TNA iMPACT! 2/28/2008

Here is my commentary on Spike TV's airing of TNA iMPACT last night:

It sucked. Yes, even the ladder match. Yes, even Kurt Angle vs. Kenny Rogers.

I'm done watching this show.

The End.

ECW 2/26/2008, Cena on The Rock, Vince No-shows Congress & much more

Yesterday, I was bed-ridden with the flu, so much of what I'm about to rant about is old news, but oh well. I'm still sick, but at least today I'm a bit more ambulatory (walking the dog sure seems like manual labor when you have the flu). You may want to pull up a chair and sit down. There's a lot to write about and this is a long entry.

Here we go...

ECW 2/26/2008
I've never really mentioned this before, and I'm not sure why this is, but I think that ECW by far has the best intro of the three WWE shows. Ever since Smackdown! lost the rights to Marilyn Manson's 'Beautiful People', and Raw stopped using 'Across the Nation' (Move to the music... Play that f*cking music... move to the music, yeah...) I've felt ECW's intro was the best, so maybe it's the music. I think the ECW graphics and pyro are better too, though. Anyway...

ECW opened with the match I'd been dreading since it was mentioned on Raw. Kelly Kelly & Kofi Kington vs. Layla & Santino Marella in a mixed tag match. First off, who cares. Secondly, this wasn't supposed to be a tornado tag match, but that's basically what it was. For the most part, there was no tagging in or out. Not a lot to say here, at least, I don't feel like putting much thought into this match, so here are the high and low points (You can decide which are which):

Santino attempting to enter the ring like Layla. I guess the guy needs to do more stretches.

Tazz singing the J. Geils Band's 'Centerfold' (it made me gag)

A nice double drop kick by Kelly & Kofi

The return of Kofi Kingston's 'turnbuckle teabag' (I'm sorry, but this move is way more disgusting than Rikishi's Stinkface)

Kelly Kelly's sloppy, uncoordinated and oversold arsenal. At least she's making Mickie James' skills look good in my eyes. (Vince, if they can't wrestle, don't put them in the ring, dammit! )

Kelly Kelly's lame 'fameasser'

Tazz's comment of Kelly Kelly's 'tremendous athleticism'. She only did a cross body off of the turnbuckle, buddy... and a bad one at that.

Tazz singing 'Peter Cottontail'. Dude, stop singing.

Now that I look at it, with the exception of the drop kick, it's all bad. At least there wasn't the god-awful screeching and screaming that usually happens in Diva-related matches.

Next up, Stevie Richards vs. Mike Knox. If you didn't see it, you really didn't miss anything. Mike Knox worked Stevie Richard's neck the majority of the match (hotshot, knee drop, second rope choking, etc). Mike Knox threw an ugly clothesline, which landed across Richards' face. Knox handed Richards his ass to him the whole match, but then Richards won after only two stinger splashes and a Stevie-T. Kinda lame. Oh, and Stevie, your surgery was on the right side of your throat. You'd think that you'd know that. Next time, you may was to hold that side of your neck while you grimace in pain.

The following match was Tommy Dreamer & Colin Delaney (this week WWE finally signed the little guy) vs. Mike Miz and John Morrison. The star of this match was Tommy Dreamer. I'm glad they are finally giving him a push (thanks once again, internet voters). We got to see Colin Delaney wrestle a bit, but for the most part he still played the part of 'human crash test dummy'. Miz & Morrison pulled off an amazing tag-in double team move on Delaney. I'd try to put it into words, but I couldn't do it justice. Dreamer got the win after a Dreamer DDT, which appears to have set up a re-match next week with the titles on the line.

The main event was CM Punk vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Elijah Burke in a #1 Contenders match, with Chavo Guerrero as a guest commentator (who was horrible on the mic, as usual). I was actually looking forward to this match. The match started with an impressive roundhouse head kick by Shelton Benjamin, knocking Elijah Burke out of the ring. I was glad to see this right out of the gate, as I was expecting them to team up on CM Punk for the first half of the match. Elijah returned the favor by giving Shelton a low bridge when bouncing off of the rope. The show stealing move of the night: Punk and Burke when having a suplex battle across the top rope. Shelton Benjamin run in, jumping over the two and sunset flip-powerbombs CM Punk onto the floor (see video below, 2:19 in).

We knew that Shelton wouldn't win this match, as he qualified for the ladder match at WrestleMania on Friday's Smackdown, but he really should have. A very impressive performance.

Final ECW thoughts: Tazz, what the hell are you wearing? Even Jerry Lawler wouldn't wear a shirt that fugly.


John Cena's interview in The Sun
On Tuesday, the UK Tabloid The Sun posted and article with excepts from an interview they did with John Cena. In the printed article, it seems like The Sun has taken a few liberties with creative quoting that paints John Cena as bashing The Rock for 'turning his back on the business'. The article quotes John Cena as saying:

'What I kind of get peeved about — and this is my Achilles heel — is that I've wanted to do this my whole life.'

'At one point Rock loved wrestling and wanted to do this all his life.'

'So explain to me why he can't come back. Simply put it's because he wants to be an actor and there's nothing wrong with that.'

'He's very good and very successful. Associating with sports entertainment doesn't do much for his acting career — I get it.'

'Just don't f*ck me around and tell me that you love this. That's the only thing that gets me really p*ssed off.'

'Our fan base have so much admiration for him, he's got to respect that. He doesn't give anything back.'

I listened to the interview, and like the CNN steroid interview, what he said was taken out of context and a little bit different without the editing. What was left out of the article on the website was:

'This is my take on The Rock. He’s genuinely a nice guy. I’ve met him. He's a fantastic human being.'

'Like I said, he is a great guy. But I think we all know now that he wants to be an actor. And there’s nothing wrong with that, because he’s truly found another passion. He’s good at acting. His films make money.'

In regard to the Rock coming back, what he really said was:

'Explain to me why he can’t come back for our 15th anniversary show or why he can’t make an appearance at WrestleMania. Simply put, it's because he wants to be an actor. There's nothing wrong with that. He's a very good actor. He's very successful. He's done very well for himself and associating with sports entertainment doesn't do much for his acting career, it only helps out the sports entertainment audience. So I get why he doesn't come back. Just don't f*ck me around and tell me that you love this, when you're just doing this to do something else. That's the only thing that gets me really p*ssed off.'

'He has so much admiration from our audience... to have that much admiration still when he hasn't been around or hasn't been on TV, you've got to respect that from our fan base. He doesn't give anything back... I wish he’d just show up, say hi and leave... Do the eyebrow once and get out of town'

The funny thing is, I more agree with the John Cena misquotes. The Rock was 'The Great One'. He has turned his back on us. His movies aren't that spectacular, and was far more entertaining in the ring. Yes, I know Rock... movies pay more. What can I say? I'm selfish.

Listening to the interview, I have to say that I was peeved at his laughing about what Simon Rothstein and Joel Ross defined what 'proper' wrestling fans were. Not cool John, but I'll get over it. He also spoke about his injury, fans that say he can't wrestle, his time in OVW, Santino Marella, Chris Benoit and more. Given that this is the second misquoted interview with John Cena from a major media source, I can't see that WWE will let him do many more interviews.

If you want to read the article on the Sun: Cena: The Rock P***es Me Off
Whether you are a John Cena fan, or hater, I more recommend listening to the actual interview. I for one, have a bit more respect for John Cena after listening to a non-kayfabe interview. It will open up in iTunes: John Cena's Interview


Floyd Mayweather, Jr vs. Big Show: Floyd's Payday
During the WrestleMania press conference, Floyd Mayweather mentioned that he was getting $20 million dollars for his WrestleMania involvement. Shane McMahon later confirmed this figure. Jim Ross also confirmed the figure in his blog. I for one, find this figure hard to believe. Whether it's $20 million, or $10 thousand, WWE is throwing money away in my opinion. As I've said again and again, we wrestling fans are not going to get behind the guy as a face after he threw legit punches and broke Big Show's nose the night of his big return. That was supposed to be Big Show's moment, and you ruined it, Floyd.



Ohio Valley Wrestling
Last night was the final taping of 'WWE OVW'. Any titles that were held by WWE developmental talents were dropped. In an article posted on the Courier Journal (Louisville, KY) website, OVW says that they will continue the televised promotion, as well as their wrestling school. The Courier Journal quotes OVW office manager as saying:

'The only thing that's changing are the faces. We're still going to go strong.'

For the full article: Ohio Valley Wrestling knocked down, not out


Return of the 'Monday Night War'?
There's been a rumor floating around the internet that TNA, with Jeff Jarrett being the most vocal, wants to move TNA iMPACT to Monday nights to go head to head against WWE Monday Night Raw. While I think WWE definately needs competition to bring the quality way up, I don't see TNA offering competition in any way whatsoever. TNA 's writing team, as well as production values would both need a major tune-up before they take on the Monday night juggernaut. If they are silly enough to make the schedule move before this happens, I predict the death of TNA. The two products aren't even comparable.


Vince McMahon No-showed at Congress Hearing
On Wednesday, Vince McMahon was a no-show at Congress' steroid hearing. Vince cited his attorney's involvement in a lengthy criminal trial in Pittsburgh as the reason. Newsday.com quotes subcommittee chairman Bobby Rush as saying the following in resonse to Vince's abscence:

'Steroid abuse in pro wrestling is probably worse than in any professional sport or amateur sport. And while I recognize that professional wrestling is not actually a sport, it certainly requires a great deal of athletic talent, I want to insure Mr. McMahon that this subcommittee fully intends to deal with the illegal steroid abuse in professional wrestling'

For Pete's sake. This is our tax dollars at work. Don't you politicians have more pressing matters to nitpick? How about Iraq, global warming, unemployment and the price of oil, just to name a few. Sometimes I just don't get our government.

Full article: WWE's McMahon blasted by Congress

and speaking of politcians... (yeah, I know... weird segue)


Lance Storm's Knee Surgery
Lance Storm had knee surgery this week. His latest blog entry really makes me wonder about socialized medicine and universal health care. More importantly, here's to a speedy recovery, Lance. I wish you the best.

For Lance Storm's commentary about his surgery: Knee Surgery


Well, that's all for today, folks. If you made all the way through to the end, congratulations. Come back tomorrow for my ramblings on TNA iMPACT

WWE Friday Night Smackdown Moving to MyNetwork TV

On WWE.com, as well as on Variety's website, it has been announced that Smackdown! will be moving to MyNetwork TV after the run on The CW is completed. At this time, there has been no announcement as to what day Smackdown! will air, but it will remain a two hour program.

This is great news for the struggling MyNetwork Network. I have mixed feelings about what it would mean for Smackdown. Hopefully, it will give Smackdown the same creative freedom that Monday Night Raw has on the USA Network. I mean, for me at least, the last highly memorable moment of Smackdown! was Brock Lesnar superplexing the Big Show off of the top rope, and that was way back in June of 2003.

For years Smackdown! has been ultra-tame due to UPN's, then The CW's, limitations of showing blood, etc.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

For the WWE article: MyNetworkTV the New Home of Smackdown
For the Variety article: WWE Teams with MyNetwork TV

WWE Monday Night Raw 2/25/2008

I was fairly satisfied with WWE Monday Night Raw last night. Here we go...

Raw opened with an in-ring promo with John Cena, Randy Orton and Triple H, with William Regal as a 'moderator'. I'm not sure why, but for some reason they tried to make it (somewhat) reminiscent of a UFC weigh-in. What I mean is, they did the whole promo-photographs of the competitors before the match. John Cena even posed with his hands up. It felt a little odd. MMA's influence on WWE continues. The whole promo was a little predictable, but entertaining nonetheless. What I wasn't clear about was why all the attention was focused on Triple H and John Cena, while Randy Orton stood in the background. Even when Randy Orton took the mic, it appeared that he was being ignored by Trips and Cena... an afterthought. The weakening of 'Randy Orton, Champion' continues week by week. As expected, both of them turn on Orton and clear the ring of him, which in turn leads to them fighting. Orton returns to the ring and pulls RKO sneak attacks on each of them. I wish I knew why creative is doing this to Randy Orton's character. He's a great, believable heel... well, he used to be, anyway.

After the commercial break, we have a backstage promo between Ken Kennedy and Randy Orton, with Kennedy vowing to win the Money in the Bank Ladder match at WrestleManaia, and turning in the contract the same night after the WWE title match. I don't know if this is actually the case or not, but it seemed to me that Mr. Kennedy has been working on promo skills with Shawn Michaels. The speech pattern, delivery and dialogue all seemed to be lifted from the 'HBK Cocky Heel' playbook. Who knows?

The first match of the night was Santino Marella & Carlito vs. Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes. There isn't a lot to say here... Bob Holly & Cody Rhodes won. I feel bad for Carlito. I don't know why they are keeping him buried in Santino's shadow. Sure, Santino has some mic skills, but when compared to Carlito, Santino is the inferior wrestler, not to mention he's ridiculous to look at. Furthermore, Carlito is just as good on the mic. I wish JR & King could've just focused on their commentary, rather than trying to get Maria's attention, over, and over, and over again. So annoying. I was left wondering what the whole point was... well, there wasn't one, except to show Maria in here Play boy Bunny logo outfit. Lame.

The press conference held earlier in the day was of course re-capped. The only reason I mention this, is I watched it live yesterday (see my thoughts here: WM 24 Press Conference). Congratulations, editing team. You managed to make Floyd Mayweather not look like a complete moron. Good job editing out all of the boos, as well as the 10-15 minutes when he looked like a child lost in the supermarket). I didn't think it was possible to polish a turd. Nice work. I missed Big Show at the press conference yesterday. In the package it was pretty impressive that Show's fist is nearly as large as Mayweather's head.

William Regal announced the Main Event. Something to be excited about. One of my faves, Mr. Kennedy is finally going to get to play with the big boys (I would later be disappointed when he basically ended up a jobber to the stars). After the announcement, Jericho approaches Regal and they trade hair insults. I hadn't really thought about it (but now I will unfortunately always think about it), but William Regal was right. Jericho's new hairstyle does look like a Cockatoo.

Separated at birth? You be the judge.

Chris Jericho made an obscure reference to their intercontinental title feud in '03 when he urinated in William Regal's tea, but I don't know if many fans will remember it. This whole promo set up the best match of the night, Y2J's Money in the Bank ladder match qualifier, Chris Jericho vs, Jeff Hardy.

Man, I hate Jeff Hardy's new entrance music. It's really bad... at least when compared to the old music. As one would expect, this was an exciting match. We've all seen the majority of the moves in this match, but it wasn't boring at all. Their two styles compliment each other like coffee and cigarettes (okay, not the most healthy analogy, but I have to draw from my source material). Jeff Hardy and Y2J made up for the botched double cross body in the Elimination Chamber (at No Way Out they jumped parallel and banged heads rather than hitting each other perpendicular), this time getting it right. Each Superstar successfully countered each other's signature moves throughout the match, adding to the excitement. One of my favorite counters was Jericho's bulldog into the second rope turnbuckle, but I didn't think Jeff sold it very well (he should have pushed Jericho like Trips does when he counters the RKO). There was a beautiful Whisper in the Wind into a pin attempt. On Jeff's sitout inverted suplex, the landing looked rough. Jericho landed face first. The match ended with an incredible finish... it's hard to put into words, but basically it was a Twist of Fate countered but Walls of Jericho, which was countered by Jericho rolling up Jeff into a pin, who in turn rolled through and pinned Y2J, who rolled through and got the pin, winning the match. The ladder match at WrestleMania is what I am looking forward to the most. So far, it contains all favorites of mine. It's just missing Matt Hardy and Umaga and then I have my dream match. Yes, I said Umaga. Many don't realize it, but the big guy, can fly.

Last night the Hornswoggle storyline has finally changed direction. Hopefully, it will be for the better. In my opinion, it really went too far, and last week was reprehensible. I've been waiting for them to announce Hornswoggle as Finlay's son, and last night it happened. Hopefully, WWE will finally reveal what 'The Deal' is, that Vince McMahon and Finlay kept referring to week after week last month. Then again, you never know... Hornswoggle was never thrown over the top rope at the Royal Rumble, and that was never addressed.
Side note: JBL, what the hell are you wearing? A royal blue shirt with a white collar & a robin's egg blue tie? WTF?

DH Smith made his return to Monday Night Raw last night, facing Umaga. Other than leading into the next promo with William Regal and Paul Burchill, I'm not really sure why this match took place. Umaga is already way over as a monster heel, and DH Smith got his ass handed to him. Like Colin Delaney last week on ECW, he only got two punches off. At least we got to see Umaga's Samoan Splash. It was almost as impressive as his (then Jamal) turnbuckle splash on Jeff Hardy (who was on a table on the floor) at Survivor Series 2002. My secret wish... bring back his brother Rikishi, and have a new Wild Samoans (although, please no dancing or stink faces. The Umaga gimmick is awesome). Creative, if you send Paul Burchill to WrestleMania 24 over Umaga, we're gonna riot (unless you grant my wish and put Umaga in the ladder match. See, I can compromise).

We saw HBK in action against Lance Cade. You know, I'm starting to get fed up. I know they need to drive the storyline and all, but is it really necessary to do it through pointless matches like this one? Is that the only way you can get HBK in the ring? That's not what you did last week. I'm sorry Ric Flair, but while Shawn Michaels may be 'absolutely incredible', it would probably be more appropriate (and believable) to make that statement after an absolutely incredible victory. My 'non-competitive wrestling' gripes continue. Anyway, The Ric Flair vs. Shawn Michaels match at WrestleMania is now a reality.
Side note: Is February national 'bloody/broken nose month'? HBK at No Way Out, Big Show at No Way Out, Jesse on Friday's Smackdown!, Shawn Michaels again last night. Hmm.

I was disappointed with the Main Event. It wasn't a bad match. I just desperately want Ken Kennedy to get over. My dreams would be dashed as he was made to look ineffective. I truly believe the guy could be just as entertaining as The Rock was, if given the chance. He's got the charisma, the physical talent, as well as the mic chops. Oh well. Triple H and John Cena win (of course), with Mr. Kennedy getting off a sneak attack Mic Check on John Cena after the bell.

On to ECW... It was mentioned that the big match tonight would be Santino Marella & Layla vs. Kofi Kingston & Kelly Kelly. Oh golly gee. I just can't wait (sarcasm)

Heyman Hustle, Episode 2: The Naked Hustle

Episode 2 of ECW-founder Paul Heyman's Heyman Hustle, is now live on The Sun. The episode is called, 'the naked hustle'. (don't get your hopes up)

It features a cameo by Chris Pontius and Wee Man from Jackass (wanted to see more of them), a cameo of former WWE Diva Dawn Marie (didn't need to see her again. By the way, get your nose fixed), and way too much time spent on a semi-naked street performer on the street of NYC.

I wasn't as entertained by this episode as much as the first one, but you might be.

To watch the new episode: Heyman Hustle Episode 2

Weekend Wrap Up: Smackdown 2/22/2008, Oscars & More

So... I haven't posted an Entry in a couple days. Honestly, I just haven't felt like it. That's alright, I'll kill three birds with one stone.

WWE Friday Night Smackdown! 2/22/2008
I didn't write my normal commentary on Smackdown, because, well... I thought it sucked. The only entertaining portion was the Money in the Bank qualifying match between Shelton Benjamin and Jimmy Wang Yang. This match, is exactly what I was talking about in my 'WWE Monday Night Raw, 2/18/2008' entry. As much as I would like to see Jimmy Wang Yang in a ladder match, I knew that Shelton Benjamin would get the win (who has been awesome in past ladder matches, by the way). My whole point here, is they put Shelton in the match with an opponent that made it competitive. It was a fantastic, high flying match. These two guys are great talents.

The only other redeeming quality about Friday's airing was the epiphany I had. If they ever decide to do a re-make of Mel Brook's Young Frankenstein, Festus would be the perfect guy to play Peter Boyle's monster. I also think that it's too bad that Festus isn't hairier. He be the perfect son of George 'The Animal' Steele.

80th Annual Academy Awards. 'The Oscars'
I trudged through this crap last night, basically because there wasn't much else on. I was surprised to see Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson as a presenter. I gotta tell you Rock, I know you're living out your whole movie star fantasy, but please come back. Your movies are okay, but they aren't terribly spectacular. You were much more entertaining in the ring. Plus, I gotta say, seeing you in a tuxedo is just plain wrong (yes, more wrong than a T-shirt and stretchy man-panties.

WWE WrestleMania 24 Press Conference
While yes, I live here in Los Angeles, and could easily have gone to the Staples Center to see this live, I chose to sit here and watch the video stream on the internet. Fighting LA traffic all the way into downtown is not my idea of fun. Anyway, here's the recap:

Jonathan Coachman opens the press the press conference to introduce Vince McMahon. Thankfully, Vince walks out normally and doesn't so that awful 'powerwalk'. I guess he reserves that for the entrance ramp. Vince went on to define 'WWE', as if the world doesn't get it. World: Vince calls the WWE the world's greatest export. Wrestling: Here he talks abit about wrestling, but goes on to call WWE 'the only variety show left on television'. Entertainment: Vince claims to 'entertain our audience better than anyone else in the world'. Vince McMahon talks a bit about the first WrestleMania, and references the Hulk Hogan & Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorf, and then elaborates on celebrity involvement. He made it a point to note that for only the second time WrestleMania 24 will be held in an outdoor venue, and that it will 'allow us to do things that we can't do indoors'. Hopefully, he means something besides just more pyro (Rumor has it that this year's WrestleMania will have 10 times more pyro than any prior events). That's cool and all, but I don't buy pay per views to watch fireworks on TV.

Coach then introduces John Cena, who gets a mixed reaction from the crowd, but there certainly seemed to be more 'boos'. Many of the crowd begin to chant 'you suck'. Cena praises and thanks Vince McMahon. He goes on to say that he, 'won't predict a win or loss, but guarantees history will be made'.

Coach then brings out Randy Orton. Randy Orton had a bad wardrobe day. He was wearing jeans with what looked like a tuxedo jacket. Typical Orton dialogue. John Cena giggles like a school girl when the crowd start chanting 'Cena'. Disgusting. Randy Orton wraps things up by saying, 'March 30th, I will not only walk out WWE champion, but no longer will I be known as the Legend Killer. March 30th I will be known as a Legend'

Next out is Triple H. Again, like Orton, typical Triple H ramblings. Hunter seemed to lose his train of thought and called the crowd 'crazy', followed with 'I forgot we were in LA'.
Triple H vows that at WrestleMania the 'King of Kings goes back on his throne'.

Coach re-takes the podium and starts talking about the Diva search. My stomach drops, because I know they are about to announce something stupid for WrestleMania. Candice Michelle and Maria come out to announce the 'first ever Playboy Bunny Mania match'. Whatever the hell that is, you can bet your ass it's gonna suck. Candice announces that it's Maria's birthday, which results in the crowd giving the worst rendition of 'Happy Birthday' that I've ever heard in my life.

The divas are followed by Edge, who basically said the same things he said on Friday Night Smackdown. 'I'm undefeated at WrestleMania too...' Blah, blah, blah...

Coach announces Rey Mysterio. Rey was wearing a god-awful black velvet mask with purple trim. It didn't go particularly well with a pinstripe suit. When Rey took the podium the mics were tall than he and began standing on his tip toes before lower the mic. He talked a bit about his injury and speaks to the crowd in a mix of English and Spanish. This would have been fine, but he never repeated in English what he said in Spanish like Ediie Guerrero used to do. Rey announced that his bicep surgery will be on Wednesday, but that it 'won't effect him helping his boy, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Every time Rey would mention Floyd Mayweather's name, the crowd erupted in boos. Vince, I hope you took note. We, the audience, do not like Floyd Mayweather.

The next bit confused me a little. I'm not sure whey it took a progression of three guys, to announce one guy.

For some reason, Coach brings out Mike Adamle. Mike rattles on about smalls guys being victorious over big guys. When Mike Adamle mentions Floyd Mayweather, the crowd boos. Mike Adamle introduces Shane McMahon.

Shane McMahon takes the podium and talks about WWE and Floyd Mayweather 'joining forces; The crowd boos. He mentions how the world is watching, and third parties such as HBO, Direct TV and Dish Network are nervous about the outcome. Personally, I don't care. After how unprofessional Mayweather was the night of Big Show's return, I hope he gets injured. That's right, I'm wishing ill on another human being. Sue me. For no apparent reason, the crowd starts a 'Cena' chant, followed by a 'Triple H' chant for no apparent reason in the middle of Shane McMahon's speech.

Shane introduces Floyd Mayweather. The fans are not happy to see him and he draw immediate heat from the crowd. The crowd stars chanting 'Yankees Suck' in response to Floyd's outfit. He stood there dumbfounded, saying nothing for roughly 5 minutes. For some reason he pulls a bundle of $100 bills out of his jacket and shows the crowd. He finally speaks... well kinda... he kept repeating 'I got all day'. The guy definitely looked rattled. The fans begin chanting 'you suck', which was followed by a 'de la Hoya' chant, which was followed by a 'Big Show' chant. Flord Mayweather then took Big Show's name placard off the table and ripped it up. For a guy that is supposedly so 'good on the mic' according to some sports writers, Floyd Mayweather is out of his element. He still is standing speechless, removed the bundle of cash and acts as if he is going to throw it into the crowd. He's that desperate, drowning that badly, that he is going to attempt to pay off the crowd. He stands on the table, flashing his money, inciting the crowd. He then jumps down and starts 'listening to the crowd' like Hulk Hogan would do. He ends up tossing money into the non-media section of the audience. After picking up the money, they continue to boo him. Floyd returns to the mic, apparently now ready to speak. He says that he is going to change the name of the WWE to the MME, Money Mayweather Entertainment. He also claims that he 'owns this city now', that he 'runs LA' and also 'runs WWE'. The crowd responds by chanting 'you suck big time'. The brags about his 'lifestyle', his 'money', and 'how good I look'. Boy, you sure do know how to win friends and influence people, Floyd. He says that he'll give people money if they tell him that he's the champ. Paying off the crowd? C'mon. Keep in mind, that this moron is saying all of these things with Shane McMahon directly to his left, champions Orton and Edge behind him, and Vince McMahon just behind the curtain. Finally, (Fi-nal-ly! ) he sits down. This was a fiasco and I want that half hour of my life back. Heh.

Mike Adamle returns to the podium to announce the Big Show. Apparently, Big Show is too big for the internet, because as his music started playing and came through the curtain my video stream disconnected. I wasn't able to rejoin the web feed. Too bad too, I would have liked to have heard the crowd chant Big Show's name and embarrass the little bastard.

I hope Vince took notes. We, the viewing audience, decide who's a heel, and who's a face. You can't force-feed us Floyd Mayweather as a face. We don't care if Rey Mysterio is supposedly his friend, and supposedly training him or not. This storyline needed a change of direction last week. I'd recommend changing it tonight on Raw. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Kurt Angle Website Update: Karen Angle

As I mentioned on February 14th, Kurt Angle's website has had a major overhaul. At the time, Karen Angle's section of the website was still under construction.

I've just checked, and the Karen Angle side is now live (It appears to be her MySpace. She has Forrest Griffin as a friend... no fair! )

Anyway, to have a look: Kurt & Karen Angle



On an unrelated side note, I'll be posting my commentary about the 2/22/2008 airing of WWE Friday Night Smackdown!, basically when I get to it.

In Defense of Kurt Angle

So last night I was reading the Camel Clutch blog. Normally, I'm a fan, and agree with what Eric Gargiulo writes.

Last night was different. Eric's article yesterday was a 'Let's bash Kurt Angle' article, or as he put it, "the newest edition of 'Kurt Angle... idiot'". Now I don't have any issues with Eric or Camel Clutch specifically... and I am by no means 'calling him out'... and I'm not intending to pick a fight,

but...

Eric's article is the straw that broke Shawn Michael's back. There seems to be a growing trend with wrestling blogs, news and gossip sites, and frankly, I have had enough. It seems like many have turned their back on Kurt Angle, and unjustly so.

So where do I begin?

I suppose we'll start with Eric Gargiulo's rant. The focus of Eric's bashing was in response to Kurt Angle's appearance on The Scott Ferrel Show on Sirius satellite radio. I didn't listen to the show, so I'm trusting that what Eric is writing about is accurate. In the interview, Kurt Angle apparently voiced interest in fighting Randy Couture. Well, first of all, let's address what Eric said:

"Couture just signed a deal with HD Net, Mark Cuban’s MMA promotion. Cuban has the resources to make this fight happen, but so does UFC."

Well, the possibilities of this happening, at least before October, are no, Randy's not with the UFC anymore. Randy retired with UFC due to their inability to sign Fedor Emelianenko... and no, due to the non-compete clause, Randy Couture can't work with any rival companies until at least October. (Zuffa LLC Files Injunction Against Hall of Famer)

As for Kurt Angle's 'excuse after excuse' about why he won't take fights, and Dana White 'calling bullsh*t'. It's well known that Dana wouldn't allow Kurt Angle to continue to wrestle if he signed a deal with UFC. Kurt is loyal to TNA for obvious reasons (we'll talk more about that later).

I wonder what examples you are thinking of, exactly, Eric. Do you mean the challenge from Ken Shamrock? Who would be willing to face Ken Shamrock with only 2.5 months of training allowed before the fight? Are you talking about Daniel Puder? I don't think anyone in pro wrestling would give Puder the respect of facing him after he took the easy way into the business and then bailed on his Tough Enough contract. As for Randy Couture, who knows if Kurt Angle would stand a chance... but if you think Angle wouldn't be successful in MMA, you're a fool. Regardless of prior injuries, the guy is built like, and moves like, a jungle cat. Anyway, I'm sorry that this entry so far seems to be directed at you, Eric, it wasn't meant to be.

Moving on. I'm sick of hearing that Kurt Angle is 'delusional', or 'in denial', or 'insane'. So cut it out, bucko.

First let's address the new TNA iMPACT! video game being done by Midway. Kurt Angle drew a lot of heat for remarks he made about the game. Read on:

"Midway made us all care about [the game], because it made us all realize how important the video game industry is for our sport,"

"WWE don't care. They just want to put something together, hurry it up and get it out there just to make money. We spent a lot of money to make this the most authentic wrestling game ever, and we did it."

"This thing is going to be the biggest hit of any video game ever, especially in the wrestling industry, is the most authentic wrestling game ever made. The game is so realistic, it looks like our television show.

"Within two or three years, TNA is going to be the biggest company in the wrestling world, and this game is going to be our kick-off,"

Okay. Well, WWE doesn't care about video games. This is evidenced by the latest WWE game, Smackdown vs. Raw 2008. If you haven't played it, read my review here on Wrestling Rant. Pong! was a better wrestling game than SvR 2008. It's obvious from looking at the screenshots that TNA's game is a far cry from any other wrestling titles. I don't know that TNA's new game would overtake Halo 3, but it's going to sell well in the sports and action titles. As for the last statement... while it's a little ambitious, I don't necessarily know that it's delusional. A lot can happen in three years... and no one but TNA knows what their business plan is. If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that I am the furthest thing from a fan of the TNA product, but I honestly hope they do get their act together and succeed.

Now let's talk about Kurt's statements about TNA itself. Sure, Kurt Angle might be a bit liberal or broad when talking about the margin between WWE and TNA ratings... but you know what? That's marketing. Do you expect him to say, 'Oh yeah Vince is kicking our ass in the ratings this week'. Of course not. He believes in the product, and he's going to do whatever he can to help the company along. Kurt Angle is standing behind the company that stood behind him in the aftermath of Kurt Angle's WWE release.

Does no one remember the whole (I'm paraphrasing) "Olympic Gold Medals and 50 cents will get you a cup of coffee." comment made by Vince McMahon?

I mean geezus... I wouldn't go so far as to say Kurt Angle carried WWE, but ever since Kurt Angle blew his nose in Tiger Ali Singh's flag in March of '99, he was the staple of the company through 2006. When Triple H was injured... when Shawn Michaels was injured... when Undertaker was on hiatus... when the The Rock left... when Brock Lesnar left... when 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin left... when Mick Foley left... (etc. etc. etc.) Kurt Angle was there. Hell, even when he re-injured his neck after Wrestlemania 20 he stayed on board in the god-awful GM-in-a-wheelchair storyline on Smackdown. Most guys would have taken off. With all the things he did for WWE, Vince had the nerve to make the 'cup of coffee' comment because Kurt was asking for a lighter schedule? To make matters worse, Vince McMahon insinuates the Kurt Angle was being released because had a drug problem? Ridiculous.

The guy put his ass on the line for us for years. He busted his ass for us for years. Did I forget to mention that he won an Olympic gold medal with a 'broken freakin' neck'? Give Kurt Angle the respect he deserves, and stop nitpicking. Whether you like it or not, Kurt Angle is one of the all-time greats. Oh it's true, it's damn true.



Find Eric Gargiulo Camel Clutch article here: Guess who Kurt wants to Fight Now?
I also highly recommend Professor Netwon Gimmick's article and timeline on TNA News: The Professor's Position on Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle Website: Kurt Angle

TNA iMPACT! 2/21/2008

As seems to be by current Thursday Night TV-viewing schedule, after Survivor: Micronesia last night I hit the record button on the DVR and recorded the second half of TNA iMPACT... so, my commentary starts at the beginning or the second hour...

Firstly, from what I saw, gimmick infringement was less pronounced last night. Bubba Ray Dudley slapped the ref ala Randy Orton at No Way Out, he also stole Eddie Guerrero's use-weapon-fall-down-while-ref's-back-is-turned gimmick, Gail Kim hit Jericho's Code Breaker, and of course, 'Stone Cold' Shark Boy. At least none of it happened on the mic.

The first match was basically a replay of last week, Team 3-D vs. Curry Man & Shark Boy, except this time Brother Devon didn't weigh in under the 275 limit (I had a hard time buying this. These days Devon is built like a brick sh*thouse. Bubba Ray is still as bulky as he's always been). I thought it was odd that Bubba Ray managed to hang on to the mic during Curry Man's school boy roll-up so that he could apologize to Devon for admonishing him about eating Twinkies. I wish this storyline hadn't gone down this route. Team 3-D was headed in the direction of the old-ECW Dudley Boys, superheels that were so abusive that they came close to causing riots in the crowd. Are we really supposed to believe that tiny Shark Boy can take down Brother Bubba Ray with a Lou Thesz press? Come on. Team 3-D gets the win after weapon usage (apparently weight scales are weapons now).

Kurt Angle cut a good promo. It was good to seem him on the mic again, actually talking about wrestling.

We come back from commercial to a promo with AJ Styles and Karen Angle, on their 'honeymoon' at Gatorland (I remember this place from when I was a kid. We'd drive past the 'Jumparoo' sign on the highway all the time. I thought that this place burned down a couple years ago?) Anyway, every time I hear him talk, I am astounded that AJ Styles character is written as such a witless, braindead hick. This guy is an amazing talent, and I think this persona cheapens his value. The promo was pointless. It's a stupid storyline, and who care about AJ and Karen at a second-rate amusement park.

The highlight of the night (of what I watched), was the Knockouts tag match. In my eyes, TNA has one thing going for it right now, and that's the women's division. The TNA Knockouts can (and do) actually wrestle. Personally, as long as it doesn't turn into what G.L.O.W. was, I'd love to see TNA roll out the rumored all-women show. On a side note, Jessica 'ODB' Kresa scares the Hell out of me. She doesn't have the frame of a woman, or carry herself like a woman. I must admit, the first time that I ever saw her, my gut-reaction was, 'Is that a transsexual?!' Yes, I went there. To this day, I find myself looking for an adam's apple, as well as her pronounced jawline. Sorry ODB... I don't mean to be rude, but looking at you is highly disturbing. (Please don't hunt me down and kill me in my sleep, She-Man. Oh, and tell Battle Cat and Orko that I said 'Hi')

Separated at birth? You be the judge

The Knockouts match was packed with action. Lots of exciting moves. Better than a lot of men's matches that I have watched on TNA. Gail Kim was awesome (WWE was a fool to let her get away) and Ms. Jacqueline looked better than she ever did on WWE. Roxxi Laveaux won clean after a fall away slam on Gail Kim. After the pin, ODB and Gail Kim start arguing over the loss. Gail Kim does a cross body from the turnbuckle onto ODB on the floor and it devolves into a street fight. Predictable.

Following the Knockouts match, there was an interview promo with Christian Cage, Samoa Joe and Kevin Nash. I'm not really sure why Joe and Nash were present, if there were just going to stand there and nod while Christian talked (Yes, the three are tagging now, but at leave give them something, anything to say). Christian has really bloomed since going to TNA. I wish TNA offered a better product so he could continue to shine. Working on this show has got to be like trying to polish a turd.

There was a second AJ Styles/Karen Angle promo. Pointless.

The Main Event, oh sorry... TNA calls it the 'Featured Contest', was Kurt Angle vs. Booker T. I was excited about this match, but it turned out to be a real disappointment. We were really supposed to believe that Kurt Angle would get his ass handed to him like that by Booker T? At least make it look competitive. Kurt Angle looked totally innefective against Booker, and that just doesn't make sense. On a side note, I don't know who is designing Kurt Angle's attire these days, but they should be fired. I've never been a fan of the olympic torch singlet, or the little white baby shoes... but with the 70's gym socks, it was the worst. There isn't a whole lot to say about the actual match, except Kurt looked inept, Booker looked too good, we saw another expected run-in interruption (Robert Roode) which allowed Kurt to get the Angle Slam off for the pin. Angle, Booker, Roode were joined by Christian... then Samoa Joe... then Kevin Nash.. then Tomko. Run-ins can be an exciting event, but not if they seem to happen every single week.

Again standard TNA fare this week... but the Knockouts stole the show. Nice work ladies (Oh, and you too, ODB).

Heyman Hustle: Paul Heyman on the Chris Benoit Tragedy

There was a new article by Paul Heyman posted the The Sun's website today. Heyman is taking on the subject that we all, at one time or another, has taken on.

The Chris Benoit tragedy.

This is a different kind of dialogue from Paul Heyman. From a man that is so good at forming thoughts and relaying them eloquently, he rattles on (like I do).

Obviously, the event still disturbs him, like it still disturbs all of us. For most of us, Chris was a hero, a role model, a respected representation of 'the business', a stand-up guy, an idol. While he may have been some of those things to Paul Heyman, Chris Benoit was, of course, something more. A friend and co-worker. Paul, and the rest of the 'guys-in-the-back' actually knew Chris Benoit.

As difficult as it has been for me, as I'm sure many other wrestling fans, to theorize, understand and forgive Benoit for what he did, it has to be tenfold for friends and acquaintances of the man.

Chris was obviously sick, and obviously insane. Sane people, don't kill other people. I can't believe that no one in Chris Benoit's circle didn't see this coming. I'm not blaming them, or suggesting 'guilt by association'... but were there really no warning signs? Was there no change in temperament, or personality? Chris Benoit never struck me as the type of person that would let a person through the emotional wall, but I would think when you work with a guy for years, you'd still be able to tell if something was 'off'.

Or perhaps the only time Chris Benoit was level-headed, was when he was knee-deep in 'the business'. Who knows?

Paul Heyman really says it best:

'The only people who can accurately tell us what happened, what caused the chain of events that lead to three people's lives being extinguished, are all gone.'

Paul has stopped trying to understand it and let go... maybe it's time for the rest of us to follow suit.

Please have a read of Paul E's article: I've no Answers and I Never Will

Hulk Hogan Challenges Ric Flair to a Match at Wrestlemania: Revisited

You know, I was just thinking...

Thinking about the whole Hulk Hogan video on MTV.com yesterday.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, here's my entry from yesterday: Hulk Hogan Challenges Ric Flair to a Match at Wrestlemania

Anyway... this isn't going to be one of my long winded diatribes. My thought was since Hulk Hogan seems to have such loose lips... (see my thoughts on this here: Hulk Hogan & Eric Bischoff vs. Vince McMahon) ...what if this deal is already done?

I'll be curious to see if this pops up on one of the WWE shows, and if Hogan opened his mouth early, like he seemingly has done in the past. Yeah, it's good to build buzz, but if, if, IF this is a done deal, I'm pretty sure Vince wanted it kept quiet until WWE releases it.

Disclaimer: This is all speculation. I'm not one to perpetuate rumors.

ECW 2/19/2008: Would you like some Wrestling with your Marketing?

Wow.

You know, for the first time in quite a long while, ECW was good last night. I enjoyed it. In fact, I liked it better than this week's Monday Night Raw.

but... (with me, there's always a 'but'. What can I say? I'm critical) I thought there were bad points too. Here we go...

We opened with an in-ring promo by Ric Flair. I expected this. Ric Flair was noticeably absent from Monday Night Raw after his win over Ken Kennedy at No Way Out... then there was a blurb on Raw about Ric Flair making a 'special appearance' on ECW. Tazz joins Ric Flair and leads things off by discussing Ric Flair's induction to the 2008 WWE Hall of Fame.

Ric Flair took over and his dialogue was predictable, until he said, '...I'm honored to be a part, of ECW'. I think to myself, 'Self, Ric Flair just flubbed his lines. Surely what he meant to say was WWE'. Tazz would say later in the broadcast the Flair was a guest. If Flair has been moved to ECW, that sure blows the whole Flair vs. HBK at Wrestlemania theory. Anyway...

After a cheap San Diego, CA pop, Ric Flair is interrupted/joined by Elijah Burke, who in turn is interrupted/joined by Shelton Benjamin. I think to myself, 'Self, this is excellent. ECW is finally showing talent on the roster other than just Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Mike Miz, CM Punk and Chavo Guerrero (sorry Chavo, but I can't say that I missed seeing you last night). As expected, Shelton 'the new gold standard' Benjamin, exchanged words with Flair, resulting in Shelton Benjamin and Elijah Burke beating down Flair, who was saved by a run-in by CM Punk, thus setting up the Main Event.
The good: An excellent in-ring promo foreshadowing an exciting main event.
The bad: Not necessarily related to the promo. I'm am most certainly not making any insinuations, implications or allegations here, but this promo made me realize that, here in the middle of Black History Month, there is no African-American talent on Raw. I'm sure that there isn't any intentional segregation going on here, but it's segregation nonetheless. (Please don't sue me Vince. It's only an observation. Heh)

ECW African-American talent: 5 - Big Daddy V, Boogeyman, Elijah Burke, Kofi Kingston, Shelton Benjamin.

Smackdown African-American talent: 4 - Mark Henry, MVP, plus Jonathan Coachman and Theodore Long.

Raw African-American talent: 0 - (Technically, yes, Ron Simmons is on the roster, but his appearances are few and far between. Sorry Ron, sporadic appearances don't count... DAMN!)

Next up, we have a No Way Out-recap video package. Approximate length 1 min 20 sec. (Why am I mentioning this? Read on, I'm leading up to something).

Commercial break.

Video package #2. Big Show/Mayweather promo for next week's Raw. Approximate length 15 sec

Video recap package (of what we just saw) at Flair's promo. Approximate length 30 sec

We return to find a promo with Elijah, Shelton and General Manager Armando Estrada, announcing the Main Event. Shelton Benjamin was much better talking this week, both on the mic and in this promo. I've been down on you the past couple of weeks Shelton. Kudos. The good: Shelton's improvement on the mic. The bad: Armando Estrada as GM

The first match of the night was Kofi Kington vs. Jason Riggs. I'm not sure why it took nearly 20 minutes to get to the first match (sarcasm), but oh well. The good: I am not sure why Kofi is back to wrestling jobbers when he pinned Mike Knox, a legit roster member, last week. At least Jason Riggs (formaerly of OVW) made Kofi look good. Kofi has talent, but Jason Riggs sold Kofi's moves well and made him look even better. Gladly, this week we didn't have to see another 'turnbuckle teabag'. The bad: Joey Stiles did an interview with Kofi after the match, and he was good on the mic, but I was sick of the 'bo! bo! bo!' two weeks ago.

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin video package hyping the new DVD. Approximate length 45 sec

USA Network 'Raw Fan Nation' video package with Layla Milani. Approximate length 25 sec (Can you see where I'm going with this yet?)

Commercial Break.

Wrestlemania 24 video package. Approximate length 30 sec

Vince McMahon/Hornswoggle/Finlay/JBL-rep from Monday Night Raw. Approximate length 3 min 40 sec (plus additional time of Tazz and Joey Stiles discussing it. Just as difficult to watch as when it happened live on Monday)

The following match was Mike Miz (with John Morrison) vs. Colin Delaney (with Tommy Dreamer). I thought to myself, 'Self, good... We'll finally get to see Colin Delaney wrestle instead of just being the human ragdoll.' I mean, seriously, Zack Gowan got to do more stuff than this kid.
The bad: They let him land two punches. That's it...
The good: On the flipside, I was very impressed with Mike Miz as a singles wrestler, and more specifically, a single heel. Mocking Tommy Dreamer by giving Delaney advice while kicking his ass was priceless. I liked him much better alone, than in a tag with Morrisson. His jumping clothesline into the turnbuckle that left him perched on the second rope was awesome, as was the springboard off of Delaney's back, over the rope to hang him up on the second rope. Maybe I've been wrong about you this whole time, Miz...

Video package for the March '08 issue of WWE magazine. Approximate length 25 sec

Commercial break.

Video package recap of Maria's match vs. Beth Phoenix on Monday Night Raw. Approximate length 30 sec

This led to a promo with Kelly Kelly. Honestly, Joey Stiles, I don't care what Kelly thinks about Maria posing in Playboy... and Kelly Kelly, I don't care if posing in Playboy is something that you've always wanted to do. I also don't care if you think that it's (does best valley girl impression) 'so glamourous' and 'so prestigious'. As for your question, what do I think? I think your idea of what sexy is supposed to look like, your posing, your doe eyes and hair stroking make you look like a whore. If you don't want the answer, don't ask the question. Oh, by the way, learn to wrestle. The good: not much. The bad: More WWE T&A garbage

Stevie Richards vs. James Curtis. I'm not sure if Stevie Richards had new entrance music, or if they just cut out the 'I'll show you! You'll see!' intro. Not much to remark on here. I'd just restate what I said in my ECW 2/12/2008 rant. Richards looked okay. Curtis looked okay I guess. The bad: Seemed to be pretty much the same match as Richards' match last week. The Good: Hey, at least we don't have to see him stalk Victoria in drag anymore. Heh.

Oh, Steven Richards video recap at the beginning of the last match about his surgery. Approximate length: 30 sec.

Raw Rebound video package: Big show/Mayweather again. Approximate length: 3 min.
(You know Vince, no matter how much you try to force feed us this crap, Mayweather is not getting over as a face, especially since he threw legit blows and broke Show's nose the night he returned.)

We now see Ric Flair and CM Punk walking to the gorilla position. Flair and Punk trading whooo!'s was classic. Made me smile.

Commercial break.

Video package for Wrestlemania 24. Approximate length: 30 sec.

Main Event. Flair/Punk vs. Burke/Benjamin. This was a great match with lots of action. Even Ric Flair entertained me, which is saying a lot. I think that it was remarkable how quick-paced it was, as matches involving Flair seem to crawl. I had to laugh when Elijah Burke stole Ric Flair's material. The eye gouge to climb the turnbuckle, just to be tossed down by Flair was funny (Batista was using Flair's moves on the 2/15/2008 episode of Smackdown. Is this a trend?). It was even funnier when Flair then climbed the turnbuckle and actually got the attack off on not one, but both of his opponents. The black eye on this match was the botched spot with Shelton Benjamin and CM Punk. It wasn't so much the botched spot, but the fact that they re-did the spot on a live episode. They re-did the move, that wasn't even a pivotal part of the match. (Benjamin picks up Punk into the powerbomb position and runs to the turnbuckle, Punk is supposed to hop off of Benjamin's shoulders but instead falls over the ropes to the floor. It was unclear if Punk didn't make the hop, or Benjamin didn't give him the lift. Flair checks on Punk, picks him up and puts him back in the ring. When they re-did the move, Punk makes the hop and lands a running enzuigiri). Ultimately, Flair gets Burke in a figure four and Burke taps. Shelton Benjamin, Elijah Burke and CM Punk are to be commended. They made Ric Flair look like he was in his prime again. (The good and bad are obvious here)

So what's the moral of this story? This was a good show... but it could have been a great show. I understand the need for recaps to 'catch-up' the viewers that didn't see what happened... and coming from a marketing background, I understand the need to build hype, as well as cross-brand marketing strategies. I know that this has been a part of WWE's marketing strategy formula for decades, and I'm not suggesting that they go away. (Here comes the 'but')

but...

When a show has a hour long timeslot, after commercials there's usually around 40 minutes of 'actual' airtime. Over 12 minutes of 'actual airtime' (over 30%) was eaten up by video packages. Like I said, I don't expect them to go away, but on shorter show, there either needs to be less of them, or shorter ones.

As Queen Gertrude said to Polonius in Hamlet, "More matter, with less art". Or as Lance Storm said, (paraphrasing) "I like a little more sports in my entertainment"

WWE's Habbo No Way Out: Grand Prize Winner Announced

I just took a peek at Habbo, and the WWE has selected the grand prize winner in the No Way Out Elimination Chamber competition on Habbo.com.

The lucky Habbo, Attires, has won a non-virtual (read that, 'real-life') WWE Heavyweight Championship replica belt.

In addition, the Habbos with the top 5 Elimination Chambers (as voted by Habbo users) each received an in-game personalized trophy from WWE Superstar & ECW original, Tommy Dreamer.

The article goes on to say:

"Stay tuned because coming in March, WWE will be returning to Habbo with Wrestlemania. It will be bigger, badder, and bolder than both Habbo Royal Rumble and Habbo No Way Out combined!"

I'll, of course, post more info about WWE Habbo Wrestlemania when information is released.

For the full article: Attires has the Top Elimination Chamber

Lance Storm Weighs in on MMA's Influence on the WWE

I'm a huge fan of Lance Storm's blog (obviously, otherwise I wouldn't link to it).

He and I have seen eye to eye on a wide array of topics, and typically, he has always been able to put his thoughts into words much better than I can. I've e-mailed him a couple of times voicing agreement to his opinions. I've never received a response, and honestly I didn't expect one. I'm sure he's got a lot more important things to do besides writing back to marks all day. Anyway, today is a prime example.

Today Lance Storm has posted a commentary on MMA's influence on the WWE, directed primarily at the character direction of Undertaker. I highly recommend giving it a read (and his other articles too). Lance addresses 'Taker's new submission, the Gogoplata (yes, I finally figured out what it was called. I found it on Wiki a couple days ago), and how it relates to the world of professional wrestling. Lance brought up a good point, which I was stunned that I didn't realize, about the position of Gogoplata (and Undertaker's triangle choke, for that matter). I wish I hadn't wiped those episodes of Smackdown off of the DVR, because I'm pretty sure when Undertaker had it applied on Big Daddy V, and Mark Henry, his shoulders were on the mat for three seconds.

Enough of my rambling... take a few minutes and head over to Lance Storm's site. You can find his latest article here: Adapting MMA

Side note: Not that you're reading this, but we miss watching you on TV, Lance. You were one of the most brilliant yet underrated (& under appreciated) technicians in professional wrestling. Hopefully, we'll see you again.

Hulk Hogan Challenges Ric Flair to a Match at Wrestlemania 24

You read that headline correctly.

In a video interview posted on MTV.com this morning, that's what Hulk Hogan is saying.

In the video, Hogan says, 'They need a main event real bad. When I think about Ric Flair stylin' and profilin', when I think about Hulk Hogan going head on head with Ric Flair in my backyard... They got a lot of tickets, brother, that need to be sold. The power of the 'mania, brother? Could be strong, brother.'

When asked if he was going to put Ric Flair out for good, Hogan replied, 'Either he'll put me out for good, or I'll put him out for good. One or the other. That would be the match of the new millennium. Hogan vs. Flair. Maybe get Vince McMahon as a special guest referee. Game on.'

Oh brother.

While this would sell a ton of pay per views, I can't see that Vince would ever do it. I mean, how could he? If Hogan wins, yes, Flair retires, but then Hogan gets a huge push right before he (supposedly) launches his new, rival wrestling promotion with Eric Bischoff. If Hogan loses, Flair has to stick around, and they have to figure out how to get rid of him again.

Smart move, Hulk. Even someone such as myself, who hates to watch the old-timers do the same moves they've done for decades, would be eager to watch. I don't think Vince is greedy enough to go for it. It wouldn't be a good business decision, if your new promotion is legit.


To read the article and watch the video: Celebrity Faves (about halfway down the page)

WWE Monday Night Raw, 2/18/2008

I was highly disappointed in Monday Night Raw last night. It kind of felt like watching TNA. It's been a rough week... maybe I'm just burnt out. To be honest, I don't feel like putting much effort into writing this... but I will.

We opened with the promo with Triple H, then Randy Orton and John Cena. We see that Kevin Eck (RIng Posts) was right, and it's a triple threat at Wrestlemania. Lame. You know, I realize that it's just the way it is', and it's the way it's been done for years, but I'm sick of it. I am sick of buying pay per views, that are supposed to determine the direction of things to come, only to have it changed the following night on the televised shows.

What am I talking about?

Triple H vs. Randy Orton vs. John Cena: Well... let's see... the Royal Rumble is supposed to determine the challenger in the Main Event at Wrestlemania... but no... the storyline has John Cena give up his Wrestlemania 24 spot to challenge at No Way Out instead. In my mind, that's his one shot. Randy screws Cena out of the belt at No Way Out. Triple H wins the Raw Elimination Chamber. So it's now Randy Orton vs. Triple H... but no... now John Cena is back in the Main Event. Ultimately, we got what 'should' have happened as a result of the Royal Rumble, plus Triple H. I feel like, at least in this storyline, Raw wasted a month of my time, and money spent at two pay per views. Why are we supposed to buy pay per views, when you just change the result on Monday night? I'm sorry, but the constant switcheroo is extremely frustrating to me. Please make up your mind.

Jeff Hardy vs. Gene Snitsky: Did anyone honestly believe Snitsky being in a ladder match at Wrestlemania when his opponent is Jeff Hardy? I didn't. I wish they would have used an opponent more suited for a ladder match. Again, Kevin Eck was right (Kevin, do you have backstage source? I think so). Jeff Hardy qualifies for the Money in the Bank ladder match.
Side note: Jeff Hardy's new entrance music is awful

Shawn Michaels Hall of Fame Promo: Last night, with a tear in his eye, we saw Shawn Michaels announce Ric Flair as the 2008 first inductee for the Hall of Fame. I'm not gonna beat a dead horse about the apparent Flair/HBK match at Wrestlemania. At least we (hopefully) will see HBK turn heel again. My thoughts on the matter are here in the Kennedy vs. Flair section: WWE No Way Out 2008

Paul Burchill vs. Super Crazy: Not a whole lot to say here, but thank god it looks like the subliminal incestuous releationship angle is gone. I wouldn't be too sure about that 'bright future' in the WWE, King. This guy isn't getting over. Other than the few, pathetic 'Su-per Cra-zay' chants, you could have heard a pin drop in the arena. Poor Super Crazy. Relegated to jobber. You didn't have to call him old, JR. I wouldn't call him old... or fat. Oops.

Big Show with Floyd Mayweather Promo: "Anaheim! What's up?!" (Can you hear the crickets chirping?) I am still pissed about what happened at No Way Out. I know Wrestlemania traditionally has celebrity interaction in one form or another, and over the years there has been a fair share of boxers. You never saw Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali, Butterbean or Mike Tyson break anyone's nose. What an ass. Oh, by the way, Floyd, you suck on the mic.

Ken Kennedy vs. Val Venis: See my comments above. No one believed that Val was going to get the win and be in a ladder match at Wrestlemania.
Side note: Kennedy's new theme music wasn't much better than Jeff's, and the 'Ken-Na-Dy's were out of sync.

Vince McMahon vs. Hornswoggle: I haven't been into where this storyline is going. I definately was not okay with what happened last night. Seriously, I know this is all kayfabe but it was disturbing. You're right, Finlay, 'This IS wrong". In my opinion, the crowd is on board with me. I think those boos were boos of 'this is not okay', rather than just a reaction to what was happening in the storyline. I don't know if Jericho was injured in the chamber, but there really should have been a run-in by him to stop this. My guess is JBL & Vince vs. Finlay & Y2J at Wrestlemania 24. Finlay put on a great performance. I believed his distraught yelling and pain... I'd give him an Oscar. You went too far with this one, Vince. This was disgusting and we do not approve.

Maria with Santino Marella vs. Beth Phoenix: Who cares... and what a cheap way to get the win.

Randy Orton vs. John Cena with Triple H as Referee: Since John Cena returned I am not really getting why Randy Orton is now being written as a cowardly champion. The only thing that I have considered is that he's being punished for backstage politics. It's been rumored that there is a new clique backstage (Orton, Carlito, Umaga, Mysterio and MVP), and Randy is the ringmaster (New Clique in WWE). I read elsewhere (sorry, I don't remember the source) that Randy Orton says things just within earshot of others walking by, while Randy is having a conversation with friends. The target of the comment is unable to tell if the comment is actually directed at them or not. (The example given was Shawn Michaels) Of course, there's no really way to know if this is true or not, and it's probably just a rumor.

I'm rambling again...

Anyway, as expected we wound up with a triple threat at Wrestlemania, with Triple H closing the show by giving a Pedigree to Orton and Cena after the match.

Bah.

Lindsay Lohan Backstage at WWE Monday Night Raw, 2/18/2008

As reported on WWE.com, at last night's taping on WWE Monday Night Raw in Anaheim, Lindsay Lohan was backstage, to meet WWE Superstars (John Cena, Rey Mysterio, JBL) and kids from Canada's version of the Make A Wish Foundation, Sunshine Foundation.

I'm not sure why, but WWE is referring to her as an 'A' list celebrity, when this trainwreck is a D-list celebrity, at best. I truly find it hard to believe that this documented alcoholic and apparent coke-head gives a rat's ass about the sick children. In my opinion, this was simply for publicity. I am astounded that 1) WWE would even admit that she was backstage, given their new anti-substance campaign, and 2) that they'd make the connection between Lidnsay Lohan and the Sunshine Foundation.

In my opinion, Lindsay Lohan is a horrible role model for children and should be nowhere near them. I offer the following proof:

On various occasions, she has been photographed at night clubs in the company of Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, two other poor role models. This alone makes you look awful.

August, 2004: Car accident in Studio City, CA

October, 2004: Car accident in West Hollywood, CA

July, 2006: Lindsay Lohan admitted to a Los Angeles hospital for treatment of 'overheating and dehydration', her third hospital visit in 2006. James G. Robinson, CEO of the film's production company for Georgia Rule wrote: "You and your representatives have told us that your various late arrivals and absences from the set have been the result of illness; today we were told it was 'heat exhaustion'. We are well aware that your ongoing all night heavy partying is the real reason for your so-called 'exhaustion'."

September, 2006: Hospitalized at St. Vincent's in NYC for what was called a 'broken wrist'.

November, 2006: Car accident in Los Angeles, CA

January, 2007: Checked herself into rehab. She later said in an interview with E! Online that "It's so weird that I went to rehab. I always said I would die before I went to rehab.", and "I don't know that I'm necessarily an addict" (Admitting your problem is the first step, tramp). She also addressed the rumor about the text message she supposedly sent to her boyfriend at that time about why she left rehab, that she missed "sex and McDonald's". In response to the rumor, she told E! Online that "I'm a sexual person..."

May, 2007: Arrested after a car accident. Police on the scene found cocaine in her car. Charged with drunk driving.

July, 2007: Arrested after an allegedly chasing her former assistant, Tracie Rice, in a car. Lindsay Lohan refused a breathalyzer. At the police station, a blood test proved her over California's legal limit. Cocaine found in her pocket. Arrested and charged with felony possession of cocaine and transportation of a narcotic, in addition to misdemeanor charges of driving under the influence and driving with a suspended license

Yeah, she's a great role model for children.

I am sick of WWE.com's new 'TMZ' style celebrity reports. I'm not sure if they are just trying a different format, or if they have were trying to beat Paul Heyman's 'Heyman Hustle' to the punch.

I suppose I should be happy that they didn't put her on the air, which I think is the real reason she showed up in the first place... she wanted to be on TV.

In any case, stay the hell away from my kids, Lindsay. In my opinion, you're a scumbag and a waste of skin.

For the WWE article: Lindsay Lohan Drops by Raw
For the E! Online article: Rehabbed Lindsay: I'm Not an Addict
For the Sunshine Foundation: Sunshine Foundation

WWE No Way Out 2/17/2008: Fenn's Fiasco, PPV Peril

If you're a regular reader of my blog, you'll remember that I mentioned that in my TNA: Cross the Line post on 2/15, I mentioned that my cable had been out for 24 hours. If you aren't a regular reader, now you know.

Anyway, I ended up getting the cable to work by connecting the co/ax directly to the TV... however my cable box has been non functional (no DVR, no PPV, etc), until finally, FINALLY Charter Cable replaced my box this morning, 5 days later. I called and reported the problem 5 separate times... was lied to and BS'ed about what the problem was (and obviously, they did nothing to fix the problem. I used the chat feature on their website twice with the same result. Over the past week I visited the local office three times before they gave me a replacement box, this morning. Obviously, I'm not talking about No Way Out Yet... I'm ranting about Charter Cable, because quite frankly, I'm pissed. How can it take a a company 10 separate times of the same customer reporting the same problem before they 'decide' to help that customer. The only thing that stopped me from saying to Charter, 'YOU'RE FIRRRRRRRRRED' is that Direct TV was not able to set up a dish the way my apartment is situated. You'll be happy to know, that Charter Cable did join Fenn's 'Kiss My Ass' club. If you haven't caught my drift... don't use Charter Cable.

So I had a dilemma... pay the same price to watch No Way Out on the internet as I would to watch it on TV (and have the ability to record it), or go to a WWE 'Blast Area'. So with the option to not be able to record it and watch on a tiny screen (with questionable streaming quality), and the option to not be able to record it and watch on a gi-normous screen, I opted for the Blast Area. I checked the WWE website and found that Yankee Doodle's in Woodland Hills, CA is a WWE Blast Area. We arrived around 4:30... staked out our seats, and ordered some ($40 worth of awful) munchies. Yankee Doodle's was showing the WWE Preview show... it's 3 minutes to 5, and on the TV's we see Yankee Doodle's ordering the PPV (Yes, they actually waited until the very last minute to order it). Everyone in the place starts clapping, until... a big screen pops up that reads, 'INSUFFICIENT CREDIT'. Yankee Doodle's claimed that it was an issue with Direct TV, but it seemed to me that they didn't pay their bill. We watched them attempt to order the PPV over... and over... and over... eventually they stop trying. They tell us that it should be up around 6-ish. In an attempt to entertain us, Yankee Doodles put on the All Star game, only to turn it off 5 minutes later... then turn it on, and off... (you get the idea). Remarkably the crowd (about 50 other people) were surprisingly patient. We ate our crappy, overpriced appetizers... we were ignored by the waitress... we weren't given one refill on our drinks... It sucked.

It was about 6:15 when employees were seen scrambling behind the bar. The TVs blinked to life, just in time to see the Mae Young Wrestlemania 24 commercial. We missed the ECW match, as well as the entire Smackdown! Elimination Chamber match. Yankee Doodle's, you can join the 'Kiss Fenn's Ass' club, too. You'll never, eeeeeever see another dollar from me, Junior. Assclowns...

By this point, if you care about No Way Out, you either watched it live, read results today, or watched on You Tube (like I had to do today to see the Smackdown chamber match). I'm not gonna give the usual full rundown (but that's what I always say, isn't it?)

CM Punk vs. Chavo: I didn't watch it. Honestly, I don't care. Chavo sucks as a heel. I understand Chavo won clean. Who cares.

Smackdown Elimination Chamber: I read on a few sites today that this was a great match, so I dug it up on You Tube. I thought that this match was pretty lame, especially the entrant order. In my opinion, Finlay and MVP (who shouldn't have even been in the thing) should have started the match. I felt that the 'action' was slow. Is it just me, or did they unlock Big Daddy V when Khali's light went on? Nice job. The outcome of this match was pretty apparent from the start, as is the winner of the belt at Wrestlemania. Bah.

This is where the PPV started at the sports bar. I didn't time them, but they all seemed to be short matches.

Kennedy vs. Flair: I liked this match. I love this rivalry, and hope it continues. It's the first time Ric Flair has entertained me since his match with Vince McMahon at the Royal Rumble in 2002. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I would love to see Mr. Kennedy retire Ric Flair at Wrestlemania, and have Ric Flair become Kennedy's valet. The two work great together. I would hate it if Kevin Eck (Ring Posts) is right and it's Ric Flair vs. HBK at Wrestlemania. It's bad enough to see one guy doing the same, tired crap he's done for decades, without it being two of them.

Edge vs. Rey Mysterio: With Rey's injury, this match was understandably short. I shudder of the thought of Edge vs. Undertaker at Wrestlemania. Even if it becomes a triple threat, Edge really should not be in the main event. I hope and pray they strip him of the belt and Undertaker faces someone else... anyone else.

Big Show's return: I'm pretty sure this was a worked shoot gone wrong. Floyd Mayweather Jr's blows were legit. If Big Show's nose isn't broken, I'd be very surprised. Didn't anyone work with this guy and teach him how to throw stage punches? I felt bad for Big Show. What a s***ty way to have to make a comeback. I'm still not convinced Shane McMahon showing up and trying to calm Big Show was part of the shoot. If I were Big Show, doing an 'I'm back' promo, and someone pulled that, I would have gone after the guy, for real.

John Cena vs. Randy Orton: Man Cena, you are falling into the classification of 'guy I hate to watch'. Same, tired crap... over, and over, and over... have you been hanging out with Flair and HBK? Please learn from their mistakes... learn some more stuff. Your FU is a fireman's carry body slam. Jumping shoulder blocks are boring. Five knuckle shuffle, the most useless signature move, EVER. Spinout powerbomb... boring execution. Why don't you use the Freestyle or Throwback anymore? At least those were stylish. Randy's slap to the ref was priceless. I laughed my ass off. You deserved to be robbed. The more I watch you, the more I find myself starting to agree with the marks that say, 'you can't wrestle'. Watching Khali is more entertaining than watching you. When I started this blog, I promised myself that I'd never put the following video on my blog, but oh well. Deal with it.

Raw Elimination Chamber: Great match, great moves, great performances by everyone. I was especially impressed with Umaga. Speaking of which, the chain of finishers leading to his elimination was awesome. I feel that this match was over too quickly. Given that No Way Out ran the full three hour slot, unfortunately it seemed rushed like they ran out of time. Jeff Hardy was robbed again. I want you to have the belt, but... 1) Triple H, is that damn good. If we compare his performance at the house show on the 16th with yours, he blew your doors off. The crowd exploded when you came out and you seemed like to didn't care, or want to be there. You have to shine off-camera too, Jeff. 2) You're facing nepotism

So that's my No Way Out 2008 rant. Am I bitter? Hell yes.

First Episode of Heyman Hustle is Live

The Sun has released the first episode/webisode of the Heyman Hustle.

For the Article: Heyman Hustle Premiere
For the Webisode: Heyman Hustle - Episode 1

Habbo No Way Out: Top 5 Finalists Announced

One last post before I'm done for the night.

The top 5 WWE No Way Out Elimination Chamber rooms have been selected.

The 5 Habbo finalists are:
xSiLeNcEx
!Chopper!Dude
Giggleness
Attires
AgentDark

Now it’s up to WWE, who will be choosing the grand prize winner (a WWE Heavyweight Championship replica belt).

To see screenshots of the 5 finalists' rooms: Only Five Remain

That's all for tonight kids.

Stop by tomorrow to hear about my No Way Out fiasco.

WWE 'Raw Live!' 2/16/2008: Results and Photos

Last night I attended the house show at the Staples Center, here in Los Angeles. I haven't been to a non-televised event in many years... and I forgot how superior house shows are as compared to televised events. Why? Matches have no time constraints due to TV production schedules, there's tons of wrestler/crowd interaction, the talent has more freedom with their portrayal of their character (If you think Trevor Murdoch has the personality of a doorknob, your view will change if you see him at a house show), and you get to see the guys that they don't put on TV anymore. Of course, it certainly helped matters being in the 6th row, the closest I've ever been. I've had floor seats before (Judgment Day, May 16th, 2004), but they weren't nearly as good. Speaking of Judgment Day 2004, the RVD & Rey Mysterio vs. the Dudley Boys match was awesome. Our camera did not cooperate at all, and the majority of the pics didn't turn out. After spending 3 hours in Photoshop, I managed to salvage a few of the 'more clear' ones.

Anyway, traffic on the way to the Staples Center was beastly... worse than 'typical' LA traffic (If you've never been here, it's always rush hour). When we arrived Ric Flair and Ken Kennedy were in the ring, and we caught the second half of the match. This was a great preview to the match tonight at No Way Out. It was fairy quick-paced, and I was actually entertained by Ric Flair. I imagine this was a warm-up for tonight's match at No Way Out. They battled back and forth, but Kennedy was clearly dominating Flair. Kennedy threw the figure four on Ric Flair but Flair made it to the ropes. Flair ultimately won with is own figure four when Mr. Kennedy tapped out.

The following match was a Divas match. If you're wondering where Val Venis has been, apparently he's now a referee for the Diva matches at house shows. It was Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix. No pics... because other than Beth Phoenix's fisherman's suplex, there wasn't much worth documenting. I can watch Mickie James botch moves on TV... I don't need pictures of it. This was a popcorn match anyway.

Next up was a 6-man tag, Carlito, Charlie Haas & Snitsky vs. DH Smith, Brian Kendrick & Super Crazy. Entrances were pretty standard, however I was shocked when Charlie Haas came out. He was wearing a shiny hoodie, identical to the entrance ring attire worn by A.J. Styles. Once in the ring, he turned around and it said 'HAASTYLES'. I wish the pics of his entrance ring attire turned out, but oh well. I guess you'll just have to take my word for it. I'm not sure if this is a character in development, or WWE's answer to TNA stealing gimmicks. Lots of great crowd interaction here. Carlito jumped the steel rail and charged into the crowd after a fan. He ended up grabbing the security guy's steel chair and winged it into ringside. Snitsky & Haas picked fights with the audience from ringside. There were lots of 'Brush your teeth' chants. I'm not sure what was the deal with Super Crazy. He started the match, almost immediately tagged in and stood there, looking disinterested until he was tagged back in at the end of the match. I'm not suggesting anything, but when DH Smith was thrown to the turnbuckle, he ran like a sissy. Other than that, he performed pretty well... Still not close to being as good as his father though. Brian Kendrick was of course great, as was Carlito. These two guys don't get enough credit, and rarely get to showcase everything that they can do. Charlie Haas, of course, went under the ring and emerged as a luchador. I'm not sure what happened to Charlie Haas. He was so good with Shelton Benjamin back in Team Angle. The match ended with Brian Kendrick ducking a kick from Snitsky, which landed on Carlito, sending both men over. The match ended with Super Crazy landing a moonsault on Charlie Haas in the center of the ring.

The 6-man tag was followed by a 'championship singles match between Jeff Hardy and Randy Orton. The Staples Center exploded when Jeff Hardy's entrance started playing. It was awesome. This wasn't the same match as at the Royal Rumble, but it might as well have been. We've seen this match before, maybe not in the same order, but we've seen it. Orton sliding his kneepad down and dropping it on Jeff. Whisper in the Wind. Missed Swanton Bomb. The match ended the same way the title match at the Royal Rumble did, Twist of Fate reversal into a RKO. Orton wins clean. I noticed a couple interesting things... first... it was strange to see Jeff Hardy squatting in the corner, bobbing his head to Randy Orton's entrance music. Second, Jeff seem generally displeased to be there. He scowled through most of the match and didn't smile much when he did acknowledge the crowd. After the match, he reluctantly made his way around the ring. Maybe he was just tired, but it looked like he was doing it out of obligation more than wanting to interact with the fans. Maybe he knew he was going to lose (again) tonight at No Way Out after he's been busting his ass for months. I imagine he's been getting the same reaction across the country as he got at Staples Center. Give the guy the belt.

After intermission, the action continued with a tag match between Trevor Murdoch & Lance Cade vs. Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes. I expected to hate this match when I heard Tony Chimel announcing the Superstars. It was a pleasant surprise. You'd never know it from what is shown on TV, but Trevor Murdoch and Lance Cade are incredibly entertaining heels. Yes, seriously. These guys are funny. From Lance Cade restraining Trevor Murdock from storming into the crowd, to Trevor Murdock trying to escape from Bob Holly's headlock by reaching for hair, not finding any, then stroking Bob's head repeatedly trying to find some (See, it's funny because Hardcore Holly has a receding hairline. Try to keep up). Holly gets the pin by kicking Murdock while he was hung on the top rope, then a Alabama Slam.

By far, the next match was the best of the night. Y2J and JBL, whose job was to warm up the crowd for the main event, absolutely stole the show. Bradshaw came out, did a promo and heated up the crowd, boasting about 'building' the Staples Center by 'destroying' Eddie Guerrero (ironically, Judgment Day 2004) and winning at Wrestlemania 21. Jericho came out in the usual manner (C'mon, baby! ) Chris Jericho and John 'Bradshaw' Layfield put on one hell of a street fight. Better than most I've seen on pay per views (It probably helped my opinion that they were fighting in the crowd just two rows in front of me). There was no blading, and quite frankly, there was no need for it. Poor Bradshaw. Someone in the crowd shouted, 'Hit him in the chest Chris... you might get milk'. There was also a (short-lived, and pathetic) 'You've got boobies' chant'. (Give the guy a break, he was sidelined for a year! ). We saw chairs... a steel pan... various choking with cords (Jericho strung him up from the top rope again)... even stair usage and a Singapore cane. Y2J got the win after hitting a chair-assisted code breaker on JBL's face. Y2J made a point to circle the ring after the match and slap hands with all the kids that rushed the guard rails... really cool of him. When the kids in my section came back to their seats they were freaking. It was so cute. Heh.

The Main Event was Degeneration-X. Triple-H and Shawn Michaels came out tossing T shirts and glowsticks. Trips grabbed the mic and did the usual DX schtik. HBK reminded Triple H that no one was watching at home, Hunter did the whole thing over and added, '...and the millions not watching at home'. Funny, but you probably had to be there.

Tony Chimel then announced the opponents. Like earlier, I groaned when I heard the entrance music... William Regal, followed by Umaga. There was a funny moment when William Regal was making faces at a fan's choice of shirt... oddly enough, the style was pretty similar to Regal's robe. Again I would be impressed. Despite what one might think, it was a great match. It was filled with surprises... and one big, nasty surprise (You'll see, if you're brave enough to scroll down. I'm now scarred for life).

Umaga's ring entrance was standard... screaming in Samoan and showing his tongue.

I am really liking Eddie Fatu's Umaga character. SO much better than Jamal (You remember Three Minute Warning, right?)

Disclaimer: So, remember up above where I said I was scarred for life? Unless you want to be scarred for life too, don't go any further. What do you mean you're not worried about it? Don't say I didn't warn you. Go ahead, it's your funeral. Have a look at HBK's sunset flip pin attempt on William Regal:

So of course, now that William Regal's butt is hanging out... Triple H can't resist and... Spank!

Triple H and Shawn Michaels react to how their hands now smell. Trips grabs the mic and ask if anyone has any Purell, followed by, 'I'm not sure which is worse, the haircut up top or the one down below'. Classic. (Now you know where they got the idea for Mr. Kennedy to pants Flair at No Way Out tonight)

Like tonight at No Way Out, Umaga tried to hit the Samoan Spike on Hunter, but HBK kicks him before he gets the chance, followed by a superkick to William Regal. Trips hits the Pedigree on William Regal, DX wins.

To wrap this up, if you ever have a choice between attending a house show vs. a televised show, go to the house show. Last night I re-learned that televised shows are meant to be watched on TV. After last night, I'll never go to a televised event again. the bottom line: You get a lot more for your money at a house show.

I'll rant about my horrible No Way Out experience tomorrow... Stay tuned.