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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.