Video package as always the night after a RAW is perfect, as it shows everything that went on. Hearing Voices to open up a RAW is a sound of beauty, as he has the best opener in the business.
Holy jeez, what an opener to RAW after the Rumble, huh? First off, it seems that we get an announcement of Cena vs. Orton for the belt at NWO. Then, the freaking Rock comes back, and oh btw, I called it. Anyway, he comes down and I feel like you really captured him here with the way he used his catchphrases and the queer eye for the straight guy on Cody Rhodes was funny. After reading the promo, and the ensuing beatdown, why not have Cena/Rock vs. Legacy at NWO, which would lead into Cena vs. Rock at Mania. Just throwing that out there, but an awesome start to the show.
Quick squash match as the first match of the night doesn't really hurt as I'm sure the crowd would be hot either way after the Rock made his return. It was a good win for Ziggler to pick up, but where's he going from here? He's gotta get into a fued sooner or later I would think.
Gonna be brutally honest here. I liked the attempt at mixing it up, but having new match creations in a BTB is tough. I find it that way because the reader can't really imagine what is going on in the match, as they have never seen it before. At least this wasn't too over the top. My other issue is, I think it may get too crowded. Unless your going to have some quick eliminations or something, it's going to get over populated, quickly. Not to mention, whoever starts the match, has almost zero chance of winning. Either way, I do give you props as you tried something different, which a lot of other guys wouldn't have done.
Santino/Haas is another weak, to nothing spectacular contest, but it did it's job I suppose with Santino picking up the win, saving some of his credibility that is still left. On to the backstage segment, and probably the first time in a while a match for WrestleMania was made, and it was outshawdowed by another moment. The two best females wrestlers going at it on the grandest stage of them all sounds good though. Not to mention, I seriously hope that your not considering putting Santino into the Chamber. I would laugh...and then cry.
Punk and Regal, never really gets boring to watch so not going to complain here. Nice to see Punk pick up the win as he had too, but I don't know, I feel like Punk is being heavily underused. I understand it's your BTB, but he's still a top guy on RAW right now, and he never gets any mic time really. Still, good to see him hold onto the belt, and we could see Regal and Layla coming apart.
Not to say that I didn't expect it. Manu getting kicked out that is. So maybe my Cena/Rock vs. Legacy handicap match can come true now, but to the task at hand, the RKO backstage seemed like it would be kind of hard to pull off. Either way, it got the point across of kicking out Manu.
Not to be critical again, but JBL not wrestling seemed a little bit odd. I understand his fright for HBK, but why not have Snitsky at ringside or something? Still, nice to see Rey pick up the win and get into the Chamber, although I can't see him winning the thing.
I was gonna say. HBK beating by Jericho by count-out, while saving their credibility would have been good, it wouldn't have done HBK justice, or made any sense. It was creative of JBL to come up with what he did, and Jericho winning was really no surprise from there. Looks like we're going to see that fued come to a head at NWO.
Overall, the show seemed good. When you dissect through it all though, it was a big night of just, announcements. While the main event was top caliber, even Punk/Regal didn't seem so big admist all the announcements of the night, none being bigger than the Rock returning. HBK/JBL was left on a great cliffhanger on the end of the show I'll give you that, as there is no way those two can go one on one at NWO after HBK being cost his shot at the title twice now. Looking forward to the new ECW era with Dreamer as GM, I'll be checking out like always.
On paper you wouldn’t think that this would be the greatest match especially one to start off one of the big four ppv’s but while saying that I also have to say that the build up for the match was good and I think that this was a good way to get dreamer over and as the gm so you could use him in ring less while not hurting Khali. The match was good but I think that if you were going to have Long attack that you should have done the first attack like the second one because I don’t think that someone that is as old as Long is and as smart as he is would interfere in the match attacking without a weapon. I also don’t think that in a match that can only be ended by pinfall of submission that while Khali had the vice grip locked on Dreamer that the ref would have been looking at the time keeper to potentially stop the match unless you had him check and raise Dreamers hand three times. Overall though good way to open the match.
Natalya vs Beth
The one thing that I didn’t like about this match was the fact that I think that I was to short I think that there defiantly should have been another paragraph or two to this match because I think that these two could really go at it. I also think that this match made Beth look a little weak because I think that with all the physical strength that Beth has that she should have gotten in more offense then Natalya because she has more experience and more strength but giving them both about the same amount of offense it puts Natalya over and makes here seems more credible but makes Beth look a little weaker. Behind all the negative I just said I like the finish to the match with Natalya locking in the sharpshooter.
Promo
All I really have to say is that after this I defiantly know the AJ is coming to the E I hope you really do good with him because he could have some great feuds here. While I don’t think it would be that realistic because I don’t think Vince would have someone AJ’s size ME this is BTB so just use him right.
Hardy Vs Kozlov
This match wasn’t really all that exciting to read but it did the job to change champions and it also made Kozlov look really good because from front to end of that match he always seemed to be dominating Matt and every time he looked to get back in the match Kozlov always seemed to be on top of him. The one thing I really dislike about this match is the fact that Kozlov is now Champion I would really hate to see this in real life because Kozlov equals zero on the stick and I think that a Champion needs to be able to talk and put on at least a decent promo. But we will see where you god with Kozlov and how you use him.
Return
Two words-The Rock
Cena vs HBK
I like the cena and HBK match it was very good and both men were pulling out all the stops to try and win it with cena having the STFU locking in and HBK willing himself through it and then reversing the FU and hitting the sweet chin music. The thing I really like about this was because that JBL interfered in the match you can now take the rivalry and JBLs involvement in so many different directions.
Hardy vs Edge
This match I can see going either ways. The edgeheads interfering makes sense but now when I look back at the pvp I see that in 4/6 matches that you have on the card that there were interferences in them I think that I kind of got a little bit ridiculous with all the run ins. Match was good and the run ins were obviously going to happen with edges character and all but I think that you should have cut it out of at least one match.
Also I think having six matches on the card when doing the rumble is a little to many a lot of people say go with four many get away with five. I just think that with six matches that not enough time is going to be able to go into each match.
Rumble
Strong showings by some of your young people here like Cody who entered at six and lasted until twenty came out while eliminating some people along the way. Also some strong showings from people like Jack Swagger the moment where he hit the gutwrench powerbomb on Henry and eliminated him singlehandedly was nice. You really managed to put some of these guys over in your match while being able to have Dj moonwalk to the ring and dance in the middle which by the way I thought was great. The ending though I don’t think Vince would have someone that is new to the E come in at 30 and win the rumble the ME Mania but with the right build up and some good matches it’ll be fine. Also AJ and Jericho should have been able to wrestle for a little bit longer at the end of the match to put AJ over more.
Overall it was a good ppv especially for the first one that you’ve done while saying that I think that you should have done the matches in full because it’s one of the big four and its special but it was a good ppv none the less. It had some down spots but I felt like it delivered.
Just noticed this will review raw when i get the chance
1. Triple H
2. Batista
3. Manu
4. DJ Gabriel
5. Chavo Guerrero
6. Cody Rhodes
7. CM Punk
8. Snitsky
9. R-Truth
10. William Regal
11. Santino Marella
12. Shelton Benjamin
13. Ted DiBiase Jr.
14. The Miz
15. John Morrison
16. Ricky Ortiz
17. Kane
18. Umaga
19. Jack Swagger
20. Hurricane Helms
21. The Brian Kendrick
22. Big Show
23. Kofi Kingston
24. Mr. Kennedy
25. The Undertaker
26. Mark Henry
27. Rey Mysterio
28. Dolph Ziggler
29. Chris Jericho
30. AJ Styles Elimination Order:
1. Manu (Batista)
2. Chavo Guerrero (Cody Rhodes)
3. DJ Gabriel (CM Punk)
4. Santino Marella (Batista)
5. R-Truth (Shelton Benjamin)
6. Snitsky (Kane)
7. William Regal (Kane)
8. The Miz (Umaga)
9. Ricky Ortiz (Jack Swagger)
10. CM Punk (John Morrison)
11. Hurricane Helms (Cody Rhodes)
12. Cody Rhodes (Umaga)
13. The Brian Kendrick (Shelton Benjamin)
14. Kofi Kingston (Big Show)
15. Mr. Kennedy (Shelton Benjamin)
16. Shelton Benjamin (Big Show)
17. Big Show (The Undertaker)
18. Mark Henry (Jack Swagger)
19. Umaga (Rey Mysterio)
20. The Undertaker (Triple H)
21. Triple H (Kane)
22. Batista (Ted DiBiase Jr.)
23. Dolph Ziggler (Chris Jericho)
24. Jack Swagger (Chris Jericho)
25. Rey Mysterio (Kane)
26. Ted DiBiase Jr. (Kane)
27. John Morrison (Chris Jericho)
28. Kane (AJ Styles)
29. Chris Jericho(AJ Styles)
No. of Eliminations
1. Kane - 5
2. Chris Jericho, Shelton Benjamin - 3
3. AJ Styles, Batista, Big Show, Cody Rhodes, Jack Swagger, Umaga - 2
4. CM Punk, John Morrison, Rey Mysterio, Ted DiBiase Jr., The Undertaker, Triple H - 1
With the Royal Rumble behind us, it is time for the Extreme Brand to direct its course to No Way Out, where in 3 weeks time 10 superstars will compete in an Elimination Chamber Match, and more! But first, ECW needs to deal with some of the tremendous changes that took place at the Rumble.
Teddy Long is GM no more, bow down to the new man in charge, Tommy Dreamer! Dreamer will address the WWE Universe tomorrow and discuss some of his plans for ECW, and we believe his vision for the brand is a spectucular one, as the the changes the Hardcore Legend had lobbied for have proved very successful thus far, and were a main reason behind Long's job being put on the line in Dreamer's Extreme Rules Match against The Great Khali, in which Dreamer proved the victor following a brutal contest of strength and weapons.
With the boss changed we also have a new ECW Champion! Vladimir Kozlov defeated Matt Hardy for the second PPV in a row, and this time his victory gifted him with the most prized item in the ECW, as well as one of the most prestigious titles in the world. But Hardy never says die, and he asked for his rematch clause to be enacted tonight, and in his first action in office, Dreamer has accepted! Will Kozlov's reign be cut short? Or will this be strike 3 for Hardy?
ECW's top stars in action, including the debut of a new superstar! This and more, tonight, on ECW.
I skimmed over Raw but I will definately either review it later or give a review for ECW.
Though I would like to say that I am stunned at the most unique thing I have heard in a while; A TEN man EC Chamber. Nice job making this up. That's a match I would want to see.
While I haven't reviewed much of anything lol, I have been following. I've got the rest of the night free so I decided to do some reviewing. Btw, this is my first time reviewing a show so I'm sorry if it's not very productive!
WildeThing's Royal Rumble
Extreme Rules Match - Khali vs Dreamer
Strange that Khali was nervous about starting the match but I guess with Dreamer in the ring with a stack of weapons anybody would be nervous. Nice use of weapons as expected in an extreme rules match. I liked the spot where Khali broke the stick in half. Yes, most of the big guys do it but I still like it. I'm a bit confused as to how Dreamer got the barbie in his hands but hey, he smacks Khali with it and wins the match which is fine with me. It will be interesting to see how Dreamer will pan out as the new GM of ECW.
Undisputed Women's Title Match - Beth vs Natalya
Not much to say as far as women's matches go. Beth dominating in the early going was realistic as she is the bigger of the two. Then the momentum shift to Natalya who ultimately wins the match. Don't know if I like Beth tapping out but meh, I can live with it.
ECW Title Match - Kozlov vs Matt Hardy
Kozlov fighting stiff at the start was a nice touch as I'm a fan of that. Nice combo of pins and high impact moves in the middle of the match. I think the match would have played out similar to their actual match at the Rumble. Nice to see Kozlov pick up the win. Dreamer as the new GM and Kozlov as the new champ will be interesting.
Orton Interview
Nice promo from Orton. I'll ignore the blatant Belfast bashing (that's where I'm from lol) and give credit where it's due. For the first part, Orton seemed to be in character. The second half, I wasn't too keen on but that's just me. Sets up their match nicely though.
Belfast Brawl - Orton vs Finlay
Finlay jumping Orton at the start of the match was a great way to get how personal this thing is between them over. Lots of interference but that's what happens when valets etc get involved lol. One thing I didn't like was having Orton go from being unconscious to hitting the RKO rather quickly. Could have killed a little more time to give Orton some time to heal up before hitting the finisher. None the less, Finlay seemed to be in a rampage. I see Finlay (when he's healed up after the punt) vs Bourne while Orton moves on to bigger things.
Side Note - Why is Rocky coming back to "restore order"?
World Heavyweight Title - Cena vs HBK
Handshake at the start was a nice touch. Tbh, it would be hard to write a HBK/Cena match the same calibre as some of their real life encounters but I think you did a good job in recap form. Nice back and forth match until JBL ruins it lol. HBK vs JBL's going to happen then. Good match with both guys coming out of it fine and not looking weak.
WWE Title - Edge vs Jeff
Edgeheads ftw! They played a prominent role in this match but like I said earlier, that's what they are there for. Might have been a bit overkill with them though. Nice match with Hardy continously getting caught out by the Edgeheads. And then Vickie joins in with her signature heat. Where were the Edgeheads during the final few minutes? They kind of just disappeared allowing Hardy to get the win. He looked super strong in this match, overcoming huge odds while Edge came out looking like he couldn't beat Hardy without help. But that's his thing and I get it. Hell I'd probably book it the same. Just not to the extent that you did.
Royal Rumble Match
I paid close attention to this one as we were discussing it in the discussion thread lol. I thought the recap format was OK but it didn't seem to go down too well with some people. Trips and Batista is a nice way to kick things off. Then a mix of jobbers and mid carders. Then around the 24 mark, the big players start to enter. Taker getting eliminated by H almost guarantees HHH vs Taker for Mania lol but it was nicely done. Having Taker, HHH and Batista eliminated together kind of sucked tbh but Jericho entered and was on a little rampage of his own. I really disagree with an unknown guy (to the majority of WWE fans) winning the Rumble. The fans will have no connection to him at all and to have a TNA guy just stroll in, win the Rumble and headline Mania just like that was a bad decision in my eyes. But we'll see where you go with it.
After the opening theme, Tommy Dreamer stepped into the ring with the mic, accompanied by loud cheers, cheers far louder than the ones he had received in recent weeks (or even years).
Dreamer: For the first time in years I can finally welcome you all, as it should be, to the Land of Extreme! Teddy Long has paid the price for tainting the name of ECW, and with me as General Manager I promise you that this brand will once again find itself at the very top. But before I get to the good stuff, I am obliged to inform you that Finlay was gravely injured two days ago at the Rumble. He and Orton were brutal, and unfortunately, it was Orton who came out on top, and we cannot give you any specific date for Finlay's return, although we all hope he has a speedy recovery and rejoins our ranks before Wrestlemania.
I've mentioned Teddy Long and I'll mention him again. That man does not deserve to be on ECW, however, he does have a contract with ECW and I plan to honor it. Since his old position has been filled by yours truly, I am pleased to announce that Long will be taking MY former role as wrestler. In fact, quite like Long placed me in matches that took a heavy toll on my body, I am going to do the same to him, and tonight, Long will face another man who's existence here has been marred by that parasite: Mark Henry.
But don't get the impression that I will use ECW to settle old scores. No. I meant it when I said that I will be establishing ECW as the top brand of the WWE. To take a page out Long's book, I too have been talking with a few wrestlers, and I present to you: The Hardcore Superstar Initiative. And that's only one of the changes I'll be implementing. You see, Long, although an asshole, was not an idiot, and bringing in young starts to lay the foundations for the WWE and ECW's future was a wise move. But I will be taking it a step further, I will bring the most talented men in the world to ECW, and not only will I build for its future, I will build for its present, and with that in mind, allow me introduce the very first of these men: Kaval ((Low Ki))!
Half-stalking, half-walking like a ninja in water, Kaval made his way to the ring to lukewarm reaction with the occasional ecstatic cheer from someone who recognized the superstar. After a few moments in the ring, Bam Neely walked down the ramp, staring daggers into Kaval. The match, despite Neely's size advantage, was a squash match. Kaval swiftly downed Bam with his extremely stiff kicks, following up with a Tidal Wave. Neely tried getting some offense in, but was met with a rapid succession of kicks that shocked Striker and Grisham in their stiffness, before hitting an Enziguri, followed up by his finisher, Warrior's Way (diving double foot stomp).
Winner: Kaval
Let's Settle This
In the locker room we see Jack Swagger talking to Tiffany.
Swagger: You saw me right? I eliminated two men, 3rd highest amount of eliminations at the Rumble.
Tiffany: Didn't several other people get the same amount?
Swagger: (after a tentative pause) No.
In even worse humor than last week, Ortiz enters the locker room, leading Swagger to place his hand on Tiffany's thigh, in an attempt to make him think something else was going on.
Ortiz: What the hell are you doing, Swagger?!
Swagger: Look, Tiffany, one of the losers I threw out of the ring!
Ortiz: All right, I've had enough of this, you and me, tonight.
Swagger: Thought you'd never ask, I'll go tell Dreamer. (to Tiffany) See ya, toots.
Swagger leaves the room, stealing a goodbye kiss from Tiffany by sticking his face in front of hers, leaving her no other option, as she is too surprised by his face suddenly being within an inch of hers to think it over. Ortiz is royally, royally pissed.
Even Match
Mark Henry steps into the ring, where Teddy Long has his balls in his throat, despite having Khali at ringside, who does not look like he wants to be there at all. The match is quick and painful, making the second squash of the night. Long immediately tries escaping the ring only to stopped by Tony Atlas, and subsequently hit with the World's Strongest Slam from Mark Henry.
Winner: Mark Henry w/Tony Atlas
As Henry leaves with Atlas, and Singh goes to check up on his former boss, with Khali remaining on the outside we cut backstage, where Bourne is seen jogging towards Dreamer, who is talking to some of the crew.
Bourne: Tommy, could I have a word?
Dreamer: Sure, what d'ya want, Evan?
Bourne: I was wondering whether you'd thought about who's going to challenge Kozlov or Matt after tonight's match.
Dreamer: I've given a thought, but haven't decided on anything. Why, you want to be considered?
Bourne: Considered? I should be the No. 1 Contender, end of story! Don't think me immodest, but had I not given up my place at the Rumble, I would've won that match.
Dreamer: But you did give it up, and you didn't win.
Bourne: Exactly, I did a selfless thing and helped Finlay out. I made sure he wasn't up against 4 bullies, and I stopped him from killing Orton. I figured you'd understand that after everything you've sacrificed to help the brand.
Dreamer: Ok, I'll tell you what. I'm not gonna give you a title shot you haven't earned, but I have a few other guys in mind. If you win tonight's Fatal 4-Way Match, I'll give you your match at No Way Out.
Bourne: Thanks, boss, you're the best!
Dreamer: You're welcome, but if you ever brown-nose me like that again I'll smack you in the face with a kendo stick.
Bourne doesn't know what to make of it because of Dreamer smiling as he said it, despite no trace of sarcasm being present in his words. He shrugs as Dreamer walks away and heads in the opposite direction.
Score Settled?
In a match that had long been on the mind of Ricky Ortiz, he stalked to the ring, ready for his match against his nemesis, Jack Swagger. Despite him being a heel and Ortiz the face, Swagger entered the ring to a better reaction, causing him to smile even wider and Ortiz to seem even more pissed than before. Ricky went right to it when the bell rang, his emotions getting the best of him, allowing Swagger to dominate the early going by reversing everything he threw at him. Eventually Swagger got in his own offense, hitting a Belly-to-Belly Slam and a Northern Lights Suplex. It seemed like Swagger would once again come out on top but Ortiz got his head straight after that and actually had the upper-hand for a while.
The end came when Swagger played possum and kneed Ortiz in the guy when he went for the Big O, and hit the Gutwrench Bomb to, yet again, be the victor and Ortiz the loser.
Winner: Jack Swagger
After the match Swagger celebrates in the ring with his usual smile, leaving Ortiz to wallow in his own misery, as we cut backstage to see Paul Burchill and Katie Lea stand behind DJ Gabriel who is dancing discreetly on the spot listening to his iPod, something Paul apparently doesn't notice.
Burchill: What's this I 'eard 'bout ye not carin' 'bout British Honor? (DJ doesn't hear him and keeps listening to his music) What? Got nought to say, Footloose? Dreamer was righ' 'bout ye, ye're nothin' but a disgrace to this brand an' to yer country. Still nothing to say, eh?! Awrigh', I'm not a man o' words either, next week, you an' me, Footlose, in the ring, I'm going to do yer 'ead in.
Burchill trudges off, with Katie Lea following him, a satisfied smirk on her face. DJ then turns around and takes an earphone out, looks around trying to hear if anyone was talking to him before putting the earphone back in and walking off, dancing, singing 'I Will Survive' in a high-pitched voice to himself.
Opportunity
Bourne enters the ring first, ready for his No. 1 Contender's Match against three unknown opponents. Chavo Guerrero then walks down the ramp, followed by The Miz and Morrison. As soon as the match starts all 4 men look at each other and the three heels pounce on Bourne, flooring him and stomping on him. After Bourne was taken care of, the World Tag Team Champions double-team Chavo, taking him out of the contest soon after. With their competition out of the way, they looked at each other, unsure about what to do. They both seemed reluctant to fight each other, although it was evident that they were itching to just do it and get it over with. Their itch went unscratched when both Chavo and Bourne got to their feet and Chavo hit Miz with a Missile Dropkick while Bourne took Morrison down with a Frankensteiner.
From that point onwards the match divided into two 1 on 1's, with everyone fighting each other except Miz and Morrison, who the other two were smart enough to keep separated. As Bourne and Miz were trying to outdo each other with some impressive chain-wrestling, Morrison took Chavo out with a Moonlight Driver, and went for the Springboard Roundhouse Kick on Bourne, who ducked, causing Morrison to hit his partner instead, allowing Bourne to capitalize and hit the Here We Go Driver followed up by a Shooting Star Press on the Miz for the win.
Winner: Evan Bourne
Doctor of Love
A few floating hearts soar across the screen, fairy-dust trailing them. As they do so, the dust settles, forming the words: Love Doctor, as Colt Cabana walks into the black screen and spreads his arms, smiling.
Big Rematch
Determined to get his title back as soon as possible, Matt Hardy stepped into the ring, followed by the new ECW Champion Vladimir Kozlov, who drew more heat than normal following his ending of Hardy's reign. Hardy fought with his mind this time, allowing Kozlov to come to him and stir clear of his strong blows, instead targeting Kozlov's left arm, in an attempt to stop him from hitting his Russian Chokeslam. But Matt's tactics did not take into consideration the fact that Kozlov actually had more stamina than Matt himself, and so Matt's evasive actions soon took their toll, allowing Kozlov to take control.
The match went back and forth, with Hardy kicking out of several pinfalls, and Kozlov of one which came after the Side-Effect. But Matt made the mistake of going to the air, trying a moonsault, and instead of hitting was caught by Kozlov, who slammed him against the turnbuckle before putting him down for the Inverted DDT. Instead of going for the pinfall, Vladimir grabbed Matt and lifted him with his weaker, right arm and hit the Russian Chokeslam, allowing him to retain.
Winner: And STILL ECW Champion Vladimir Kozlov
Matt Hardy is 0 for 3 against the current ECW Champion; nothing he has done seems enough to stop the Moscow Mauler, and even his never-say-die attitude hasn't been enough to tip the scales in his favor. Kozlov roared with his title held high, engaging in a stare-down with Evan Bourne who had appeared on the ramp following his win.
Quote:
Kaval def. Bam Neely
Mark Henry w/Tony Atlas def. Teddy Long w/Ranjin Singh & The Great Khali
Jack Swagger def. Ricky Ortiz
Evan Bourne def. John Morrison, The Miz & Chavo Guerrero
Vladimir Kozlov def. Matt Hardy
Check out WWE.com tomorrow for another edition of Jack Swagger's webshow and don't miss next week's ECW we near No Way Out.
Confirmed Matches: - 10-Man Elimination Chamber Match - (Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio) - WWE Title Match - (Jeff Hardy (c) vs. Big Show) - World Heavyweight Title Match - (John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton) - ECW Title Match - (Vladimir Kozlov (c) vs. Evan Bourne)
Quick little opening promo with Dreamer kicking it off as he should be, as he was just crowned the new GM. Not a big fan of dropping a-hole on TV, but really who cares? Very nice to see Dreamer putting ECW over as "extreme" as I think we could see almost the glory days return so to speak with extreme matches all the time. Bringing in Low Ki? I can get that, I've seen some of his work, not much I may admit, but I can see him fitting into the new ECW style. Picks up a debut win against Neely, I can roll with that.
Ehhh, while I like that Swagger and Ortiz are finally gonna get it on tonight, I thought this promo was weak. I did like the touch of Swagger getting his hand put on Tiffany's thigh, that was funny, but the way Ortiz just goes, "Argh, match." Swagger replies with haha, yes and leaves just seemed uncharacteristic of both men, and a little unrealistic for the match to be made that easily.
Loved the title, with the "Even Match" or what there was of a match. I guess it's good to see that it stays short as no one really wanted to see this anyway, but it did it's job, Long got his ass slammed and we can move on.
LOL, at the "I'll smack you in the face with a kendo stick..." line, that was good. Bourne seems to be broken away from Finlay now, which he should have in the first place as Bourne owns, and should be pushed towards the title. Can't really see him competiting with Kozlov though, that's why I don't really like Kozlov as the champ for the show with the "extreme" style coming into play more, as he is tough to pull good matches out of.
Swagger getting some face pops? I hope not, as I cannot really see him pulling off the face type role unless he drops the lisp. Swagger and Ortiz has been brewing for weeks and it was good to see this finally come to a head. Little surprised by no Tiffany anywhere near this match, but good win for Swagger and I would say push him to the title, but him vs. Kozlov? Eh, maybe.
You really got Burchill's British accent down, although that was annoying as hell to read, trying to do it in a British accent myself. Loved how that was set up, and Gabriel singing I will survive, lol, short be a nice match for next week, I can see Burchill getting the W.
Before looking, I'm gonna say Bourne gets the win, because he is the only one I can see facing Kozlov. Hey, whatta ya know, Bourne picked up the win. Fairly obvious as he was going against the three heels. Although I am a Miz and Morrison mark, I can't see them getting individual title shots again until they drop those belts. Nice match, did it's job of putting Bourne over as a credible contender against some high profile guys, and picks up the win with the SSP, don't think I could ever get tired of seeing that move.
Just can't see Matt taking his title back, especially after just dropping it at the Rumble. I unfortunatley see a long title reign for Kozlov. Again, it seemed like their first two, with Kozlov kicking ass and Hardy trying to pick his spots so on and so forth. Not shocked by the outcome, and I guess we're gonna wind up seeing Bourne vs. Kozlov for the belt at No Way Out.
Overall, it was a good hour of ECW. Not the best show, but it definitely set the stage for the next few as Dreamer had a big announcement, and I can see ECW getting flipped over and revamped, with more new guys coming in (such as Low Ki) and the brand turning fully extreme, with all matches being under extreme rules. Thought this was a good episode, and Bourne is the #1 contender, so I can dig that. Looking forward to Smackdown!, and I guess no Cena/Rock vs. Legacy for No Way Out? What is the Rock gonna do then?
((I'll try and do the Swagger show in the weekend, so none for now))
Smackdown Preview (January 30th)
Not even a week removed from the Royal Rumble, and tomorrow's Smackdown promises to be quite the spectacle. AJ Styles, the WWE's biggest new talent and Royal rumble winner has chosen Smackdown as his brand, and tomorrow's show will see him making his 2nd ever appearance, and his debut on Smackdown. What will Styles have to say about his win?
Jeff Hardy is STILL the WWE Champion, despite Edge throwing everything he had at him. But Jeff isn't in the clear yet, as he already knows he will have to face none other than Big Show at No Way Out. Assuming he manages to get that far. Vicky Guerrero claims to have been injured by Jeff on Sunday when he pulled away from her grip with 'excessive, disproportional strength'. Not a forgiving person, Vicky has already announced on WWE.com that tomorrow night, Jeff Hardy will participate in a 1 vs 10 match as punishment. With such a daunting match on the horizon, will Jeff be able to make it to No Way Out to defend his title?
As promised for having beaten the Gold standard last week, Mr. Kennedy gets a U.S Title shot tomorrow night against the champ, Shelton Benjamin. At the Royal Rumble, Benjamin was one of the top performers, eliminating 3 men, Kennedy included, before being tossed out by Big Show. Will he make use of this momentum to come out champ yet again?
This and more (including two qualifying matches for the Elimination Chamber match at No Way Out), tomorrow, on Friday Night Smackdown!
Smackdown went underway tonight with the fans going absolutely ballistic when 'I Am' hit the sound system, and a video of a shooting star mixed with footage of AJ Styles appeared on the tron, as a waterfall of pyros cascades upon the hooded figure that appeared, AJ Styles. Soaking up the support from the crowd, AJ took his time to get to the ring, where he finally grabbed a mic and addressed the crowd.
AJ Styles: For the benefit of those who aren't familiar with the person standing in the middle of this ring, allow me to introduce the Spectacular, the Phenomenal One, the Star of Sports Entertainment, hailing from Gainseville, Georgia, weighing in at 215 pounds and standing before you at a height of 5 feet and 10 inches, A...J... STYLES! (the crowd cheer loudly yet again as AJ spreads his arms in his signature pose and lets them calm down on their own)
I hope y'all don't think me immodest, but I have come here to triumph, and in order for one to do that he has to believe. Believe in his country, believe in God and believe in himself, and that's what I do, and that's what makes me one of top performers in this industry and most importantly, the 2009 Royal Rumble Winner! I have beaten some of the best all around the world: Australia, England, Korea, Japan, Mexico, Canada and even here in the United States I've tangoed with some of the greats. Only a handful of achievements have eluded me and I plan on completing them all with one go: Headline Wrestlemania, Win the WWE Title and become the top dog of the WWE!
But fact of the matter is, it won't be easy. I know it won't be, I know. Few cruiserweights have managed to stay at the top in the WWE, but with my win on Sunday I have made an impact that has already shaken the very foundations of this company. The Shooting Star has landed, and it will make history where history is made, the Grandest Stage of Them All, Wrestlemania! Nevertheless, I respect Jeff Hardy, and I will not underestimate him. He has battled constant hardships and has still managed to come out on top, but there's only spot for one up there, and who better than the man who is simply phenomenal? AJ St-
* Crank it Up *
To a majority of boos, Big Show appeared on the ramp, and waited for the jeers to settle for a bit before silencing them completely with his booming voice.
Big Show: Settle down, AJ, settle down, you wouldn't want to tire yourself out by just talking now would you? Spectacular this, phenomenal that, Wrestlemania this, midget that. (A mixed reaction from the crowd, as some find it funny, while others intensify their boos, AJ is stone-faced) I stood backstage for a while there, and it was quite a while, I think it's because of how long it took you to get in the ring with those tiny legs, but anyway, I was standing there, and nothing you said really struck me. As always, the new guy thinks he can cut it with the big boys, quite literally in your case, and makes a big speech about it. What struck me is that you seem to believe that you will face Jeff Hardy at Wrestlemania... It won't be Hardy who goes into Wrestlemania with that title, it'll be me, and unless you want to be humiliated and destroyed on your Wrestlemania debut, I'd suggest you consider going for a different title.
But seriously, why is it that all the new guys feel this urge to come out here and give a sleep-inducing speech?
AJ Styles: It's funny you should say that, Cartman, 'cause if I remember correctly, you gave a similar speech less than a year ago. I believe you were endorsing Subway Sandwiches, but I really wasn't paying attention.
Big Show: You might also want to remember that that was around the same time I put Rey Mysterio out of commission, and I've got no problems with putting another dwarf on the shelf.
AJ Styles: I'd love to see you try, Fat Show.
AJ signals for Show to enter the ring, and Show doesn't hesitate to make his way to the squared circle, as the crowd chant support for AJ.
* Metalingus *
Edge appears behind Show at the top of the ramp, to a mixed reaction from the crowd, half of whom boo him for who he is, while the other cheer this new addition into the mix.
Edge: Whoa, whoa, whoa, calm down folks. Why are you two even fighting? Don't tell me you two want to get your hands on the WWE Title, too? No way! Why? It's too small for you Papa Bear, and too big for you Baby Cub.
AJ Styles: I suppose it's of perfect fit for you Goldilocks?
Edge: Right on the money, AJ! See, on Sunday Show here said something very interesting. He claimed to have a monopoly over the WWE Title, and I would just like to correct his mistake. See, I am the 6-time World Champion, Edge, husband of Smackdown's General Manager Vickie Guerrero. I am the rightful owner of the WWE Title and at No Way Out I will take it off Jeff Hardy. You can stop deluding yourself Show, it's not happening, you're not getting a title shot. And you, AJ, well, I don't care who I beat at Wrestlemania, so it might as well be you. Now get your asses backstage before I send security to remove you from the premises. We've got a show to do.
Edge makes his way backstage as Show looks back at AJ and smirks while AJ looks serious, and Smackdown goes to commercials.
Title Match
With Mr. Kennedy already in the ring, Shelton Benjamin made his way there, his U.S Title propped on his shoulder. In a quick-paced match in which neither man managed to hold onto an advantage for very long, both men had their moments in which despite their heel disposition, the crowd cheered anyway. Such was the case when, after a big T-Bone Suplex, Shelton went for the Yakuza Kick, only for Kennedy to grab his leg and pull him in, hitting the Mic Check. The Gold Standard got his shoulder up and Kennedy picked him up, but before he could even try any move, Benjamin nailed the Paydirt out of nowhere, and retained his title.
Winner: And STILL U.S Champion Shelton Benjamin
Chick-Fight
Backstage, new Undisputed Women's Champion Natalya prepared for her match, as Maryse came into the frame.
Natalya: Do you want something?
Maryse: I think eets pretty obvios what I wont.
Natalya: No, you see, it's kinda of hard to understand you when you talk.
Maryse: Oh lala, you think zat just beecauz you got zat title that are all zat? I am ze one 'oo iz suppozed to be champyon. After tonight, you cun start cownting your dayz, zat belt weel be arownd ma taille.
Maryse puts her hand up in a 'talk to the hand' manner before heading out, leaving Natalya trying to figure out what she said as a No Way Out promo airs. When we come back, The Bella twins are in the ring and the dynamic duo of Maryse and Natalya make their way to the ring separately. The former friends, split by their ambition, still got the win despite their differences. Although the Bellas seemed to have it won because their opponents refused to tag each other in, they were still the better divas, and a French DDT on Brie allowed Maryse to get the pin.
Winners: Natalya & Maryse
At Least You Tried
Backstage, Edge is talking on the phone with Vicky, who is home because of her 'injury', he is visibly pissed and irritated.
Edge: What do you mean you're not changing the match? I'm your husband! Who the hell is he? I'M supposed to get a shot at No Way Out! And what about Wrestlemania? Are you going to give Styles his match? And what exactly am I supposed to do until then? Huh? I'm supposed to go into 'Mania as champ, not those losers. (Edge listens, but what he hears doesn't make him look any happier) Fine! We'll see. (Edge hangs up and storms off)
In the ring, Hurricane Helms is waiting for his opponent in this Elimination Chamber qualifier, who turns out to be Triple H, still wielding his sledgehammer. Helms puts up a good fight, but he is outmatched by The Game, who dominates the final minutes of the match before hitting the Pedigree for the win.
Winner: Triple H
Not Over
We're backstage again, this time in the locker room, where Shelton Benjamin and Mr. Kennedy have yet another encounter.
Kennedy: Lemme make something crystal-clear, you got lucky tonight. I'm still rusty, I haven't gotten my momentum back, but make no mistake, that title you carry on your shoulder, that title you don't deserve, the title whose only benefit of being in your possession is that it goes nicely with your hair, it'll be mine soon enough. You're just keeping it warm for me.
Benjamin: I daresay that's not the only thing of yours I keep warm. (Kennedy immediately catches on to what Benjamin is getting at)
Kennedy: Watch it, Blondie. (Benjamin's eyes dart to Kennedy's own blond hair)
Benjamin: Now ain't that the pot calling the kettle blond. You've made something clear to me, so I'm going to return the favor, Ken, this title, you see the nameplate on it? You'll be seeing it there for a long time so you'd better get used it. Hey, you want another title shot? I'll give you another title shot. You're a nobody, Ken. I threw you out of the Rumble, I beat you tonight and I'll do it again next week.
Kennedy: Ah, nopw that's where you're wrong. See, I'm gonna have to postpone that title match, because, well, I was talking to Edge earlier and he was looking for someone to face AJ Styles next week, and it seems you volunteered for the job. Have fun!
Kennedy laughs to himself and leaves Shelton in the locker-room, who although doesn't look scared at all, seems apprehensive about facing the Rumble winner next week.
No Way Out, Indeed
In the second Elimination Chamber Qualifier, The Brian Kendrick with Big Zeke on his side faced off against The Undertaker, who made very quick work of the cocky high-flier. After stopping Zeke from interfering with a Big Boot and a Chokeslam to Kendrick, a Tombstone Piledriver gave The Phenom his win and spot in the No Way Out Main Event.
Winner: The Undertaker
As Zeke carried Kendrick out of the ring and to the back, The Deadman surprisingly took a mic and returned to the ring.
The Undertaker: Hunter... I have watched you since you arrived at the WWE... You were an arrogant snob then, and you're an arrogant snob now... You think rules do not apply to you, Hunter... But they do. Your reign of terror over this company ended last week... In the animal kingdom species learn to cower and flee from Death... They learn to bow their heads, and leave it alone... You should take a lesson from these animals, Hunter. You have done as you pleased since you came, but you have pulled the last straw, and I hold the other end of it. You have brought this upon yourself, at No Way Out, I will weigh your soul, and there will be no escape. No Way Out will be your limbo, your purgatory. Cleanse yourself of your sins, Hunter, or you will Rest... In... Peace!
Kind of One-Sided
After a commercial break and some promotional videos, Jeff Hardy made his way to the ring, apprehensive of the daunting task that is in front of him. One by one, his 10 opponents made their way to the ring: Zach Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Umaga, Big Zeke, The Brian Kendrick, Mr. Kennedy, Shelton Benjamin, Big Show, Triple H and Edge. The match started off with 9 men on the outside, as Benjamin and Jeff made battle, although soon enough Mr. Kennedy tagged him out, leading to a brawl between the two, which saw Edge yell at them to leave the ring, as Umaga assaulted the WWE Champ in their place.
As the match went on, every man got his chance, with Jeff managing to turn the tables on some like The Edgeheads and big Zeke, but he was gradually getting destroyed by the combined efforts of Show, Triple H, Umaga and Edge, all of whom were looking to inflict as much damage on him as possible. Edge was set to hit the Spear when Show tagged him out, leading to the two to argue in the ring, allowing Hardy to hit the Whisper in the Wind on both of them. From this point on it devolved into chaos, with everyone going after Jeff.
Winner: Jeff Hardy (DQ)
But the cavalry soon arrived in the form of AJ Styles, who cleared the ring of Edge and Big Show, sending them out of the ring with a Hurricanrana and a huge Dropkick. Jeff managed to rid the ring of Umaga, but he hadn't seen Triple H, who came up behind him and laid him out with a sledgehammer, finally getting his revenge from over a month ago, when Jeff took advantage of his hesitation to get the win.
Gong! The lights went out, and when they came back on, Undertaker had him Triple H by the throat, but he swiftly loosened the grip and left the ring. As Smackdown went off the air, the 10 heels who were faced with the task of obliterating Jeff Hardy were scattered around it and on the ramp, as the Champ, AJ Styles and The Undertaker stood tall.
Quote:
Shelton Benjamin def. Mr. Kennedy
Maryse & Natalya def. The Bella Twins
Triple H def. Hurricane Helms
The Undertaker def. The Brian Kendrick w/Ezekiel Jackson
Jeff Hardy def. 10 Men (DQ)
Don't miss Monday's edition of Raw as well as next week's Smackdown!
Confirmed Matches: - 10-Man Elimination Chamber Match - (Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio, Triple H, Undertaker) - WWE Title Match - (Jeff Hardy (c) vs. Big Show) - World Heavyweight Title Match - (John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton) - ECW Title Match - (Vladimir Kozlov (c) vs. Evan Bourne)
WildeThing presents: Road to Wrestlemania XXV
Re: Diverging Paths - A Current WWE BTB
