WWEStrikesBack!

WWEStrikesBack has found a new Blog home!

2010-06-25T13:10:00.003-04:00

For those of you who are still coming to this page and have not been given the memo - I do apologize. WWEStrikesBack! has found a new home under a different name.

As a writer and a wrestling fan, I was unhappy with this blog. I felt like I was just repeating nonsense that could be read anywhere else. So I decided to start fresh. Much like when wrestlers move to a different brand or promotion.

This new home is hosted by wordpress.com. You might have heard of it. The site is called "The Wrestling Times." Click here.

This new site will expand wrestling not just in WWE. I will take some time to talk about WWE, TNA and whenever I'm fortunate - Wrestling DVDs, ROH, ChickFight, Shimmer. And any other indie stuff thrown my way. The indie stuff I have to warn you will not be up to date. Since most indie stuff are recorded strictly for DVD sales. And I simply do not have the money or the brain cells to kill in watching everything. Much like WWEStrikesBack! - The Wrestling Times is a solo project. It is my passion to write, especially about wrestling.

What about Twitter? You may ask? Well, I still have the same twitter account @WWEStrikesBack

And I've currently broken the 500 follower mark, and listed by more than 30 users. So I feel confident that you guys actually care about what I have to say.

So for those of you who have followed me. I thank you. But the good times do not have to end. Because I've just moved the wrestling party over to a new place. You now have the option on wordpress.com to subscribe to my blog and get up to the second! updates whenever I post something on my blog. And you can read the entire post straight from your phone. (Data charges may apply) seeing as you need a data plan to receive e-mails. And you will be able to comment on my posts directly from the e-mails. So this is me moving on to bigger and better things. I've recently went to the Fatal 4-Way PPV and posted 3 awesome posts of my experience at the show. If you followed me on twitter, I posted a photo of my awesome view, right behind the time keeper. So yeah. Check out the new home and continue to follow and believe in me on twitter.

New home: The Wrestling Times
Same twitter: @WWEStrikesBack

SmackDown Results: 4/2/10 - SmackDown Gets Swag!

2010-04-03T11:41:00.013-04:00

Chris Jericho No Longer Champion, Bank on That!

Similar to two years ago when Edge lost the World Heavyweight title to C.M. Punk, after Batista assaulted Edge which prompted Punk to cash in his Money in the Bank contract and defeat Edge to win the title, Jack Swagger cashed in his briefcase on Chris Jericho, who had just been assaulted by Edge. Seems like karma is coming back to Edge tenfold as he was dubbed the Ultimate Opportunist for cashing in the first-ever Money in the Bank contract against John Cena after he had retained the title inside an Elimination Chamber back in 2006 at New Year's Revolution; and again on The Undertaker in 2007 who had just retained his title in a Steel Cage Match on SmackDown. Edge lost his title match to Chris Jericho at WrestleMania after a blatant shot to the head with the World Heavyweight Title, but Edge received retribution when he speared Chris Jericho off of the announce table and into the time keeper's barricade. Being denied of a rematch on SmackDown, Edge rushed Jericho with the Edgecution followed by a Spear! Jack Swagger than used the opportunity to strike Edge with the briefcase, cashed in his Money in the Bank contract, and connected with the Gutwrench powerbomb for his first World Heavyweight Championship.

Jack Swagger became the ECW Champion on January 12, 2009 by defeating Matt Hardy for the strap, and now more than a year removed, Jack Swagger won the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania and cashed it in just five days later to become the World Heavyweight Champion. Swagger was always meant for greatness, but his switch over to RAW and constant jobbing to Santino Marella has hurt his credibility as the Champion. But much like Edge and C.M. Punk who cashed in their first Money in the Bank contracts when they weren't ready, over time they became credible World Champions. If this reign is anything like we saw in ECW, SmackDown is in for a rush of intense physical match ups and successful title retentions.

It's About Tyme Cryme Tyme Split
R-Truth and John Morrison vs. Cryme Tyme

After losing against R-Truth and John Morrison, in which Shad Gaspard never had the chance to tag in his partner, Gaspard assaulted JTG. Cryme Tyme have been teaming, stealing, and tugging together for four years, but another loss and zero tag team titles later, Shad has had enough.

With a big boot to the face followed by an STO on JTG, Shad Gaspard has proclaimed that there is no more Cryme Tyme, but only "My Time." Realistically, Cryme Tyme has never been a formidable tag team, never accomplished any goals, and has jobbed to everyone in the business. In late 2009, WWE had given individual attention to JTG who scored an upset over Chris Jericho. It is a surprise that now Shad Gaspard is getting the push towards a singles career. Will we see a match between these two former tag team partners, or will JTG slowly be forgotten?

Matt Hardy's WWE Future Shock
Drew McIntyre vs. Matt Hardy

This match up between Matt Hardy and Drew McIntyre cannot even be considered a squash match because it never started. McIntyre attacked Matt Hardy prior to entering the ring and struck with the Future Shock DDT. A few weeks ago, Matt Hardy delivered Drew's second "first loss" to qualify for Money in the Bank. Yet, with another WrestleMania set in the record books, Drew McIntyre went back to doing what he was known for, dominating his opponents. As for Matt Hardy, the heart and soul of the WWE, he was seconds away from becoming this year's Mr. Money in the Bank. And while the out pour of cheers for the possible culmination of a twelve year long journey was strong within the University of Phoenix Stadium, Matt Hardy did not win. Then for WWE to place Matt Hardy in this job boggles the mind. The fans want Matt Hardy to reach the mountain top, why would the powers that be within the WWE keep throwing Matt back in a jobbing position?

Back to India The Great Khali Goes
Dolph Ziggler vs. The Great Khali

In another squash match (becoming a regular thing), Dolph Ziggler picked his spots and locked in the sleeper hold on The Great Khali. The Punjabi Playboy was able to throw Ziggler off, but was susceptible to a second sleeper. Unable to break the hold, Khali was unable to continue and lost the match via submission. Afterwards, Khali informed the WWE Universe that he would be returning back to India to spend time with family and recharge his batteries. In other words, either his visa has expired, or his leave of absence from the Punjabi police force is long over due.

C.M. Punk's Hairy Proposal

C.M. Punk lost to Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania, thus losing a new recruit to the Straightedge Society. The leader of the Straightedge Society has requested a rematch, and if Punk loses to Mysterio again, he is willing to part with his hair. Much like the sacredness of a Samuari's top knot, Punk's hair is a symbol of his leadership status within the Straightedge Society because he has never been tainted with drugs or alcohol. Punk's offer is to show Mysterio that he actually cares about saving his soul. But do not let the offering fool anyone, because behind those eyes of C.M. Punk lies hatred towards a world filled with drugs and alcohol. C.M. Punk may look like the anti-Christ, but his dream of a non-hallucinogen society has some merit; however, his approach of the ends justify the means disregards the law of free will.

A Glam Slam Victory
Beth Phoenix and Tiffany vs. Michelle McCool and Layla w/Vickie Guerrero

Beth Phoenix was not able to lead her team to victory at WrestleMania, but on SmackDown she proved once again why she is the most dominate diva in all the WWE. She once again teamed up with Tiffany against Women's Champion Michelle McCool and Layla. Tiffany continued to improve on her in-ring skill set as she tripped McCool with a drop down toe-hold and connected with an Inverted Atomic Drop. But it was Beth Phoenix who dominated Layla with an airplane spin, clotheslines, and The Glam Slam. Vickie Guerrero may not want to give Beth Phoenix a title shot, but eventually Vickie will be forced to place McCool in a title match.

Kane's NEXT victims
Kane vs. All 8 NXT Rookies

Kane growing bored and frustrated with the amounting losses announced that he would take on his frustration against the entire NXT roster. After the pros had their first poll to rank the NXT rookies, it has been announced that in six weeks, the rookie that reaches last place will be eliminated from the NXT competition. So for this match to feature all the NXT rookies is a major treat, because only one will make it into the WWE, while the other 7 will be sent back to FCW or out of WWE.

Kane started out the match with Daniel Bryan, who ranked #1 in the polls despite his 0-5 loss record prior to voting. Daniel Bryan may be the best wrestler, but when it comes to the Big Red Monster Kane, 10 years in the indies cannot prepare you for that encounter. Wade Barret, ranking in 2nd place and mentored by the now-former World Heavyweight Champion, was the first to be eliminated by Kane. Heath Slater, undefeated on NXT, became Kane's next victim as he was eliminated. The match ended in disqualification as the remaining 6 rookies ambushed Kane, thus disregarding the tag-in rule. Then in order to make an impact, Daniel Bryan went air born with a double kick to the face of Kane, followed by Justin Gabriel who struck with the 450 Splash.

The World Heavyweight Champion's Inaugural Address

The new World Heavyweight Champion, Jack Swagger, addressed the WWE Universe and proclaimed that his World Title win was a sign of him succeeding Shawn Michaels as the company's greatest wrestler. Jack Swagger does have the makings of becoming a dominate World Champion, it is however sad that it took a World Title to elevate his status, when his wrestling and power speaks for itself.

Chris Jericho and Edge argued on who should take on Jack Swagger, seeing as Jericho is injured and unable to use his rematch and Edge does not have a rematch. Teddy Long, possibly the worst GM in the WWE, is giving Chris Jericho, an injured man, a hard time of not wanting to use his rematch. Yet, he allows Michelle McCool to not defend her title well past the 30 day mark. If Batista can utilize his rematch when he feels the time is right, Chris Jericho should be allowed until the next pay-per-view to contend for Swagger's title.

Afterwards, Teddy Long has announced that next week, Chris Jericho and Edge will face each other for a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. Then Chris Jericho struck Edge with the Codebreaker, but was doubled in pain from his existing injury. Jack Swagger entered the ring and delivered Gutwrench powerbombs to both Chris Jericho and Edge. Love him or hate him, Jack Swagger is the World Heavyweight Champion.

WWE Superstars Results: 4/1/10 - Legends' Influence on today's WWE stars

2010-04-02T11:45:00.010-04:00

The People's Champ, MVP?
MVP and Kofi Kingston vs. Zack Ryder and Carlito w/Michael Tarver

Coming out of an explosive week from WrestleMania, MVP and Kofi Kingston, who participated in this year's Money in the Bank, teamed up to take on Zack Ryder and Carlito. Either MVP or Kofi Kingston would have done well with the momentum of being Mr. MitB, but that honor has been given to Jack Swagger, who attempted to use it on John Cena before he got the upper hand. MVP, despite recent raves of him trying to relieve the glory days of '07, has gone over with the fans and is a true candidate to become the next face of the company. Kofi, on the other hand, is exciting to watch but his lack of mic skills and loss of identity hurts him for the running. If Kofi is not Jamaican, then why does he continue to act the same way?

At the start of the match, Michael Tarver, Carlito's NXT Rookie, seemed to have a few choice words with MVP as they started trading shoves on the outside. Tarver, who is mainly there to be an observer, may have been trying to make a name for himself after the poor ranking he received on NXT, 7th out of 8 places.

As for the other team, Zack Ryder is peeved for getting squashed by MVP as he missed out on being a part of the Money in the Bank Ladder match. And for the lack of Rosa Mendes' support as she failed to accompany him at the start of his entrance. However, Rosa being in a hot tub with the stars of The Hot Tub Time Machine on RAW may have escalated into a fight between the two. In regards to his partner for the match, Carlito has had his share of girlfriends that always went south, the last being Playboy Model and former WWE Diva, Torrie Wilson.

Aside from the incident with Tarver and MVP, the match mainly focused on MVP's eminent rise of super stardom. MVP has similar traits to The Rock from his charisma to rallying the crowds for the Ballin' Elbow Drop, much like people cheered for The People's Elbow. MVP started his career with "MVP Sucks!" much like The Rock had "Die Rocky, Die!" Though sad that MVP did not win Money in the Bank, it has yet to be used in an honest way, and when MVP becomes World Champion it will be done the right way.

The match ended with Kofi Kingston connecting with the Trouble in Paradise Kick to Carlito, after MVP knocked out Zack Ryder with the Drive-By Kick.

Yoshi Tatsu eliminating former ECW rivals
Yoshi Tatsu vs. William Regal w/Skip Sheffield

Yoshi Tatsu had his own WrestleMania moment this past Sunday by winning a 26 Over-the-top Battle Royal prior to WrestleMania going on the air. He won the Battle Royal by last eliminating former ECW rival Zack Ryder. In this match, Zack Ryder took on another former ECW rival, the 2008 King of the Ring winner, William Regal. Alongside Regal was his NXT rookie, Skip Sheffield, who he could not be more disappointed in after ranking in 6th place.

Despite an impressive Regal Stretch, the match ended with Yoshi Tatsu striking with two Roundhouse Kicks to the back and head of William Regal for the three count.

According to Michael Cole, Yoshi Tatsu got to talk to 2010 WWE Hall of Famer Antonio Inoki, the founder of New Japan Pro Wrestling, a two-time WWWF/WWF World Martial Arts Heavyweight Champion, and a one-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion. After meeting one of his heroes, Tatsu went on to win the Battle Royal at WrestleMania. Inoki possibly provided Tatus with some inspirational stories and advice on succeeding in the business.

The Hart Dynasty - The Team to Watch
The Hart Dynasty vs. The Dudebusters

Who in the blue hell are Caylen Croft and Trent Barreta? Prior to the demise of the ECW, Croft and Barreta were two new superstars added into an unofficial third superstar initiative to offset the loss of Sheamus leaving for RAW. Going through several changes from circus music, to video gamers, it appears they have settled on "The Dudebusters." Really? Is that the best that Croft and Barreta can come up with? Instead of being drafted over to SmackDown following the end of ECW, Croft and Barreta should have been sent back to FCW or have competed on NXT because they clearly need more training.

In the most impressive switch, the Hart Dynasty are now bonafide fan favorites. How did this occur? Just last week on WWE Superstars, Tyson Kidd fought in an impeccable main-event against Rey Mysterio. However, it did not start there seeing as a little boy shouted out "Tyson, you suck!" during mid-match. The Hart Dynasty were left out of this year's WrestleMania as they failed to win a Triple-Threat Qualifying match to contend for ShoMiz's Unified Tag Team Titles. But the surprise came when The Hart Dynasty, along with other members of the Hart family, were named lumberjacks for Bret's No Hold's Barred Match against Mr. McMahon. The Hart Dynasty helped out a troubled Bret Hart on how to conduct more punishment to the Chairman of WWE. Then on RAW, Bret Hart issued a challenge to ShoMiz to take on The Hart Dynasty in a non-title match. Even though it was won via a count-out, The Hart Dynasty have certainly turn heads and the mind-set of the WWE Universe. Many believed that Bret Hart would be spending most of his stint managing the Hart Dynasty, but Bret only needed to endorse them once in a major way to put them on the map.

The match was a fantastic display on why the Hart Dynasty are the team to watch. While Croft and Barreta were impressive in cutting off the ring, the quickness of Tyson Kidd offset that of a potential double team effort. The final graduate of the infamous Hart Dungeon, Tyson Kidd has proven in his mat work why he is the best in-ring technician that the WWE has. The son of "The British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith, David Hart Smith is a brawler much like his father. His shoulder tackles along with his impressive array of suplexes really provides an interesting fortitude for the Hart Dynasty. Trent Barreta was unable to bring down Smith with a flying neckbreaker because Smith managed to tag in Tyson Kidd to perform The Hart Attack. The match ended in a submission victory after Tyson Kidd slapped on the Sharp Shooter to Trent Barreta, while David Hart Smith kept Caylen Croft from breaking the hold with a big boot to the face.

NXT Results: 3/30/10 - Charisma over Wrestling?

2010-03-31T11:42:00.010-04:00

The American Dragon is #1

In WWE NXT's 6th week of competition, NXT host Matt Striker finally revealed the purpose of NXT. The winner of the NXT competition will not only become the next breakout star, but the winner will receive a title opportunity against the champion of their choice at a pay-per-view event. Now the reason that Matt Striker informed the WWE Universe is because the pros had casted their first official vote weighing in on Win/Loss record; Strength of opponent; Work Ethic; and the "It" factor. These are the results of the 1st Pros Poll:

8th Darren Young
7th Michael Tarver
6th Skip Sheffield
5th David Otunga
4th Heath Slater
3rd Justin Gabriel
2nd Wade Barrett
1st Daniel Bryan

In six weeks another poll will be conducted, and this time if a rookie is ranked last they will be eliminated from competition. And each week after that a rookie will continue to be eliminated until there are only four remaining. Unsure what the final four will be doing, but we will find out as NXT marches on.

Darren Young, who's dead last on the Pros' Poll, has had a tough time trying to make an impact due to the lack direction from his mentor, C.M. Punk. Daniel Bryan, despite his 0-5 loss record, is #1 on the Pros' Poll obviously due to his tremendous work ethic and strength of opponents, including matches against World Champion Chris Jericho and former World Champion The Great Khali. However, The American Dragon noted Michael Cole for his disparaging remarks on his 10-year indy wrestling career; and mocked a certain "A-lister" for his lack of wrestling ability, despite having "charisma." In the realm of the WWE, charisma tends to be more important than wrestling ability (just look at John Cena and Batista). A feud between David Otunga and Daniel Bryan could be the defining feud between the art of pro-wrassling and sports entertainment.

The Majestic Eagle is the Best in the World, thanks to Jericho!
Pros SmackDown vs RAW 8-Man Tag Team Match

Advertised for the 6th installment of NXT was a SmackDown vs. RAW Pros 8-Man tag team match, followed by an 8 Rookie Battle Royal where the winner will host the following Monday Night RAW.

Representing RAW were Christian, William Regal, Carlito, and The Miz, and representing SmackDown were R-Truth, C.M. Punk, Matt Hardy, and Wade Barrett? After Chris Jericho successfully defended his World Title against Edge at WrestleMania, Edge speared Jericho off of the announce table and into the time keeper's barricade. Chris Jericho, despite still being the World Heavyweight Champion, was unable to compete and allotted his NXT Rookie, Wade Barrett, his spot in the match. Chris Jericho revealed later on as he commented alongside Michael Cole and Josh Matthews that it was part of his strategy to allow Barret to gain experience and momentum within the NXT competition.

Chris Jericho did a phenomenal job commentating, as he was unbiased towards everyone in the ring, paying each of them their dues. The WWE Universe loves Matt Hardy because of his drive to rise to the top of the WWE; R-Truth's quickness and agility with various drop and flying kicks makes him entertaining to watch, including the fact that he tried bumping off everyone on the RAW side (friend or foe) in order to avoid a possible pin-cover break; despite the talks of S.E.S., C.M. Punk is a great wrestler seeing as Jericho and him have has battles in the past; William Regal showed mutual respect towards his countrymen, Wade Barret, but refused to fight him, which he did not respect him fully enough to compete against him; The Miz has done alright for himself in obtaining various championships, but his wrestling experience is less than his NXT rookie Daniel Bryan; and as for Carlito, he maintained good offense by wearing down R-Truth and Matt Hardy.

The ending moments of the match came about when Wade Barret broke Christian's cover over C.M. Punk which broke into a melee of finishers and high risk maneuvers from the other pros. Wade Barrett then tagged himself in, which, prompted by the distraction from Chris Jericho, was able to toss Christian with his modified fireman's carry slam. If there was any doubt that Wade Barrett could become the next breakout star, he pinned Christian within this all Pros tag team match. Chris Jericho is the best in the world at what he does, whether its wrestling, commentating, or mentoring the next WWE Superstar.

The A-Lister to Host Monday Night RAW
8-Rookie Battle Royal: Winner hosts Monday Night RAW

The 8-Rookie Battle Royal determined a quick winner within David Otunga, but the methods of these NXT Rookies were, well, rookie mistakes. Due to amazing victory just moments ago, the other 7 Rookies first eliminated Wade Barrett. Michael Tarver was soon eliminated during commercial break; and soon there after, Skip Sheffield tried charging through Darren Young, but was instead tossed over the ropes. Young attempted a high aerial maneuver but was knocked off and eliminated by Daniel Bryan. Heath Slater charged and knocked over and eliminated Daniel Bryan, while also eliminating himself.

The match came down to Justin Gabriel and David Otunga. Aside from NXT, Justin Gabriel has been training and receiving instruction by both Matt and Jeff Hardy. The Hardys are very fond of Justin and believe that he will become the next break out star. However, Justin Gabriel's disadvantage came down to his size and wrestling style. Instead of strategizing how to knock over Otunga from the top rope, Gabriel found it best to execute the 450 Splash. Then he attempted to pick up the dead weight of Otunga and roll him over the top rope. If Justin wants to know how to win a Battle Royal, especially at his size and strength, he should look at tapes of Shawn Michaels and how he did it. David Otunga overpowered Justin Gabriel and won the match. So this Monday Night, David Otunga hosts Monday Night RAW.

RAW Results: 3/29/10 - No Go for Jack Swagger

2010-03-30T11:43:00.005-04:00

The Champ is Here, or is He?

Many moments were made at WrestleMania, the start of a career and the ending of one, but the culmination of the face of the company came down to John Cena tapping out Batista. Two years ago at Summerslam, Batista defeated John Cena in a one-on-one match; yet, Batista has based this whole WrestleMania title defense on that one match. Batista kept saying that John Cena has never defeated him, yet it was only one match. John Cena, the new WWE Champion yet again, presented Batista with a rematch for the WWE Championship. However, John Cena knowing full well that Batista will decline the opportunity for another night, narrorates to the WWE Universe on Batista's next move. This whole John Cena being the champ thing is a drag and we know, and John Cena knows it, that the following day it is usually the same thing over and over again. Why must we be tortured of seeing these things again?

Or is it the same? Jack Swagger, this year's Mr. Money in the Bank, attacked John Cena with the briefcase and called for a referee to cash in for the WWE Championship. Then again, John Cena managed to shake it off and almost caught Swagger in the STF, but Swagger escaped and declined his cashing in. If Swagger were to have cashed in and tapped out, it would have been the biggest waste of a Money in the Bank contract in history; in addition, it would have been the first time that a Money in the Bank contract did not yield a champion.

WWE Going Back in Time
Christian vs. Ted DiBiase - 80's Lumberjack Match

By order of the stars of the Hot Tub Time Machine (who travel back in time to the 80's), issued that the first match be contested under Lumberjack rules. And because the stars go back in time to the 80's, the lumberjacks are all legends from the 80's: "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, Irwin R. Schyster, Pat Patterson, Nick Bockwinkel, Arn Anderson, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Sgt. Slaughter, Tony Garea, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, and Jerry "The King" Lawler.

The Lumberjack match was between Christian and Ted DiBiase Jr.,. Neither men accomplished their goals at WrestleMania, but this is a RAW to remember because it is Shawn Michael's farewell to the WWE Universe. So if there was ever a time to make an impact it would be on this night. The two traded blows but after both Christian and DiBiase went over the ropes that's when the lumberjacks started trading blows to one another. You can that the wrestler out of the fight, but you cannot take the fight out of the wrestler. Christian capitalized on the distraction with a Killswitch to win the match.

10-Diva WrestleMania Rematch

At WrestleMania, Vickie Guerrero paid tribute to her late husband with the Frog Splash, or Bullfrog splash to win the match. However, this rematch lasted only 3 seconds, exactly the amount of time it takes to cover an opponent as Eve Torres scooped the Divas' Champion Maryse for the 1-2-3. And if that were not pointless enough, the divas "brawled" at the conclusion of the match, with the babyfaces on top.

Miz has Gold, but no Hart
ShoMiz vs. The Hart Dynasty (Non-title)

Bret Hart congratulates Shawn Michaels on the end of his storybook career. He admits that Shawn Michaels is the best wrestler of all time, and coming from "The Hitman" that means something. He thanks his mother, father, brother Owen, and D.B. Smith from Heaven for giving him the strength to return back to the WWE in order to find closure to the Montreal Screw job.

Leave it to the ShoMiz to ruin a fond farewell of the Hitman as The Miz mocks Bret Hart for winning his glorified 25-on-1 match against Vince McMahon. Win one match at WrestleMania and The Miz gets a swelled head. But you have to admire the heel streak of The Miz from mocking JBL a few months ago in a promo, to mocking Bret Hart. And Miz is right in stating that Bret Hart is overrated. The WrestleMania match between Bret and Vince was one of the worst worked matches in recent history. So when it came time to knock Bret Hart out of the ring, The Hart Dynasty provided back up.

Ever since helping Bret Hart out at WrestleMania which saw a Hart Attack utilized on Vince McMahon, The Hart Dynasty have gotten a wave of momentum, especially becoming instant fan favorites. In a non-title match against ShoMiz, The Hart Dynasty put the champions on notice. David Hart Smith placed Miz in a standing vertical suplex and Tyson Kidd managed to withstand Big Show's punishment due to his relentless energy and resilience. Yet, Miz, for some reason, tagged himself in when Big Show had Tyson locked in a chin lock. The match spiraled out of control for ShoMiz as the Harts connected the Hart Attack on Miz followed by a Sharpshooter. But before Miz could tap out, Big Show dragged Miz out of the ring and they were counted out. If the Miz wasn't so cocky and allowed The Big Show to do what he does best, than these things wouldn't happen. And even though the Harts did not pin or submit either Miz or Big Show, they still have a win over The Unified Tag Team Champions.

Mr. RKO trumps Mr. MitB
John Cena and Randy Orton vs. Batista and Jack Swagger

Never in a lifetime would anyone expect to see John Cena and Randy Orton willingly work together as a team. The main event match was Jack Swagger and Batista against John Cena and a partner of his choosing. And to have Randy Orton as his tag team partner is not only a shock but a statement that Randy Orton has become a fan favorite. John Cena and Orton have been mortal enemies ranging from 2007-2009, and it all came to an end at Bragging Rights as John Cena defeated Orton for the WWE Title in a one-hour Iron Man Match. But Orton's hatred for the men of Evolution, the faction he was a part of in 2005, runs deeper. Orton will never forget the night when Evolution turned on him after winning the World Heavyweight Title.

Randy Orton prevailed at WrestleMania, forever severing him from The Legacy. The match was a renewal in his career, and this main event generated more momentum from the WWE Universe. As the fans over on SmackDown chant "Spear," those of RAW chant "RKO." Randy Orton struck Batista and Jack Swagger with RKO's, and covered Swagger for the win. Mr. Money in the Bank, Jack Swagger is no where near ready to cash in that contract for the WWE Title if he cannot keep up with the RAW main-eventers.

WrestleMania XXVI: Part VI - Shawn Michaels's Final Match and Farewell

2010-03-30T11:12:00.017-04:00

The Rematch: Shawn Michaels vs The Undertaker

At WrestleMania 25, Shawn Michaels wrestled nearly the perfect match. Yet, one mistake cost Michaels the piece of heaven he had been searching for. At the 2009 Slammy Awards, Michaels accepted the award for Match of the Year but it wasn't enough because he had come up short on his promise to end The Undertaker's streak. That's why he emphatically stated, "Undertaker... I can beat you. I know it. And more importantly... you know it." However, then-World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker rejected Shawn's proposal because he had nothing to prove. Taker's rejection lead Michaels down a path of obsession to the point that he was willing to put everything on the line, even his career.

After costing The Undertaker his title at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, he finally accepted under the conditions that if Michaels loses, his career would be over. Michaels accepted with the somber words, "If I can't beat you at WrestleMania, then I have no career."

"Where will you be?"

The most highly anticipated rematch in history closed the 26th anniversary of WrestleMania. No one could fathom the thought of The Heart Break Kid's career ending, nor the end of a WrestleMania tradition within Taker's streak, but something had to give. Unlike last year, there was no psychological build up, only statements made by the other. Shawn Michaels's statement was that he wouldn't have placed his career on the line if he didn't know that he could beat him. That statement, and the hype carrying through from last year's masterpiece, was all this match needed to get the fans hooked. Wrestlers were interviewed during the last few weeks and they believed that if anyone could do it, it would be Shawn; and that no matter what we expected, it would surpass all expectations. The ads for this match read, "Where will you be?" As for this blogger, I was enjoying this match with a large WrestleMania viewing party. We made jokes and fun of all the matches leading up to the main event. We all knew what was at stake, and we watched diligently as Michaels fought his final match.

No fancy zip-line, or descending down from heaven entrances this year, Shawn Michaels simply entered the arena in an ever humbled Mr. WrestleMania way, and executed the famous Shawn Michaels' pose in the center of the ring underneath a cylinder titantron that read "HBK." The Undertaker's entrance, clocking in at around 4-5 minutes, featured Undertaker ascending from the depths of hell surrounded by blue lasers, and bestowing a killer trench hooded outfit. The University of Phoenix Stadium grew dark as Taker strolled through the ramp way and raised the lights once he got to the ring.

Shawn's WrestleMania Journey

Most opponents are usually intimidated when Undertaker steps into the ring, but not Shawn. Mr. WrestleMania stared into the black holes of Taker's eyes and did the throat-slicing gesture. Taker exploded from his corner and the epic match was underway. In the words of the moronic Michael Cole, "Vintage!" Undertaker tight walked the top rope for some Old School, but happened to tweak his knee on the landing. Michaels knowing full well attacked his possible injured knee by applying the Figure Four leg lock. Being the man that beat the man two years ago at 'Mania, Michaels' Figure Four was a testament of his journey and the road that he has taken to this date. Even when attempting the Crippler Crossface, a move made famous by the late Chris Benoit. However, Taker managed to counter the crossface and attempted to go for an early Tombstone Piledriver. And later on Taker would attempt another tombstone, but Michaels climbed down to reach Taker's foot and applied Kurt Angle's Ankle Lock and even executed Phase 2. This match could only be won via pinfall or submission, and to submit Taker at Mania would have been epic, even legendary.

The Showstopper

Hints of last year's match played out in a different way, proving that these men have studied the tape over and over again, trying to find ways to counter said moves. Undertaker, seeing Michaels on the outside, backed into the ropes to slingshot himself for another suicide dive. But without a camera man to block the dive this year, Michaels ran back into the ring with an impactful spear that even Edge would be proud of. Then when Taker was on the outside, Michaels went for a moonsault. Undertaker caught Michaels' moonsault again this year and tombstoned him on to the outside floor. This was the one mistake that cost Michaels the match last year, however, this year, it took place on the outside and not the inside. And then, the most impressive counter was against Hell's Gate, in which Michaels flipped over and caught Taker in a jackknife pin predicament. No one has ever found a counter to Hell's Gate, but this is why Shawn is "The Showstopper."

Undertaker-Michaels feud runs deeper

Many new fans may not remember, and it is a shame this was never mentioned towards the build up of this final encounter, but Shawn Michaels and Undertaker have feuded before. The two fought in the first-ever Hell in a Cell match when Shawn Michaels, hanging from the edge of the structure, had his hands stepped on by The Undertaker and fell from the structure, crashing down into the announce table. Michaels wound up pinning The Undertaker after a surprise debut by Kane who tombstoned Taker. And later on at the 1998 Royal Rumble, Shawn Michaels, during a Casket match which cost him four years of his career, herniated two spinal discs and crushed one completely. Undertaker had back body dropped Michaels to the outside of the ring where he smashed his lower back on the casket. Twelve years later, these two men faced off one last time. If there were ever a man worthy enough to retire Shawn Michaels, it would have to be the man that retired him in '98.

Mr. WrestleMania

Shawn Michaels may not have an impressive WrestleMania record, but he has always out performed every wrestler. And once again, Shawn Michaels and Taker shared a series of counters and 2-counts, as each one kicked out of the other's finishing move. Undertaker set Michaels up for The Last Ride, but was countered into a DDT. Shawn Michaels went for the elbow drop, but was countered by lifted knees. Sweet Chin Music after Sweet Chin, and Tombstone after Tombstone, each one kicked out seconds away from the 3-count. Then Taker attempted to drive Michaels into the announce table with a Last Ride, but Michaels clocked him with Sweet Chin. Then of course, Michaels would not be Mr. WrestleMania if he didn't leave the crowd speechless, as he connected with a moonsault from the top turnbuckle unto a stretched out Undertaker. Then dragging Taker into the ring, Michaels struck with another Sweet Chin and went for the cover. Kick out.

Undertaker 18-0, Heart Break to All

How can Undertaker kick out of a Sweet Chin, an announce table breaking moonsault, and ANOTHER Sweet Chin? At WrestleMania, The Undertaker becomes something else entirely. Shawn Michaels knew the end was near, and after a Tombstone Piledriver, Shawn kicked out for the last time. Taker, unsure of what more to do, started the throat-slicing gesture but stopped mid way. Michaels staggered upward while Taker shouted "Stay down!" Michaels entered this match defying Taker and went out doing so, as he signaled the throat-slicing gesture and slapped Taker across the face. Undertaker grabbed Michaels and connected with a Spike Tombstone Piledriver, despite his weakened knee, to deliver the final blow to the career of Shawn Michaels.

Finding Heaven

It was Undertaker who cost Shawn four years of his career after their casket match, and it was Taker who ended Michaels' career forever. At the end of the match, Undertaker shook Michaels' hand and hugged him. Undertaker once told Shawn, "It is hell, trying to get to heaven." Yet, Michaels' final match, the love and respect from Undertaker, and the ending of his storied career, is heaven.

Triple-H's Thoughts

The following night on RAW, fellow D-X member, and best friend, Triple-H spoke about Shawn before he conducted his farewell speech at the end of the program. "We took on the world, didn't we buddy?" These two fought side by side, and sometimes face to face, but they always did it together. Before, Shawn and Hunter used to have the Kliq (with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash), but after wards it was just the two of them. He became friends with Shawn the very first day he started working for WWE, and like he said, they took on the world, both professional and personal.

Shawn's Farewell

When Michaels walked down the ramp and entered the ring one last time, Undertaker came out and tipped his hat to Michaels.

"Please don't go!"

Wrestling was the only thing Shawn Michaels had for a while. It's sad because wrestling in the ring was the only place in the world that made him like himself.

Michaels thanked Hunter for being his friend, even when no one else wanted to. Hunter was there for Michaels through his drug addictions, his outbursts, and his surgeries. Triple-H is and always will be his best friend.

"One more match!"

Shawn Michaels doesn't want to go back on his word to the fans or to The Undertaker. And for the rest of his life, he's going to do everything in his power to make sure that doesn't happen.

"Thank you, Shawn!"

He thanks Bret Hart, and admits that he drove him crazy back in the 90s, and that he had the right to say the things that he did. Michaels thanked him for forgiving him and allowing to earn his friendship. It is a relief to finally lay to rest the hatred these two men once had during their early careers in the WWE.

He also thanked Vince McMahon, who gave him the opportunity to let him do what he loves to do. A lot of people don't know this about Vince, but he kept Shawn from making even bigger mistakes that he could have during his self destructive state.

"I thank you all so much for giving me the honor and the privilege to come out here and letting me show off in front of you, every night of my life"

"And of course My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I thank you my King for saving me."

Triple-H came out to hug Shawn who kissed him on the cheek. They embraced one another with tears welling up in their eyes because it is the end of the era of Shawn Michaels. Triple-H then placed glowsticks down on the entrance ramp, signifying the end of D-Generation-X.

"This is how we started and this is how we're going to end. Ladies and Gentleman, "The Heart Break Kid" Shawn Michaels has left the building." - Shawn Michaels

WrestleMania XXVI: Part II

2010-03-29T13:07:00.001-04:00

Is C.M. Punk's Straightedge Soceity the enemy, or Rey Mysterio?

Three years ago at WrestleMania, a young wrestler from Chicago, Illinois, representing the new class of ECW, competed in the annual Money in the Bank ladder match in a losing effort. Since then, and thereafter, the name C.M. Punk has become synonymous with Money in the Bank; because he is the only one to ever win the Money in the Bank match two consecutive years. However, fans were behind C.M. Punk until his decision to cash in on a newly crowned Jeff Hardy; which was hypocritical since, just the year before, fans cheered on Punk when he cashed in on an assaulted Edge (heel) to capture his first World Heavyweight Title.

The backlash from the fans has reverted Punk back to his heel gimmick from his Ring of Honor Wrestling days. Aligned with a close group of devout followers, C.M. Punk has become something close to Christ-like. Many even have gone as far as to label Punk as the anti-Christ, and after looking at his new t-shirt (a demented C.M. Punk caricature surrounded by a ring of flowers) he very well may be just that. C.M. Punk has taken it upon himself to lead this crusade of cleansing the masses from the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol, which he has successfully accomplished with Luke Gallows and Serena. But he has his sights set on one particular recruit by the name of Rey Mysterio. The reason being Mysterio interfered in C.M. Punk’s Money in the Bank Qualifying Match.

Guaranteeing the crowning of a new Mr. Money in the Bank, Rey Mysterio is considered the hero of the story, but is he? It seems to be Mysterio's M.O. to sabotage former champions' efforts from recapturing the World Title. In a Fatal Four-way match at Bragging Rights, Mysterio cost Batista the title; and most recently, he thwarted C.M. Punk’s dreams of becoming a 3-time Money in the Bank winner, and no less, a 4-time World Champion.

Since turning heel, C.M. Punk has attempted to cleanse the WWE one superstar at a time. The first success was eliminating Jeff Hardy from the WWE, the leader of the screw-ups in the world. Then by belittling the Undertaker in a fixed submission match at Breaking Point. And now, his crowning achievement is to cleanse Rey Mysterio and convert him into a Straightedge follower.

It’s no secret that Rey Mysterio has had problems with drugs and alcohol, as he confesses to, in his book Rey Mysterio: Behind the Mask, admitting himself to rehab. Hence, why C.M. Punk set the stipulation if Mysterio were to lose this WrestleMania match, he would have to take Punk’s hand and pledge a straightedge life. However, WrestleMania did not pan out exactly how C.M. Punk envisioned the reckoning of his Straightedge Society. In a highly fast-paced match with numerous GTS and 619 attempts, it was Mysterio who came out on top. Punk avoided the 619 on two occasions, one by catching Mysterio and following through with a GTS, and when Serena protected him from the second attempt. Despite the perfect strategy by C.M. Punk to place both Serena and Luke Gallows at opposite sides of the ring, Mysterio managed to knock over Gallows and quickly connected with the 3rd and final 619.

Rey Mysterio may have gotten away this time, but with WWE returning to Maryland with Extreme Rules, expect the Straightedge Society to retaliate.

WrestleMania XXVI: Part 1

2010-03-29T09:03:00.000-04:00

WRESTLEMANIA XXVI

Unified Tag Team Championship Match: ShoMiz vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

Just like Night of Champions when Chris Jericho introduced The Big Show as his replacement partner, The Unified Tag Team Championship Match opened the show.

R-Truth came skipping and jumping down the ramp of the University of Phoenix Stadium, which is a great start to what each year promises to be the greatest wrestling spectacle of the year. John Morrison came down the ramp and bent space and time with the slow motion pose; while the reigning champions, ShoMiz charged down the ramp looking to annihilate the competition.

From The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff, The British Bulldogs, The Hart Foundation, to Demolition, The Rockers, The Hardyz, Edge and Christian, and The Dudleys, the Tag Team Championships have always created many great WrestleMania moments. However, with the passing of the time tag team wrestling is becoming a thing of the past. Therefore this championship match was short and concise, just allowing each wrestler about a minute of in-ring time before Big Show sneaked a tag and K-O'ed John Morrison.

Randy Orton's Voices Saved Him

Triple Threat Match: Randy Orton vs Cody Rhodes vs Ted DiBiase

At WrestleMania there are some things that must happen, and this Triple Threat was one of them. The reason why so many people have been cheering for Randy Orton in recent weeks is because they knew that the demise of Legacy was nearing.

With the assistance of Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase, Randy Orton was portrayed as a weak competitor relying on his lackies to fight his fights. Yet, before Legacy came along, Orton was The Legend Killer and reigned as the WWE Champion in a period known as The Age of Orton. There is no secret that Legacy has been holding him back, and after last night, Randy Orton has returned.

Cody Rhodes, believed by some to be going over in this match, entered the arena with a new entrance theme (TBA), red trucks, and white boots. Most likely in honor of his father "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes.

Ted DiBiase, the only one who entered to the Legacy "Its a New Day" theme, has always pretended to be on Orton's side, but no one has had more resentment that the son of "The Million Dollar Man." Speaking of, Ted DiBiase's father was inducted to the Hall of Fame class of 2010.

The match resembled a handicap match as Rhodes and DiBiase double teamed on Orton. Yet, their egos got in the way as DiBiase attempted a cover while Rhodes went for the moonsault. The severed alliance allowed The Viper to grab both Rhodes and DiBiase for a Double Hanging DDT. Then, almost as if he was listening to the voices in his head, Orton viciously punted Cody Rhodes in the head, and then wildly struck DiBiase with the RKO while avoiding Dream Street.

Orton took back his mantel on top of the ropes and outstretch his arms in glory of his victory. The backdrop behind Orton simply read RKO with the image of wings, sending the message that the burdon has been lifted and Orton is free.

Smells like "American" Money
Money in the Bank Ladder Match

For the first time in two years, The Money in the Bank Ladder Match revealed a new victor other than C.M. Punk, "The All-American-American" Jack Swagger. This contest of ladders holds far greater importance than probably any other match at 'Mania because it represents the company's pick of who should become the next World Champion. Much like Rob Van Dam, Edge, and C.M. Punk, Jack Swagger has the rare opportunity to capture either his first WWE or World Heavyweight Title.

Yet, becoming Mr. Money in the Bank was not a simple task because this year's MitB was a close call as each superstar were finger tips away from cementing their careers. Evan Bourne could have gone for it, but like all high flyers, he decided a Shooting Star Press was the way to go. Matt Hardy and Christian exchanged blows at the top of the ladder, each touching the briefcase for a fleeting moment. Either of these two ladder technicians would have been an odds on favorite to win the match, but others followed suit.

This year Kofi Kingston provided another strange display of climbing ladders as took the two halves of the broken ladder to walk over to the briefcase, Cirque du soleil style. MVP and Shelton Benjamin both making their way to the top warded off the other from reaching the briefcase. But whether you were perfection, the chosen one, or simply the only former world champion, it was all about strategy, thinking with your head, and having the mental fortitude to become the next World Champion. Congratulations to Jack Swagger for reaching the apex of his career, and starting a new chapter. Far from the land of extreme where Swagger became the ECW Champion within a few months, Swagger has the opportunity to escalate his career even further.

SmackDown Results: 3/26/10 - Final Momentum Towards WrestleMania

2010-03-27T21:27:00.001-04:00

The Final Confrontation: Canadian DNA

Chris Jericho praises his WrestleMania oppoenent Edge. He is a tremendous performer, his drive and determination is second to none. There has never been anyone in the business able to come back from as many injuries as Edge. Came back three months early from his Achilles Tendon injury, won the Royal Rumble and that is an impressive story. Chris admits that Edge has every tool to defeat him except for one, DNA. Chris Jericho has never been injured, but Edge is constantly injured. Chris Jericho has vowed that he will use that flaw to end Edge's career.

This is not a Title vs. Career match, but Jericho will look to tear Edge's tendon. Both Edge and Jericho can endure pain, but Edge is accident prone. As Jericho said, it all comes down to DNA.

Final Momentum: John Morrison and R-Truth Going Over with fans

John Morrison and R-Truth are desparetly trying to go over with the fans with rendition of early 90's jokes, "If it was an eating contest, Big Show'd be undefeated." Whether The Miz and Big Show are the most dominate tag team or not, John Morrison and R-Truth will most likely not go over at 'Mania.

The main event in this 3-match SmackDown, with the other 2 being aired on WWE Superstars, featured R-Truth against The Big Show. As per usual, Big Show dominated the match but missed a high flying elbow drop. Then Morrison came in and the two executed a double DDT. Truth struck Show with a head scizzors kick followed by Morrison with the Chuck kick. Miz entered to then be struck with the Lie Detector and Starship Pain.

Whether Morrison and Truth deserve it or not, they have all the momentum going into this match.

SmackDown Results: 3/26/10 - Beth Phoenix Excuses Vickie Guerrero

2010-03-27T20:14:00.000-04:00

Beth Phoenix has had her eyes set on Michelle McCool's Women's Title since arriving to SmackDown early in the fall. But a rising Mickie James took the spotlight, leaving Beth to side with McCool to take on her only threat, at the time.

Yet, with Mickie James taking time off to promote her debut country album, Beth Phoenix was certain that her time to challenge for the Women's Title had come. That was until Divas GM, Vickie Guerrero denied the Glamazon the opportunity. Instead of continuing to take a back seat, Beth Phoenix created an enemy within Vickie Guerrero, which culminated into this match between Beth and Vickie.

Much like the evil streak of Mr. McMahon, Vickie altered the match in her favor, making it into a 5-on-1 handicap match. Vickie Guerrero was joined by Women's Champion, Michelle McCool, Divas' Champion, Maryse, Layla, and Alicia Fox. Let's face it, Beth Phoenix is the most dominate "diva" in all of the WWE; heck, Beth Phoenix is the most dominating women's wrestler in all the WWE. And for Todd Grisham to comment, "She's dominate, but not that dominate," when introduced to her four other competitors, one doesn't simply know how dominate Beth can be. In addition, Beth Phoenix is a women's wrestler competing against two models, a former teacher, a dancer, and the widow of Eddie Guerrero, how hard can it be?

The match started off with Layla over confident of Phoenix's odds of winning the match, but in all honesty, Beth can tear her apart. Then during a Guerrilla Press lift, McCool started nudging the head of Beth Phoenix. You might as well be poking a bear or sticking your hand in a tank of piranhas, because Beth helicopter spinned Layla to knock down McCool. After that all hell broke loose as Beth didn't want to wait for the tags, but threw them into the ring and double clotheslined divas 2 at a time. But the numbers game was too much, and a simple kick to the face did her in for the 3-count, much like what happened to Orton on RAW. And just like McMahon, Vickie was tagged in to cover Beth for that 3-count.

And if things couldn't get any worse for Beth Phoenix, McCool suggested that Vickie execute the Frog Splash over the Glamazon. Indeed, it would have been an odd tribute to her late-husband, but the ribbiting splash was held off as Mickie James, Kelly-Kelly, Eve Torres, and Gail Kim cleared the ring. Which it has been announced on wwe.com that all 9, plus Vickie, will compete in a 10 Diva Tag Match at WrestleMania.

And the coup de grâce, Beth got some payback on Vickie Guerrero by accidently ripping off Vickie's pants. Now, I know this is not the wardrobe malfunction that men dream of when watching the Divas wrestle, but it was possibly the most hilarious thing on television. WWE is TV-PG, really? Because I believe that her grandma panties which read "Excuse Me" in bedazzled jewels just blinded the WWE Universe. Beth Phoenix, much like Melina, has crossed over from heel to fan favorite in miraculous fashion.

As for the WrestleMania match, whether it is a dark match or simply five minutes, it beats any Divas match in the past 3 years. There is no Playboy gimmicked matches, Lumber jills, or spoof Divas Battle Royal, it will be 5 on 5 in a clean match.

SmackDown Results: 3/26/10 - Money in the Bank Picks

2010-03-27T17:31:00.009-04:00

The final installment of Friday Night SmackDown (WWE programming period) before WrestleMania featured a SmackDown vs. RAW 10-man tag match showcasing all the Money in the Bank Qualifiers.

Dolph Ziggler and Kofi Kingston start the match.

Dolph Ziggler earned his shot for Money in the Bank by pinning R-Truth in a Triple Threat Match against the now-#1 contenders for ShoMiz's Unified Tag Team Titles.

As far as ability is concerned, Ziggler is in great physical shape and has gone toe to toe with the likes of Rey Mysterio and John Morrison during his I-C pursuit. He also scored a victory over Shelton Benjamin on WWE Superstars a few weeks ago.

Now, does Dolph Ziggler have the advantage to win this year's MitB? Not necessarily. Dolph is quick to anger and applies slow moving submissions. In a ladder match, one must make quick decisions in an instant.

Can the 10th Qualifier from RAW, Kofi Kingston, provide the victory? Kofi Kingston, who captured the I-C title from current World Champion, Chris Jericho, at Night of Champions 2008, has provided the wherewithal to be a champion; especially when capturing the World Tag Team Titles with C.M. Punk, and then the United States Title from MVP during 2008-2009.

Kofi earned this opportunity by defeating Vladimir Kozlov, which just last year was the man Shawn Michaels defeated to earn his first attempt to end the Undertaker's Streak. Around Bragging Rights 2009, Kofi entered a feud with Randy Orton and provided some memorable moments, including the Boom Drop at MSG.

If anyone has a chip on their shoulder to win this match, it would be Kofi Kingston. Plus, a MitB win would definitely complete the push that WWE seems to have aborted back at the TLC pay-per-view.

Matt Hardy and Jack Swagger are tagged in.

As Matt Striker mentioned, there is no one who has more to prove in this match than Matt Hardy. The elder brother Hardy, along with younger brother Jeff, entered WrestleMania together in 2000 against Edge and Christian, and The Dudley Boys (Team 3D) in a death defying Triangle Ladder Match (the prelude to TLC matches). Since that day, Matt has captured the Cruiserweight, United States, ECW, and multiple Tag Titles, but has never grasped that brass ring. Known as the better of the two when it comes to wrestling, Matt has always been outdone by his brother when it came to World Titles. It has been Matt's dream to one day Headline WrestleMania, and though he has won 2 singles matches at 'Mania, he has yet to become a Champion.

Will Matt Hardy win? For all the Mattitude Followers out there, there would be nothing more heart warming than Matt reaching the apex of his 10 year long journey than to have a World Title opportunity. But his recent matches since ending his feud with Jeff has been below sub par. Matt Hardy has been jobbing to guys like Dolph Ziggler and The Hart Dynasty for a while. In all reality, Matt Hardy has let himself go and is not the competitor that he was 5 years ago, delivering compelling matches against Edge, and one indie match against AJ Styles.

Jack Swagger was at the height of his WWE career in ECW, capturing the ECW title within four months against Matt Hardy. He earned the opportunity to compete in MitB in a squash match against Santino Marella. But the likely hood of Swagger winning is not likely at all.

Personally one of my favorites to win the match, will not because WWE caters more to entertainers that don't necessarily have a lisp. Recruited to the WWE by Gerry Brisco and J.R., the 2x All-American from Oklahoma doesn't need to win this match, but he needs a push.

Matt Hardy tags in Shelton Benjamin.

Shelton Benjamin earned his shot in MitB by defeating the only 2-time MitB winner, C.M. Punk. So thanks to Shelton (and Rey Mysterio's distraction), there will indeed be a new Mr. MitB at this year's WrestleMania.

Knowing ladders very well, Shelton will be competing in his 5th MitB ladder match. He is another veteran to the WWE who has never held a World Title. Yet, he has captured the World Tag Team, Intercontinental, and United States Titles throughout the years.

The only momentum that Shelton has gained was a win over Dolph Ziggler on SmackDown, which was followed by a loss in the following episode of WWE Superstars. Yet, during the 10 Man Tag, Shelton proved his resilience against Jack Swagger, Evan Bourne, and MVP during a single tag.

Jack Swagger reluctantly tags in Evan Bourne.

Evan Bourne gained entry by defeating William Regal in what was believed to be the 8th and final Qualifying Match. Evan Bourne had scored impressive victories during his debut on ECW that culminated to a title shot against Matt Hardy. Bourne came up short and was later drafted to RAW.

Does Bourne's Style Benefit him in a ladder match? No. Just like every high flyer in the history of professional wrestling, Bourne will be looking to create as much spots as possible to get onto the WrestleMania highlight reel.

Would Bourne make a great MitB winner? Absolutely not. Evan has no fortitude to stand up to the likes of Sheamus, what would make anyone believe that he could main event?

Evan Bourne tags in MVP.

Montel Vontavious Porter, once hated in the WWE has now become a favorite among fans and to win this years MitB. At WrestleMania 23, MVP defeated the late-Chris Benoit for the United States Title. If anyone can create a WrestleMania moment, it's MVP.

However, with consecutive losses to The Miz for the U.S. Title during the start of 2010, will MVP have enough momentum to win MitB?

MVP tags back out to Evan Bourne.

Shelton finally tags in to Kane.

The only former World Champion within the mist of this year's MitB is Kane. His plans to face Undertaker for the World's Title was thwarted several times by Rey Mysterio and Chris Jericho.
Kane earned his spot in this year's MitB by granting Drew McIntyre his first* loss, just 5 days removed of failing to best McIntyre for the Intercontinental Title at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view.

Obviously the tallest man in the MitB may have the advantage. His advantage lies in the fact that he doesn't care about creating spots. He is like a bulldozer, crush everyone in the way.

Kane tags in Matt Hardy who shortly tags in Dolph Ziggler.

Bourne escapes and tags in Christian.

The odds on favorite to win this year's MitB, Christian is riding a wave of momentum that the peeps are more than happy about. A veteran of ladder matches, Christian had an impressive run as the ECW Champion and defended it against the likes of Jack Swagger, Tommy Dreamer, William Regal, Ezekiel Jackson, Yoshi Tatsu, Zack Ryder, and most impressively against Shelton Benjamin.

Since returning to WWE, questions of whether Christian could still perform in a ladder match were answered at the TLC ppv when he defended the title in a show stealer Ladder match against Shelton Benjamin.

Now the question remains is if Captain Charisma can be called Mr. Money in the Bank?

Drew interfered with the potential 3-count.

Drew McIntyre is scorned by the other 9 members of the MitB Qualifiers because of the nepotism of Mr. McMahon. *Drew lost his first match against Kane but it was expunged by McMahon. Therefore, Drew was granted another shot at MitB against Matt Hardy. But Matt Hardy won that match which granted Drew his 2nd first loss, until McMahon erased that from the books. Drew's third and final shot at MitB was against a local wrestler who may never be heard from again, which was basically McMahon gift wrapping Drew a spot.

According to the realm of WWE and McMahon, Drew's official first lost was dished out by The Undertaker last week. Seeing as Drew has already qualified to compete at 'Mania, and the fact that it is The Undertaker, that loss remained in the record books.

Drew's interference between Christian and Dolph Ziggler caused an outbreak of all the other competitors to run rampant in the ring. But none more impressive than Kane, who delivered a double choke slam to Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston.

Match's End.

The match ended with Christian delivering the Killswitch to Dolph Ziggler, however, McIntyre had tagged himself in and quickly executed the Future Shock DDT to win the match for Team SmackDown.

Drew then placed a ladder in the ring as a foreshadowing of things to come, but Kofi, Swagger, MVP, Bourne, Christian, Shelton, Kane, Dolph, and Matt reentered the ring to knock McIntyre off the ladder (from a safe height).

In all honesty, Matt Hardy and Jack Swagger would make great Money in the Bank winners, but the three main picks comes down to Christian, MVP, and Kofi Kingston.

WWE Superstars Results: 3/25/10 - C.M. Punk and Rey Mysterio Build towards WrestleMania

2010-03-26T10:02:00.001-04:00

WWE Superstars Layeth the SmackDown!

C.M. Punk vs. JTG

Due to time constraints of filling every WWE program with WrestleMania video packages, the final matches for Rey Mysterio and C.M. Punk before facing each other at WrestleMania were scheduled to take place on WWE Superstars.

C.M. Punk took on JTG in a highly unorthodox match up. The team of Cryme Tyme were left out of this year's WrestleMania once again after losing the contenders match for the Unified Tag Team Titles. Yet, it should be an honor for JTG to take on a former 3x World Champion for the sake of putting him over at WrestleMania.

The concept of this match was to brace C.M. Punk for Rey Mysterio. But why JTG? Because he is fast and unpredictable, which is the type of in-ring competitor that Rey is.

The match ended with Punk scoring the victory with the GTS. If Punk really wanted to ready himself for his match, he should have challenged Evan Bourne or Kofi Kingston, which would have provided for an intense high flying match.

Tyson Kidd's WrestleMania

Rey Mysterio vs. Tyson Kidd

Rey Mysterio took on The Hart Dynasty's Tyson Kidd as he prepared for C.M. Punk. Rey has a lot riding on his 'Mania match. First off, he has to defend his family's honor; and secondly, if he loses, he will have to join the Straightedge Society. And if that were the case, he may have to lose the mask.

This match between Tyson Kidd and Rey Mysterio has been dubbed Tyson Kidd's WrestleMania (by me) because he gets to go one on one with a former World Champion on WrestleMania week. Tyson Kidd is a perfect fit for Mysterio because he is similar to Punk's striking power.

Tyson started off the match with a wrist lock followed by an armlock. Then Rey Mysterio kicked up the pace by throwing in a missed bulldog into a Steamboat arm drag, but Tyson able to match the speed managed to stay on his feet. And this was where Tyson became dangerous because he grounded Mysterio with kicks, punches, and elbow shots to shoulders. But when Mysterio set up for the 619, that's when the Harts provided the distractions.

The Harts really turned the match around by allowing Tyson enough momentum to pick up Mysterio and ram him into the barricades. Then Tyson countered Mysterio's flying headbutt with a drop kick in mid air. And an abdominal stretch while digging his elbow to the outstretch side of Rey Mysterio. Tyson Kidd would just not let up as he also executed a springboard face buster from the top ropes and went for another 2 count. However, Tyson slipped off the second rope while trying to execute the double jump moonsault, but it wouldn't be the end just yet as he sustained more offense from Mysterio.

The match ended with Mysterio striking with the 619 after Tyson became to cocky in his rising momentum that caused him to be layed out with a huricanrana which would lead up to the 619.

NXT Results: 3/23/10 - Week 5, Rookies Team Up

2010-03-24T12:42:00.004-04:00

Heath Slater Remains Undefeated

Next week, the pros will have the first official vote which will weigh in on Win/Loss record; Strength; Work Ethic; and "It" factor. Therefore, in week 5, the Rookies teamed up in 2 tag team main events. Heath Slater (3-0) teamed with Justin Gabriel (2-1) to take on the team of Skip Sheffield (0-2) and Wade Barrett (2-1).

In the standings now, Heath Slater is undefeated, having pinned Pro Carlito in week 3 to really escalate him in the ranks. However, Skip Sheffield is an example of what happens when you cannot get along with your mentor. Unlike Daniel Bryan and Darren Young who don't nessearrily need their mentors to succeed, Skip is possibly at the bottom of the ranks when it comes to all four ranking criterias.

Wade Barrett, who is impressive in strength, work ethic, and has that "it" factor, evened his win/loss score with another loss, because he accidently kicked his tag partner in the face, thus allowing Heath Slater to pick up the win.

The win/loss records are: Heath Slater (4-0); Justin Gabriel (3-1); Wade Barrett (2-2); and Skip Sheffield (0-3).

Daniel Bryan is the Best Loser

In the main event, David Otunga (2-1) teams with Darren Young (2-1) against Daniel Bryan (0-4) and Michael Tarver (1-1).

Otunga and Young are evenly matched when it comes to win/loss records unlike Daniel Bryan who hasn't won a single match since coming to NXT. Yet again, wins and losses are not going to be the only criteria when it comes to ranking these rookies. On his first day, Daniel Bryan went one on one with The World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho; and last week he took on The Great Khali. Daniel Bryan's ability to take on current and former World Champions speaks a lot about his work ethic, experience, and the overall "it" factor to one day main event WrestleMania.

David Otunga, a carbon copy of Ezekiel Jackson, which includes the same uranage finisher, has become known as the A-lister. Obviously a reference to his celebrity status, which in the WWE could mean everything. If WWE were to sign Otunga, then perhaps the ratings would boost, especially if assigned to RAW along with the Celebrity Guest Hosts angle. But what happens when it is time to release him?

When Michael Cole compared Daniel Bryan's plain personality along with the plain red trunks against the celeb status of Otunga, there was an indication of what WWE may be about nowadays. Does the fact that Daniel Bryan was trained by Shawn Michaels mean anything? How about being mentored by William Regal at the start of his 10-year indie wrestling career? Somewhere down this terrible mainstream road that WWE has undertaken, wrestling ability must stand for something.

As for his tag partner for the night, Mr. 1.9 is oblivious for the most part as his short temper towards Luke Gallows cost Daniel Bryan a tag, thus allowing Otunga to get the Uranage victory. Yet, Michael Tarver isn't all bad, since during his first dispute with Gallows, he side stepped a sneak attack attempt by Darren Young and managed to get the upper hand.

Darren Young, with his Dragon Ball Z hair style, has yet to gain the respect from his mentor C.M. Punk. But that has not stopped him from amounted victories. C.M. Punk's refusal to acknowledge his rookie just makes Young work that much harder to impress his mentor. Which is what Skip Sheffield should be doing instead of apologizing.

The win/loss records are: David Otunga (3-1); Darren Young (3-1); Daniel Bryan (0-5); and Michael Tarver (1-2).

Who will come out on top next week as the Pros have their first vote, ranking the rookies thus far.

RAW Results: 3/22/10 - Final RAW to WrestleMania

2010-03-23T00:31:00.011-04:00

Shawn Michael's Final Week?

There were mixed reactions over Shawn Michaels past accomplishments. Defeating Bret Hart for the WWE Title, and coming close to ending Taker's Streak. Now, something that has been an overall giveaway of Michaels' pending doom at 'Mania is WWE's release of "My Journey" DVD set which chronicles Michaels' career. Michaels reassures everyone that there will be a volume 2. And after 'Mania he will be forever known as the man who ended the Streak.

To intimidate Michaels, Taker throws down the lights and shows a video package spanning Shawn's life, ending with the solem words "Shawn Michaels Career will Rest in Peace."

Pete Rose issued Shawn Michaels a match against Kane, and it will be contested in either pinfall or submission. Pete Rose has not forgotten what Kane did to him years ago at WrestleMania (piledriver), and knows Michaels is the man for the job.

Morrison versus Miz: WrestleMania caliber?
John Morrison vs. The Miz

Former tag team partners now find themselves on opposing sides at this year's WrestleMania. Last year, The Miz and John Morrison teamed up in a losing effort against the Colons in what was the creation of the Unified Tag Team Titles. The Miz finally became the Unified Tag Team Champion after defeating D-X with The Big Show several weeks ago. And at WrestleMania, Miz will be defending those titles against the man that carried him, who made him into a superstar, John Morrison along with R-Truth.

Since going their separate ways via the draft, these two have squared off in the ring on more than one occasion. But the result has always been the same, The Miz rising on top. As part of the action from two weeks ago (Show def. Morrison, Truth def. Miz), John Morrison took on The Miz while his tag team partner will take on The Big Show this Friday on SmackDown.

Honestly, Morrison-Miz should be the WrestleMania match, instead of a tag team match. Miz and Morrison work best together as a team, and definitely against one another. The final Dirt Sheet promo prior to Bragging Rights is only a sampling of what these two can do. This feud is still fresh and could have very well made it to the Show of Shows.

John Morrison defeated Miz in a classic match, only to be ruined with a commercial break. The record for Miz is 0-2 against Truth and Morrison in single matches, can Big Show even the score with another victory this SmackDown?

Kofi Kingston: 10th and Final Money in the Bank Qualifier
Kofi Kingston vs. Vladimir Kozlov (Money in the Bank Qualifying Match)

Ever since Drew McIntyre became the 9th qualifier (unheard of in years past) the need for a 10th qualifier was evident. Who better than to have Kofi Kingston, a superstar that had been receiving a push back in the fall. But the winter season slowed down Kofi's push for some reason.

During this exact time last year, Shawn Michaels delivered Vladimir's first loss to gain the right to take on The Undertaker at WrestleMania. Now, a year later, Kozlov jobbed to Kofi Kingston.

Randy Orton becoming a Fan Favorite?
Triple-H and Randy Orton vs. Legacy and Sheamus

It doesn't matter who wins at WrestleMania as long as Orton doesn't? If there is anything that Legacy learned from Orton is to have an ego. And in their promo, signs of a struggle exist. A triple threat means every man for themselves, there are no friends.

During the match, Rhodes and DiBiase kept Triple-H in their corner, making frequent tags. Sheamus entered the fray by attacking Hunter on the outside (without referee's nohow) and was legally tagged in.

Then when Orton was tagged in, the crowd really popped. Orton was taking out Rhodes, DiBiase, and Sheamus one by one. With side scoop slams, and arm lock back breakers, Orton was short of one RKO to win it. Yet, trying to Hang DDT Rhodes, Orton was kicked in the face by Sheamus, leading to a pinfall victory for the Celtic Warrior. With that said, the WWE Universe will be behind Triple-H and Randy Orton in their respective matches.

Bret Beat Vince, or Bret still Screwed?

Bret Hart made it clear that his match against Vince will be the apex of his career. Past WrestleMania memories include Bret defeating Piper for the I-C title, his World Title win against Yokozuna, his Iron Match against Michaels, and his match against Owen. This match will be Bret Hart's cleansing from the whole Montreal Screw job. But Vince has vowed that Bret will be screwed one way or another.

Shawn's Journey Continues?
Shawn Michaels vs. Kane

Shawn Michaels could very well lose this Sunday's match against The Undertaker, and therefore his career will be over. As mentioned by Pete Rose, this match against Kane must be won by either pinfall or submission.

Knowing this, Michaels attempted various submission maneuvers: Crippler Crossface and The Ankle Lock. Moves made famous by past WrestleMania opponents Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle. Shawn Michaels, going into his possible final match, must bring everything that he has learned from every opponent he has ever faced in order to take down The Undertaker. And just like Pete Rose said, there is no one better to end the Streak than Michaels.

Taker, getting back at Michaels for last week, appeared to deliver a chokeslam. Then Taker disappeared and Kane went for the pinfall, but Michaels kicked out. Michaels won with a superkick, and looks to use all the lessons learned on his Journey to face the only man that ever mattered, The Undertaker.

A 2 Diva Squash Masquerading in a 6-Diva Tag

On one side of the ring, Eve Torres, Gail Kim, Beth Phoenix with Mickie James and Kelly-Kelly at ringside. On the other side, Michelle McCool, Layla, Maryse with Alicia Fox and Vickie Guerrero at ringside. This could have been a showcase of implosion of Divas from both SmackDown-RAW, but it ended shortly.

Gail Kim took on Michelle McCool and struck with some fast offense. But Gail's failed jack knife pin attempt, was countered into a pin, then into a Faith Breaker pinfall victory. What was the point of the rest of these Divas. The WWE fans were expecting a hard fought match, and turned into a disappointing showcase of what WWE fails to realize. Fans want to see women wrestlers wrestle good matches, just look at TNA's product.

This Divas Match could actually become a WrestleMania match. By the way, it was great to see Mickie James walking about as she heals from her knee injury, or taking a break from promoting her music album.

The Final Faceoff, really?

Batista claims that John Cena has never defeated him. They only had one match at Summerslam two years ago. And Batista called Cena a corporate product, he is right, but so is he. Both Cena and Batista are products of the WWE that cannot make it anywhere else. As the fans chanted "He can't wrestle!"

Batista trying to get major heat from the fans, and Cena gaining sympathy from them leads this main event into a disappointing upset. We all know that Cena will become the WWE Champion for the 7th or 8th time. Unless WWE are smart and have Batista win in order to give him some credibility.

SmackDown Results: 3/19/10 - 1 Week Remains

2010-03-20T00:22:00.000-04:00

Dolph Ziggler Perfect Momentum
MVP and Matt Hardy vs. Jack Swagger and Dolph Ziggler

Matt Hardy and MVP teaming up brings back memories of when they were the WWE Tag Team Champions back in 2007. Certainly things have changed over the years as MVP (fan favorite) is now friends with Matt.

As for Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger, what could be better than to pair up two young and brash superstars in this match up which showcases the emerging of rising superstars?

Every match that these superstars compete in is so important because they are jocking to become the next face of the WWE. We've seen what Money in the Bank has done to the careers of Edge and C.M. Punk, imagine what it can do for the likes of either of these four men if they were to win?

And talk about young and up and coming, Dolph Ziggler scored the victory by connecting the Zig Zag on MVP. After the match, Dolph set up the ladder and took down the Briefcase. At the apex of the ladder is where one takes the next step of realizing their dreams of becoming World Champion, will it be Dolph Ziggler?

A Vickie's Scorn!
Beth Phoenix and Tiffany vs. Michelle McCool and Layla

Last week, Tiffany went from GM to WWE Diva as she had her first match against the Women's Champion, Michelle McCool. But a disqualification at the hands of Vickie Guerrero, led to Beth Phoenix coming to her aid. In this match up, Beth Phoenix and Tiffany took on Michelle McCool and Layal.

Beth Phoenix dominated the match in the early going until she tagged in Tiffany. Her inexperience allowed her to be double teamed by LayCool.

Tiffany managed to tag out due to her rescillence. Beth ended the match by evading the Faith Breaker and going for The Glam Slam on McCool. Then it was announced that Beth would take on Vickie Guerrero in a test of her authority status.

The Cutting Edge: Guest Chris Jericho w/Wade Barret

Edge has factored down his Championship match against Chris Jericho down to one move, one word - Spear. But there are so many other factors and variables. Chris Jericho won the World Title from Undertaker inside the Elimination Chamber. Edge is not fully healed from his Achilles tendon.

Unlike the Highlight Reel from last week, it was Edge who caught Jericho with a mic shot. Edge struck with the spear on Wade Barret but was struck with the Code Breaker by Jericho.

Jericho than added the exclamation point with a foot stop on the recovering Achilles Tendon of Edge.

Truth? The Hart Dynasty are Better
John Morrison and R-Truth vs. The Hart Dynasty

Possibly the most idiotic move on WWE's part to team John Morrison and R-Truth to take on the Unified Tag Team Champions. Albeit, Morrison and Truth are rising stars but they do not belong in a tag team match.

Three individuals who have made it their life's goal to surpass their predecessors are The Hart Dynasty. With Bret Hart, a man who vowed never to set foot back into the WWE, having his final match against Vince McMahon at this years WrestleMania, it would have been proper to have the Harts contending at this year's WrestleMania. The fact that WWE has barely taken the time to build these future legends is credited to their ongoing lack of appreciation for tag teams. These are the kids of the legendary Hart Foundation and British Bulldogs, and they have what it takes to not allow the tag team division to just fade away.

The match between John Morrison and R-Truth against The Hart Dynasty went rather quick. Morrison started off the match, took most of the beating, then tagged in Truth to strike Tyson Kidd with the Lie Detector as he kept David Hart Smith from breaking the cover.

Morrison and Truth have amassed another win as Miz has been absent from RAW, NXT, and SmackDown. Yet, the Big Show scored a major victory over John Cena during this week's WrestleMania Rewind.

Street fight or Straightedge?
Luke Gallows vs. Rey Mysterio

For weeks, the pending match between Rey Mysterio and C.M. Punk at WrestleMania awaited for a confirmation. What type of match would these two compete in? My original idea of a Luchas de Apuestas match (Hair vs. Mask) was thrown out the window since the match has been decided on a Street Fight.

Rey Mysterio accepted Punk's WrestleMania challenge, and requested that match be a Street Fight. With Bret Hart and Vince McMahon having a No Holds Barred match, how is Punk-Mysterio's match different?

C.M. Punk also instilled a stipulation, if Rey loses to "the Right Hand of the Straightedge Soceity," Luke Gallows, and lose at WrestleMania as well, then Rey would have to take Punk's hand and pledge the straightedge life.

C.M. Punk showed photos taken from last week to illustrate Rey's daughter's lost of faith in her father. He explained that straightedge will help Rey become the man that his family expects him to be.

In the Straightedge Society, Luke Gallows is the muscels, while Serena, as she exhibitied in this match, provides the distractions. Rey Mysterio lost the match to Luke Gallows, which establishes the stipulation that if Rey loses at 'Mania, he must join the Straightedge Society. But Rey destroyed Luke Gallows at the end of the match. A similar intensity of when Batista destroyed Mysterio at the end of their Bragging Rights match.

At WrestleMania: Rey Mysterio vs. C.M. Punk (If Mysterio loses he must join the Straightedge Society).

The Heart Break Kid Strikes Back!
The Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre

Teddy Long issued this main-event match to symbolize Drew McIntyre's "undefeated" streak against Undertaker who has a real Undefeated Streak. Knowing full well that McIntyre indeed lost to both Kane and Matt Hardy, Long felt it prudent to teach McIntyre what a real Undefeated streak meant.

The Undertaker is a really scary individual as he looks on with dark eyes and grabs and pulls you out of the ring. The imagery is that of a demon or hellhound dragging down cursed souls to the depths of hell. But McIntyre asserted himself with a side scoop slam.

The match ended with a choke slammed followed by the Tombstone Pile driver. Last week, having destroyed four men in the ring (Cryme Tyme and Hart Dynasty), Undertaker has been sending Michaels a message that his career is coming to an end. But when Undertaker walked up that ramp and looked back at the brash young version of Shawn Michaels, The Heart Break Kid, Shawn Michaels surprised him with a super kick.

What started out as a slow build up of talking and video packages has now become phsyical. In one week, The Streak vs. The Career.

WWE Superstars Results: 3/18/10 - MitB Momentum

2010-03-19T00:22:00.006-04:00

Kane vs Shelton Benjamin

The Money in the Bank Qualifiers rarely get a chance to build momentum for WrestleMania. Luckily with WWE Superstars, these qualifiers have a chance to prove why they will become Mr. Money in the Bank.

Shelton Benjamin, who is 1-1 against Dolph Ziggler, tested his strength against The Big Red Machine, Kane. Shelton bases his in-ring work to pure athleticism, or simply put, great mat work. At WrestleMania, Shelton will be a part of his fifth Money in the Bank Ladder match, which must leave people wondering if this is perhaps Benjamin's year.

Shelton, possibly the best in-ring competitor that the WWE has, being able to have a 5-star match with Shawn Michaels, is highly underrated. Unlike TNA, where one can escape with having poor mic skills, the WWE depends on their champion being able to hype the crowd. Hence why fans get stuck with John Cena as champion at least once a year. Yet, where Shelton lacks in mic skills certainly makes up for in his athleticism.

Kane came close to winning the MitB last year, but was kicked off by C.M. Punk at the last second. Now that C.M. Punk will not be competing in this year's match, it will guarantee a new MitB winner, something that hasn't been seen in three years. Kane is not a great technician in the ring, even tough he can deliver textbook drop kicks, but he will rely on his size and strength to dominate the match. Having been in several ladder matches before, Kane is not afraid to reach for new heights.

The match ended with a choke slam by Kane as he paves a way towards WrestleMania.

Katie Lea Jillian Hall vs. Bellas

With WrestleMania just a week away, a women's match has yet to grace the card. But after last year's debacle which angered so many former women's champions in the spoof 25-Diva Battle Royal, do we really want a women's match? The final (noteworthy) Women's match at WrestleMania was in 2006 when Mickie James defeated Trish Stratus for the Women's Title.

Katie Lea is the former sister of Paul Burchill. Former because since his release he will never be mentioned again. Katie Lea foretold that Jillian and herself would gain victory over the Bellas.

Jillian Hall, a former Divas' Champion in her own right. Actually, Jillian was not a real champion, but a transitional one. Real champions defend the title against the former champions, unless intercepted by a MitB, or in the outlook of a new feud. Jillian's only role as Divas' Champion was to take it from Mickie James and lose it to Melina, in the duration of minutes. Jillian enacted her rematch the following week only to lose it in a more pathetic fashion than the last. Sadly, that will be the highlight of her career.

The Bellas have been out of action from the ring for several months, not due to injury, but occupied with their other job: arm candy to the celebrity guest hosts. Not pretending to be able to tell the Bellas apart, won the match in an impressive feat.

Jillian, awkwardly, got the upper hand in the match against the Bellas. Evading a hurricanrana into a perfectly place electric chair drop, sadly the announcers are too busy talking to credit any wrestling ability, especially by the Divas.

The match ended with a Bella flipping Jillian on her back and then double leg locking her legs to Jillian for the pin.

Christian, Mark Henry and Yoshi Tatsu vs. Jack Swagger, William Regal and Zack Ryder

For the first time WWE Superstars showcases a match with all former ECW superstars, a main event that never seemed to occur while ECW was still on the air. Former ECW Champion Christian captains Mark Henry, another former ECW Champion, and Yoshi Tatsu against Jack Swagger, yet another former ECW Champion, William Regal and Zack Ryder.

Another correlation between these two teams is that they are captained by Money in the Bank Qualifiers: Christian and Jack Swagger. And just like the opening match, these two are in need of momentum.

Throughout the past weeks Christian has received a wave of momentum, not losing a single match since officially being signed to RAW. Indeed a favorite to win last year, will this be his year? Appearing in 'Mania 2000 in a hellacious Triangle Ladder Match which saw him and the 2010 Royal Rumble winner Edge win the match. Could we possible see Christian take on Edge in a future World Title Match?

As for Jack Swagger, he was the most dominating man in ECW until Christian took the ECW title from him. Since coming to RAW, Swagger has had two impressive matches with John Cena but has been stuck in a feud with Santino Marella. A Money in the Bank win would escalate Swagger's career to the level it should have been during his first month on RAW.

The main event ended with Zack Ryder failing to connect with the Rough Ryder and Christian striking with the Killswitch. Once again, Christian is riding with all the momentum. But with a week left, how will the others catch up?

NXT Results: 3/16/10 - Week 4, Competition Picks Up

2010-03-17T00:21:00.003-04:00

Justin Gabriel and Matt Hardy vs. Darren Young and C.M. Punk

In week 4 of the NXT competition to crown the next break out star, we learn that the pros will be conducting the first round of votes in two weeks. Yet, we still do not know what that means exactly. Will someone be voted off NXT? And if that person is voted off, what of their pro? Will he get a new rookie, or return back to the locker rooms?

The opening contest was a tag team match pitting team Hardy against Team Straightedge. Matt Hardy, or sensi, having his rookie sport the new Matt Hardy t-shirt, is not really teaching Justin to be a star. Because the things Justin does in the ring are exactly what made Evan Bourne popular in ECW, before the reality sank in that there is no cruiserweight division in the WWE. If Justin looks to make an impact, he'll have to prove why the fans should pay to see him.

C.M. Punk not exactly liking his rookie, but throughout the course of the match treated him with respect. Darren Young, not at all certain how to get on his mentor's good graces, is becoming more aggressive in the ring.

The match ended with C.M. Punk striking Hardy with the GTS (while the referee was distracted) and Darren Young scoring the pinfall. However, Young did not enjoy his victory because Luke Gallows rewarded him with a Gallows Pole Drop.

Daniel Bryan vs. Khali

What started out as an initial joke between me and my friend came to fruition in week four of NXT. My friend, who has been following Bryan Danielson's career for a long time, stated that he is one of the best wrestlers in the world and could work with anyone. My joke was if he could work a great match with The Great Khali? No one can, is how he responded.

The Great Khali, exhibitiing no wrestling ability whatsoever, defeated the self proclaimed Best Wrestler in the World. Bryan Danielson proved the bible wrong, sometimes David cannot slay Giloath.

And if Daniel Bryan losing to the worst "pro-wrestler" in the WWE wasn't bad enough, then being chokeslammed by The Big Show (sent by Miz) is just a perfect end to a bad say.

Heath Slater vs. Michael Tarver

Heath Slater is coming off with some momentum as he pinned NXT Pro Carlito last week in a one on one contest, but could he outlast Mr. 1.9 Michael Tarver?

Heath managed to provide some interesting offense when he connected with a corkscrew to the outside of the ring. Tarver attempted to ground him, but Heath managed to roll him up for the victory.

Yet don't let the loss fool you, because Michael Tarver attacked Heath from behind and layed him out with a T-Bone suplex.

Wade Barrett vs. Skip Sheffield

Losing his match last week to Justin Gabriel, Wade Barrett is currently 1-1. While Skip Sheffield is on a losing streak because he fails to shut up and listen to his mentor William Regal.

Chris Jericho, on the other hand, loves his rookie because Wade Barrett is a majestic destroyer. And this match was just a sampling of what Wade Barrett is capable of as he struck with an overhead bodyslam.

WWEStrikesBack Picks: Wade Barrett Stays; Skip Sheffield Goes.

RAW 3/15/10 - 100% Stone Cold RAW

2010-03-16T13:21:00.023-04:00

WWE's past vs WWE's present

Oh how far WWE has fallen... When John Cena stood in the same presence as Stone Cold Steve Austin, the fans of the Attitude Era wept. Stone Cold Steve Austin may not seem like much of a wrestler, but he was a technician in the ring who went grip for grap with "The Excellence of Execution" Bret Hart.

Now, during the post-Attitude Era, we have John Cena. Did Stone Cold pass the proverbial torch to Cena, or just acknowledge's him as the new face of the WWE? John Cena has never been the technician that Stone Cold was, he has been nothing more than a performer, an entertainer. The torch, if any, was not passed down by Stone Cold, but by Hulk Hogan. The post-Attitude Era resembles that of the Federation years, when Hulkamania ran wild, and everyone wore the Hogan t-shirts and bandanas. Now, everyone wears Cena t-shirts and headbans.

Cen-a-Mania is Runnin' Wild!
Big Show vs. John Cena

The first WrestleMania Rewind was John Cena vs. The Big Show. Reliving WrestleMania XX, when John Cena defeated The Big Show to capture the United States Title.

Each and everytime these two step into the ring, Cena must always try to lift Show for the Attitude Adjustment. And each time he does, Cena collapses under Show's weight. In addition, this is the only match up when Big Show is considered the underdog.

And if you happen to disagree with Cena's comparison to the Hulkster, then think of it this way, no one thought that Hogan could scoop slam Andre the Giant, but at WrestleMania III it happened. And not only was Big Show once gimmicked as the son of Andre the Giant, but it was deemed impossible to pick him up for the fireman's carry throw. But at WrestleMania XX, not only did John Cena execute the Attitude Adjuster, but he catipulted his career.

Yet, this time around there would be no Attitude Adjuster, but a knock out punch by The Big Show. It wasn't due to Show's dominance whatsoever, but a lucky distraction from an angry Batista.

The Weakest of the Weak
Kelly-Kelly vs. Maryse

Kelly-Kelly received a bigger crowd reaction than the Divas' Champion Maryse, not only in sex appeal but in wrestling ability. How bad of a wrestler is Maryse when Kelly-Kelly is carrying the match? As we have seen several times against Gail Kim, Maryse does not execute a single wrestling maneuver except for her French-Kiss DDT.

Despite carrying the match and connecting with the K2 leg drop, Kelly-Kelly lost via the French-Kiss DDT. Maryse then started kicking Kelly-Kelly until Gail Kim and Eve came to her aid.

Yet, instead of having Katie Lea, Alicia Fox, or Jillian Hall come to Maryse's aid, RAW was invaded by SmackDown's "Simply-Flawless" crew. Sadly, Eve, who has been getting a steady push, was easily tossed out of the ring by Layla, no less. Then she was kicked in the side of the face by McCool.

Thanks to the assist and lack of acknowledgment by Simply-Flawless, the Divas' Champion has never looked weaker.

Celtic Warrior's Claim to Dethrone the King of Kings
Sheamus vs. Evan Bourne

A laughable concept to believe that Evan Bourne can take on the Celtic Warrior, and to think that Bourne's 4-win streak would be tarnished. Surprisingly, Evan did not lose, but he didn't win either. No, the match never started because Sheamus destroyed Bourne before the bell even rung.

The exhibition of Sheamus' strenght is a testament to what the first-ever Irish born WWE Champion brings to the table. His hopes was to defend the WWE Title at WrestleMania, but thanks to The Game, Triple-H, Sheamus got something he desired more, and that is a one-on-one match with the best in the business. A match up against Triple-H at WrestleMania will indeed skyrocket his career, whether or not he wins.

WrestleMania is where legends are made. Undertaker can attests to that when he scored his first victory over "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka at WrestleMania VII, which would be the start of his legendary streak. Shawn Michaels, though not an impressive win record, has proven every year why he is Mr. WrestleMania. Can the Celtic Warrior become a legend and take over the King of Kings' throne?

The Rated-R Spear!
Shawn Michaels vs Jericho

WrestleMania Rewinds means jack squat in the realm of the WWE. Its not about living in the past, its about looking towards the future. We saw it with Cena's match against Big Show, and this match was no different.

Michaels vowed to destroy Jericho in order to send a message to Undertaker; because not even Stone Cold believes that Michaels can end the streak.

Reliving WrestleMania XIX, Shawn and Chris returned once again to the ring. But let us not forget that these two had a hell of a feud during the end of 2008. Chris Jericho attempted to choke out Michaels with a sleeper, then went for the patent lionsault, but was countered by Michaels' lifted knees. Then, knowing Michaels' back history, tried slapping on the Walls of Jericho, but Michaels managed to break loose.

Michaels, showing everyone why he is the Showstopper, struck with an atomic drop, the emphatic elbow drop from the top turnbuckle, and tried ending it with some Sweet Chin Music. But Jericho rolled out and counted himself out.

Now, either my WWE knowledge proceeds me, or WWE has become too predictable. Seeing as Vickie and LayCool came from SmackDown to RAW, there was no doubt that Edge had managed to tag along. "You think you know me," actually Edge, I know more than you think. Edge appeared at the top of the ramp and attacked Jericho. Then when Edge struck Jericho with another spear in the center of the ring, the crowd were on their feet cheering. Then the exclamation point, Edge whispers to Jericho "spear..."

The crowds reaction may be a sign of Edge becoming an emphatic fan favorite. It can also attribute for RAW's need of real wrestling talent.

No Respect for Mentors
Triple-H vs. Randy Orton

John Cena vs. Randy Orton may have been considered "the" feud of recent WWE history, but one that has been equally as memorable has been Triple-H vs. Randy Orton. Ranging from the days of Evolution until now, there has always been a heated rivalry between Orton and his mentor.

It has been announced that at WrestleMania, Randy Orton will take on Legacy in a Triple Threat Match. Orton's thoughts on the match and his WrestleMania Rewind with Triple-H comes down to respect. Despite their disagreements, Orton respects Triple-H, but he doesn't respect Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes.

In a Triple-H-Randy Orton match, what can you except from two methodical technicians? Triple-H, knowing Randy so well, escaped a hanging DDT only to be struck with a modified hanging DDT on the outside. Randy kick out from a spine buster, but failed to strike with the RKO, which was countered into a pedigree.

However, the match never saw its conclusion because Rhodes and DiBiase attacked Triple-H and tossed him out of the ring. They did this in order to redirect their attention to Randy. But before Triple-H could fire back at the young Legacy, Sheamus came out of nowhere to deliver the bicycle kick.

There was a moment of pensive thought between Rhodes and DiBiase as they were being starred down by Sheamus, before carefully leaving the ring and dragging Orton with them. Sheamus may be the youngest member of the RAW roster, next to Yoshi Tatsu, but he is a man that has certainly captured the respect from both Rhodes and DiBiase.

At WrestleMania: Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase Jr. vs. Cody Rhodes (Triple-Threat Match)

The Animal Sees Red
Batista vs. Kofi Kingston

Batista's legitimate hatred towards John Cena is underlined by the notion that Stone Cold has passed the proverbial torch on to him. Yet, instead of confronting The Texan Rattlesnake, Batista had a grueling display of barbaric strength against Kofi Kingston.

As much as it was forced on to the fans, Batista vs. John Cena will indeed happen at WrestleMania. And the outcome has been determined since WrestleMania 21. John Cena has proven his unyielding strength last week after he kicked out of 5 finishers, and earlier, when he nonchalantly struck Big Show with the 5 knuckle shuffle.

But after having his face cut open by Kofi Kingston's double kick, then viciously clotheslining Kingston in mid-air followed by numerous Batista Bombs, Batista has tipped the scales in his favor. As part of WWE's No-Blood policy, the referee must medically clean the cut as soon as it is visible, but Batista would not allow it. Batista's disregard of the No-Blood policy may be attributed to his desire to have been a part of the Attitude Era, and staking his claim of being the rightful successor of Stone Cold Steve Austin.

McMahon stuck between a Stone Cold and a Hart Place

Thirteen years ago, Bret may have screwed Bret, and recently, Vince may have screwed Bret, but chosing Stone Cold as the guest host, Vince screwed Vince. In a contract signing between these combustible elements, there is only one man that can keep these guys in check, and that is the guy who had been whipping their asses since the start - Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Stone Cold Steve Austin had an intense feud with Bret Hart back in '96, and, who can dare forget, the feud that highlighted the Attitude Era against McMahon. Knowing these guys full well, Steve Austin assessed the situation and declared that Stu Hart would indeed be inducted into this year's WWE Hall of Fame.

Bret Hart made one request regarding their match at WrestleMania, that it be contested as a No Holds Barred Match. McMahon consented and reminded Bret if he did not show up for their match that he would sue him for all he's worth.

Stone Cold made the official declaration that Bret Hart would face McMahon at WrestleMania in a No Holds Barred Match. Then one other announcement was made, but it wasn't from Steve Austin.

The horrendously executed car accident was indeed meant to be fake because Bret Hart wanted to lure McMahon in, not only a match at 'Mania, a No Holds Barred Match at 'Mania. And if McMahon skips out of their match, Bret will sue McMahon for all he's worth.

At WrestleMania: Vince McMahon vs. Bret "The Hitman" Hart (No Holds Barred Match)

SmackDown Results: 3/12/10 - Punk's Challenge and Show's Dominance

2010-03-13T22:27:00.013-05:00

Mysterio in Family Feuds?

As Rey shared his personal life to the WWE Universe and started singing to his daughter Aaliyah on her birthday, C.M. Punk, and The Straightedge Society, interrupted the festivities.

Mysterio's family were scared, especially little Aaliyah who was in tears at C.M. Punk's frighting melody. Either the Mysterio household never bothered to follow up on Rey's feud with C.M. Punk, or Punk smells worse than he looks. The latter is probably untrue, but the Mysterio household, I feel, was forced into this storyline.

Punk issued a WrestleMania challenge to Rey Mysterio, while demeaning him in front of his family, calling him a pathetic coward. Mysterio has not yet accepted Punk's challenge, but with only two weeks left till WrestleMania, Punk is definitely creating some intense animosity.

Bottom of the Poll for Luke Gallows

Impressively taking on Rey Mysterio last week, Luke Gallows tested his strenghts with Kane. Against one of the more established giants in the WWE, Luke Gallows went hold for hold against Kane. Even at times, Luke appeared dominate, with a suplex, and a standing frog splash.

Kane somehow managed to win the match with a chokeslam. Yet, the Straightedge Society would not be outdone as Punk struck Kane with the GTS.

Miz-erable Week for Miz

The Miz ended the week 0-3 against R-Truth. Miz was on the opposing side of a beat down by Truth and Morrison on RAW. The Miz, in a tag team match with Daniel Bryan, was pinned by Otunga and Truth on NXT. And thanks to Bryan, Miz lost his singles match against Truth on SmackDown.

David Otunga and Daniel Bryan were present at ringside during the match. Truth delivered some great offense, but Miz fought back to connect with some game changer maneuvers. The end of the match was mired in controversy as Daniel Bryan knocked off Miz's feet during a blatant pin attempt. R-Truth captialized on the distraction with the Lie Detector, gaining momentum for both WrestleMania and NXT.

Chuck Fact: Flying Chucks work on The Big Show - Fail!

On NXT, Daniel Bryan criticised Miz's career of being carried to the top by his tag team partners. Interestingly enough, this next match showcased those tag partners: The Big Show against John Morrison.

The Dynamic Duo of John Morrison and R-Truth have built some steady momentum, with a contendership win last week, beating down ShoMiz this week, and earlier in the program Truth picked up a win over Miz. But the biggest challenge is that of the World's Largest Athlete, The Big Show.

John Morrison provided every possible offense that he had, but Big Show chopped him down to size. The Big Show almost ended the match when he secured the sleeper. But Morrison was able to reach the ropes, thus breaking the hold. Morrison returned back with a flurry of kicks to the head. The end of the match came in the form of a mid-air collision when Morrison's flying Chuck Kick was stopped by a devastating knock out punch.

Despite all the loses that The Miz has incurred this past week, he can take solace in knowing that The Big Show is the other half of the Unified Tag Team Champions.

McIntyre Heading to WrestleMania, Undefeated?

Just as predicted, Vince McMahon erased McIntyre's second loss and placed him in another Money in the Bank qualifier. One would assume that after Evan Bourne won this past Monday, bringing the total to 8 contestants, that McIntyre would be out of WrestleMania? But when you have McMahon on your side, anything is possible, just ask Batista.

Teddy Long modified Drew's third MitB Qualifier as a Winner Takes All match, in which the Intercontinental Title would also be at stake. If Drew were to lose this match, he would not only miss out on WrestleMania, but he would no long her the I-C Champion. After defeating a local wrestler, Drew McIntyre retained his title and became the 9th participant in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match. My prediction is that the MitB match will be evened out to 10 contestants, which will include Kofi Kingston as the most qualified qualifier.

SmackDown Results: 3/12/10 - Tiffany Joins SmackDown

2010-03-13T16:23:00.006-05:00

The Glamazon's Biggest Challenge to Date

With Mickie James out of action, due to a staph infection, this leaves the SmackDown Divas division without a fan favorite. That was until Tiffany, the former ECW GM, decided that she was going to compete on SmackDown.

We witnessed last week Tiffany babysitting Rey Mysterio's daughter, Aalyah, during what would be a turning point for Rey Mysterio's feud with C.M. Punk. And without ECW, Tiffany's status within the WWE was questionable. However, for those that follow FCW, WWE's developmental territory, Tiffany has been training to become a Diva since 2007.

The Special Consultant of SmackDown, Vickie Guerrero, scheduled Tiffany's debut match to be against the Women's Champion, Michelle McCool. There is no question that Michelle McCool and Layla (Team LayCool) have manipulated Vickie Guerrero with false praises of being "simply flawless." Much like Edge in the past, Michelle realizes the importance of befriending someone in power. And what looked to be a squash match for Tiffany, turned into a hell of a brawl.

Tiffany, with wrestling gear resembling a sexy cheerleader, carried herself towards the ring with presence. McCool, taking Tiffany lightly, found herself in the mist of a fury of clotheslines, drop kicks, and forearms. Tiffany made an impact by taking the fight to the outside and Irish whipping McCool to the barricades. However, Vickie cost Tiffany the match with a blatant tackle. And to make matters worse, McCool drove her knee to the skull of Tiffany against the barricades.

Yet, before the 'Simply Flawless' girls could take out Tiffany, the Glamazon rushed to the ring to deliver some punishment. After a double lariat, LayCool were licking their wounds on the outside, allowing Beth Phoenix to drive Vickie to the canvas. And before Beth could deliver the finishing blow with the GlamSlam, Vickie made her escape.

Let's take this back to last week when Beth Phoenix asked Vickie Guerrero when she would have her title shot against Michelle McCool. Vickie simply replied, never. Beth Phoenix, no doubt the most dominating women's wrestling in all of the WWE past or present, has her biggest challenge to date - the authority of Vickie Guerrero.

Can this story line become the biggest thing to hit the Divas' division since the Mickie James-Trish Stratus rivalry? Could this feud of authority become the biggest thing since Stone Cold and Vince McMahon? I leave it up to you, the WWE Universe, to decide.

SmackDown Results: 3/12/10 - Jericho Regains Momentum

2010-03-13T12:09:00.007-05:00

Chris Jericho Reels Over Edge's Pain

After two years, the Highlight Reel returned with Edge as the special guest. With Edge building up rapid momentum since his miraculous return and win at the Royal Rumble, will Edge in fact spear Jericho at WrestleMania to become a 10th World Champion? Then again, the last time Jericho hosted the Highlight Reel, he drove Shawn Michael's face into the plasma TV. So if Jericho were to gain any type of momentum, the time is nigh.

When Edge tore his Achilles tendon, he underwent a transformation from super-heel to fan favorite almost instantly. Yet, it was largely due to his former tag partner's disparaging remarks that allowed Edge to shine through as a sentimental favorite. Even as Edge entered the ring for the Highlight Reel, people chanted "spear."

Nevertheless, as Jericho pointed out, each time that Edge has reached the cusp of greatness, an injury would follow, whether a shoulder, or a neck injury. The neck injury cost Edge a year away from the WWE and two WrestleManias. While Edge was nursing his injuries, Jericho was main-eventing those WrestleManias against Shawn Michaels and Christian.

Even though Jericho lost those matches, he claims that he was cementing his WWE legacy. Albeit, Edge has undergone numerous injuries, but he has always been about taking risks. Whether it is jumping off of a 12 foot ladder, going through a flaming table, getting hit with a steel chair, going through thumb tacks, Edge has based his career on calculated risks.

Again, going back to when Edge tore his Achilles tendon, the doctors told him that he would be out anywhere between 8 months to a year. Edge rushed his recovery and returned back in 6. The question that lingers, is Edge fully healed? After main-eventing every SmackDown and picking up some impressive victories, one could argue that Edge is ready. But Jericho, who has never been injured, will look to re-injure his former tag partner.

Then as expected, Chris Jericho gained some much needed momentum by striking Edge with the microphone, followed by stool chair shots. Jericho then attempted to drive Edge through the plasma TV; shades of 2 years ago, but Edge turned it to an impaler DDT. And for the coup de grâce, Edge went for another spear, but Jericho used the World Heavyweight Title to knock Edge out.

With two weeks left till WrestleMania, this is promised to be one of the best main-events in recent history. With WrestleMania 25 only have one memorable match, this year's will have Chris Jericho vs Edge, jocking for Best Match of the Year spot, along with the anticipated Michaels-Taker II.

WWE Superstars Results: 3/11/10 - Superstars to Push

2010-03-12T12:10:00.013-05:00

Dolph Ziggler vs. Shelton Benjamin

In the second encounter between Dolph Ziggler and Shelton Benjamin, Ziggler's sleeper hold rendered Shelton Benjamin unconscious. After a failed Zig zag appeared to forshadow another loss, Ziggler lached on the devastating sleeper and body scissors to drag Benjamin to the canvas. Matt Striker has always stated that Ziggler has executed the sleeper to perfection, now Ziggler can back it up.

How to build Dolph Ziggler?: If Dolph Ziggler is suppose to resemble Curt Henning, should he not talk more? When he first started out, you couldn't get Ziggler to shut his cake hole, but recently, Ziggler has become the silent jobber. It is not too big of a deal for Ziggler to have failed in his Intercontinental Title hunt, but he still has to remain relevent to TV. If he doesn't have a feud, then find someone. Polish off those mic skills, create viginettes, and improve on the mat work.

Mike Knox vs. Goldust

Goldust, after signing with SmackDown after the demise of ECW, has become exclusive to WWE Superstars. After a loss to Chris Jericho last week, Goldust pulled an impressive victory over Mike Knox with The Final Cut. What is more impressive is that the veteran is getting the push rather than the young guy.

How to build Mike Knox?: Obviously, Mike Knox has become the new Snitsky, but why should he? Aside from his impressive beard, Mike Knox is a magnificant giant who can throw his 300-pound frame in devestating cross bodies. If Mike Knox should lose a match, let it be from doling out so much pain and punishment that he fails to adhear to the referee's 5-count. Otherwise, what is the point?

Santino Marella vs. Zack Ryder

Santino Marella, sporting a clean shaven face, finally struck his Cobra maneuver. However, thanks to the distraction by Rosa Mendes, Zack Ryder managed to connect with the Rough Ryder followed immediately by the Zack Attack. Michael Cole and King doing a bad job remembering Ryder's moves, but no need to fear, because I still remember them.

How to build Santino Marella?: Despite his two I-C reigns and attempting to break the record for longest reign, Santino Marella is merely an entertainer. During the match, there was a sense of an underline tension between Santino and Zack. Marella did not look at all happy contesting against the Long Islander. There is also the possibility that Santino is tired of jobbing to just about everyone, especially with the ease that Santino executes those Steamboat arm drags, and cheerleader splits to evade lariats. Underneath that thick accent of Santino lies a warrior, and it is time that the WWE Universe gets to witness that. Allow him to become the Milan Miracle once again.

Chavo Guerrero and Carlito w/Michael Tarver vs. MVP and Christian w/Heath Slater

In one of the better main events to come across WWE Superstars in a long time, former ECW Champion, Christian teamed with former US Champion, MVP to take on former ECW Champion Chavo Guerrero and former US Champion, Carlito. This was the tag team of the former champions, but notice how neither is a former World Champion. Yet, that can all change at WrestleMania because Christian and MVP are in the Money in the Bank Ladder match, where the winner will get a guarenteed World Title shot at any point in time, up to one year.

Both teams were impressive, especially the powerhouse of Christian and MVP, who are clear fan favorites. Eventhough MVP is one of the odds on favorites to win this year's MitB, Christian's seniority trumped MVP in this match, as he locked in the Killswitch against Chavo Guerrero.

How to build Chavo and Carlito?: The two have paired up more than once on WWE Superstars, mainly as a formality of random tag team matches. But WWE may not be aware of what they are doing? The pairing of Chavo and Carlito is exactly the dynamic Spanish duo that the WWE fans crave since the passing of Eddie Guerrero. Chavo's Mexican heritage, along with Carlito's Puerto Rican heritage, can provide some great comical insight to the diverse Spanish culture.

NXT Results: 3/9/10 - Week 3, Just Beginning

2010-03-10T15:48:00.011-05:00

Daniel Bryan's Mizerable Losing Streak
David Otunga and R-Truth vs. Daniel Bryan and The Miz

After suffering his first loss at the hands of Darren Young, David Otunga has lost faith in his mentor (R-Truth) without taking the time to realize that C.M. Punk was the cause of the upset. Yet, this week, the two worked as a cohesive unit as they capitalized on the ever growing split between Miz and Daniel Bryan.

As for those two, Miz had a pet talk with Daniel Bryan on his 0-2 losing streak. He also noted that if Bryan was pinned in this tag team match, that he would see to it personally that his dreams of being a superstar would be over.

Daniel Bryan was on the verge of submitting Otunga with a fierce heel hook, but Miz tagged himself in and ultimately lost the match. So in turn, did Miz let Daniel Bryan down? And how much does it say for one half of the Unified Tag Team Champions to lose this match?

The One Man Rock Band is no Bad Apple
Heath Slater w/Christian vs. Carlito w/Michael Tarver

Last week, Heath Slater was spit in the face by Carlito. And Carlito made it known that Slater should be thanking him for getting spit at. Doesn't make much sense at first because who wants to be spit at? But if Heath did not get spit at then he would never have had the chance to prove himself against a Pro.

Heath unleashed some massive right hands at the start of the match, and kept with great offense. But Carlito took Heath to his limits, almost having fun with the rookie. Then Carlito's overconfidence got the better of him as he dictated his maneuvers, but failed to estimate the unpredictability of Heath Slater who managed to get the roll up and the victory.

Heath Slater, if you follow closely, has toned down his excitement ten fold, and has become more focused in the ring. Christian is doing a fine job with his rookie.

In NXT, Size doesn't Matter, But it Helps
Justin Gabriel w/Matt Hardy vs. Wade Barret w/Chris Jericho

Wade Barrett, a personal favorite to win the NXT competition, is rolling with great momentum after defeating fan favorite, Daniel Bryan, last week. This week, he went one on one with Justin Gabriel.

Justin Gabriel pinned William Regal in his debut match along with his sensei, Matt Hardy. With an impressive 450 splash, Matt Hardy is confident that Justin will make it far in NXT. But his match against Wade Barrett was nothing short of luck.

Justin may have the speed of a crusierweight, but Barrett has the size and strength to overpower even the fastest of opponents. With a devastating backbreaker from the top rope and innovative bow and arrow stretches, Barrett is well on his way to becoming the next break out star. However, with an upset from Justin Gabriel who connected with the 450 splash, the momentum has shifted over as Justin is 2-0.

Yet, within defeat one can still come smelling as fresh as an English rose as Chris Jericho slapped the Liontammer on Justin Gabriel and raising his rookie's hand in dominance.

RAW Results: 3/8/10 - Pushes and Failures

2010-03-09T19:09:00.009-05:00

Major Push for Eve Torres
(Six-Divas Tag Match) Eve Torres, Gail Kim, and Kelly-Kelly vs. Maryse, Alicia Fox, Katie Lea

After pinning Alicia Fox last week in a Diva Pajama Pillow Fight Match, Eve Torres scored the biggest victory of her career by defeating the Divas' Champion in a Six-Divas Tag match. The match also included: Gail Kim, Kelly-Kelly, Alicia Fox, and Katie Lea.

To emphasize, Eve Torres not only defeated Maryse but she made her tap out to the same armbar lock submission that crowned Michelle McCool as the inaugural Divas' Champion - The Bash, 2008.

In addition, it appears that Gail Kim has passed the torch to the 2007 Diva Search Winner. During last week's match, Eve dropped kicked Gail Kim out of the ring in order to capitalize on Alicia Fox; now this week, after submitting the Divas' Champion, Gail Kim raised the arm of Eve Torres as a sign of mutual respect, and transference of status.

Since coming over to SmackDown in 2007, and later being drafted over to RAW during the tri-branded Divas Draft, Eve Torres has been steadily working her way up the ladder, and with a win over Maryse, expect a Championship match.

WWE's Faulty Tag Team Division
ShoMiz vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

The Miz, in regards to the #1 contenders, states that ShoMiz is a dying breed because they are the last great tag team that the WWE has to offer.

A shot at his former tag partner John Morrison, the man who truly carried Miz; or a blatant shot at WWE's lack of development in the tag team division?

During the first half of the last decade, WWE had epic tag team matches, which ranged from TLC, ladder, and championship matches. But after the Invasion died out, WWE were left with two sets of tag titles and not enough tag teams to contend for them. Hence, WWE decided to fuse the titles together.

But after a year since the Unified Tag Team Titles were created, it looks as though WWE has exhausted all of its tag team possibilities, that they must rely on a makeshift team of two elevated midcarders to contend at WrestleMania.

The fault obviously lies with the WWE for its lack of development. Every time a formidable tag team was created, plans of sepration soon followed. Separating teams has always been WWE's rash attempt to create big name stars, such as Shawn Michaels (The Rockers), Edge (The Brood), and Jeff Hardy (The Hardys); yet, it doesn't always work out to that effect. Teams such as The World's Greatest Tag Team, The Colons, Hawkins and Ryder, and Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch suffered severely from the breakups.

In a warm-up match between ShoMiz and John Morrison and R-Truth, the new team disregarded the referee's 5-count and double teamed both members of ShoMiz to state the credibility of the new alliance. But in a championship match, where the rules will matter, Morrison and Truth will have to rely on expert tag team knowledge, which Morrison has, to overcome the Last Great Tag Team.

The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of The Legacy
(Handicap Match) Randy Orton vs. Legacy

In an age of wrestling where new stars need to emerge, comes the rise, fall, and rebirth of The Legacy. Since its formation in 2008, Randy Orton has been mentoring and pushing both Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes.

Sons of Ted DiBiase and Dusty Rhodes, respectively, these second generation superstars are far from the legendary statuses of their fathers. But, ruled under Orton's iron fist, they have attained their own identities.

Within the past year, signs of Legacy's downfall were eminent. Rhodes and DiBiase were becoming fan favorites, supressed under an unruly Orton. But after his matches against Sheamus, Orton is now associated as the fan favorite.

This week, Randy Orton faced off against Rhodes and DiBiase in a handicap match. Orton attacked Rhodes and DiBiase during their entrance, thus setting the tone of the match. He then dominated the match by establishing his superiority over his proteges. Outmatching Rhodes and DiBiase, Orton continued to conquer each one individually, until Legacy started using their heads. Rhodes, the cause of many of Orton's loses to Sheamus, provided the distraction on the outside, therefore, allowing DiBiase to strike with Dream Street for the win.

The Legacy rose in 2008, it fell in 2010, and the rebirth of two new superstars will be determined.

Evan is 'Air-Bourne' to WrestleMania
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) William Regal vs. Evan Bourne

After defeating William Regal, last Thursday on WWE Superstars, Evan Bourne was slated in a rematch against The English Blue Blood, but this time it was for the final spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder match. Learning from the last encounter, Regal overpowered Evan with a hip toss and a butterfly suplex. But he failed to calculate the split-second reaction from Evan Bourne, as he evaded the Knee Trembler. Bourne struck the momentarily distracted Regal with a knee strike, which was followed by Air Bourne. In his fourth-straight victory thus far, Evan Bourne will be going to WrestleMania.

The Final List of Money in the Bank Competitors Are: Shelton Benjamin, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, Matt Hardy, Christian, MVP, Jack Swagger, and Evan Bourne.

WWE's Aborted Superstars
Mr. McMahon vs. John Cena

On a history making Monday Night, where TNA promised the in-ring returns of retirees, Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan, WWE promised a main event pitting the Chairman of the Board, Vincent Kennedy McMahon against John Cena. And not only would McMahon face off against John Cena, but he vowed that he would pin Cena for the 3-count. However, McMahon did not promise that he would actually wrestle John Cena. Therefore, McMahon created stipulations, mid-match, to contour to his benefit.

The first stipulation was a Gauntlet Match involving Vladimir Kozlov, Drew McIntyre, Jack Swagger, and Mark Henry. After Vladimir's Iron Curtain, Drew's Armbar Takedown, Swagger's body splashes, and Mark Henry's World's Strongest Slam, John Cena managed to kick out each time.

McMahon, who covered Cena after each maneuver, out of frustration changed the stipulation to a No-DQ match. Eventually, Batista, who promised that he would not interfere with the match, attacked Cena with two Batista Bombs in a row. McMahon, as promised, pinned Cena.

McMahon's Gauntlet Match incorporated superstars which either the WWE is currently working on, or have given up on:

Vladimir Kozlov: Started out in the WWE Championship picture against Triple-H and Jeff Hardy, until he was banished to ECW. Kozlov was then brought back to SmackDown only because ECW had ended. WWE, realizing their failed attempts at creating a powerhouse superstar in Kozlov, have currently no plans to further his development.

Drew McIntyre: Undefeated until two weeks ago, Drew has lost two consecutive matches and has failed to earn a spot for WrestleMania. Drew McIntyre is still being pushed regardless, possibly having his second loss erased from the record books again, but he has not gone over with the fans.

Jack Swagger: Became the ECW Champion within four-months of signing with the company, was moved over to RAW and, despite a short feud with MVP, has been forgotten. The two-time All American, has the charisma and wrestling ability to carry the company as a World Champion, but WWE may be reluctant due to his lisp.

Mark Henry: Receiving his biggest push about two years ago, when he captured the ECW Title in a Triple Threat match at Night of Champions, Mark Henry has since returned to RAW and has undergone a face-turn. Despite his accomplishments in ECW, the ECW Champion is the equivilent of the mid-carder on RAW.

RAW Results: 3/8/10 - Possible Outcomes

2010-03-09T17:18:00.027-05:00

Shawn Michaels vs. Undertaker II, possible outcomes

After last week's distraction that cost D-X the titles, Shawn Michaels has come to the conclusion that the Undertaker is afraid. The Phenom has always won at WrestleMania, but no one has ever put their career on the line.

Unlike last year, when Shawn Michaels would have been content on a count-out, Michaels wants this match to end in either pinfall or submission; therefore, Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels the Rematch, will not only place Michaels' career on the line, but it will be a no disqualification match.

The scenario of either Michaels' career ending, or Undertaker's streak ending, is unimaginable. Since WWE released a Shawn Michaels 3-Disc DVD set called "My Journey," is the journey of Mr. WrestleMania coming to an end, at WrestleMania? And what actually happens if Undertaker were to lose at 'Mania? Would his character die again, as it has several times before? If Undertaker were to lose this match, I don't see the majesty of his character going any further than that point. But again, I cannot see Undertaker losing to anyone else, except for The Showstopper; because the idea of a young up and comer ending the streak is upsurd. If the Streak must end, let it be against someone equal to his legendary status.

Best outcome for Triple-H and Sheamus Match

Sheamus was wrongly cheated out of his automatic rematch for the WWE Title that he lost at the Elimination Chamber, thanks to Triple-H. He is bringing the fight to Triple-H and it will take place in a big way, at WrestleMania.

According to Helmsley, Sheamus has had the best first year of his career but it means nothing if he hasn't been to WrestleMania.

When Triple-H was younger, much like Sheamus now, he felt unstoppable, and confronted the top guy. But after losing that match, he scratched and clawed his way so he could be the top guy that wrestlers would want to beat. After a decade and a half of dominance, Triple-H is indeed the top superstar in the business, and he has accepted Sheamus' challenge for WrestleMania.

This could end either one of two ways: Triple-H will humble himself to put Sheamus over; or, he will decimate him. The best possible scenario would involve a hard-hitting, grueling match where Triple-H comes out on top. If Sheamus were to win this match, there would be nothing else for him to prove. The problem is, that Sheamus has gone over several wrestlers, but he has yet to go over with the fans. At WrestleMania, Sheamus needs to earn the fans' respect with an honest match.

SmackDown Results: 3/5/10 - Too Much Rated-R Momentum

2010-03-06T10:51:00.012-05:00

Grudge between Edge and Big Show

Last week, Edge competed in one of the most impressive main-events to date on SmackDown, against The Miz. Holding a victory over one-half of the Unified Tag Team Champions, it is only a matter of time before the other-half pays a visit. Most people just assume that it is a tag team thing, collect victories over the dominating tag team and you gain momentum. But there is a significance of Edge taking on The Big Show.

The whole feud between Edge and Chris Jericho started when they won the Unified Tag Team Championships at The Bash. They were the dream team, the two most diabolic Canadians in all of the WWE, but tragedy struck when Edge injured his Achilles tendon. As a result, Chris Jericho replaced him with The Big Show at Night of Champions. Chris Jericho, during his Slammy speech, thanked Edge for getting injured or else he would have never had the opportunity to make the Big Show his partner.

Big Show: I eat pieces of crap like you for breakfast!
Edge: You eat pieces of crap for breakfast?

This strange dialogue between Show and Edge comes from Adam Sandler's film, Happy Gilmore. In the movie, Shooter McGavin was the big shot in the golfing world, while Happy Gilmore (Adam Sandler) was the guy who didn't have a chance. In addition, Happy Gilmore was also an aspiring hockey player, which further connects Gilmore with Edge. The use of this dialogue could be a reminder of Show's role as Captain Insano in The Waterboy; the possibility of Adam Sandler hosting Monday Night RAW; or a set up to Show's film Knucklehead where he plays a quirky giant.

Drew's first loss, again; Matt Hardy qualifies for Money in the Bank
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) Drew McIntyre vs. Matt Hardy

Call it what you will McMahon, but last week, Drew McIntyre did suffer his first loss to Kane. But, by order of Vince McMahon, the loss was erased from the record books, and Drew would still be considered undefeated. And because Drew never lost that match, and Kane just so happened to qualify, he would be given another qualifying match against Matt Hardy.

Accompanied by his NXT rookie, Justin Gabriel, Matt Hardy delivered Drew's first official loss. Drew McIntyre truly impressive in this match, made several attempts to ground Matt Hardy. With a series of headlocks, abdominal stretches, and a Northern Lights pin, Drew appeared unstoppable in his WrestleMania quest. Drew even evaded a Twist of Fate and went straight for Future Shock, but Matt Hardy countered with a back drop. Then Drew offset Hardy's second Twist of Fate into a Jackknife pin, but Hardy would shift McIntyre into a victory roll for the win.

In total disbelief of losing two weeks in a row, Drew McIntyre vowed that he would make it to WrestleMania. Drew has two options: he can either defend his Intercontinental Title at WrestleMania, or he can sneak over to RAW and compete in the final Money in the Bank Qualifying Match.

Dolph Ziggler not up to Gold Standard
Dolph Ziggler vs. Shelton Benjamin

Dolph Ziggler and Shelton Benjamin both qualified for Money in the Bank, but how exactly would these two match up in the ring? Shelton Benjamin, making his fifth appearance in the Money in the Bank ladder match, has the most experience not only in ladder matches but wrestling, period. Dolph Ziggler, who restarted his stagnant career by qualifying, is an amateur compared to The Gold Standard. Ziggler let his temper get the best of him, and once again, attempted a sleeper hold. And to refute what Matt Striker says during this move, no, Dolph Ziggler has not executed the sleeper to perfection. If the sleeper was executed correctly, then the opponent would collapse and not be able to struggle free. The last two moves of the match were sloppy, when Ziggler tried to strike with the Zig-zag, and then struck with PayDirt, Ziggler did not fall the right way. No matter how the move looked, Shelton Benjamin picked up the win.

The Book of Ezekiel condemns Asian Rednecks
Ezekiel Jackson vs. Jimmy Wang Yang

When Jimmy Wang Yang stands in the ring that can only mean one thing, it is time for a squash match. The final ECW Champion, as written in the WWE record books, Ezekiel Jackson was signed to SmackDown by Teddy Long. Aside from a few drop kicks by Yang, Ezekiel decimated him with the Book of Ezekiel (Ura-nage).

Luke Gallows, better than expected
Luke Gallows vs. Rey Mysterio

Unlike his Festus in-ring gimmick, Luke Gallows is a competent wrestler. His match against Mysterio was top-notch to what he brings to the Straightedge Society. Despite losing the match, Gallows forcibly latched onto Mysterio and flung him to the turnbuckle. He would then ground Mysterio with a chin lock, evade a crossbody with a throw-a-way slam, and power out of Rey's Dragon Sleeper by inching his body towards the ropes.

Mysterio attempted the 619, but this is where the Straightedge is so resourceful because they are so deceptive, utilizing every member as Serena blocked Mysterio off from the 619. Scenes of NXT, C.M. Punk looked to distract Mysterio long enough for Gallows to capitalize, but he shifted his weight and caught Gallows in a roll-up.

C.M. Punk-Rey Mysterio bout at WrestleMania is coming along nicely, but the following weeks needs to focus on Mysterio's past drug addictions, in which he admitted to in his book.

John Morrison reverts back to tag teaming
(#1 Contender's Triple-Threat Tag Team Match) John Morrison and R-Truth vs. The Hart Dynasty vs. Cryme Tyme

Last week, John Morrison and R-Truth let Dolph Ziggler get in the way of their WrestleMania dreams, but, together, they have one last opportunity. A Triple-Threat Tag Team Tournament to determine the #1 contenders for ShowMiz's Unified Tag Team Titles. Morrison and Truth came up with such team names as "This n' that," "Black Magic and the White Shadow," "Rock n' Rap," or simply "The New Unified Tag Team Champions."

Also in the tournament were The Hart Dynasty and Cryme Tyme. The most seasoned team in this tournament were The Hart Dynasty, and with Bret Hart having possibly his final match at WrestleMania, it would have been a special night for all the Harts to compete. As for Cryme Tyme, they are going through the motions that unsuccessful tag teams go through before either being split up, or released.

Shad Gaspard started the match against John Morrison before David Hart Smith could sneak in a tag. D.H. impressively executed three belly-to-back suplexes in a row, with John Morrison as his sparring partner. Then JTG would add on to Morrison's punishment. The majority of the match was focused on John Morrison, instead of The Hart Dynasty. In WWE story-telling, this is usually an indicator that Morrison-Truth would go on to win the match. Which, after Morrison tagged in R-Truth and performed a crossbody knocking over both DH and Shad out of the ring, Truth connected with the Lie Detector on Tyson Kidd for the win.

During a dark match at WrestleMania 25, the WWE and World Tag Team Titles were unified after The Miz and John Morrison lost to The Colons. This year, The Miz and John Morrison, once the greatest tag team of the 21st Century, are now on opposing sides. Not exactly the type of match that John Morrison would best be utilized, since showing a strong performance a few weeks ago inside the Elimination Chamber, as the last of three competitors. The big match on the card is Edge facing Chris Jericho for the World Heavyweight Title, but a tag team match for John Morrison is a step back.

At WrestleMania: Unified Tag Team Championship Match: ShowMiz vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

The 500-pound Spear
Edge vs. The Big Show

The World's Largest Athlete has claimed many a victory with the Kayo punch, but Edge has vowed to spear his way to his 10th World Title reign. The last time these two confronted was during last year's WrestleMania, in a Triple-Threat Match in which Edge was the defending champion. But with the passing of a year comes new rivalries.

Edge, just coming back from a career-ending injury, has been non stop at main-eventing every SmackDown since. But after getting hit with the initial head-butt, the tone of the match would be dictated by Big Show. He followed up with a clotheline, a chop across the chest, and a scoop slam, Show appeared unstoppable. But Edge regained momentum by striking with a neckbreaker DDT from off the top rope, and evading a chokeslam into another DDT. Then once again, Edge's promise came to fruition as a spear to the 500lb giant garnered him the victory.

Chris Jericho attempted to sneak attack Edge with the World Heavyweight Title, but Edge speared Jericho again. But after six weeks of consecutive spears to Chris Jericho, is Edge gaining too much momentum going into this match? Chris Jericho is after all the Best in the World at what he does, and what he does best is win matches. Chris Jericho did, back in the day, defeat both The Rock and Stone Cold on the same night to become Undisputed Champion, and he wasn't even in his prime. Chris Jericho, who has never fiend an injury, in the best shape of his life, is in his prime. Edge, who is taking on too many competitors in such a short return from his Achilles tendon injury, is working off his ring rust. But all that can be said is that this match will be one for the record books. Will Chris Jericho get speared yet again, or will Edge's hype fall down like Daniel Byran's when he tapped to the Liontamer?

WWE Superstars Results: 3/4/10 - Rising Stars

2010-03-05T10:52:00.008-05:00

A more serious Kofi
Kofi Kingston vs. Chavo Guerrero

Surprisingly not making an appearance on RAW, Kofi Kingston wrestled on WWE Superstars against Chavo Guerrero. Always a treat to see a basic mat wrestling match. Chavo Guerrero, who is highly underrated, brought Kofi Kingston back to a more solid wrestling based match, rather than the crazy high-flying ones that he is use to. Kofi, originally with a Jamaican gimmick, has shed the yellow and green trunks for red and black. Signs of a more serious competitor, as well as signs of unrelenting after missing the first Trouble in Paradise kick, immediately followed up with a second for the win.

With the WrestleMania season upon us, there is one spot remaining in the Money in the Bank Ladder match. Who better than Kofi Kingston to fill the spot? Kofi wowed the fans last year, especially when trying to climb up an unopened ladder to reach for the briefcase. And with his push lately, it wouldn't be farfetched to see Kofi as Mr. Money in the Bank.

Third-straight win for Evan Bourne
Evan Bourne vs. William Regal

As we have seen on NXT, William Regal is none too happy about mentoring Skip Sheffield, known as the Cornfed Meathead. With an Archie Bunker catchphrase as part of his nickname, Skip likes to smile. Yet, William Regal's week would get even worse when facing the highflying Evan Bourne. William Regal is a man of prestige and class, and to be stepping into the ring with an acrobatic buffoon is a disgrace.

Evan Bourne, in his third straight week, picks up the win. With a flying headscissors takedown, and numerous knee strikes, Bourne was able to ground Regal long enough to connect with Air Bourne. With wins over Chavo Guerrero, Cody Rhodes, and now William Regal, Evan Bourne is finally getting a steady push within the midcard division, after jobbing for over a year.

Speaking of an open spot on the MitB Ladder match, Evan Bourne's high flying would be great for the WrestleMania highlight reels.

Kane vs. Knox IV
Kane vs. Mike Knox

Another Mike Knox and Kane match is a pointless confrontation. Mike Knox, impressive only in size and beard length, cannot win a match if his career depended on it. This was an exhibition match for Kane, not like he needs it, to build momentum heading into WrestleMania. But if WWE actually wanted to build momentum for Kane, this should have been a ladder match. As the record stands, Kane is 4-0 against Mike Knox.

Chris Jericho is the Golden Opportunist
Chris Jericho vs. Goldust

Despite getting speared for six weeks, Chris Jericho is indeed the World Heavyweight Champion. When Edge was injured, everyone thought that Chris Jericho would drop the titles to Legacy, but he did what no one else could. He revived the career of the Big Show, and together they successfully held the titles for half a year. And when no one believed The Undertaker could lose the title inside the Elimination Chamber, Chris Jericho set out what he said he would do and became The World Heavyweight Champion for a sixth time. And on March 28th, in front of the sold out stadium for WrestleMania, Chris Jericho will defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Edge.

While Edge contents against the top stars in the industry, Chris Jericho fights Goldust? Not to take anything away from the Bazaar one, but Goldust, signed to SmackDown, will not make it far in the WWE. He'll possibly remain a few months to job to various superstars, but in the end he will leave. Goldust's best shot of being relevant was ECW. But the demise of the brand spelled the demise for Goldust, as his tag team partner, Yoshi Tatsu, was signed over to RAW. Goldust's character belongs in the Attitude Era, his gimmick is lost in 2010.

In the match, Chris Jericho, in tribute to the late-great Eddie Guerrero, laid across the turnbuckle as if on a hammock. The threat of Goldust may not have been something to snooze about, but a Walls of Jericho had Goldust tapping out immediately. If Jericho keeps this up, he'll either be limber, or not battle-tested like Edge, heading into WrestleMania.

NXT Results: 3/2/10 - Week 2, The Pros will Judge the Rookies

2010-03-03T00:15:00.009-05:00

Otunga not a fan of the Truth; Straightedge assist for Young
David Otunga w/R-Truth vs. Darren Young w/Straightedge Society

Welcome once again to WWEStrikesBack's NXT blog post. Last week was the inaugural episode which surpassed the ratings of any past episode of ECW on ScyFy, and is growing into a phenomenon. NXT Host Matt Striker, who can also be seen as the color commentator on Friday Night SmackDown, explained another concept to the enigma that is NXT. At the end of the season, all the pros will have a chance to vote for, or against, a rookie of their choosing. However, a pro cannot vote for or against their own rookie. So guys like Daniel Bryan and Skip Sheffield need not worry about what their mentors have to say.

Now, the opening contest was a rematch of last week's squash match between Darren Young and the A-list celebrity, David Otunga. Darren Young has had a hard time earning the respect from his mentor, C.M. Punk. The Straightedge Savior of the Straightedge Society really wants nothing to do with Young because of his "party" lifestyle. As for David Otunga, it may appear that he is on the same page as his mentor, but it doesn't feel that he is paying attention. The match set off in a basic wrestling format, nothing too flashy, possibly a few drop kicks by Young. Otunga delivers some powerhouse maneuvers, a back body drop slam and a scoop slam, but remained grounded through various head locks by Darren Young.

Then the match took a surprise turn when Luke Gallows went to the other side of the ring to confront R-Truth. David Otunga, momentarily distracted, went for a running lariat but was tripped by C.M. Punk on the outside. The momentary trip allowed Young to go for a full nelson powerslam for the victory. The score is now 1-1. Despite the assist, the Straightedge Society walked away without congratulating Darren Young on his first win on NXT.

Then if that wasn't strange, then David Otunga shoving R-Truth, blaming him for the loss, should have raised an eye brow. Later on, during Otunga's backstage interview with NXT Host, Matt Striker, his mentor confronted Otunga telling him that he would not make a name off of R-Truth. The two brawled in the back, making it obvious that David Otunga never had any respect for his mentor, and that is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but.

Wade Barrett is Quality
Wade Barrett w/Chris Jericho vs. Daniel Bryan w/The Miz

After a week's time, the world is talking about Daniel Bryan on NXT. But most importantly, The Best Wrestler in the World taking on The World Heavyweight Champion, who is the Best in the World at What he does, Chris Jericho in last week's main-event. Photos have been posted on wwe.com and all over the web, of the hellacious injury incurred during that match. During a running dive through the middle ropes, rarely seen in the WWE, Chris Jericho slammed Daniel Bryan back-first into the announce table. And the submission master ironically tapped out to Chris Jericho's liontamer (aka The Real Walls of Jericho). This week, Daniel's mentor, The Miz, booked him in a match against Jericho's rookie, Wade Barrett.

Wade Barrett, confident and eloquent in his abilities, hails from Manchester, England and has come to the WWE for big paychecks. Barrett fought in the streets of London for petty cash, and realizes that in order to make the most money, he has to thrive in a global phenomenon that is the WWE. Wade has also expressed in his interview that it doesn't matter host fast his opponent is, because he is 6'5 and he knows how to use his height to his advantage.

Chris Jericho was on commentary praising his protege, with such terms as "majesty," and "arms like an eagle." Chris Jericho is the best possible mentor that Wade Barrett could have ever hoped for, because Jericho elevates and creates stars better than anyone in the business. And Wade Barrett, after pinning Daniel's with a modified fireman's carry slam, will continue to rise to the top as long as he listens to Chris Jericho.

Daniel Bryan, still injured from last week's match, sucked it up and took on the tallest rookie on NXT. Daniel's may be considered the best in the world, but losing two matches in a row is not looking well to the pros, who will judge at the end of the season. Then again, Daniel Bryan was fighting at half speed and managed an impressive running knee strike on the outside. But he was unable to capitalize on another high-risk maneuver, after falling off the top rope.

A South African Hardy?
Justin Gabriel and Matt Hardy vs. Skip Sheffield and William Regal

Thus far, we have seen every rookie wrestle once or twice in the ring, but the main-event showcased the remaining two rookies having yet to make an appearance. The main-event was a tag team match scheduled for one fall. On one side of the ring we had Matt Hardy and his rookie, Justin Gabriel, and on the opposing side, William Regal and his rookie, Skip Sheffield.

Now, WWE presented a special video package interview with Skip Sheffield and what he brings to NXT. At first, just hearing the name, one would have assumed with a surname like Sheffield that he hailed from England, but far from it. Skip Sheffield is a Texan, and not the John "Bradshaw" Layfield Texan, but a heavy-accented southern from College Station, Texas. He says that he is an entertainer and he likes to make people laugh. But at the same time he likes to deliver "knuckle sandwiches, and slices of humble pie" to his opponents. Skip's catchphrase is "Yep, yep, yep, what it do," and no one has been able to figure out what it means exactly, except that it is fun to say in the ring. One man who is not happy with Skip Sheffield is his mentor William Regal, who would have fared better with the likes of Daniel Bryan or Wade Barrett.

As for Justin Gabriel, Matt Hardy has mentioned on his youtube channel that he is suppose to resemble AJ Styles' ring work. But for WWE's sake, Matt Hardy described Justin as a young Matt Hardy, and that he will bring exciting aerial maneuvers to the WWE. A South African Matt Hardy, or possibly an attempt to replace Jeff Hardy? Not quite sure what I'm talking about? Well, in the match, Matt and Justin double teamed on Skip Sheffield which resembled the Omega move. Then Matt Irish-whipped Skip into the corner and set up for a modified Poetry in Motion as Justin went for a cross body. And the finisher screamed Hardy Boyz, when Matt connected with the Twist of Fate on William Regal, tagged in Justin Gabriel, who went for the 450° splash to get the pinfall. Matt Hardy is Justin Gabriel's sensei, and possibly Justin will become an MF'er (Mattitude Follower).

The relationship between Regal and Sheffield started off on a rocky start, but hopefully they can get it together by next week. And as for Justin Gabriel, he reminds me of an aspiring Evan Bourne than anything else. So hopefully Justin can strive above the flashy aerialist, or else he'll become a future jobber.

RAW Results: 3/1/10 - Bumps on 'Mania Road

2010-03-02T11:17:00.020-05:00

D-X Testament

Shawn Michaels addressed the WWE Universe explaining how members of the locker room can't even look at him. At WrestleMania, Shawn will place his career against The Undertaker's Streak. His peers cannot bare to look at him because it has never been broken. The Streak is 17-0, and to bet against it is career suicide. Michaels then challenged anyone to come out and admit that they feel he can't win.

Queue in Triple-H. Of all the people, why Triple-H? Hunter flat out looked Michaels in the face and told him that he doesn't think, but he knows that he will end the streak. Triple-H has been in the business for over a decade and has fought everyone that there is to fight, but no one has been better than Shawn Michaels.

Then Triple-H suggested that D-X reform for one night in order to invoke their rematch clause for the Unified Tag Team Titles against ShoMiz. Shawn and Hunter have no need for the titles, but title contracts state that title holders have 30 days to defend them; 29 days from now is the RAW after WrestleMania. To Triple-H's testament, Shawn Michaels will have defeated the Streak, and celebrate in the only way that D-X can. The inspiring reply from Michaels gave us all hope, "I guess we have some tag team titles to win!"

Victor Von Orton and his creations
Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase Jr.

For a match perceived with great repute when first put together by 2010 WWE Hall of Fame inductee, "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, WWE wasted an Orton-DiBiase Jr. match on free television, yet again. The first encounter, Randy Orton inched away a victory; the second time, he scored a pinfall by threatening DiBiase Jr. out of Legacy if he didn't. Then at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, Ted DiBiase Jr. shocked the WWE Universe by eliminating Orton thus costing him the WWE Title.

During the match, Ted DiBiase Jr. managed to get the upper hand by mirroring Orton's moves. Orton regained control by stomping DiBiase's wrist followed up by the infamous Randy Orton Stomps. Then Cody Rhodes, no doubt executing last week's original plan, interfered by attacking Orton. Yet, surprisingly, the crowd booed Legacy for attacking Orton, and cheered when Orton tossed DiBiase over the ropes and struck Rhodes with the inverted headlock backbreaker. Too much animosity has brewed between all three members that it has been announced that Orton will take on Rhodes and DiBiase Jr. in a handicap match next week on RAW.

Jack Swagger dominates Santino with authority
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) Jack Swagger vs. Santino Marella

If you blinked then you missed it, Jack Swagger quickly defeated Santino Marella with the Gut wrench powerbomb. Jack Swagger, along with Christian, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, and Shelton Benjamin, will compete in the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania. Can The All-American-American become Mr. Money in the Bank? Seeing as Swagger lost last year's Extreme Rules pay-per-view Triple-Threat match against Tommy Dreamer and Christian, will he be any better with ladders?

WrestleMania 21 crowned two champions, who became enemies

Remember when John Cena compared his WWE title loss to the non-kayfabe Montreal screw job? Bold words from a guy who was not there, but this week, John Cena is okay with Batista as the WWE Champion, for one reason. Because once again, John Cena's match at WrestleMania will be a championship main-event.

Batista reveals the reasons for his actions. Their main-event careers began at WrestleMania 21: John Cena winning the WWE Title, and Batista winning the World Heavyweight Title. But since then, their careers went completely different directions. John Cena is the face of the WWE; the perverbial torch from Steve Austin has been passed to Cena; Cena is on the cover of every magazine, appearing in every WWE promotion, and starring in movies (albeit bad).

Regardless of his lack of wrestling ability and his loud voiced interviews, in which he feels that he has to scream each word to get his point across, John Cena gives everything he has to the business. In their last encounter at Summerslam 2008, Batista injuried Cena's neck which required surgery; as soon as he was able to walk, Cena was backstage at RAW to see how things were going.

John Cena once considered Batista a friend, but their paths have crossed yet again, and this time the WWE Title will be on the line at WrestleMania.

Radio signal not as strong as on ECW
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) MVP vs. Zack Ryder

Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes have signed with RAW, as announced during his match on WWE Superstars against Primo, and was placed in a Money in the Bank qualifying match against MVP. Zack Ryder's first night on RAW and he was already given the recognition that he deserves, right? Much like Swagger's win earlier, MVP easily disposed of Ryder with the Playmaker.

Zack Ryder has performed near brink of the edge matches against Christian on ECW; won a battle royal to be crowned the #1 contender for the ECW Title; ended the career of Tommy Dreamer; and battled Hurricane in his final matches before being released. How in the world is Ryder getting the Santino treatment?

The Money in the Bank competitors are as follows: Christian, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, Shelton Benjamin, Jack Swagger, MVP, and 2 more spots remain. SmackDown and RAW are evenly matched thus far, so the best solution would be to add one more competitor from each brand.

Divas' Pajama Pillow Fight
Gail Kim, Kelly-Kelly, and Eve Torres vs. Maryse, Alicia Fox, and Jillian Hall

In a match issued by Guest Hosts, Cheech and Chong, after getting a sugar high on Hornswoggle's Lucky Charms breakfast cereal, featured Gail Kim (Hello Kitty jammies, type-casted), Kelly-Kelly, and Eve Torres against Maryse, Jillian Hall, and Alicia Fox. What was assumed to be a six-Diva tag team match turned into a free-for-all as the faces hit the faces, and the heels hit the other heels. Jillian Hall broke up the pillow fight by driving vicious clotheslines against every woman in the ring, friend or foe.

By the end of the match, Gail Kim almost won after connecting with Eat Defeat on Alicia Fox, but was dropped kicked out of the ring by Eve Torres. The match ended with Eve Torres connecting with a Seated Senton on Alicia Fox, thus being declared the winner. Looks like Eve has a better success rate than Chris Masters.

The 'Hart' of WrestleMania

Vince McMahon denied screwing Bret Hart at the Survivor Series 1997. Now, after twelve years, McMahon finally admits to it. Since coming back, Bret Hart has been kicked, spat, and humiliated. McMahon, at one final attempt to fill his ego, challenged Bret to a match at WrestleMania. A challenge issued weeks ago by Bret, and the only reason to accepting it now is because Bret has been forced onto a crutch again. The one fleeting passion that drove Bret into accepting this match, despite being hit by a car two weeks ago, is the seething pent up rage that has been stirring for 12 long years.

With about 10 years of ring rust, being a stroke victim, and old age wearing down Bret Hart, this match may be far from excellence. But Bret came back to the WWE, when he said he never would, to not only have one more WrestleMania moment, but to live up to his vow that he will never be pathetic again.

At WrestleMania: Bret "The Hitman" Hart versus Vince McMahon

Phenom mind games; Sheamus hunts The Game
(Unified Tag Team Title Match) ShoMiz vs. D-Generation X

D-Generation-X reformed, minus the D-X mascot, in order to take back their Unified Tag Team Titles, which would symbolize that Shawn Michaels will end the streak. But distractions, obsessions, and the awesomeness of The Miz, cost D-X the titles yet again. It was Deja Vu as Shawn Michaels remained seated in the ring with an agitated look, as Triple-H looked on in disbelief.

This match wasn't so much of a title match, but of a showcasing of what is to come at WrestleMania. Shawn Michaels was covered in a jackknife pin by The Miz, after being distracted by The Undertaker looking down from the titantron. Afterwards, Triple-H was ambused by Sheamus. Now, we know that Shawn Michaels will have his rematch against Taker at 'Mania, but where does Sheamus come in?

Sheamus did what many though was impossible, best John Cena for the WWE Championship at such an early stage in his career. He'd managed to sneak by some successful title defenses against Cena and Orton, but the Elimination Chamber was a different story. Sheamus managed to outlast the competition until he was the last of three competitors remaining inside the satanic structure. Almost eliminating John Cena from the match, Sheamus was pedigreed and eliminated by Triple-H instead. It is obvious that Sheamus wants to settle the score at WrestleMania, which would be another case of Pro vs. Rookie.

Released: Charlie Haas

2010-02-28T19:17:00.003-05:00

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.

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

2010-02-27T00:30:00.020-05:00

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.

WWE Released: Paul Burchill

2010-02-26T23:51:00.003-05:00

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)

2010-02-26T22:38:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-26T21:17:00.003-05:00

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

2010-02-26T00:30:00.009-05:00

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.

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

2010-02-24T11:28:00.013-05:00

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

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

2010-02-23T12:52:00.009-05:00

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

2010-02-23T09:23:00.010-05:00

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...)

Elimination Chamber: Intermediate Titles Retained

2010-02-22T23:54:00.002-05:00

"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

2010-02-22T18:13:00.007-05:00

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

2010-02-22T07:26:00.007-05:00

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.

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

2010-02-21T10:07:00.026-05:00

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.

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

2010-02-19T13:50:00.013-05:00

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.

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

2010-02-17T23:32:00.019-05:00

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."

RAW Results: 2/15/10

2010-02-16T11:05:00.007-05:00

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...

SmackDown Results: 2/12/10

2010-02-13T11:48:00.014-05:00

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.

WWE Superstars Results: 2/11/10

2010-02-12T08:52:00.003-05:00

Those who can't do, teach. Those who can't teach, fall to a Gut-Wrench Powerbomb

This year's Royal Rumble was one of the most star studded Rumbles ever; and a large part is due to Santino's absence. Last year, Santino Marella was not only in the Rumble, but broke The Warlord's record of the shortest time in a Royal Rumble Match. Jack Swagger, who took out Santino Marella for embarrassing him in the All-American-American Challenges, should not be disdained, but he should be praised for helping make the Rumble what it was.

Santino believed he could get the upper hand on Swagger with his new move The Cobra. Sadly, he is relying on a move that he has never successfully used, so when you go up against a pure athlete such as Jack Swagger, the result will be a Gut-Wrench Powerbomb.

Christian Regains Momentum

The ECW Champion has a lot of things on his mind. First off, this upcoming Tuesday is the final ECW. He will have to defend the title one last time against Ezekiel Jackson in an Extreme Rules Match. And he has to consider which brand to transfer to.

His sights are possibly on RAW, as Christian challenged Sheamus in a one-on-one match. The WWE Champion toppled over Christian, but safe bets are that the Peep Show will make a new home on RAW.

Zack Ryder, possibly one of the most interesting wrestlers in the WWE, will also have to decide where he will go. Seeing as RAW puts entertainment before wrestling, Zack Ryder would be right at home on the A-Brand.

This was possibly the fourth-fifth-sixth encounter between these two... And guess what? The outcome remains the same. Despite striking with the Rough Ryder, Christian powered out and eventually struck with the Killswitch.

Unbelievable Main-Event

WWE Superstars should really learn to categorize what should be labeled a main event card. The reason that ratings are as low as they are is because they feel that Dolph Ziggler versus JTG is a main event.

Dolph Ziggler, who hasn't advanced from his feuds with John Morrison or Kane, cannot expect to advance his career by fighting JTG.

As for JTG, WWE obviously favors him over Shad Gaspard. JTG has been entered into the Royal Rumble the past three years, while Shad has been on the sidelines.

The main event spot should have been reserved for ECW seeing as the champion was in action, and it was the final ECW match on WWE Superstars. But as far as this match was concerned, both seemed evenly match, and it was by a hair that Ziggler was able to walk away with a victory.

ECW Results: 2/9/10

2010-02-10T17:19:00.002-05:00

Questions Lingering about ECW Aftermath

Only two weeks remain before ECW comes to an end, and many questions still linger.

What will happen to the ECW superstars, and the brand's title? The ECW Title will be officially defunct at the end of the final episode of ECW. And as for the superstars, they will become free agents; in other words, they will be intergrating within RAW and SmackDown.

What about the non-superstars? Not entirely sure what will happen to Tiffany, Byron Saxton, Abraham Washington, and Tony Atlas. While Josh Matthews has been moonlighting as a backstage interviewer on RAW, the future of the rest remain a mystery.

After next week, Tiffany will no longer be a GM. Yet, she seems confident with the end of ECW looming and the rise of NXT. Has WWE decided to keep her in a GM position, possibly on RAW? All I can say, Tiffany is hott, so WWE will definitely find something for her to do. Even if it means having her lace up her boots and wrestle in the ring. My two best suggestions would be: either have her become the official RAW GM, or have her become the first-ever Divas' GM.

As for Byron Saxton, he was a lousy announcer, so I'm exhillerated over the fact that I no longer have to listen to him. But it also calls into question about the set up of the announce teams for both RAW and SmackDown; because what happens when Jim Ross recovers from his 3rd Bells Palsy episode, will he still have a job?

Then there's the Abraham Washington Show.... Please I hope to all that is good that we never EVER!!!!! have to sit through the worst talk show again.

Championship Opportunities

RAW's historic title change between D-X and ShowMiz may take a detour into the hands of the new #1 contender's, Yoshi Tatsu and Goldust.

With ECW ending, the future of these superstars is uncertain, but a title win would definitely secure a spot on the main roster. Yoshi and Goldie earned the opportunity to face Show-Miz by defeating Caylen Croft and Trent Baretta. Can Yoshi and Goldie leave the final episode of ECW as the new Unified Tag Team Champions?

As for the fate of the ECW Title, Christian will defend it one last time against Ezekiel Jackson under Extreme Rules.

Shelton's Golden Enlightenment

Shelton Benjamin addressed the ECW audience about coming to ECW a second time. As the Gold Standard, he felt that he was too good for ECW. But, on his first night, Yoshi kicked him in the head and lost in 15 seconds. It was truly a wake up call, and since then, Shelton has appreciated the sport more through working with a younger crop of wrestlers just making their way into the WWE.

Shelton has had an outstanding feud with newcomer Vance Archer, who has grown in intensity and ruthlessness each and every time these two hit the ring. Vance Archer is the kind of guy I can picture wrestling for the Original "the real" ECW.

Possibly their final match on ECW, it was under no disqualifications. Which it might as well have been an Extreme Rules match, as Vance Archer dug underneath the ring to pull out a kendo stick. Then Shelton took control as he started wielding a steel chair. Shelton commanded so much control out of that steel chair as he motioned it through the air, it would have been nice if he had connected.

Shelton then appeared to be cut open, as the EMT made his way into the ring, pausing the match, to mend the cut. Two reasons for this could be: WWE is unwilling to show blood on its PG format; or for health code reasons. Shelton almost appeared that he would lose the match, especially after Vance powerbomed Shelton off the top turnbuckle. But that "cut" seemed to have ignited a fire inside of Shelton, which for the past three years have been dim. Shelton struck with PayDirt, delivering Vance Archer's second loss.

This looked like to be their final match, making me believe that after the final episode the two will be split up into different brands.

RAW Results: 2/8/10

2010-02-09T10:26:00.019-05:00

ECW vs. WWE, The Better Champion is...?

In two weeks, The WWE Champion Sheamus will have to defend his title inside the Elimination Chamber. There is a strong possibility that Sheamus will lose the title, but he demanded from RAW Guest Host Carl Edwards to make him the final entry into the Elimination Chamber.

You can close your eyes, but not against ECW Champion Christian who interrupted the WWE Champion. Christian remarked on Edge's appearance on RAW last week and mentioned that his Championship Match could either be for the WWE or World Heavyweight Champion, leaving him quite peeved that the ECW Title was not taken into consideration. But McMahon's announcement of the cancellation of ECW put the pieces together. In two weeks, all the ECW superstars become free agents, meaning they are free to join up any show they see fit, and Christian decided to test the waters on RAW before making his decision.

In order to test the waters, Christian demanded a match against Sheamus to see who the better champion was. Well, in two weeks, the ECW Title will become vacant, making Christian the final and longest running ECW Champion in WWE history.

As for the match, Christian is used to taking on opponents that outmatch him in size, but he usually relies on his speed and agility to get the job done. But what happens when your opponent is equally as fast? Christian held off Sheamus better than I have ever seen anyone do, and possibly one of my favorite Christian matches since his return in 2009. Christian even almost got the pin after a tornado DDT, but Sheamus powered out. In the end, Christian could not evade a second Bicycle kick, and the exclamation point, the Celtic Cross.

The New Unified Tag Team Champions - ShoMiz (Like Show-Biz)

Minutes... seconds... that's all it takes for titles to change hands, and it happened in a big way on Monday Night RAW. D-Generation-X put the Unified Tag Team Titles on the line against The Straightedge Society, and The Show-Miz in a Triple Threat Elimination Match.

First off, fabulous tag team match; and finally, WWE created a stipulation where three people in a tag team match could fight at the same time, unlike those Fatal Four-way Tag Team Matches where only two competitors are allowed in the ring at a time.

There was a nice mixture of wrestlers in the ring, from the middle-weights: Shawn vs. Miz vs. C.M. Punk and the heavyweights: Triple-H vs. Big Show vs. Luke Gallows. Then at times the combination was meshed, which is great because it allows fresh competition, instead of the stale matches week after week.

After C.M. Punk was super kicked and pinned by Shawn Michaels, team Straightedge were eliminated... thus leaving The Miz and The Big Show fending off against D-Generation-X. Shawn Michaels was occupied with trying to survive against Big Show, who would not let him tag in a fresh Triple-H. Show and Miz however were celebrating too early and taking Shawn Michaels too lightly. He is after all called Mr. WrestleMania for a reason, do not take him lightly, ever.

The tragic story concluded after Triple-H was finally tagged in, and D-X looked to retain their titles, but Shawn Michaels forced tagged himself back in.

The Miz used the distraction between Triple-H and Michaels arguing to roll Michaels up for the win.

The Miz made good on his promises to retain the United States Championship, which he did at The Royal Rumble, and to capture the Unified Tag Team Championships... something he was unable to do with his partner John Morrison during the title's fusion one-year ago at WrestleMania 25.

As for The Big Show, he not only found a new partner in The Miz, who treats him like a person, but is the only man in the WWE to become a 2-time Unified Tag Team Champion. And not only that, he was able to accomplish something that he could not with Chris Jericho, and that is defeat D-Generation-X.

Congratulations to ShoMiz on becoming the New Unified Tag Team Champions.

The Fall of D-X

Last week, Shawn Michaels incurred the worst 24-hours of his life as he lost the Royal Rumble and the qualifying match for the Elimination Chamber. Shawn Michaels dreams of another shot at ending Taker's Streak seemed to have vanished, but he could at least take solace that this would be the first WrestleMania for D-X, right...?

Triple-H had to burst Michaels' bubble by reminding him that though he didn't win his qualifying match, he did. Triple-H has been in five Elimination Chamber matches and won the last four. Winning chamber matches is what Triple-H does, and he will do what he does, and that is win the chamber match, become a 14-World Champion, and go on to headline WrestleMania.

It doesn't come as a surprise that Michaels made a bad decision call when he tagged himself in, costing D-X the Unified Tag Team Titles against ShowMiz. Michaels went to see Teddy Long, who was present to see Straightedge Society in the Triple Threat Elimination, on being traded to SmackDown and taking someone's entry spot in the Elimination Chamber. Michaels plans on moving to SmackDown, taking someone's spot, becoming the World's Champion, and defending his title at WrestleMania against The Undertaker, retaining and thus... end the streak. That's a tall order, however, Teddy is unable to fulfill Michaels' wish.

Triple-H encountered Michaels and demanded that he doesn't just through his career away over this obsession. But Michaels declared that his career was over, and superkicked Teddy Long.

Mole within Legacy?

Last week I spoke about Cody Rhodes and how there was something off with the way the WWE Championship match went down at the Royal Rumble. And now the plot thickens as Cody continues to dispute with Ted DiBiase Jr. and Randy Orton.

Unlike Ted, Cody Rhodes failed to secure a spot in the Royal Rumble and he attributes that loss based on the assigned opposition. Ted defeated Mark Henry, an opponent that all three members of Legacy have defeated on numerous occasions, to secure a spot in the Elimination Chamber; while Cody had to face John Cena in a losing effort. Cody proposed that he had a much tougher opponent, while DiBiase eased by.

Randy Orton then scheduled two matches for the night: DiBiase vs. John Cena, and Cody vs. Randy Orton.

Cody Rhodes' ring prowess has considerably changed, escalating in arrogance and intensity. And for those that have wondered, the reason Rhodes does not wear knee pads is to inflict more damage with his bony knees. Hence, when Cody slapped Orton's hand away from his face and then dropped kicked him, its his evolution.

Predictably, Orton delivered much needed punishment to Cody for costing him the title. A title match, in which Cody appeared to have wanted Orton to lose. If that's not enough to generate some rumors, then how about the fact that Sheamus showed up to distract Orton from an unsuspecting Cody Rhodes, who struck with Cross-Rhodes. Maybe Cody is working for Sheamus, or it can just be a coincidence.

As for Ted DiBiase's match, there was no match... only a beat down from John Cena.

WrestleMania Matches?

John Cena addressed the beat down he received from Batista last week, and called out Mr. McMahon. Vince claims that he didn't hire Batista to take him out, but it was by coincidence. Of course it was by coincidence, because no one told Cena to come to Bret's aid. Cena showed up Batista, and The Animal is not one to be shown up.

Will we indeed see a rematch from the SummerSlam 2008 encounter?

As for McMahon screwing Bret Hart last week yet again, Cena revealed that Bret wants nothing more than to have one more WrestleMania moment against Mr. McMahon. And Vince agreed to have that match, that was until Bret sneeked attacked him.

McMahon's final words were that he would not fight Bret at Mania, because Bret deserves to be screwed.

Thoughts on these pending WrestleMania matches are as follows:

John Cena vs. Batista: If John Cena fails to procure the WWE Title at the Elimination Chamber, this would mark Cena's first WrestleMania where he is not defending or contending for a title. As for Batista, he hasn't had a good WrestleMania since facing Taker at 'Mania 23, so the spotlight he so desires would be on him if he defeats John Cena. Batista defeated John Cena in their last match, and embarrassed him last week on RAW... could he do it again at WrestleMania?

Bret Hart vs. Mr. McMahon: A few months ago, Rowdy Piper wanted to wrestle Mr. McMahon, but he refused, saying that he was officially retired from wrestling. Yet, when it comes to a guy like Bret Hart, who sufferred a stroke a few years back, and looks physically incapable of wrestling another match, Mr. McMahon cannot wait to strap on his wrestling boots. Bret Hart appears to have gotten closure from Shawn Michaels, but when it comes to Mr. McMahon, they both still harbor hatred for one another. A WrestleMania bout between these two is a dream, but is that all it is? Bret Hart's stroke is not kayfabe, it's a serious disability hindering him from wrestling. The days of the Excellence of Execution are long behind him, and a physical match such as this could have some serious implications on his health.

SmackDown Results: 2/5/10

2010-02-06T12:03:00.014-05:00

Opportunity by Elimination

Chris Jericho's dream of winning the Rumble and headlining WrestleMania was taken away by a returning Edge. The words, "I Have NOTHINHG!" echoed throughout the FedExForum arena. There is no one better in the WWE, I feel, that can deliver on a promo with such life, passion, and hatred. You may beg to differ. You may have a list of people that can who are still with the company. I ask you, when was the last time they cut such a promo?

Chris Jericho barged into Teddy Long's office to find the 2010 Royal Rumble Winner, Edge. He attributes his return to Jericho, "You gave me the strength to come back... You created a monster." The best possible WrestleMania match is to have Chris Jericho face off against Edge. They have enough to feud over. During Jericho's Slammy victory speech seven weeks ago, he made light of Edge's injury, as if it were a punch line.

Edge recovered from a torn Achilles tendon; doctors were unsure whether he'd ever be able to compete again. Edge vowed, after missing two WresleManias, that he wouldn't miss a third. Edge's first night back on SmackDown meant only one thing, the return of the Cutting Edge, with special guest, the World's Champion The Undertaker. Except it wasn't Taker who showed, but Jericho and eventually the Straight-Edge Society.

C.M. Punk and Chris Jericho may have overbearing domineering views on the outcome of the Elimination Chamber, but they still have to go through the Demon of Death Valley to achieve that boast.

Whoever does come out the Elimination Chamber may have to face The Ultimate Opportunist come WrestleMania.

Potential Contenders

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.1
Triple-Threat: Kane vs. Drew McIntyre vs. John Morrison

Who to pick in a match where you have the big red monster, the chosen Scotsman, and the Guru of Greatness? Well in order to determine that let us break it down.

Kane: The younger brother of The Undertaker, a multi-time World Champion, the only man to ever face the Undertaker twice at WrestleMania, are certainly some impressive accolades for Kane to find himself facing off with his brother once again. But is round 3 really something that the fans want?

The history between these two brothers call out for another encounter, just not at WrestleMania. The last time these two fought at WrestleMania was 2004, The Undertaker had been buried by Kane, and was looking for payback. The highly anticipated rematch turned out to be more spectacle than anything worth remembering. So despite the history, I wouldn't recommend Taker-Kane III at 'Mania XXVI.

Drew McIntyre: A man who has been undefeated in singles competition, has never been pinned, won the I-C Title on his first attempt, and successfully defended it on numerous occasions against the former champion. In addition, it took not one, but both members of D-X to eliminate him from the Royal Rumble.

Drew McIntyre is truly rising as a serious threat for anyone that stands in his way, but is a World Title opportunity all that smart?

WWE placed the WWE Title on Sheamus, and the fans are not fully behind the push. Sure it shows WWE's willingness to push younger wrestlers, but, most importantly, wrestlers need to be built up properly. For a while, Randy Orton was unmatched with his intensity in the ring; but, with rise of such young stars in Sheamus and McIntyre, there is a change occurring in the WWE.

McIntyre is on the right path, what he needs right now is not a World Title Shot, but another competitor for the I-C Title.

John Morrison: A tag team strategist, multi-time tag team champion, three-time I-C Champion, and truly a man beyond good and evil as he can handle the role of heel and fan favorite with ease.

Ever since Jeff Hardy's departure from the company, SmackDown has been in need of a fan favorite to lead as the face of the brand. However, WWE feels that Rey Mysterio is the man for the job, but I beg to differ.

Mysterio may be just as great with the fans as a John Cena, but he is prone to injury. And to give him a World Title, and suffer an injury would not bod well for the company.

As for John Morrison, he is truly an amazing specimen of talent, charisma, and physical fitness. He has proven to be championship material: with successful runs as WWE and World Tag Team Champions, along with a memorable I-C Title run.

The Triple Threat went great. Morrison's pinfall victory over Kane, not only asserts his dominance but it protects McIntyre from incurring a pinfall loss.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.2
R-Truth vs. Mike Knox

R-Truth has been steadily rising with some big wins over Jericho, escalating even further this past Sunday. At the Royal Rumble, R-Truth eliminated both the Big Show and Mark Henry, the two biggest threats in the match.

I'm still not on board with this push, but after taking out Mike Knox to earn an entry spot in the Elimination Chamber, I cannot deny R-Truth.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.3
Batista vs. C.M. Punk

C.M. Punk has lately come off as an anti-Christ figure. Not saying that Punk is a demon, but he twists the words of Jesus to maintain his ego. He preached to his society, "There is no you, without me." Shouldn't that saying go the other way around, methinks?

This was in regards to his qualifying match with Batista, mostly asking for some sort of interference against The Animal.

However, the match ended on a count-out because Batista simply counted himself out. This could have something to do with what took place after RAW went off the air. John Cena finally did come to Bret's aid - even though who needed it then? - and Batista walked away. He then came charging back and pummeled John Cena, and Batista PowerBombing him through steel steps.

Could Mr. McMahon have enlisted Batista as the muscles? Is Batista starting a feud with John Cena? Possibly act as surrogates for Mr. McMahon and Bret Hart? Hopefully not the latter, but the first part sounds ridiculously entertaining. It'd be nice to see the two biggest, and most overrated superstars duke it out at WrestleMania XXVI.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.4
Chris Jericho vs. Matt Hardy

Chris Jericho, who said that he qualifies for nothing, found himself in an easy fight against Matt Hardy. Interestingly enough that Jericho and Matt where both in the cab with Gregory Helms before he got arrested, and they now found each other contending for an entry spot.

Matt Hardy attempted a Twist of Fate, but Jericho evaded with assist from the ropes. Jericho struck with the Codebreaker to win.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.5
Rey Mysterio vs. Dolph Ziggler

A revival match from last summer's Intercontinental Title feud, Dolph and Rey this time fought for a richer prize, an entry into the Elimination Chamber.

Dolph Ziggler had some close calls, and surely does have signs of perfection. But is the heart of the underdog greater than perfectly executed moves?

Dolp Ziggler, once vying for the I-C Title, is now shuffled in the mid card scene. Especially after losing to Morrison in a series of title matches, Ziggler is going through a dry spell. And for a gimmick that should be outspoken, he's awfully quiet.

Yet, it should say something for WWE management to place Ziggler in a contenders qualifier match for the World's Title. But in the end, he was just a stepping stone for Mysterio to once again be tossed into the title picture.

Elimination Chamber Match Participants for World Heavyweight Title

Defending Champion: The Undertaker
Participants: John Morrison, R-Truth, C.M. Punk, Chris Jericho, and Rey Mysterio

Glama-Feat for WrestleMania?

Perky little Mickie James is complacent with being the new Women's Champion for a fifth time. With months of intense humiliation by the hands of Lay-Cool, the worst is yet to come in the form of The Glamazon.

Entering the Royal Rumble at No. 6, Beth Phoenix eliminated the Great Khali and delivered a vicious clothesline to C.M. Punk before being eliminated. Despite the short run, Glamazon was fighting with grown men, while Mickie was busy with little girls.

But before we can see Beth contend for the Women's Title, Michelle McCool still has her mandatory rematch clause. Oh, and a tag team match.

The women's match was Beth Phoenix and Mickie James against Lay-Cool. Mickie-Beth worked well together for a while, with clean tags an no one-up manships, However, Beth struck Mickie square in the face to let a British-chippy try to score the pinfall. Even after being punched in the face, Mickie still managed to roll up Layla for the win.

Beth Phoenix, despite at times choosing to team with McCool, has no allegiance to Team Lay-Cool.

Yet, with Mickie James and Beth Phoenix having an underlining feud since the start of their trade to SmackDown, I wouldn't be surprised if we witness Beth Phoenix contend for the title at WrestleMania. It would be a women's match worth seeing, and definitely a change of pace from the last three playboy/Ms. WrestleMania failures.

WWE Superstars Results: 2/4/10

2010-02-05T22:18:00.008-05:00

Wasted Potential: Carlito and Evan Bourne

The following match saw Carlito against Evan Bourne.

At the Royal Rumble, Evan drew No. 2 and fought in a stalemate against entry No. 1 Dolph Ziggler. Evan had 90 seconds before the next participant to join the fray to toss Ziggler over the rope, but instead C.M. Punk eliminated both.

As for Carlito, he was equally as impressive, lasting 4:34 enough time to back stab half the participants in the ring. And who better to toss you out than Shawn Michaels?

The match on Superstars was questionable because Carlito and Bourne have been jobbing for various superstars for most of their careers. Carlito has zero drive, while Evan is happy just having his own WWE T-Shirt.

Suggestion: Either get Carlito back together with his brother, or revive the feud he should have had, and let it lead to outspoken matches, tag team matches, mix-gender matches, any series of matches will do. Have them go on Carlito's Cabana and tear the house down. There is so much potential, and they are letting it go to waste.

RAW Diva Update: Kelly-Kelly in Limelight

The opening match pitted Kelly-Kelly and Eve Torres against Jillian Hall and Katie Lea.

Lately, WWE has been favoring their youngest diva, Kelly-Kelly, as she's appeared on WWE Superstars for several weeks besting Jillian Hall. Whether teaming with Gail Kim or Eve Torres, the focus is centered on Kelly-Kelly.

Side tracking a bit, in other RAW Divas news: Maryse mentioned to Gail Kim, her opponent for the vacant Divas' Title, of how she detests the childish feud Michelle McCool has been having with Mickie James, and she does not want their match to escalate by those means. "Let's behave like women." Was Maryse being sincere to suggest that, or does she have an ulterior motive? The jury will have to agree when I say "motive!"

Now back to this divas match: Jillian Hall didn't try to sing, and Katie Lea seems lost without Paul. Honestly, if they are not going to be used to their potential, then why bother?

Kelly-Kelly and Eve Torres picked up the wins.

SmackDown Midcard Update: What to do

The main event was The Hart Dynasty and I-C Champion Drew McIntyre versus Matt Hardy, The Great Khali, and John Morrison.

Oh, how far Matt Hardy has fallen. Matt Hardy entered the Royal Rumble, executed two moves and was immediately tossed out by Kane. The past couple of weeks, he's had to forge a team with the Great Khali. Either WWE really wants nothing to do with another Hardy, or they have officially run out of things for him to do.

As for John Morrison and Drew McIntyre, the feud ended in favor of Drew McIntyre last week during a no-DQ I-C Title Match. The reason WWE paired Morrison against McIntyre in this six-man tag match is for familiarity purposes. What WWE needs is another contender for the I-C title, to keep things fresh.

Hart Dynasty needs to continue dominating a slew of singles matches, seeing as how they can't make a career out of defeating Cryme Tyme. Just recently, H.D. has been feuding with Khali and Hardy, which explains why they are in the match.

As for the match, Matt Hardy struck D.H. Smith with the Twist of Fate and, instead of going for the pin, Matt tagged in Khali. The Punjabi Playboy picked Smith up and executed the Punjabi Plunge for the win.

With the final scene of Matt and John waving their arms in the air, in a crazy attempt to make Khali look cool. Not really working guys.

Stand Back, There's a Liquid-Courage Man Coming Through...

2010-02-03T13:04:00.003-05:00

Gregory Helms Punished

It seems nowadays, more and more WWE superstars are making their way on TMZ. Whether it be Jeff Hardy, Batista, or even Gregory Helms.

It's no secret that mugshots of Gregory Helms have been posted all over TMZ, as he was arrested for public intoxication. Gregory Helms, along with Chris Jericho, and a female passenger named Ashley Storer, were drunk, escalating to Jericho and Helms play fighting in the back seat. The cabdriver pulled over at a nearby gas station after Helms accidently elbowed Storer.

On the Abraham Washington Show, Zack Ryder asked Christian how he felt about Gregory Helms tarnishing the reputation of ECW by doing what he did. Christian replied that we all make mistakes.

WWE are not hiding the fact that Jericho and Helms were on TMZ, they are actually exploiting it. Edge took the first shot on Monday Night when mentioning that while he was at home, Jericho has been getting his mugshot on TMZ. And then Gregory Helms appeared in the ring, which is not like a backstage reporter to do, only to be assaulted by Ezekiel Jackson and William Regal. No WWE superstar goes unpunished, and as for Gregory Helms, he was not only pulled out of the Royal Rumble, but he was double-teamed into a Ura-nage and the Knee Trembler.

It also leads us to wonder if Gregory Helms will be able to continue working as The Hurricane. Because how will the Hurricane be perceived if he cannot control himself in public?

As someone who is an occasional drinker, I personally understand what Gregory Helms is going through, it's not easy to control your actions. I've luckily never done anything that would garner me a spot on TMZ, but then again, Helms has a responsibility as a role model to set an example.

After ECW ends, Helms may appear on a different brand. Might I suggest SmackDown and enter a feud with the Straight-Edge Society? It would be just the thing SmackDown needs: Matt Hardy and Gregory Helms to feud with Luke Gallows and C.M. Punk.

ECW Results: 2/2/10

2010-02-03T11:39:00.001-05:00

ECW Finally Going Off the Air

Vince McMahon made a rare appearance on ECW to announce that ECW would be canceled in three weeks. He stated that even though the new ECW has proven successful they have decided to bring a new innovative WWE program in the same time slot on Scyfy.

I think all wrestling fans can attest that the new ECW, far from Extreme Championship Wrestling, was actually a failure. Many had hopes of the resurgence of ECW back in 2005, at a special One Night Stand pay-per-view. But 2007 proved otherwise. The concept of male wrestlers being known as extremist, and divas as vixens, was short lived. Even the camera work was done differently, but after a while the "extremist" proved too extreme for WWE. The lifestyles of the ECW Originals were unhealthy and unable to comply with the Wellness Policy, because after a year, almost ever member of the original ECW were released from their contracts.

So what's ECW without the founders of Extreme Championship Wrestling? It eventually became just another WWE program, featuring the same format as SmackDown and RAW, except it became a place where new and upcoming superstars can get their start.

The new show will be called NXT, standing for Next Generation, and will feature a wave of new superstars. Leading us to believe that the established stars on ECW will be integrated over to SmackDown and RAW. As for who or what will exactly be featured on this new brand in not official. It may turn into a reality show much like MTV's Tough Enough, or keep to a similar format as ECW with a new NXT developmental title.

What's to come of these new ECW superstars?

Yoshi Tatsu, who recently arrived on ECW as part of Tiffany's superstar initiative, made his first Royal Rumble appearance this past Sunday, but was eliminated by John Cena. Though his stay was brief, it should mean something to be tossed over by Mr. WWE.

Tatsu and Baretta had a fast paced opening contest, filled with arm drags and flips. An example of more of the type of wrestling and faces that we will be seeing on NXT.

However, Baretta failed to maintain focus as he argued with the official, resulting in Tatsu delivering a Roundhouse kick for the pin fall.

I don't know about Baretta, but the rookie better shape up if he plans on maintaining a position after ECW goes off the air.

Shelton Benjamin Creates Superstars

Shelton Benjamin, possibly one of the most underrated superstars, has managed to enter some intense feuds. From Zack Ryder, to Sheamus, and now Vance Archer. The latter two are fairly new to the WWE, and were broken in by Shelton.

Vance Archer has been steadily rising in ECW, with his entrance theme changing along with him. The current theme is entitled "Black Fury" by the man Jim Johnston himself. Vance went undefeated for several months until last week when Shelton granted his first loss.

For Vance and Shelton, it's purely a grip for grapple contest. The match ended with Vance attempting to pin Shelton during a roll through, but was caught trying to use the ropes. However, he quickly went for another pin using the ropes for leverage.

WWE can brashly take Vance Archer and throw him on either SmackDown or RAW, but I believe Vance Archer is just starting to find his footing in the WWE and would benefit on NXT.

Who Will Lead NXT?

Zack Ryder, who believes to be the new Heart and Soul Super hero of ECW, wants to prove that he is above the ECW Title by defeating the brand's leading champion. This is possibly their fourth encounter, and yet, the outcome remains the same.

Though Zack Ryder is unorthodox in his wrestling attire, Zack has that 'it' factor to lead the new wave of superstars. He delivers on his promise of defeating his opponents, and adopts their nicknames as a sign of dominance. Yet, Christian has been the only superstar to evade the Zack Attack.

A lot of thoughts surged through my mind after McMahon's announcement. Will Christian be ECW's final champion? If Zack Ryder believes to be greater than ECW, will he be the inaugural champion of the next generational substitute for ECW? And what must be going through the mind of the Champion, as in three weeks time, the title will be defunct?

As for Ezekiel Jackson and William Regal attacking Christian once more, when will this feud ever end?

RAW Results: 2/1/10

2010-02-02T11:32:00.018-05:00

Your 2010 Royal Rumble Winner, EDGE

EDGE shocked the world as he entered in at No. 29 to eliminate his former tag team partner, Jericho, and last eliminating John Cena to win the Royal Rumble. Now the question remains, which Champion will he confront at WrestleMania.

Two options: He can either choose to face The Undertaker again, but how smart is it to challenge a guy who is undefeated at WrestleMania? Or he can challenge a guy who has never even been to WrestleMania.

Or, EDGE can wait three weeks to find out who the champions will be after the Elimination Chambers.

The WWE Champion Sheamus, taking much offense to EDGE's view of being a mild threat, declared that things have changed since his seven month absence. And it wasn't before long that Sheamus managed to get in a surprise shot, but EDGE planted Sheamus, and maintained his momentum.

Whoever EDGE decides to challenge, EDGE will indeed headline WrestleMania XXVI.

In Memory of Jack Brisco: 1941-2010

Jack Brisco was a professional wrestler popular in the 70s into early 80s. His most noteworthy accomplishment was becoming a two-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion. Considered by most, including Don Leo Jonathan, as the greatest champion of the 20th Century. He also gained much success in the tag team division teaming with his brother Gerald Brisco to capture an unprecedented 20 tag titles within the NWA territories. Jack died on February 1, 2010, due to complications during his open heart surgery.

Predictability in Qualifying Matches

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.1
John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes

John Cena already won the match just by being John Cena. But this is not about John Cena getting another shot to take on Sheamus where no disqualifications are possible; because this is about Cody.

When Cody was first introduced by his father, The American Dream, Randy Orton, during his Legend Killer phase, spat in Dusty's face. Cody, who was right next to his father, wanted to rip Orton's head off. Yes, in 2007, Cody Rhodes began his WWE career as a fan favorite, shadowed by the greatness of The American Dream. Yet, what others at the time thought was a bad idea, turned out to be the greatest career change for Rhodes when he joined Randy Orton to form Legacy.

Last night, during the Royal Rumble main-event, Cody attacked Triple-H with a Russian Legsweep, and Drew McIntyre with an armbar takedown. Despite being eliminated early on, taking down Drew and Triple-H are not easy tasks.

Cody has gone from a regular kid trying to live up to his father's image, to severing ties and becoming his own person. He indeed does resembles Randy Orton every day, only because he brings the same intensity into his matches as Orton does. And while most superstars wouldn't even bother taking on John Cena, an opponent like that does not scare Cody Rhodes, it's just another opportunity to prove himself in the business.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.2
Triple-H vs. Jack Swagger

Once again, Triple-H is a 13-time World Champion. He has competed in 5 Elimination Chambers and won the last four. Triple-H's record is unmatched to the point that Elimination Chamber has become his forte. So to have Triple-H lose to Jack Swagger would not only be an upset, but a stupid call on the part of the creative staff.

I had a back-and-forth conversation with my friend Alejandro about the future of Jack Swagger in the WWE. I personally feel that Jack Swagger would make an excellent WWE Champion because he has the charisma, the confidence, and the wrestling ability to dominate the RAW Brand. He disagrees because Jack Swagger has a lisp and cannot be taken seriously as the industry's top champion. I counter argued by stating that Sheamus' pale complexion and dark red hair/facial hair has garnered him such nicknames as Casper and Ronald McDonald's evil twin. "His skin complexion has no bearing on taking him seriously," he stated. And I retaliated, "But what about Mike Tyson, he has a lisp." He simply refuted that boxing is a different sport and wrestling is entertainment, where talking is just as important as the physical part.

Two great viewpoints, but Jack Swagger quickly rose to the industry's developmental champion in FCW and ECW. I still feel strongly about Jack Swagger one day holding the company's richest prize. I know one Oakie would be proud, and probably would name a BBQ sauce in his honor.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.3

Shawn Michaels vs. Randy Orton

Finally, a gem within this pile of rubble. Both Michaels and Randy Orton failed to accomplish what they set out to do at the Royal Rumble, and this match was a chance to make things right.

Triple-H has been concerned for Michaels with the way he overreacted losing the Rumble, the fines he incurred from striking the referees, and should count his blessings for not being suspended. He insisted that Michaels focus on winning this match, because with the two of them inside the chamber, they would have a chance to tear the roof down at WrestleMania.

This qualifying match was truly anyone's match, but the only one who could really benefit from winning would be Randy Orton. The Viper lost the WWE Title Match thanks to Cody Rhodes, and gaining an entry spot in the Elimination Chamber is a second-chance at the title.

As for Michaels to win the match, Michaels heart lies in facing the Undertaker at WrestleMania, not to contend for the WWE Title. It was a good solid match, but Randy Orton winning via roll-up was the best possible ending for the match.

For Shawn Michaels there is only one opponent he wants at WrestleMania, and that is The Undertaker. Because for Shawn Michaels, he wants to obtain peace of mind in his wrestling career. When Michaels entered the very first Elimination Chamber and won the World Heavyweight Title after a five-year absence, that was to prove that he can still main-event. But there has always been a nagging thought lingering in his mind, that Taker was the reason he was gone for five long years.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.4

Ted DiBiase Jr. vs. Mark Henry

Once again, a very predictable match. Despite Mark Henry's size and imaginable dominance, he's not the same man he was ten years ago. Mark Henry's body building days are over so his physic has diminished.

What was interesting about this match was that Teddy chose to attack the arm of Mark Henry rather than the legs. A former body-builder such as Mark Henry, tend to have weak knees trying to support a much larger upper body. Yet, DiBiase, after slamming Mark Henry's arm into the steel steps, won the match with an arm bar take down.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.5

Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston

This match could have gone one of two ways, Big Show, a giant destroyer can enter the Elimination Chamber and be seen as a huge threat to the title, or have Kofi Kingston, a man who has recently had a chip on his shoulder compete for the WWE Title. After what occurred earlier, my money was on Kofi to win the match.

The Big Show has verbosely decided to align himself with The Miz and form another tag team. Big Show has teamed with so many wrestlers from Undertaker, Kane, to Chris Jericho and has collected many tag title reigns because of it. But The Miz's dream is to not only remain the United States Champion, but to have the Big Show go on and defeat Sheamus for the WWE Title, and challenge D-X for the Unified Tag Team Titles, in order to rule the WWE with all the straps. A feat accomplished by Austin and Triple-H, except it was the Intercontinental Title, not the United States. However, C.M. Punk and Luke Gallows have not received their entitled titles match against D-X; hence, RAW Guest Host William Shatner, a.k.a. RAW Match Negotiator (joke on his commercials on Price Line), issued a Triple-Threat Match for next week in which D-X would defend the titles against the Straight-Edge Society and the team of Miz and Big Show.

Too much focus and new adversaries were presented in that segment to actually follow through on Big Show also contending for the WWE Title. However, it wasn't Punk, Gallows, or Serena that provided interference, but it was MVP. Still upset on the events that occurred at the Royal Rumble, MVP came from the stands and attacked Miz who was on commentary.

Big Show lost the match by punching out the referee, after being thumbed in the eye by a dizzy Kofi Kingston. In my view, Kofi should have been disqualified for an illegal move. Sure, Kofi couldn't see, but neither could Big Show. Big Show, very innocently, shouted that he didn't mean to do it, and looked sincerely sorry and wronged. I honestly feel that the angle by which this match ended has something to do with his new movie by WWE Films, Knucklehead.

Elimination Chamber Match Participants for WWE Title

Defending Champion: Sheamus
Participants: Triple-H, John Cena, Randy Orton, Ted DiBiase, and Kofi Kingston

A Pathetic Assault on Bret Hart

I personally feel that the nostalgia of Bret Hart ended after his return January 4th. But this second encounter between The Hitman and Mr. McMahon marks the eventual road to WrestleMania.

Bret Hart wrestled for twenty years to get to the limelight he had achieved, and McMahon destroyed that in 3 minutes. Three hundred days a year, for thirteen years, and the thanks he gets is a screw job.

In 2004, Hart suffered a stroke after hitting the back of his head in a bicycle accident. He was forced into a wheel chair, having his whole left side paralysed. He hated himself because he couldn't move. But when he finally managed to walk on his own again, Bret Hart vowed that he would never be pathetic again. Then January 4th rolled by, and McMahon kicked Bret in the gut and made him feel pathetic once more.

McMahon tore into Bret Hart stating that he can barely do anything, he has a bull dog like face, stringy hair, and zero personality. And that if it wasn't for people like The British Bulldog, Shawn Michaels, or Stone Cold Steve Austin to main event with him, he'd be lost somewhere in the mid-card. Then the last straw was when McMahon revoked the induction of Stu Hart from this year's Hall of Fame Ceremony.

Hammurabi's Code mentions "If anyone strikes the body of a man higher in rank than he, he shall receive sixty blows with an ox-whip in public." Well, I guess when Bret Hart viciously attacked Vince McMahon and set up for the Sharpshooter, they had this law in mind. Batista, acting as the ox-whip, attacked Bret; and held Bret in place for McMahon to spit in his face. Bret Hart tried to strike a man of a higher position than he, in turn he was attacked and humiliated in public.

Royal Rumble: EDGE Returns

2010-02-01T13:05:00.013-05:00

The Ultimate Rated-R-eturn

Shawn Michaels, John Cena, and Chris Jericho were the last three remaining, but No. 29 came as a shock to everyone. The energy of the Philips Arena exploded to insurmountable heights as the Rated-R Superstar made his triumphant return after a career ending torn Achilles tendon.

None was more surprised than his former tag team partner, Chris Jericho. Weeks before Night of Champions, Chris Jericho confronted Edge and publicized that he would find a new partner who was better than Edge in every way, later revealed to be The Big Show. Chris Jericho mostly aired out Edge's list of injuries and addressed him as the weak link. Edge stated when he comes back, things would be different.

Back then, I knew Edge meant that he would be turning face, and would start a feud with Chris Jericho. Seeing as he eliminated Chris Jericho, the feud has picked up where it last left off.

A fan in the audience held up an acronym sign with the letters WWE forming the statement, "We Want Edge." He's been seven months removed, but he sealed his return with a Royal Rumble victory by last eliminating John Cena.

With pledges of straight-edge lifestyles, rematches with a Deadman, and selfish dreams of headlining the superbowl of the WWE, EDGE fulfilled his promise to the WWE Universe of returning to become a champion once again. EDGE is "The One" to headline WrestleMania, now the question remains, which Championship will be go after?

The Straight-Edge Society Crushed by Triple-H

C.M. Punk, on the verge of greatness, looked to be "The One" to outshine all the other star studded Rumblers. Punk recently trying to convert the masses to the Straight-Edge lifestyle took his vengeance on the likes of Evan Bourne, Dolph Ziggler, and JTG. Yet, luck would have it that the next entry would be The Great Khali.

Khali has always been considered a favorite to win the Royal Rumble, but for the past three-years, and this year makes it four, Khali has always made very little-to no impact at the Rumble.

C.M. Punk gained two more successful eliminations in the form of Beth Phoenix and Zack Ryder, bringing the number to 5. But Punk was eliminated by Triple-H after a failed attempt at the GTS. Which is sad, because I was rooting for a Straight-Edge victory.

A Royal "Glamazon" Entry

The following entry really surprised me, entering at No. 6 was Beth Phoenix; and before she even entered through the ropes she eliminated The Great Khali by locking lips for the distraction.

The Glamazon made her Royal Rumble debut and became the second woman in the history of the WWE to compete. Her predecessor, the Ninth Wonder of the World, Chyna; who was the most dominate women's wrestler of her time. And nothing would be more impressive than for these two dominates to one day clash in the ring. However, ten years to late for a match, Beth Phoenix has been given an opportunity to possibly surpass Chyna as she escalates in the WWE.

Sadly, Phoenix tried to eliminate C.M. Punk, but was struck with the GTS and tossed out of the ring instead.

What's Next for Legacy?

"It's a New Day" by Adelitas Way sounded at No. 10 to reveal star of The Marine 2, Ted DiBiase. Teddy went right to work on Triple-H with the help of Drew McIntyre. Earlier today at the aftermath of the WWE Title Match, it appears that Legacy has officially ended. Rhodes cost Orton the match, and DiBiase ran to the aid of his partner.

But were these second generation superstars looking to take down their leader? Prior to Orton's match, Rhodes confided in his leader on how DiBiase has been talking about winning the Royal Rumble and choosing to face off against Orton for the WWE Title. But what shouldn't be a surprise is when DiBiase found Orton, on his way to the ring, to mention how Rhodes is talking about winning and going on to face Sheamus, as if not giving the chance of Orton winning tonight.

Was DiBiase Jr. right about his claim against Rhodes? Cody ran interference in full view of the referee. Rhodes and DiBiase have been running interference in Orton's matches for the better part of two years, Rhodes knew what he was doing. I believe that Rhodes may have grown tired of Orton's obsession with the WWE Title, and for the incident that took place when he RKO'ed his father, The American Dream.

Rhodes and DiBiase were consecutively tossed out by Shawn Michaels, so their dreams of headlining WrestleMania seems highly doubtful at this point. But no worries, there is a possible backlash which will be inflicted by Randy Orton come this Monday Night on RAW.

Awesome United States Fall-Out

Entering in at No. 14, MVP gets knocked out by The Miz at the entrance ramp. It would not be until Miz made his entry at No. 16, that MVP would rush into the ring to eliminate himself and The Miz in 7 seconds. The two traded vicious fists on the outside in regards to their title match earlier.

Business between these two have not slowed down one bit, with Miz defeating MVP in three title matches, it looks to be that we will witness a fourth encounter. This time, MVP won't be playing nice.

A WrestleMania Dream... Dead?

Shawn Michaels entered in the Royal Rumble at No. 18, the same entry he won with in 1996 to headline WrestleMania and realize his dream of becoming the WWE Champion. Yet, Michaels also won the previous Rumble, in 1995, showing that it took Michaels two times to become champion. Michaels told Triple-H prior to this year's Rumble that a rematch between him and Undertaker was meant to be. But after being eliminated by Batista, the No. 18, and a second shot at ending The Undertaker's Streak may not indeed occur.

Batista has warned Michaels to stay out of his way come Royal Rumble, because Taker's Title belonged to him. And without Triple-H to have his back against Batista, Michaels was helpless.

Michaels tried recreating Royal Rumble Magic, but the moves he tried belong in the past for a reason. Michaels tried to take out Big Show with the headlock that Chris Benoit used to win in 2004; and when tossed over the rope, shades of a '95 HBK touched one foot on the ground, and then the other, never both at the same time. Both moves attempted, and both moves ineffective.

HBK was dead serious about winning the Rumble, when he surprised Triple-H with Sweet Chin Music. The crowd was awed and inspired by Michaels' attitude that the Rumble is every man for himself. Michaels' other eliminations included Carlito, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase Jr., John Morrison, and, with the help of Triple-H, Drew McIntyre.

Michaels made it to the last four competitors in the match, along with Batista, John Cena, and Edge. Michaels focused on attacking both Batista and John Cena in succession. Striking with the Inverted leg drop, the diving elbow drop, and Sweet Chin Music a piece, Michaels was closing in on his rematch with UT.

But Batista killed that dream, and Michaels had a meltdown as he attacked two referees before heading back to the locker room.

Triple-H mentioned earlier that if this rematch was meant to be, "That's why I know you'll find another way." McMahon will not grant Michaels a rematch, but after losing the Royal Rumble, he will indeed have to find another way.