair, flailing of the arms stretch out, and his tongue hanging loose. His dream is to become a WWE superstar, and he looks to make it on NXT.

Michael Tarver is known as Mr. 1.9 seconds, because that's how fast he can knock someone out. He should shorten that to Mr. 1.9, because it's obvious that his quick striking abilities attests from his training in mix-martial arts. Which, if any Rookie looks as if they belong in UFC, it would be Michael Tarver.

There was a difference in style between Christian and Carlito's mentoring, even though Christian's team won the match, Carlito had the better method. Michael Tarver is by far the stronger of the two, so Carlito allowed Tarver to wrestle most of the match in order to build endurance. Christian noticed that Heath was lagging and called for the tag, in which he finished with a Killswitch to Tarver. Carlito lucked out by having an amazing rookie of such stature, but the failure lied in Carlito's poor tag team abilities. As for Heath Slater, the man jumps around like a jackass and should learn the rule: less is more.

David Otunga is overrated; Darren Young needs a prayer

David Otunga's video package was longer than the Rookie vs. Rookie match up between Otunga and Darren Young. Otunga claims to have the personality of The Rock, the cerebral text tile of Triple-H, and the power of John Cena. He has a famous fiance, Jennifer Hudson. He graduated from Harvard Law School, and has been to the white house twice this year. As far as Otunga's celebrity status is concerned, I don't give a damn if the man knows famous people, it is what you do inside that ring which will determine if you are as good as you say.

C.M. Punk has stated that he mentors only Luke Gallows and Serena, and if Darren Young wants to be mentored, then he will have to pledge to lead a straightedge life. Darren Young, obviously the polar opposite of C.M. Punk, is known as a party animal - which would most likely include one of the three things that the Straightedge Society is against. By the end of it all, I see Darren shaving off that ridiculously spiky hair of his.

Without any guidance from C.M. Punk, Young fell prey to the "A-lister" Otunga. In a match that lasted no more than a sip of coffee, Otunga did not resemble The Rock, or Triple-H, nor John Cena; he resembled a carbon copy of Ezekiel Jackson with a poorly executed Ura-nage. Just because he's met the president doesn't mean squat when it comes to the WWE.

NXT Main-Event outshines RAW program

In the main-event, the World Heavyweight Champion went one on one with Daniel Bryan. As we have seen earlier, Daniel Bryan has no charisma or mic skills, and he is shortest man in the entire NXT roster. But a more pressing matter is the total lack of respect that he has for his mentor, The Miz. Daniel feels that he is owed something with his 10-year wrestling career, performing in the indie circuit. It's all good that you elevated your wrestling ability for a decade, but he hasn't been inside the WWE long enough to become accepted by the WWE Universe and WWE locker room.

Daniel Bryan did have an impressive outing with the World's Champion, Chris Jericho. Interesting set up since Chris Jericho is the Best in the World at what he does, while Daniel claims he is the Best Wrestler in the World. Chris Jericho is on a far higher scale than Bryan, and there is a difference between a pro and a rookie. Daniel Bryan focused all his outrage against The Miz towards Chris Jericho, and it was seen when Daniel slapped Jericho in the face and started executing drop kicks and running kicks to the chest.

Daniel, however, went a bit off course when he made a running dive through the ropes, only to be flipped kidney-first against the announce table. If you wanted to know the difference between and a a pro and a rookie, there you have it. But instead of cutting your loses, Daniel Bryan seemed to feed off of that pain and managed to lock Jericho in the center of the ring with a heel hook. Jericho's agony was etched on his face as he scrambled towards the bottom rope; Daniel hoping to make it known that he is the Submission specialist and you only have two choices, you tap or you snap. But it was Daniel Bryan who would tap out to Chris Jericho's liontamer. And if losing your first high-profile match wasn't bad enough, than Miz added insult to injury as he started beating down his rookie for lack of respect.

Despite the loss, Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho delivered big on the premiere episode of NXT, outshining the entire RAW line-up.

Next week: Matt Hardy and Justin Gabriel come to NXT

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

RAW Results: 2/22/10 - WrestleMania Taking Shape

Evan Bourne's victory overshadowed by Legacy's downfall

Just this past Thursday on WWE Superstars, Evan Bourne prevailed by pinning Chavo Guerrero in tag team action; then on RAW, Evan Bourne defied the odds by pinning Cody Rhodes of Legacy in a six-man tag match. Yet, what should have been a great moment for the "Highlight Reel" Evan Bourne, became overshadowed by chants of RKO.

The downfall of Legacy may have finally occurred after Randy Orton turned on his brethren, Cody Rhodes, with a rope hung DDT. Orton then abandoned the match and was followed by Ted DiBiase Jr., demanding an explanation; which he responded with an RKO. Earlier on, DiBiase and Rhodes were talking about "a plan," most likely a scheme to turn on Orton; but as the leader of Legacy, Orton is always 10 steps ahead.

Divas' Champion Applicant: no wrestling experience required

Apparently the Divas' Title means that no wrestling ability is required, as the championship match between Maryse and Gail Kim was an embarrassment to women's wrestling. Gail Kim, an actual women's wrestler, delivered on every offensive maneuver within that match, while Maryse simply threw Gail to the ropes and set up for the French-Kiss. How can the WWE award it's championship title to a person who cannot wrestle? Wait... that's right. This is the same company that awarded it's WWE Title to Batista, and at one point, awarded the World Heavyweight Title to The Great Khali. Sadly, Gail Kim sold her soul for a WWE endorsed paycheck to job to models.

After having the Divas' Title match postponed, thanks to Vickie Guerrero, the final round of the Divas' Championship Tournament was decided on RAW. For weeks leading up to this match, Maryse had been trying to draw a mutual respect between the two, but Gail Kim fired back - in French - telling Maryse that she understood every mean thing she disguised in French, and was not fooling anybody. This confrontation, this past Sunday, lead to Gail Kim loosing an impromptu tag team match - turned Handicap - when Maryse was unwilling to tag in.

Maryse was awarded the vacant Divas' title, made so by Melina who tore her ACL back in January, and became the first-ever two-time Divas' Champion.

New RAW Superstar Christian qualifies for Money in the Bank

Two weeks ago, then-ECW Champion Christian, acting as a future free agent, had an amazing encounter with then-WWE Champion Sheamus; and this week it was confirmed, after winning a Money in the Bank qualifying match against Carlito, that Christian has signed on with the RAW brand. A year ago, people thought that Christian's return did not have quite an impact because of his emergence on ECW, those days of extreme are over because Christian is on the A-brand of wrestling shows.

WWE had recently announced on wwe.com that on July 18, a pay-per-view entitled Money in the Bank would air. This news led to many wrestling fans wondering whether or not there would be a Money in the Bank Ladder Match at this year's WrestleMania. Money in the Bank has been a central part of WrestleMania since it's concept at WrestleMania 21, witnessing Edge as it's inaugural Mr. Money in the Bank winner. Luckily, WWE has recently scrapped the MitB pay-per-view concept, along with the rest of the pay-per-view summer lineup after WrestleMania.

Having competed in the 2005 and 2009 Money in the Bank ladder matches, Christian is an excellent star competitor leading into WrestleMania.

The Miz dominates MVP in every way

At Elimination Chamber, The Miz successfully defended his United States Title against MVP in yet another impromptu title defense; and would yet again, along with The Big Show, successfully defend the Unified Tag Team Titles against MVP and Mark Henry on RAW. The Miz, who will be mentoring Daniel Bryan on NXT, has not only been successful at capturing and defending the titles, but undertaking every challenge, scheduled or not.

The constant title defenses against MVP has grown wearisome, as WWE is forcing The Miz to defend all his titles against one man. There are a sea of mid-card opponents that would benefit from title matches against The Miz. And when will ShoMiz be making their way down to SmackDown to defend their titles against the likes of: The Hart Dynasty, Straightedge Society, Cryme Tyme, Croft and Barreta, and Hardy and Khali?

RAW Results: 2/22/10 - Three Matches WrestleMania Bound

Chris Jericho, Still Saving Us

At the top of the RAW program, we were not introduced to some inane guest hosts or to the new WWE Champion, Justin Roberts proudly announced the new World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho. Each and every week, Chris Jericho enters the ring with an antagonized look on his face, but the walls of Jericho have been torn down and rebuilt with the fortitude and exuberance that being a sixth-time World Champion can bring. His sprightliness was that of a child going to Disneyland, (hoisting the WHT high) "I'm going to WRESTLEMANIA!"

The Indianapolis arena, along with wrestling fans around the world, were joyous of the crowning of a new World Heavyweight Champion, as the crowds chanted "Y2J, Y2J, Y2J!" Chris Jericho roared through the WWE Kingdom as the new World Heavyweight Champion and that he was going to WrestleMania. The celebration ended when Edge surprised Jericho with a spear.
"Hey Chris, you're going to WrestleMania... against.... ME!!!!!" - Royal Rumble Winner Edge challenging WHC, Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho, despite his campaigns of saving only himself, Chris Jericho saved the wrestling fans from a mundane match between Edge and the robotic Batista.

WrestleMania: World Heavyweight Championship Match - Chris Jericho defending against Edge

Shawn Michaels makes a deal with God, and the Demon

When Shawn Michaels won the Slammy Award for Best Match of the Year, he challenged the Undertaker to a rematch. People claim that Michaels-Taker was the greatest match in WrestleMania History - Possibly of all time... but it wasn't the perfect match. In Shawn Michaels mind, it was nearly perfect and he made one mistake - JUST ONE! That one mistake cost Michaels everything.

After WrestleMania 25, Shawn left the company on a hiatus and was brought back half a year later to reform D-Generation-X. Yet, defeating numerous opponents and capturing the Unified Tag Team titles alongside Triple-H could not fill the void. Just one mistake cost his sanity.

Michaels pleaded for The Undertaker to accept his challenge, but he said no. Michaels then vowed to win the Royal Rumble in order to challenge Undertaker at WrestleMania for the World Heavyweight Title... but he lost. Next, Michaels pleaded with Teddy Long to be placed in the SmackDown Chamber so that he can win and defend the World Heavyweight title against The Undertaker at WrestleMania... but he said no. The obsession of facing the Undertaker cost D-X the tag titles and his mental state of mind. Then all at once it clicked into his mind, if Undertaker wouldn't accept, then he would cost Undertaker what he held most dear, the Holy Grail, the World Heavyweight Championship. On Sunday, Michaels entered the chamber from beneath, super kicking Taker and costing him the title.
"For every action there must be a re-action. With regard to Undertaker, I'm not just hoping for a reaction, I'm counting on it." - Shawn Michaels speaking of his actions against Undertaker
After giving up everything into this obsession, Undertaker accepted on one condition. HBK must put something at stake, and just claiming his soul is not enough. If Michaels loses against The Undertaker at WrestleMania, his career is over. Shawn Michaels clarified, if he cannot defeat Taker at WrestleMania, then he has no career and accepted Undertaker's conditions.

WrestleMania: Career vs. The Streak - Shawn Michaels versus Undertaker: The Rematch

Batista defending against John Cena, what about Sheamus?
"Add me to the list. Add me right there with Bret Hart to the list of people that Vince McMahon has screwed." Cena speaking out against Vince McMahon's actions at Elimination Chamber.
Right after winning the WWE Championship inside a grueling elimination chamber, John Cena was forced to defend the title against Batista. John Cena claims that he got screwed over by Vince McMahon, but as McMahon has stated, it was business. A few weeks ago, McMahon made a business deal with Batista to help him out with Bret Hart, and in return he could have a World Title shot at anytime. John Cena made it personal when he tried saving Bret from McMahon and Batista. Batista fired back by attacking Cena, and last week, John Cena made it even more personal by telling Batista if he wanted some, come get some. It was just business, Batista took Cena's words to heart and simply decided to target Cena at his most vulnerable.

McMahon stated that two people lost the WWE Title that night, and if Cena couldn't defeat his opponent tonight then the title rematch would be given to Sheamus. John Cena was scheduled to fight none-other than the WWE Champion, Batista. Which was really an asinine thing to do seeing as Batista should rightfully defend the WWE Title against both Sheamus and John Cena.

The main event lasted no more than a cup of coffee, as Batista blatantly disqualified himself with a low blow to John Cena. He then started clapping, as if congratulating him for becoming the next contender for the WWE Title at WrestleMania. Afterwards, Batista attacked John Cena with several chair shots to the back, while referees were too afraid to stand near a ravaging Animal.

WrestleMania: WWE Championship Match: Batista defending against John Cena (maybe...)

Monday, February 22, 2010

Elimination Chamber: Intermediate Titles Retained

"The Chosen One" and "The Awesome One" retain

Hand picked by the Chairman of the WWE, Drew McIntyre's ascent in the company is apparent; he now gracefully strides to every match as a symbol of his greatness. Three weeks ago, Drew was involved in a triple-threat qualifier match against John Morrison, the former I-C champion, and Kane. While the rivalry against Morrison over the I-C belt may be over, a feud with Kane is emanate.

A title defense victory over Kane can go either one of two ways: it can either bolster McIntyre's career; or leave it stagnant. Since Kane has been used to elevate numerous superstars in the past, a victory over the Big Red Monster may be insignificant.

McIntyre and Kane's match-up was unwavering, though, there was a major difference in style. While Kane exerted brute force through diving clotheslines and boots to the face, Drew applied more technical maneuvers, such as arm locks and a double underhook DDT known as Future Shock.

Drew McIntyre's Scottish background has most likely been a burden, as he is pressured to become the next best national hero since Rowdy Piper. Dubbed as The Chosen One, Drew has been given a considerable push by becoming the Intercontinental Champion and going undefeated in single's competition since arriving in August 2009. Yet, he hasn't always won every match fairly; the thumb to the eye, obviously an illegal move, has played a vital role of insuring that the Intercontinental Title remains around his waist; hence, how he went on to successfully defend the title against Kane.

In mid-match, Drew turned away from the ring and started ascending back up the ramp in order to be counted out and retain. But Kane, unwilling to let him just walk away, nabbed and rolled him back into the ring. Then when the referee tried to separate the two, McIntyre jabbed Kane in the eye, followed by the Future Shock DDT. But who's to say that McIntyre was not deliberately luring Kane into a false sense of security in order to capitalize? With another title defense under his belt, has McIntyre seen the last of Kane?

After Vickie Guerrero postponed the Divas' Title match for a tedious RAW versus SmackDown Divas' tag team match, MVP issued another challenge for The Miz's United States Title. He claims since he pinned Miz last Monday Night on RAW, it allots him a U.S. title shot. Granted, MVP did pin Miz but in a tag team match, meaning that MVP has the right to challenge for the Unified Tag Team belts, not the single's title belt.

In the second consecutive pay-per-view of the new year, the WWE Universe were treated to another impromptu United States Title bout between the defending champion and MVP. This fifth title match was slightly different, with MVP and The Miz's tag team partners residing in their respective corners.

Since the last title defense, The Miz has become an even bigger superstar in the WWE by teaming up with The Big Show to become the Unified Tag Team Champions. Aside from the two new World Champions, no one is more impressive than "The Awesome One."

The Miz was evidently confident in his abilities as a champion without underestimating the tenacity of MVP. Last Monday, Miz was pinned by taking MVP too lightly, but after executing a double knee buster to a bridging MVP, he would not make that same mistake again. MVP, as well, put out all the stops by tossing Miz off the top turnbuckle with a Belly-to-Belly throw, and going for his signature Ballin' Elbow drop. But with Miz evading the Drive-By kick; instinctively placing his foot on the bottom rope to break a cover; and a right-handed knockout hook by The Big Show, he was able to secured another title defense against MVP. Indeed, MVP had Mark Henry in his corner, but Big Show Irish-whipped him through a barricade, which his massive body destroyed.

With another awesome title defense for The Miz, he will walk into NXT still the United States Champion, and one-half of the Unified Tag Team Champions, as he mentors the internationally famous Daniel Bryan. In addition, it looks as if The Miz and Drew McIntyre will enter WrestleMania XXVI as champions.

Elimination Chamber: World Heavyweight Champion Struck with HeartBreak

Chris Jericho's sixth chamber = sixth World Title; John Morrison's performance praised

Rey Mysterio, in his fourth World title attempt since returning from his suspension, hyped the Scottrade Center for the final Elimination Chamber match of the night. He willingly entered the first pod with hopes of walking out as the World Champion. Then came John Morrison, strutting down to the ring, entered the chamber and gazed at the magnificent structure, as if he were starring up at the Sistine Chapel. Chris Jericho's confidence on becoming the next World Champion was axiomatic; he followed suit by filling in the next pod. And finally, The Undertaker had the most unforgettable entrance of the night because instead of gliding down the ramp as he is most known for, he stormed into the chamber, filling the final pod. Was Undertaker anxious to start the match, or was there a more pressing matter?

C.M. Punk, accompanied by the Straightedge Society, methodically called out each entrant locked securely behind the plate glass capsules, advocating that these pods were symbolic of the imprisonment of their addictions. Then R-Truth, the final entrant, was skipping and jumping without neglecting a beat as he made his way towards the chamber. This being R-Truth's first shot at the World Title, one would assume that he would take things more seriously? In a way he did, when he started the match he continually Irish whipped Punk against the steel chained barrier of the chamber, followed by a Senton Bomb from off the top turnbuckle. However, R-Truth was unable to state his claim to fame as he was eliminated by C.M. Punk with a GTS.

C.M. Punk's self-righteous arrogance forced him back onto the mick and asked that everyone at home pledge to live a straightedge life; which was until Rey Mysterio, who has been on the end of many Straightedge Society attacks, exacted retribution by eliminating him at the 10 minute mark. Unlike the RAW Chamber match, where all 6 entrants were fighting before witnessing an elimination, the SmackDown competitors were eliminating threats one-at-a-time.

Rey Mysterio only had seconds to pull himself together before facing Chris Jericho. Many recall that these two had a standing rivalry during their days in WCW, but most recently, during the summer, these two, now primed main-eventers, grudged over the Intercontinental title and Mysterio' mask. Mysterio looked to get the upper hand by evading Jericho's lionsault, and setting up for the 619. However, Jericho rolled onto the steel grate, where no pinfalls can occur, and Mysterio launched himself past Jericho and unto the chamber wall. Mysterio resembled a fly on the wall, until Jericho slammed him back first unto the steel grate. Jericho continued to punish Mysterio with a Walls of Jericho in the center of the canvas.

Entering just seconds before Mysterio could tap out, John Morrison attacked both Jericho and Mysterio. Truly a match setting where it is every man for himself, Morrison and Mysterio would go back and forth. Morrison connected with a pele kick during a mid-air collision with Mysterio; and Mysterio returned the favor by pushing Morrison back-first into the pod. And much like John Morrison's Rockstar DVD ends with a win over Mysterio, JoMo evades a Hurricanrana and connects with Starship Pain for the elimination.

Lastly, The Undertaker emerged from the pod and dominated the remaining opponents. Battle tested, and the freshest man in the chamber, Taker viciously attacked Jericho, who tried hiding in one of the pods, with a series of punches and kicks. Undertaker, comfortable with his surroundings, reverted his attention to John Morrison, who mustered a flying chuck to the skull. Morrison should have gone for the cover but instead went for Starship Pain, which was countered with a double knee lift by the Undertaker.

Chris Jericho and John Morrison, having feuded before, found a common enemy with The Undertaker, and teamed up to evade a double chokeslam, and connect with a suplex. Chris Jericho, later on, would use the distraction from Morrison to drive Undertaker into the pod; yet, Morrison executed a flying chuck to Jericho - truces can only go so far.

John Morrison is no doubt a future World Champion, but emphasis on future, because after being knocked out with a clothesline over the steel grate, UT dragged Morrison into the ring to pin him for the 3-count. Morrison's performance should be praised as he fended off attacks from both Jericho and the Undertaker, not to mention having eliminated Rey Mysterio.

The final encounter between Jericho and Taker was it's own main event, as these two guys gave a stellar performance after a grueling match thus far. Pound for pound, Jericho willed out of a Last Ride and Hell's Gate, while Undertaker kicked out of a Code Breaker and the Walls of Jericho. Each implementing a finisher and a submission move a piece, neither could find the strength to capitalize. My heart was dead set on Jericho escaping the chamber with the strap in order for Edge and Jericho to have the epic encounter that only WrestleMania could contain. Yet, when all hope was lost, from out of the steel grate rose "The HeartBreak Kid" Shawn Michaels delivering some Sweet Chin Music to The Undertaker. Similar to the astonished look on Edge's face when Matt Hardy struck Jeff with a steel chair, Jericho pensively waited for the go ahead to go for the cover. In Jericho's sixth Elimination Chamber, he walks away with his sixth World Title.

A WWE Championship match between John Cena and Batista sounds horrible, so at least give the WWE Universe a match worth watching: World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho versus Edge at WrestleMania.

Elimination Chamber: WWE Champion not in Elimination Chamber

John Cena forced into immediate title defense; Batista New WWE Champion.

Over and again we are reminded that only two men in history have successfully defended their titles inside the Elimination Chamber: Triple-H and John Cena. What kind of match can you expect when both of these men are locked inside the same chamber seeking to become the WWE Champion? Will the Celtic Warrior be added to that list, or will he become another victim of the "Chamber of Horrors," as Triple-H has aptly named.

The WWE Champion, Sheamus, and Kofi Kingston started the match, followed by Triple-H, Randy Orton, Ted DiBiase Jr., and John Cena. Prior to setting foot inside the chamber, Kofi kept one eye behind his back for any unsuspecting attackers, in regards to Edge stealing his spot in last year's Elimination Chamber match. Kofi managed to outlast the 5 minute mark against Sheamus, who has been known to make short work of his opponents; allowing for another superstar to enter the fray. Yet, at about the 23 minute mark, Kofi was literally placed into a tight situation when his head was shoved in between the chains of the chamber's walls and was brutally punished by both Orton and DiBiase. Despite the situation, Kofi managed to strike back by eliminating an unsuspecting DiBiase with Trouble in Paradise kick. Shortly afterwards, Kofi would suffer a Celtic Cross pin from Sheamus, thus, eliminating him from the match.

Randy Orton and DiBiase worked together for the most part, despite on going deterioration within the Legacy faction. However, the same mistakes that D-X undergoes during these type of matches, led to neither member of Legacy from leaving the chamber with the strap. Cody Rhodes came "to the rescue" with a lead pipe he slipped into the chamber. DiBiase used the pipe to strike Cena from executing the Attitude Adjustment on Orton, but instead of pinning Cena, DiBiase hooked the leg of Orton for the first elimination of the night. Maybe Cody Rhodes just needs to stop helping, because this is the third time that his "help" has cost Orton the title.

Unlike other superstars, Sheamus has had a lot to prove being the company's top champion; but WWE has done a poor job of building Sheamus as its champion. Sheamus' Title win over Cena at TLC 2009, was a poorly executed, lackluster, title match. The only reason that the match received the recognition that it did was due to the shock factor. In addition, Sheamus, since becoming champion, has fought powerhouse superstars like John Cena and Randy Orton, but always won via disqualification. Even his matches with Evan Bourne weakened his championship status, because, before being brutally beaten down, Bourne came close to pinning the champion. As for this match, it was make or break for the Celtic Warrior, and after eliminating Kofi Kingston, only Cena and Triple-H remained. Sheamus almost came close to eliminating John Cena with the Celtic Cross, and it would have been a major notch in his WWE belt, but he was silenced by, behind-the-scenes mentor, Triple-H; which, if captioned, would read "You're good, just not WrestleMania good."

Up to this point, the RAW Elimination Chamber was great, but what should have been the climax between the only two men in Elimination Chamber history to retain their titles, was wearisome. But what can you expect from a confrontation that has been dragged out for five years. Not letting Sheamus eliminate John Cena turned out to be a fatal mistake for Triple-H, as he lifelessly tapped out to Cena's STF.

Since WrestleMania 21, John Cena has always been inserted into the title picture, either as a defending champion or a contender; and it would appear that WrestleMania XXVI would be no different, until Mr. McMahon showed up. Vince congratulated Cena for winning the WWE Championship and that he would be headlining WrestleMania; that is if he could successfully defend the title against Batista, which would take place immediately. Sound familiar, because it should? Because when John Cena successfully defended his WWE Title inside the Elimination Chamber match at New Year's Revolution 2006, Edge cashed in his MitB briefcase for an immediate title shot which bought him his first WWE Title. Five years and 7 more World Titles later, John Cena's second Elimination Chamber ended the same way, with an immediate title defense which crowned Batista as the new WWE Champion in an astonishing 32 seconds.

Within the first 40 minutes of the pay-per-view, the fans witnessed Sheamus losing the WWE Title, John Cena winning the chamber along with the WWE Title, and then Batista beating Cena for the WWE Title right afterwards. Honestly, the storyline with Bret Hart and Vince McMahon, along with the rivalry between Batista and John Cena, should not need the WWE Title to be at stake. Bret Hart and Vince can have a street fight and settle the whole thing; Batista and Cena could have found another way to settle the issue without sucking the prestige out of the WWE Title. Batista, for lack of a better rant, is the most accident prone wrestler that the WWE has to offer. Have WWE forgotten about Extreme Rules 2009, Batista's steel cage match against Orton for the WWE Title? Batista injured himself halfway through the match, won the title, and was stripped of it the following night, as it was staged as a beat down by Legacy. The ending of the match, along with the "shocker" of Batista swooping in just left a bad taste in my mouth.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

SmackDown Results: 2/19/10 - Out of the Darkness, Undertaker Looms

Ominous Warnings to Elimination Chamber Entrants

In 48 hours, six men from SmackDown will enter the Elimination Chamber. The structure is made of two miles of chains, weighing 16 tons (10 of which is steel), and consists of 8 motors to hoist the chamber over the ring prior to each event. As the numbers shows, the Elimination Chamber is far deadlier than Steel Cage and Hell in a Cell matches combined. Three former World Champions, and two rising stars will have a shot of becoming the World Heavyweight Champion; however, the keeper of the title is the infamous Phenom who has a message for all.

Darkness Looms
Chris Jericho warns Edge

Chris Jericho has always been the type to list his accolades: an unprecedented 9-Intercontinental title reigns; a 5-time World Champion, which includes defeating Stone Cold and The Rock on the same night to become the first-ever Undisputed World Champion; however, Jericho's confidence deludes him from the impending danger that lies inside the Elimination Chamber. He's even so brash about winning the World Title that he warns Edge to challenge the winner of the RAW Chamber, because what he is capable of is unimaginable.

If Chris Jericho can defeat The Undertaker, then he can eliminate everyone inside the chamber, no? What Chris Jericho fails to mention is that Undertaker was seconds away from winning last week's match; were it not for a spear by Edge, Jericho would have never connected with the Code Breaker.

Edge almost wishes for Jericho to win this Sunday, so that he can wipe the smug look on his face at WrestleMania. But as these two map out their future, the lights flicker in the arena reminding them that Undertaker is watching.

Hell's Flames Radiate
John Morrison's condition questionable; Possible C.M. Punk-Mysterio Feud

John Morrison tweaked his ankle last week in a match up against R-Truth, which resulted in a forfeit. Since then, questions have lingered whether or not John Morrison would be able to compete this Sunday, or if we will see a surprise entry by Shawn Michaels, dead set on facing The Undertaker at WrestleMania. John Morrison stated in a backstage interview that he has waited too long for a shot at the World Title, and that a tweaked ankle is not going to stop him from realizing his dreams. However, the conclusion of his tag team match with R-Truth against the Straightedge Society begs to differ Morrison's resolve to become champion. For the second straight week in a row, Morrison was unable to complete a match, so how can he compete inside the chamber?

The Straightedge Savior, C.M. Punk, has proclaimed that he will walk out this Sunday as a four-time World Heavyweight Champion (notice how the EC-DUB title is not included?). But as the end of the match concurred, a match up between Mysterio and C.M. Punk is more likely to occur at WrestleMania, as the Master of the 619, rushed at the end of the match to get the upper hand. But Luke and Serena, who are never far behind, aided Punk to lay out Mysterio on the canvas with the Straightedge Society standing tall. Much should be accredited to C.M. Punk for beating down three members of this Sunday's pay-per-view. As Matt Striker stated, why not start eliminating now?

During the match, Taker's pyro unexpectedly went off from the entrance ramp with the backdrop depicting tombstones. This is obviously a dark warning for all those who enter the Elimination Chamber in foolishly attempting to capture Undertaker's Holy Grail.

The Dead Will Rise
Edge is a fighting competitor; Fate on Chris Jericho's side?

Batista has been a man of mystery as of late, helping McMahon restrain Bret Hart, beating down John Cena, forfeiting his qualifying match to C.M. Punk, and refusing to speak on his actions. Since turning heel, Batista has wanted nothing more than for the spotlight to be on him, so why is he silent?

Batista refused to compete in a match against Edge, so he walked away. Edge enraged the Animal from his passive behavior by calling him spineless. Edge and Batista have feuded in the past before, but Edge usually had the aid of his Familia and the love of a GM to get him out of situations. Yet, Edge proclaimed that he returned to the WWE as a fighting competitor and would not be cheated out of his first official match since returning.

Batista was impressive as usual when inflicting brute force, but Edge did get the advantage when countering a Batista Bomb over the steel steps, and striking with a spear. However, before the match could conclude... the final ominous message was revealed, the whole arena submerged in darkness, and the bells tolled. Out of the darkness, The Undertaker made his message clear by chokeslaming the 2010 Royal Rumble winner.

Chris Jericho then stated his dominance by attacking Edge soon after with a Code Breaker. The omens reveal that within the darkness burns the wrath of the Undertaker.

Free Agents invade SmackDown

On the final episode of ECW, Ezekiel Jackson became the final ECW Champion after throwing Christian through a table in their Extreme Rules Match. As of right now, it has been announced that Ezekiel Jackson will become a member of the SmackDown roster in a few weeks. As for the rest, only time will tell.

Much like Christian popping up on RAW, Caylen Croft and Trent Barreta's appearance on SmackDown is due to their free agent status. Croft and Barreta, a tag team who's goal is to take home the 2010 Slammy for Best Tag Team of the Year, took on SmackDown's Cryme Tyme in what sounded like a bad combination. However, Croft and Barreta have never fought harder, probably due to the fact that they will eventually be moving to an established brand in the WWE.

Trent tried to end end the match with a Tornado DDT, but Gaspard stopped him in mid-air and struck with a ura-nage for the finish.

Natalya scores pinfall, Maria scores Matt?

The feud between The Hart Dynasty and Khali-Matt Hardy took another step by incorporating Maria and Natalya into the match, making it a mix-gendered tag team match.

Maria and Natalya did duke it out at the start of the match, but in the closing moments, Natalya struck and unsuspecting Maria with the discus clothesline.

Maria, upset over losing another match, especially with a team, was consoled by Matt Hardy. The love angle between the two drew closer as Matt Hardy spewed some love jargon from Hallmark cards came just seconds away from kissing. That was until Lay-Cool interrupted with their childish antics, and called Maria "loose-lipped." That term is quite accurate seeing as in the past three years, Maria has "managed" Santino Marella and Dolph Ziggler. But I guess Matt Hardy likes loose-lipped women... that's right, I took a shot at Lita.

Drew McIntyre's I-C reign in jeopardy
Dolph Ziggler is not perfection, but not bad either

This Sunday, Drew McIntyre will defend his title against The Big Red Monster, Kane. But before we see that match, Kane had to deal with Dolph Ziggler. In their fourth-encounter, more credit should be given to Dolph Ziggler, not so much from the fans but from those he wrestles. Dolph Ziggler has made a somewhat impressive career out of facing wrestlers who outsize him in strength and height. With opponents like Batista and The Great Khali, Ziggler has formed a sound strategy by focusing on the limbs of his opponents through arm locks and chokeholds.

Then comes Drew McIntyre, who stood by the entrance ramp in hopes of intimidating his opponent. Ziggler attempted to use the distraction to lock in a body scissors sleeper, which has proven time and time again to be ineffective. Albeit what Matt Striker says, Ziggler should have made a strong impact by going for the Zig-zag. Kane won the match with a chokeslam, but was ambushed by McIntyre. Failing to connect with the Future Shock DDT, McIntyre not only failed to intimidate his opponent, but could not gain the momentum for this Sunday's match. McIntyre has been undefeated since coming to SmackDown, but his reign is dangerously close to ending.

Friday, February 19, 2010

WWE Superstars Results: 2/18/10 - Bourne to Win

Evan Bourne: The Silent Highlight Reel

The veterans Chavo Guerrero and Carlito teamed up against the rookies Evan Bourne and Primo.

Throughout the match, the animosity between the two brothers were eminent, with each trying to get the upper hand on the other. Primo attempted to connect with a missal drop kick from off the top rope but was knocked down by Carlito without the referee's knowledge. Primo would certainly then inflict some much needed punishment with an array of kicks and Carlito's finisher The Backstabber.

Chavo Guerrero, who executed an impressive match, has been underutilized in the WWE for years. In this match, Chavo grounded Evan Bourne with a double wrist-clutch, followed by repeated knee stomps to the chest. As far as I can recall, I have never seen Chavo perform this move. But one person who has utilized this maneuver throughout his career is "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson, or as he will be referred to by his NXT name, Daniel Bryan. Chavo has wrestled against Daniel in dark matches on RAW, so perhaps he has learned a thing or two from the young rookie. Chavo, especially with the Gory Bomb, has never looked more alive in the WWE ring.

There are very few instances when Michael Cole says something worthwhile, but his nickname for Evan Bourne may be on those lists of rarities; "The Highlight Reel" Evan Bourne. I know what you are possibly thinking, wasn't Jeff Hardy considered that, especially when appearing on every highlight reel involving ladders?

Evan Bourne needs a new gimmick if he wishes to survive the WWE, and if he were to take the initiative to wow the audience members, or be charismatic enough to call out his maneuvers, then he would have an interesting gimmick. Jeff Hardy was so successful with the fans because he had no problem accepting high risk-no reward type matches, and would proclaim to the WWE Universe of his dare-devil goals. Evan Bourne would really benefit by improving on his mic skills and hyping up the crowds. Because as of right now, Evan Bourne is a silent highlight reel, he needs to add some high-octane explosions to get the crowd going. And after pinning Chavo Guerrero with a Shooting Star Press, his future could sky rocket, if he just heeds my advice.

Gail Kim and Katie Lea: Solid Match-up

Usually when the RAW Divas hit the ring, I hit the fast forward button; but this match up between Gail Kim and Katie Lea proved of some interest to me.

Gail Kim, obviously a hell of a competitor, has been a cry for concern to the wrestling fans who watched Gail establish herself as a corner stone of the TNA Knockout division. During her first stint in the WWE, Gail Kim feuded with the likes of Trish Stratus, Lita, Jazz, Ivory, and Molly Holly, during a time when women's wrestling meant something. TNA was another feather in her cap, as she elevated even higher to make women's wrestling more enjoyable to watch than TNA's X-Division. But her recent move to the WWE in March of 2009 has not payed off, as she has been forced to compete in tag team matches and is always overlooked in a title match. Even the instant of Mickie James-Gail Kim title match turned into a flop, as Gail botched a maneuver, and Mickie further made matters worse by etching her dislike on her long face.

More recently, Gail Kim, the finalist competing for the vacant Divas' Title this Sunday, has been building momentum these past couple of weeks by defeating WWE's underutilized female wrestlers in Jillian Hall and Katie Lea.

Her match with Katie Lea proved to be a concrete physical match in which these two women avoided the pretty handstands or awkward grapple holds. Katie Lea showing the WWE Universe that she is more than a valet to her "brother" Paul, threw Gail shoulder first into the ring post. She then went to work by Irish-whipping Gail Kim shoulder-first into the turnbuckle, and following up with a side slam backbreaker. Katie Lea was able to avoid Gail's first finisher, but "Ate Defeat" with a second inverted stomp facebreaker.

Maryse, the other finalist for the vacant Divas' Title, hasn't wrestled in quite some time. But she has demonstrated to have respect for her opponent, and wishes to deliver an honest match at this Sunday's Elimination Chamber pay-per-view. The question is, will Maryse become a 2-time Divas' title holder, or will Gail Kim become the third woman to capture both WWE's women's titles?

Rey Mysterio: Illogical Victory

Rey Mysterio has always been the underdog in the WWE, but what if his credibility as a wrestler is becoming a little too hard to conceive? No doubt, Rey Mysterio reached the pinnacle of his Cinderella story at WrestleMania 22, when he captured the World Heavyweight Title in a Triple Threat Match, by pinning a young Randy Orton. Obviously now, Randy Orton has evolved into a super heel and a mulit-time World Champion, so Mysterio pinning Orton would no longer be considered normal, it'd be an upset.

Lately, Mysterio has forfeited his Intercontinental rematch clause, and has set his sights on the World's Title. He defeated Batista in a Cage Match for the right to challenge Undertaker at the Royal Rumble, and almost defeated the Deadman. Mysterio's credibility in those matches were solid, because Mysterio didn't have to pin Batista, only escape a cage; and as for Taker, Mysterio provided consistent offense and attacked the weak spots but he still lost.

Mysterio starts to lose credibility when he supposedly can overpower a 300-pound-plus giant in Mike Knox. Mike Knox of course has an impressive record of the most losses in the WWE, along with the longest beard, but he should not have lost to Mysterio. I understand that Mysterio has the star power, but if you get struck with a 300-pound cross body, logically you should not be able to kick out.

Last week on SmackDown, Mysterio was able to weasel a victory out of C.M. Punk by countering the GTS, but he received ample punishment from the Straightedge Society. That is the true story behind the mask, no one feels that he should have won the World Title four years ago, nor do they feel that he has a shot at defeating The Undertaker. The point of a match against Mike Knox is to showcase Mysterio's resiliency to punishment, and what he offers to the Elimination Chamber. This Sunday, Rey Mysterio doesn't necessarily have to pin Taker to capture the World Title, he just has to eliminate the last man - with the hope that the last man is not The Undertaker.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

ECW Results: 2/15/10 - The Final E-C-DUB

R.I.P ECW 1992-2001, 2005

I'm not going to lie to you and say that ECW ended on February 15, 2010, because this was not ECW. ECW was not a brand, it was a promotion started in Philadelphia in 1992 under the name Eastern Championship Wrestling, until it evolved into what fans knew around the world as Extreme Championship Wrestling. Unlike Eastern-CW, Extreme Championship Wrestling focused on a mature male demographic.

ECW earned its reputation by becoming the true alternative to cartoon wrestling of World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling, by becoming the grittiest, explicitly violent, unedited program on television.

Extreme Championship Wrestling was truly a land of hardcore as it innovated specialty matches, which included Barbed wire match, Flaming Tables match, and Singapore Cane match.

I feel both ECW and my announcing career should have been retired after the ECW One Night Stand pay-per-view in 2005. WWE was classy enough to give everyone who was ever involved with the Original ECW, all of us who worked for the promotion and the rabid fans who made ECW, the closure we all emotionally craved. - Joey Styles

WWE purchased ECW's assets after Paul Heyman filed for bankruptcy and the promotion ended in 2001. WWE used the ECW video library to compile a three-disc DVD: The Rise and Fall of ECW, with a three-hour documentary of the company's history. With the video library and a series of books, interest for the Hardcore promotion was revitalized leading to WWE organizing the One Night Stand pay-per-view in 2005 with ECW Alumni. The success of that pay-per-view is what launched the travesty that was ECW as the third brand of the WWE.

According to Joey Styles, the voice of ECW, One Night Stand in 2005 was the true ending of ECW, and the brand, along with his announcing career, should have ended after that night. However, things don't usually end the way you want them to.

Mr. McMahon revitalized ECW by hiring ECW Alumni to jump start the brand: Tommy Dreamer, Rob Van Dam, Sandman, Sabu, and Balls Mahoney; along with a slew of new superstars: C.M. Punk, Mike Knox, Elijah Burke, Kevin Thorn, Marcus Corvon, Ariel, and Kelly-Kelly.

WWEECW, or EC-DUB, really had no sense of direction as one by one the ECW Originals were released from the WWE. Then on December 29th, Tommy Dreamer wrestled his final match and released himself from his contract; thus ending any ties to the Original ECW.

Without even realizing it, EC-DUB became not a land of extreme, but of opportunity. Wrestlers such as C.M. Punk, Kofi Kingston, and Evan Bourne got their start in EC-DUB, while other superstars drafted there, would return to the major brand with either a new gimmick or new perspective on their career. Hence, why Mr. McMahon and the rest of the WWE had decided to scrap the whole EC-DUB programming to create a newly innovative show with it's sole purpose to creating new stars.

NXT Roster: The Controversy of Daniel Bryan

Next week, WWE will feature the new show NXT where eight pros will mentor eight rookies in a reality-television style programing.

The roster is as follows: Chris Jericho and Wade Barrett; William Regal and Skip Sheffield; Carlito and Michael Tarver; Matt Hardy and Justin Gabriel; Christian and Heath Slater; R-Truth and David Otunga; C.M. Punk and Darren Young; and The Miz and Daniel Bryan.

The rookie that stands out from the pack is Daniel Bryan, or "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson. There is no denying that Daniel Bryan has the most experience out of any NXT Rookie, but he is far from a superstar. Sure, Daniel possess more wrestling ability than probably half of the current WWE roster, yet he needs help to get to the next level.

A lot of people were upset over the announcement that The Miz would be mentoring the American Dragon - because shouldn't it be the other way around? Most of these discrepancies came from wrestling-internet fans who have watched Daniel fight in Japan and ROH; but fighting for a crowd below 900 people is nothing compared to fighting in sold out arenas around the globe, with everyone chanting, buying merch, and a multi-billion dollar company investing money in your development.

When The Miz first arrived in 2006, he wasn't much of a sight. And no way in the history of ever would I have pegged Miz to one day hold the United States and the Unified Tag Team Titles; but he was given that opportunity by developing in EC-DUB alongside Johnny Nitro/John Morrison.
Daniel Bryan has all the talent in the world, but every wrestler has weaknesses. And that's what my job is, to find his weakness and make him the biggest star possible. - The Miz
No wrestler is born with the total "superstar" package, and Daniel Bryan's flaw is his mic skills and lack of charisma. NXT will be a great opportunity for not only the rookies, but for the pros to impart their wisdom and contribute to the growth of the WWE.

Final EC-DUB Title Match: Extreme Rules (Sorta)

Christian acknowledged the ECW Originals, working with Tommy Dreamer, mentoring Yoshi Tatsu, and what EC-DUB meant for him. I certainly felt that Christian should have made a bigger impact on his return to the WWE, and that EC-DUB was a demotion. But Christian didn't see it that way, he say it as his home. Possibly because for the past year, EC-DUB became his personal Peep Show.

Christian accepted Ezekiel Jackson's challenge for the ECW Title, and added, on his own accord, to defend it under Extreme Rules. Yet, the extremeness of a WWE Extreme Rules match is considered a paper cut to the ECW Originals who bled, stabbed, pierced, broke, and burned their bodies every night to make those three letters mean something. Christian arrived with Singapore canes, a trash can, and a shopping cart to set the overall tone of the match. Ezekiel brought his own weapon, a cunning manager in William Regal.

Zack Ryder, who felt should have been a part of the final match on EC-DUB, interfered with the match, but ended up getting flap jacked into the trash can and thrown - face first - over the ropes. Rosa Mendes slapped Christian - and what would have been ECW of him to strike a woman, allowed for a nice treat - then, after tonight, former-ECW GM Tiffany came running down the ramp and speared Rosa Mendes. Both Rosa and Tiffany have trained in FCW, and after this scene, not only is Tiffany beautiful, she is deadly.

The numbers game became too much for Christian, as he fended off William Regal with a Killswitch, only to be thrown back first through a table and covered by Ezekiel Jackson. After holding the title since Night of Champions - defeating Tommy Dreamer for the strap - Christian's reign of ECW Champion ended, and the title of Final ECW Champion went to Ezekiel Jackson.

Obviously, the title change means absolutely nothing because the title has now become defunct. The ECW Title joins the list of other defunct titles: Cruiserweight, Hardcore, Light Heavyweight, European, ECW Tag Team, ECW Television, and the WCW Championship.

In the hearts of the ECW fans, ECW either died in 2001 when it went bankrupt, or in 2005, when WWE provided fans with the closure it desperately deserved. However, let it be known that WWE bought out both WCW and ECW, and while the WCW Title was laid to rest when it was converted into the World Heavyweight Title in 2002, today marks the end of ECW's title history with Ezekiel Jackson, "The end has come, it has awakened, against you."

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

RAW Results: 2/15/10

RAW's Elimination Entries: Who Holds the Momentum?

Last week, Carl Edwards assigned three main-events to take place this week: Randy Orton vs. Sheamus; Kofi Kingston vs. Ted DiBiase Jr.; and John Cena vs. Triple-H. Much like last week on SmackDown, these matches pitted the entrants of the Elimination Chamber in singles competition. But who has the most momentum going for them this Sunday?

Randy Orton versus Sheamus

This Sunday Sheamus will have to defend the WWE Title inside the Elimination Chamber against five other guys. Announcers have stated that defeating John Cena for the WWE Title and winning against Randy Orton at The Royal Rumble were tests of his ability to lead the company. However, Sheamus will undergo his true test, not only as a superstar but as a champion, in a title defense where he cannot escape via count-out or disqualification.

Randy Orton, on the other hand, has been trying to regain the WWE Championship, but Legacy seems to always get in the way. Sheamus won the match again via disqualifications thanks to Cody Rhodes.

Legacy tried apologizing, but Orton struck Cody with an RKO, while Sheamus bicycle kicked DiBiase in the face. Then Orton struck the WWE Champion with another RKO.

As of this point, Orton is carrying the momentum.

Ted DiBiase Jr. versus Kofi Kingston

Ted DiBiase and Kofi Kingston have a profound opportunity to capture the World Title at an early stage in their career. The feat may seem far-fetched, but Sheamus lasted no more than 6 months before scoring the WWE Title.

Kofi was actually suppose to partake in the Elimination Chamber last year, but was ambushed by a frustrated Edge who had lost the WWE Title in an earlier chamber match. Despite his recent push back in November, the momentum has faded from Kofi Kingston.

Ted DiBiase, fighting at half speed after being kicked in the face by Sheamus, managed to pick up the victory. He evaded a high flying move from Kingston and locked in Dream Street.

DiBiase, despite being struck in the face by the champion, proves his resiliency by taking down Kofi Kingston in a clean victory.

Triple-H versus John Cena

It was been said that this was a WrestleMania worthy main event. Yes, we get that seeing as Triple-H tapped out to Cena at WM22. Then Triple-H retained his title against Cena at Night of Champions '08. And again, Triple-H defeated Cena the RAW prior to Bragging Rights. These two have faced each other so many times that the hype is gone.

John Cena is probably one of the most limited superstars on the roster when it comes to technique, but the robotic maneuvers of Triple-H are no better. Whenever Triple-H gets Irish-whipped to the ropes, he hooks his arm to fling himself over. It is one of H's weakest selling points.

My prediction on the finish was for either Michaels or Batista to interfere; yet, it was Sheamus who threw his WWE Title in the ring, and delivered a bicycle kick to Triple-H in a middle of a Pedigree set up. Cena attempted to out maneuver Sheamus, but was also knocked down. And for the exclamation point, Sheamus hoisted H is the air and executed The Celtic Cross.

The three riding the wave of momentum are Orton, DiBiase, and Sheamus. I'm actually disappointed with how these past two weeks played out. Why are these six competitors chosen to seal their fate inside an Elimination Chamber, what are their connections to one another? Where are the speeches, the animosity?

Simply stated: Three weeks was not enough to choose entries and establish a meaningful build-up. And Elimination Chamber, another themed pay-per-view (occurring for it's third year), serves only one purpose: to establish the champions heading to WrestleMania.

Mr. Ballin' Came to Play

Last week, ShoMiz became the new Unified Tag Team Champions, defeating D-X. Yet, with a no.1 contender's match taking place last week on ECW, has D-X forfeited their rematch clause?

Before their title match on the final episode of ECW, ShoMiz had to deal with The World's Strongest Tag Team. Why in the world did MVP and Mark Henry reunite? Their tag team days were dead and buried for months, but for some reason they came together to score an upset on ShoMiz.

Now that The Miz holds both the United States and Unified Tag Team Titles, MVP has found the one person to grant him what he desperately wants... a chance to relive the height of his career in 2007.

Jerry Springer Segment: A Giant Waste of Time

Need I say more? Really? Okay... WWE is Rated-PG, and Kelly-Kelly announces that not only is she pregnant, she is unsure of who the father is. List of candidates that could've dipped their pen in the company's ink: Santino Marella, Chris Masters, The Great Khali, Michael Cole, Jerry "The King" Lawler, and Hornswoggle. Then of course The Bellas reveal that Brie is actually a man. And then Eve Torres, really badly, portrays the jealous girlfriend of Chris Masters and gets into a fight with Kelly-Kelly.

This was revealed to be a set-up. Yes, we understand that wrestling is fake, but we are not stupid. It was actually intended to reveal Springer's love interest, Mae Young. Just like Ranjin Singh stated: This was a giant waste of time.

Brutally Tacky: Bret Hart Accident

The fact that Bret Hart has nothing new to say means that he has over stayed his welcome. Either have the match at WrestleMania or don't. And seeing as Mr. McMahon already declined Bret's offer to a WrestleMania match, and took back his nomination for inducting Stu Hart into this year's Hall of Fame, Bret really has nothing left to do with WWE. It was all very anti-climatic.

And when did John Cena become his best friend? John Cena wasn't even present on the historic night (Jan. 4th) when he came back. But yet he is the only one defending Bret against McMahon, and Batista apparently.

Then backstage, Bret Hart being greeted by the mid-carders. Is he suppose to be inspiring the next generation of superstars that if they reach their dreams, they can be humilated into a broken down old man?

Finally, the greatest travisty was having Bret Hart hit by a car. Who in the world reverses into a parked limo in an underground parking lot? The woman was revealed to be Mrs. Hickenbottom (Shawn's wife). Is Shawn Michaels executing McMahon's dirty work, by taking out Bret in order to get his shot against The Undertaker's Streak?

This car angle was probably a bigger lack of creativity than the Jerry Springer segment. I was looking forward to a Bret-McMahon WrestleMania bout, to bring closure to the whole thing, even if it was a street fight. But so help me, if it turns into a McMahon-Trump match and we end up watching Cena-Batista in their places...

Saturday, February 13, 2010

SmackDown Results: 2/12/10

Elimination Fury

C.M. Punk versus Rey Mysterio

Rumors are going around that C.M. Punk will be taking on Mysterio in a hair versus mask match at WrestleMania. It's no secret that Mysterio dropped the I-C Title because of his suspension, so a Jeff Hardy-like storyline can play itself out into a WrestleMania match.

This was the best match of the night, as Mysterio and C.M. Punk went at it with high-risk versus Muy Thai offense. Both of these men will be competing inside the Elimination Chamber, and both are former World Champions. C.M. Punk, a three-time champion, is looking to have a fourth-reign and continue to rule the WWE as it's savior. And inside the Chamber, Rey Mysterio will be an underdog more than ever. His high flying offense may be limited, as he really will have no where to go, as each turnbuckle will rest in front of a pod with a cased opponent.

Mysterio attempted the 619 on several points in the match, but C.M. Punk had managed to escape each one. Yet, C.M. Punk set up for the GTS was countered by Mysterio into a pinning combination.

Mysterio certainly may appear to have all the momentum, but after a beat down from the Straightedge Society, C.M. Punk may have the greater momentum.

John Morrison versus R-Truth

John Morrison and R-Truth have teamed up in the ring before, and Truth has even appeared on Morrison's WWE.com web show "The Palace of Wisdom" as "Delicious" Pretty Ricky. So these two are definitely friends in and out of the ring, but on February 21st, these two will have to put their friendship aside to contend for the World Heavyweight Title inside the Elimination Chamber.

Yet, this match was no more than two minutes old when Morrison sprained his ankle and was unable to compete. Truth could have made matters worse and started attacking the ankle, to further injure Morrison, but instead he saw to it that he was alright. The announcers focused on R-Truth's sportsmanship rather than Morrison's potential injury.

Is John Morrison going to make it to the Elimination Chamber in time? Or will his spot be reserved for Shawn Michaels?

I personally prefer that Morrison does not participate inside a career shortening stipulation, especially with the unlikelihood that creative will place the title on Morrison. The two men who are primed to capture the title are Chris Jericho, and, if he takes Morrison's spot, Shawn Michaels.

Chris Jericho versus The Undertaker [No Disqualification Match]

It has been a dream match of mine to see Chris Jericho take on The Undertaker at WrestleMania, but that does not look like the path WWE is going with. Currently, Taker's potential opponents are Shawn Michaels or Edge. At one point, people assumed that John Cena would challenge Taker, as it was teased when RAW went to MSG. Regardless of who faces Taker at 'Mania, Chris Jericho has had his fair shots at the Demon of Death Valley.

Chris Jericho believes to be an entity within the WWE, but Taker has long established himself as the Phenom of the industry. Taker did a great job as always dominating the match. At times, he was dragging Jericho around like a rag doll. This was especially emanate when Taker tossed Jericho in Edge's direction, who was doing commentary.

Edge managed to step out of the way, but suffered a boot to the face by the Undertaker. When Taker got back into the ring, he struck with The Last Ride, and looked to win the match, but Edge speared him. Jericho then struck with the Code Breaker to win the match. Taker remained strong as he dominated Jericho for most of the match, but the match was fought under no disqualification so Edge's interference was legal.

After tonight, all, except Morrison and R-Truth, have built momentum going into the Elimination Chamber. You would think that the two non-World titlist would try to build as much momentum as possible.

Women's Feud Not Over

After an altercation backstage, Vickie Guerrero forced Women's Champion, Mickie James, into a handicap match against Lay-Cool. The match was initially a one-on-one against Layla, but Vickie, covered in cottage cheese, saw it fit to make Mickie suffer.

I actually thought that Vickie would strip Mickie of the title, but luckily it did not go in that direction. Mickie sadly lost the match, as she was struck with McCool's Faith Breaker. I am still hoping for a Mickie James-Beth Phoenix build up for WrestleMania, but McCool is still entitled to her rematch.

New Threat to Intercontinental Title

Last week, Drew McIntyre almost picked up the victory in the Triple-Threat Qualifying match, by striking Kane with the Future Shock. This of course has rolled over to this week as Kane wants retribution and a shot at McIntyre's I-C Title.

McIntyre feels that he has nothing to prove to Kane, but the Big Red Monster seems to differ. The two ended up having a match which led to a double count-out outside of the ring. And according to WWE.com, an Intercontinental Title Match has been added: Drew McIntyre will defend against Kane.

By the way, what was with McIntyre's entrance theme? Apparently WWE were testing out a new theme, but it's too slow to match his intensity.

Maria Involved with a WWE Superstar, Again

Maria has "managed" the likes of Santino Marella and Dolph Ziggler, of course never adding or advancing in their careers. Maria has always been considered a pretty face, and adds appeal to the superstar she manages. She has now set her sights on a career-plummeting Matt Hardy. There are no signs that they are dating on-screen, but Matt Hardy called her his "Special Valentine" and friend.

The Team of Matt Hardy and Khali took on The Hart Dynasty again, this time, Maria was ringside. Natalya attempted to interfere with the match, but Maria swopped in and started attacking her. The lack of interference allowed Matt Hardy to strike a victory with a roll up on Tyson Kidd.

Hardy and Khali have been recently picking up victories over The Hart Dynasty, but things seem a bit brighter now that Maria Kanellis is on board. Let's just hope Khali or Hardy don't turn heel over Khali putting his Punjabi Playboy moves on the 2008 Playboy Cover Girl.